ID: 66180
Title: Season-dependent reproductive performance in a non-seasonally breeding diurnal species, the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata)
Author: Nidhi Yadav, Mayank Kumar, Vatsala Tripathi and Sanjay Kumar Bhardwaj
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (5) 452-456 10 March. (2025)
Subject: Season-dependent reproductive performance in a non-seasonally breeding diurnal species, the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata)
Keywords: Clutch size, nest building, reproduction, seasons, zebra finch.
Abstract: The reproduction and its associated behaviour in a
non-seasonal species are considered totally independent
of seasons. To assess this, we examined seasonal differences in the nest building and reproductive performance in diurnal zebra finches that were hatched and
raised in outdoor aviaries. Adult male and female
birds were separately housed in cages equipped with
two perches stacked in a large aviary, receiving the
natural day length (NDL) and temperature conditions.
Cages housing male birds were also fixed with a nest box.
After two weeks of acclimation, the males and females
were paired randomly, and the parameters of nest
building and reproductive performance, such as the
onset of egg laying, clutch size and hatchlings and
fledglings per pair, were recorded in the winter (second
week of November 2022 to the first week of February
2023), and subsequently similarly in the summer (third
week of April 2023 to the first week of July 2023) seasons. The pairs took more time to initiate (mean ± SE –
winter: 2.92 ± 0.58; summer: 2.33 ± 0.45) and complete
(mean ± SE – winter: 6.75 ± 0.52; summer: 4.50 ± 0.27)
the nest in winter, as compared to that in summer. Per
pair, the clutch size was significantly smaller in winter
(mean ± SE: 2.2 ± 0.36) than in summer (mean ± SE:
3.6 ± 0.34), but the hatchlings (P = 0.2123) and fledglings (P = 0.5302) were not significantly different
between the two seasons, perhaps due to higher temperature and dryness in summer. These results indicated an underlying seasonality in zebra finches, which
could be economically useful to those engaged in
breeding and raising of pet species.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Lack, D., Ecological Adaptations for Breeding in Birds, Methuen,
London, 1968, vol. 33, p. 402.
Murton, R. K. and Westwood, N. J., Avian Breeding Cycles, Clarendon Press, Oxford
Literature cited 2: Bentley, G. E., Spar, B. D., MacDougall-Shackelton, S. A., Hahn,
T. P. and Ball, G. F., Photoperiodic regulation of the reproductive
axis in male zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata). Gen. Comp. Endocrinol., 2000, 117, 449–455; https://doi.org/10.1006/gcen.1999
.7430
Visser, M. E., Holleman, L. J. and Caro, S. P., Temperature has a
causal effect on avian timing of reproduction. Proc. R. Soc. B: Biol.
Sci., 2009, 276, 2323–2331; https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2009.0213.
ID: 66179
Title: Martian/Lunar analogue research station in India: Ladakh as a potential site
Author: Binita Phartiyal, Aloke Kumar and Shubhanshu Shukla
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (5) 446-451 10 March. (2025)
Subject: Martian/Lunar analogue research station in India: Ladakh as a potential site
Keywords: Analogue research, Ladakh, Lunar, Martian, terrestrial research station.
Abstract: India has a rich geographical landscape suitable for creating extra-terrestrial analogue habitats,
which are crucial for supporting prolonged space missions and addressing the challenges of sustaining human life outside of Earth. It is also imperative that these habitats are analogous, both in
design and proposed locations, as accurately as possible for meaningful lessons and research. India
has set ambitious targets for its space program, which necessitates the construction of terrestrial
research stations that can simulate extra-terrestrial conditions. We believe this is an opportune time
to establish an analogue research station in Ladakh, that will benefit a diverse group of researchers.
It can potentially become a shot in the arm for the Indian human space program. Apart from research, the tourism boost that such a site can give will also benefit local communities.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Sundararajan, V., Gaganyaan mission: socio-technical systems
(STS) design and strategic perspectives of India’s human spaceflight program. In AIAA Scitech 2021 Forum. 11–15 and 19–21
January 2021, American Institute of Aeronautics, Inc, 2021, p.
0306; doi:10.2514/6.2021-0306.
George, A. J., A short review on India’s interplanetary missions.
Acceleron Aerosp. J., 2024, 2(1), 138–147
Literature cited 2: Canup, R. M. and Asphaug, E., Origin of the Moon in a giant impact
near the end of the Earth’s formation. Nature, 2001, 412(6848),
708–712.
