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ID: 62350
Title: Space based observations on annular solar eclipse of June 2020
Author: Manu Mehta, Prakash Chauhan, Praveen Thakur, Taibanganba Watham, Ritika Srinet
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (4) 617-619 (2021)
Subject: Space based observations on annular solar eclipse of June 2020
Keywords: Space based observations, annular solar eclipse, June 2020
Abstract: On 21 June 2020, an annular solar eclipse phenomenon took place. The path of the ‘ring of fire’ spanned across Africa and Asia. In addition to the traditional methods of observing the solar eclipse through telescope using solar filters or sing solar projectors, this phenomenon can also be captured using satellite data. The shadow cast by the moon on the surface of the Earth leads to a drop in the solar flux over the Earth’s surface, which can be recorded by space-based sensors in the visible-near-infrared spectral range. We have presented the natural colour composite images eclipse conditions from three different satellite sensors, i.e., Moderate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) over Terra/Aqua (https://modis.gsfc.nasa.gov/)and Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) over NOAA-20 (https://data.nodc.noaa.gov/).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: https://mosdac.gov.in/data/doc/INSAT_3D_ATBD_MAY_2015.pdf (accessed on 22 June 2020). Katti, V.R., Pratap, V.R., Dave, R.K. and Mankad, K.N., In SPIE Proceedings, GEOSS and Next –Generation Sensors and Missions, November 2006, 640709; https://doi.org/10.1117/12.6978880.
Literature cited 2: Bristow, K.L and Campbell, G.S., Agric. For. Meteorol. 1984, 31, 159-166; https://doi.org/10.1016/0168-1923 (84)90017-0. Watham, T. et al. Biogeochemistry, 2020, 151, 291-311; https://doi.org/10.1007/s10533-020-00727-x.

ID: 62349
Title: Invasive South American weed-Tradescantia fluminensis Vell.(Commelinaceae) : a threat to native flora of India
Author: Ankit Singh, Nidhan Singh, M.C.Nautiyal
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (4) 606-606 (2021)
Subject: Invasive South American weed-Tradescantia fluminensis Vell.(Commelinaceae) : a threat to native flora of India
Keywords: Invasive South American weed, Tradescantia fluminensis, threat, native flora of India
Abstract: Some of the non-native invasive species of plants invade various habitats, thereby posing considerable threats to sustenance of native flora. These may be deliberately introduced for cultivation, but they become widespread and naturalized in due course of time. Once, established, such weeds are not easy to control. During a recent floristic survey in Srinagar Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India (altitude 595m amsl, 30°13’11.64” N, 78°47`36.), the present authors came across an herb with shining white flowers. It was found in a shady place, adjacent to the road, farming dense patches in few localities nearby.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: https://sites.google.com/site/eflorafindia/species/a—1/cl/commelinaceae/tradescantia/tradescantia-fluminensis%20 (accessed on 25 April 2020). Gaur, R.D., Flora of the District Garhwal Northwest Himalayas (with Ethnobotanical Notes), Transmedia, Srinagar, Garhwal, 1999).
Literature cited 2: Uninayal,B.P., Sharma,J.., Chaudhery,U.and Singh,D.K.,Flowering Plants of Uttarakhand (A Checklist), Bishen singh Mahendra Pal Singh,Dehradun, 2007. Dugdale, T.M., Mclaren, D.A., and Conran, J.G., Plant Prot.Q., 2015, 30 (4), 116-125.

ID: 62348
Title: Range extension of pyrosomes in oligotrophic waters of the Indian Ocean
Author: N.Marimuthu, S.Vignesh Kandasamy and Nandini Ray Chaudhary
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (4) 605-605 (2021)
Subject: Range extension of pyrosomes in oligotrophic waters of the Indian Ocean
Keywords: Range extension of pyrosomes, oligotrophic waters, Indian Ocean
Abstract: Tunicates are known to exhibit fast growth rate by consuming phytoplankton during their unusual blooming period. Hence their position in the food web is vital for the environment. During our regular faunal exploration under the ‘Fauna of Lakshadweep: Echinoderms’ survey on 5 February 2018, we have noticed a pryrosome swarm at the subtidal environment of Bangaram Island of Lakshadweep Archipelago. It was identified as the giant pyrosome, Pyrostremma spinosum (Herdman, 1888), which is found as groups of colonial organisms with thousands of Individual zooids, drifted in the sub-tidal regions at depths between 8 and 15 m.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Al-Sofyani, A.A., Marimuthu, N. and Wilson, J.J., Curr. Sci., 2013, 104 (10), 1274-1275. Gauns, M., Mochemadkar, S., Pratihary, A., Roy, R. and Naqvi, S.W.A., Zool. stud., 2015, 54, 3.
Literature cited 2: Govindaraan, A.F., Bucklin, A. and Madin, L.P., J. Plankton Res., 2011, 33 (6) , 843-853. https://sentinel.esa.int/web/sentinel/user-guides/sentinel-3-olci/coverage (accessed on 24 January 2020).

ID: 62347
Title: Traditional knowledge systems and new science policy thrust
Author: Bhushan Patwardhan, Subhash Chandra Lakhotia
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (4) 603-604 (2021)
Subject: Traditional knowledge systems and new science policy thrust
Keywords: Traditional knowledge systems, new science policy thrust
Abstract: The extent of original medical research in India remains sub-optimal despite competence and facilities. One of the factors could ignorance about, and a general lack of rational appreciation of India’s traditional knowledge systems (TKS), which could otherwise be a good source of new ideas, and thus innovation. The existing silos do not allow sufficient cross-disciplinary dialogue between the mainstream biomedical community and those in the KTS to promote active and unbiased research in TKS. The new science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STIP) proposed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST2020), Government of India has the potential to accelerate the confluence of ancient and contemporary wisdoms, if appropriately articulated, inter-digitated and executed.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
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ID: 62346
Title: DISHA: A career Resource Book for Life