Wiechert, U. et al., Oxygen isotopes and the Moon’s origin. Science, 2001, 2
ID: 66178
Title: Additional distribution records of two fruit flies of subfamily Dacinae (Tephritidae: diptera) from Himachal Pradesh
Author: Sharma Sneha, Maneesh Pal Singh, David Lawrence Hancock
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (5) 444-445 10 March. (2025)
Subject: Additional distribution records of two fruit flies of subfamily Dacinae (Tephritidae: diptera) from Himachal Pradesh
Keywords: None
Abstract: The Dipteran family, Tephritidae is characterized by three costal breaks in the wing
(humeral, subcostal and costal) and often a
distinct apical extension to cell bcu (ref. 1).
Subfamily Dacinae comprises three tribes,
namely Ceratitidini, Dacini and Gastrozonini. Eighty-two species of Dacini and
36 species of Gastrozonini (bamboo shoot
flies) have been recorded from India2
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Hancock, D. L., Freidberg, A. and Friedman, A. L. L., In Manual of Afrotropical
Diptera, Volume 3: Brachycera-Cyclorrhapha, Excluding Calyptratae (eds KirkSpriggs, A. H. and Sinclair, B. S.), Suricata,
8, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, 2021, pp. 1669–1734.
Agarwal, M. L. and Sueyoshi, M., Orient.
Insects, 2005, 39, 371–433.
Literature cited 2: David, K. J. and Ramani, S., Zootaxa, 2011,
3021, 1–31.
Drew, R. A. I. and Romig, M. C., Tropical
Fruit Flies (Tephritidae: Dacinae) of
South-East Asia, CAB International, Wallingford, UK, 2013, pp
ID: 66177
Title: Value in waste: water-splitting photo-electrocatalyst from wastewater
Author: Yousuf Khan
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (5) 440-440 10 March. (2025)
Subject: Value in waste: water-splitting photo-electrocatalyst from wastewater
Keywords: None
Abstract: Wastewater treatment strategies underpin
the sustainability of our cities. Cities like
Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru are leading
contributors to the almost 72 thousand million litres of wastewater produced daily in
India1
. Merely 20 thousand million litres
per day can be treated under the actual utilised capacity of wastewater treatment plants
in the country
. Wastewater is a complex
mixture of organic matter, chemical waste
and pathogens requiring multiple treatment
steps ranging from bioremediation to chemical interventions
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: CPCB, Status of water quality in India 2021,
Central Pollution Control Board, 2022, p. 55;
https://cpcb.nic.in/openpdffile.php?id=UmV
wb3J0RmlsZXMvMTIyOF8xNjE1MTk2Mz
IyX21lZGlhcGhvdG85NTY0LnBkZg==
Shahedi, A., Darban, A. K., Taghipour, F.
and Jamshidi-Zanjani, A. J. C. O. I. E., Curr.
Opin. Electrochem., 2020, 22, 154–169
Literature cited 2: Tahreen, A., Jami, M. S. and Ali, F., J. Water Process Eng., 2020, 37, 101440.
Sadaf, S. et al., J. Water Process Eng., 2024,
62, 105409.
ID: 66176
Title: Relative abundance and diversity of insect foragers associated with inflorescence in dwarf varieties of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.)
Author: Regi Jacob Thomas, Arulappan Josephrajkumar , Bharath Mohan , Sandip Shil and Mohammedali Shareefa
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 404-413 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: Relative abundance and diversity of insect foragers associated with inflorescence in dwarf varieties of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.)
Keywords: Conservation, diversity indices, ecosystem service providers, nut yield, pollinators.
Abstract: Ecosystem services offered by insect foragers in the
coconut system are exceptional in utilizing pollen and
nectar resources and, thereafter, rewarding effective
pollination in coconut palms. The pollinator community recorded from dwarf varieties of coconut comprised
35 insect species, out of which 30 could be identified,
belonging to 6 orders and 17 families. Insect fauna belonging to families Formicidae (ants), Apidae (bees)
under Hymenoptera and Curculionidae (weevils) under
Coleoptera were recorded in abundance from the coconut inflorescence. However, a considerable quantity of
pollen grains clings onto the body parts of bees and
assumes likely pollination services in coconut. Ants,
though noticed in large numbers, may not be involved
in pollination, probably because of their apterous nature
and smooth body surfaces warranting in-depth scrutiny. Abundant floral visitors were registered during January–July compared to August–December. Higher nut
yield in coconut recorded during January–May could
be positively linked to enhanced foraging activities by
insects, a classical instance of ecosystem services delivering economic benefits to farmers. The maximum insect
activity was during the forenoon session, coinciding
with anthesis time of coconut. Modulation among various diversity indices (Menhinick index, Shannon’s index) were recorded for species richness and temporal
abundance for insect visitation in coconut. Conservation
of these pollinators in the perennial coconut system is
crucial for sustaining production and safeguarding the
ecosystem. As coconut produces inflorescence around the
year and ensures continuous pollen availability, coconut
orchards can also be used for division of honeybee colonies during the brood rearing season.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Thomas, R. J. and Josephrajkumar, A., Flowering and pollination
biology in coconut. J. Plant. Crops, 2013, 41(2), 109–117.
Menon, K. P. V. and Pandalai, K. M., The Coconut Palm – A Monograph, Indian Central Coconut Committee, Ernakulam, 1958,
p. 384.
Literature cited 2: Henderson, A., Pollination biology of economically important
palms. Adv. Econ. Bot., 1988, 6, 36–41.
Moore, D., Insects of palm flowers and fruits. In Insects on Palms
(eds Howard, F. W. et al.), CABI Publishing, Wallingford, United
Kingdom, 2001, p. 244
ID: 66175
Title: Epigenetic DNA methylation markers: a non-invasive diagnostic approach for urinary bladder cancer
Author: Amandeep Singh , Bhasker Mukherjee , Mukul Sharma and Rattan Deep Singh
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 398-403 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: Epigenetic DNA methylation markers: a non-invasive diagnostic approach for urinary bladder cancer
Keywords: DNA methylation, methylation-specific PCR, non-invasive biomarkers, urinary bladder cancer.
Abstract: Urinary bladder cancer (UBC) has high recurrence
rates, making early detection vital. Promoter DNA
methylation of CALCA, CCNA1 and P16 genes can
serve as non-invasive biomarkers. The objective of the
present study is to evaluate the promoter methylation
status of CCNA1, CALCA and P16 genes in the blood of
UBC patients compared to controls, and to explore
their utility as non-invasive biomarkers. Blood samples
from 169 participants, including 89 UBC patients and
80 controls, were analysed. Blood samples were collected, DNA was extracted for bisulphite conversion,
followed by methylation-specific polymerase chain
reaction (PCR). Statistical analyses determined the
association between methylation status and clinical
features. Methylation was detected in CCNA1 (66.2%),
CALCA (53.9%), and P16 (72%) in UBC patients, significantly higher than in controls. Combined analysis
of these three genes provided a sensitivity of 85% and
specificity of 80% for UBC detection. Blood-based
methylation of CCNA1, CALCA and P16 genes emerged
as a promising non-invasive biomarker for early UBC
detection. Further validation in larger cohorts is required.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Pietzak, E. J. et al., Next-generation sequencing of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer reveals potential biomarkers and rational
therapeutic targets. Eur. Urol., 2018, 74(6), 733–740; doi:10.1016/
j.eururo.2018.07.041
Kandimalla, R. et al., A 3-plex methylation assay combined with
the FGFR3 mutation assay sensitively detects recurrent bladder
cancer in voided urine. Clin. Cancer Res., 2019, 25(3), 945–953;
doi:10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-18-2150
Literature cited 2: Park, J. C., Citrin, D. E., Agarwal, P. K. and Apolo, A. B., Multimodal management of muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Curr. Probl.
Cancer, 2020, 44(6), 100604; doi:10.1016/j.currproblcancer.2020.
100604.
Springer, S. U. et al., Non-invasive detection of urothelial cancer
through the analysis of driver gene mutations and aneuploidy.
eLife, 2018, 7, 21; doi:10.7554/eLife.32143.
ID: 66174
Title: Estimating geomagnetic field detection sensitivity of pigeons and passerine migrants using deep machine learning
Author: Vedachalam Narayanaswamy and Bala Naga Jyothi Vandavasi
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 388-397 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: Estimating geomagnetic field detection sensitivity of pigeons and passerine migrants using deep machine learning
Keywords: Deep learning, machine learning, magnetic field, navigation.
Abstract: The capability of homing pigeons and passerine migrants to derive navigation-rated information from the
geomagnetic field (GMF), enabling them to navigate
from unfamiliar sites, is a subject of research. Despite
the vast trajectory information available from field experiments, the true accuracy of their map and compass
sense are seldom reported. The recent developments in
bird geo-tagging, precision world magnetic model and
deep machine-learning capabilities enable us to understand the mechanisms underlying their innate abilities
in true navigation. In this article, we machine-learnt
the GMF anomaly in a 10 km2 region and analysed the
flight path efficiency for a 10-km GMF-anomaly-guided
trajectory using the developed deep-learning-based artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm. From the simulated
flight path and comparing the computed efficiencies
with the field-reported results, it is observed that the
sensitivity of the GMF gradient detection sensory system
in pigeons and passerine migrants in familiar and unfamiliar regions are in the range of 1–3 nT and 0.5–2.5 nT
respectively. Identified results shall help implement AI based solutions for understanding spatiotemporal bird
migration and enacting environmental conservation
policies.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Nimpf, S. et al., Myths in magneto-sensation. iScience, 2022, 25,
104454; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2022.104454.
Wiltschko, R. et al., The discovery of the use of magnetic navigational information. J. Comp. Physiol. A, 2022, 208, 9–18.
Literature cited 2: Schnieder, W. T. et al., Over 50 years of behavioural evidence on
the magnetic sense in animals: what has been learnt and how?. J.
Eur. Phys., 2023, 232, 269–278.
Lohmann, K. H. et al., Animal magnetic sensitivity and magnetic
displacement experiments. Nature-Commun. Biol., 2024, 7(1), 650;
https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-023-04530-w
ID: 66173
Title: Effects of begomovirus infection on invasiveness of plant Croton bonplandianus Baill.
Author: N. Kamala Dhasan, S. Saravanan , J. K. John Praveen Kumar , K. Jeyalakshmi , B. Parthiban , M. R. Anbarasan , P. Manikandan , S. Ganesh-Kumar , P. Gopal , M. Jothi Basu and S. Chandrasekaran
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 381-387 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: Effects of begomovirus infection on invasiveness of plant Croton bonplandianus Baill.
Keywords: Begomovirus infection, chilli leaf curl virus, Croton bonplandianus, exotic species, papaya leaf curl, pathogen reservoir.
Abstract: Invasive species are considered the second worst threat
to biodiversity after habitat destruction, which was
altered the function and service of the ecosystem. However, some exotic species fail to become invasive due to
newly acquired enemies in the introduced range, as described by the ‘increased susceptibility’ hypothesis. In
the present study, we have tested the increased susceptibility hypothesis: does begomovirus infection play an
important role in the invasiveness of Croton bonplandianus in its introduced range. To understand the role of
viral infection on the invasiveness of C. bonplandianus,
the healthy and viral infected population density of C.
bonplandianus was measured at different ecosystems
by the quadrat method. Several first- and second-order
branches, number of inflorescence per plant, number of
buds/inflorescence, number of male and female flower/
inflorescence, number of seed/inflorescence, pollen and
seed viability, chlorophyll content were measured in
infected and healthy populations of C. bonplandianus.
Results showed that the infected population of C. bonplandianus was higher in agroecosystems than in other
ecosystems. The number and length of the inflorescences were maximum in healthy plants (24.74 ± 1.78
and 5.78 ± 0.13 respectively) than infected population
(7.28 ± 0.88 and 2.04 ± 0.08 respectively). The number
of male and female buds per inflorescences were also
recorded maximum in healthy plants (21.19 ± 0.86 and
4.44 ± 0.13 respectively) and significantly different
from the infected plants (9.99 ± 0.63 and 2.16 ± 0.12 respectively). Further, to identify the nature of the virus,
viral DNA was isolated from the infected plant and
confirmed through Rolling Circle Amplification followed by digestion to release the 2.7 kb and anticipated
1.3 kb. The above fragments were cloned, sequenced
and analysed to identify the nature of the virus molecules. Surprisingly, 2.7 kb matched the papaya leaf
curl virus, whereas 1.3 kb showed significant similarity
with the alpha satellite, which is associated with the
chilli leaf curl virus. Based on the results, we concluded
that begomovirus infection has strongly affected reproductive traits of C. bonplandianus thus resulting in
their failure to become an invasive species at the introduced range. However, the infected population of C.
bonplandianus acts as a pathogen reservoir for various
crop diseases, namely papaya and chilli leaf curl diseases.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Pimentel, D., Zuniga, R. and Morrison, D., Update on the environmental and economic costs associated with alien-invasive species
in the United States. Ecol. Econ., 2005, 52(3), 273–288.
Pejchar, L. and Mooney, H. A., Invasive species, ecosystem services and human well-being. Trends Ecol. Evol., 2009, 24(9), 497–
504.
Literature cited 2: Vilà, M. et al., Ecological impacts of invasive alien plants: a metaanalysis of their effects on species, communities and ecosystems.
Ecol. Lett., 2011, 14(7), 702–708.
Jeschke, J. M., General hypotheses in invasion ecology. Divers.
Distrib., 2014, 20(11), 1229–1234.
ID: 66172
Title: Non-tariff measures and export of marine products from India: trends and future prospects
Author: A. Suresh, Sachu Sara Sabu , Pankaj Kishore and Satyen Kumar Panda
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 373-380 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: Non-tariff measures and export of marine products from India: trends and future prospects
Keywords: Compliance cost, fish export, fish value chain, non-tariff measures, SPS measures
Abstract: Adherence to international norms of food quality and
safety is paramount to enhance the export of marine
products from India. The exporters have focused on
compliance with the non-tariff measures to widen and
deepen their exports. The present study analysed the
trends and compliance status of quality standards in
Indian marine exports to major importers and offers
policy recommendations for enhancing the safety and
quality of these exports. The study emphasises the role
of regulatory bodies, industry stakeholders and international partners in promoting quality compliance
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: GoI, Annual Report 2021–22, Government of India, 2022;
https://commerce.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/AnnualReport-FY-2022-23-DoC.pdf (accessed on 15 September 2023)
GoI, Economic Survey 2022–23, Government of India; 2023;
https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/ economicsurvey/ (accessed on 2
September 2023)
Literature cited 2: Keel, A. L. and Wolf, M., Towards a classification of marine wildlife crime: marketing strategies to curtail illegal fishing, malicious
acts, and waterway pollution. Psychol. Market., 2020, 37(12),
1743–1754.
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD),
Non-tariff measures to trade: economic and policy issues for developing countries, Developing Countries in International Trade Studies,
2013; https://unctad.org/system/files/official-document/ditctab20-
121_en.pdf (accessed on 21 September 2023).
ID: 66171
Title: Climatic influences on flowering dynamics, reproductive development and fruit set in litchi cv. Dehradun
Author: Shiv Kumar Shivandu , Gaurav Kumar , Ishani Sharma and Jayesh Garg
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 368-372 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: Climatic influences on flowering dynamics, reproductive development and fruit set in litchi cv. Dehradun
Keywords: Climate change, flowering, fruit set, litchi, temperature.
Abstract: The present study investigates the effects of climatic
variability on the reproductive development, flower sex
ratios, and fruit set of Litchi chinensis cv. Dehradun in
Himachal Pradesh from 2021 to 2023. Results reveal
that cooler temperatures during floral bud induction
(November–December) favoured balanced flower sex
ratios and floral differentiation, promoting a successful
fruit set. Higher temperatures in December 2022, however, led to increased vegetative growth and reduced
reproductive output. Early flowering in January was
advanced by cooler conditions in 2021–22, while improved rainfall and humidity further supported panicle
health and fruit retention. Warmer April–May conditions contributed to elevated fruit drop and cracking,
impacting yield. Additionally, cooler temperatures encouraged longer, more robust panicles, positively influencing flower production. These findings highlight
the significance of cooler temperatures during key
stages of litchi development and suggest the potential
of adaptive practices, such as supplemental irrigation
during dry spells, to counter climate impacts on yield
and quality
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Menzel, C. M. and Simpson, D. R., Effect of temperature on
growth and flowering of litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) cultivars.
J. Hortic. Sci., 1988, 63, 349–360.
Kumar, R., Litchi. Abiotic Stress Physiology of Horticultural
Crops, Springer, New Delhi, 2016, pp. 235–266; https://doi.org/
10.1007/978-81-322-2725-0-14
Literature cited 2: Menzel, C. M. and Simpson, D. R., Effect of environment on floral
sex ratios in litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn). Acta Hortic., 1992, 321,
616–620.
Dinesh, M. R. and Reddy, B. M. C., Physiological basis of growth
and fruit yield characteristics of tropical and sub-tropical fruits to
temperature. In Tropical Fruit Tree Species and Climate Change,
2012, vol. 45, pp. 46–137
ID: 66170
Title: Hydrology and water management in the Anthropocene: challenges and opportunities with particular reference to India
Author: Sharad K. Jain, Rajiv Sinha , Arpita Mondal , P. P. Mujumdar , Urmin Vegad , Vikram Singh Chandel , Padmini Ponukumati and Achala Singh
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 353-367 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: Hydrology and water management in the Anthropocene: challenges and opportunities with particular reference to India
Keywords: Anthropocene, anthropogenic drivers, Indian rivers, tipping point, water resource management.
Abstract: The Anthropocene period is characterised by multiple
stressors triggered by human-induced changes in the
hydrological cycle and land surface transformations.
The arrival of humans on this planet has significantly
altered the biophysical systems, particularly since the
Industrial Revolution, commonly known as the era of
the Great Acceleration. It is important to recognise these
changes in the hydrological systems and start planning
country-specific and sustainable strategies to mitigate
the challenges posed in terms of water availability and
demands, water-related disasters, river health and river
ecology. It is of particular importance to realise that our
water resource system may already cross the tipping
point of exploitation. Water is undoubtedly the most
essential commodity for humans, but it is equally important to understand the needs of other ecosystems that
depend on water. This article documents the challenges
and opportunities of water resource management in the
Anthropocene, which is particularly relevant to India
and proposes a series of urgent measures to mitigate
the situation. We reason that a better understanding of
our hydrological systems will contribute to water security
and resilience to society in terms of water and the environment and contribute to the growth of the nation.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Crutzen, P. J., The Anthropocene. In Earth System Science in the
Anthropocene (eds Ehlers, E. and Krafft, T.), Springer, Berlin,
Heidelberg, 2006, pp. 13–18.
Gregory, C., Brierley, G. and Le Heron, R., Governance spaces
for sustainable river management. Geogr. Compass, 2011, 5, 182–
199.
Literature cited 2: Brierley, G. and Fryirs, K., Truths of the riverscape: moving beyond
command-and-control to geomorphologically informed naturebased river management. Geosci. Lett., 2022, 9, 14.
Gill, S., Handley, J., Ennos, R. and Nolan, P., Planning for green
infrastructure: adapting to climate change. In Planning for Climate
Change, Routledge, Oxfordshire, UK, 2009, pp. 273–285
ID: 66169
Title: Agrivoltaics – a potential solution for sustainable energy use from a global perspective
Author: Vedavalli Rohitha Lakshmi , K. Uma, S. Selvanayaki and R. Gangai Selvi
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 344-352 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: Agrivoltaics – a potential solution for sustainable energy use from a global perspective
Keywords: Agrivoltaics, economic feasibility, global initiatives, integrated production, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture.
Abstract: Agrivoltaics, the amalgamation of solar panels with
farming methods, has been steadily gaining traction as
an innovative remedy for managing the conflicting
needs of land in both food cultivation and energy generation. This concept emerged in the 1980s and has since
gained momentum as a viable solution to optimise land
usage for sustainable agriculture and renewable energy
production. This integrated production model seeks to
synergize food, energy and water resources, offering a
sustainable alternative to traditional land division
practices. The co-location of solar panels with crops
demonstrates promising results, indicating increased
agricultural outputs and energy yields. While global
leaders like Japan, France, Germany and China have
embraced agrivoltaics, challenges in regulatory frameworks and societal acceptance persist, particularly in
European nations. Economic feasibility studies, conducted through simulations, highlight promising electrical
and agricultural benefits. Comparative assessments
against conventional photovoltaic systems reveal potential advantages, including increased electric yield and
positive impacts on crop yields. Integration of agrivoltaics into diverse farming practices, from aquaculture
to horticulture, offers a holistic approach to sustainable land use, promising secondary income and enhanced
crop yields. By addressing farmers’ distress, agrivoltaics emerges as a unique solution, providing additional
income sources and reducing reliance on traditional
farming. As the world pivots towards sustainable agriculture, agrivoltaics presents a beacon of promise,
poised to play a pivotal role in the world’s transition
towards integrated and resilient agriculture.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Market and industry trends. Renewables 2007 Global Status Report, REN21 Secretariat, Paris, France, 2017, pp. 63–65.
Goetzberger, A. and Zastrow, A., On the coexistence of solar energy conversion and plant cultivation. Int. J. Sol. Energy, 1982,
1, 55–69.
Literature cited 2: Escobar, J. C. et al., Biofuels: environment, technology and food
security. Renew. Sustain. Energy Rev., 2009, 13, 1275–1287.
Ceccon, E., Production of bioenergy on small farms: a two-year agroforestry experiment using Eucalyptus urophylla intercropped
with rice and beans in Minas Gerais, Brazil. New For., 2008, 35, 285
ID: 66168
Title: GDP and population baseline ranking and benchmarking of Indian university systems
Author: Gangan Prathap
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 339-343 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: GDP and population baseline ranking and benchmarking of Indian university systems
Keywords: GDP baseline, intensity indicators, Lorenz curve, population baseline, science of science, size-dependent indicators
Abstract: We use an approach based on gross domestic product baselines and curated data from three ranking
agencies to rate and benchmark Indian universities relative to their counterparts in other countries.
Various scientific impact measures are used, considering both size-dependent and composite indicators. The relative position changes dramatically depending on the extent to which the intensity or
quality of research is factored in.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Docampo, D. and Cram, L., On the effects of institutional size in
university classifications: the case of the Shanghai ranking. Scientometrics, 2015, 102(2), 1325–1346; https://doi.org/10.1007/s11192-
014-1488-z.
Pietrucha, J., Country-specific determinants of world university rankings. Scientometrics, 2018, 114, 1129–1139; https://doi.org/10.
1007/s11192-017-2634-1.
Literature cited 2: Li, M., Shankar, S. and Tang, K. K., Why does the USA dominate
university league tables? Stud. High. Educ., 2011, 36(8), 923–937;
https://doi.org/10.1080/03075079.2010.482981.
ID: 66167
Title: India’s participation in the 6th BRICS meeting on research infrastructures and mega science projects
Author: Shivaprasad Amaravayal, Pratishtha Pandey, Gaurav Aggarwal and Arindam Bhattacharyya
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 337-338 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: India’s participation in the 6th BRICS meeting on research infrastructures and mega science projects
Keywords: None
Abstract: BRICS member states, in spite of their
unique developmental strategies, need to
address common concerns like better quality
of life, inclusive economic growth, employment and a sustainable development pathway. Research and development (R&D)
has emerged as a primary growth engine
for driving scientific know- how, technological breakthroughs and innovative strategies towards facing these challenges. A
collaborative BRICS effort utilizing its
combined strength in science, technology
and innovation (STI) can facilitate a platform for sustained growth for BRICS; an
effective BRICS synergy can achieve what
a single nation may find arduous, or take
ages to achieve. Several past collaborative
engagements have regularly demonstrated
that BRICS has this potential.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: World Population Prospects, the 2019 Revision. United Nations Department of Economic
and Social Affairs, Population Division,
Population Estimates and Projections Section, June 2019.
BRICS Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) on Cooperation in Science, Technology and Innovation between the Governments of the Federal Republic of Brazil, The
Russian Federation, The Republic of India,
The People’s Republic of China and The Republic of South Africa
Literature cited 2: BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation;
https://brics2021.gov.in/sti.
ID: 66166
Title: National conference on urban biodiversity
Author: S. Sandilyan, R. Sugantha Sakthivel, B. Balaji and C. Achalender Reddy
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (4) 331-332 25 Feb. (2025)
Subject: National conference on urban biodiversity
Keywords: None
Abstract: Urban biodiversity refers to the wide variety
of life forms, plants, animals, fungi and
microorganisms that inhabit urban environments. However, the rapid expansion of
cities in recent decades has led to significant habitat fragmentation, pollution, climate
change and the loss of natural areas, all of
which threaten the survival of many species.
Urbanisation has become a major driver of
ecological and biodiversity loss globally,
as unchecked city growth contributes to
land degradation, increased resource consumption, higher greenhouse gas emissions,
and greater waste generation. Predictions
indicate that by 2050, 70% of the global
population will live in urban areas, intensifying the pressure on urban biodiversity
and exacerbating these negative impacts.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2: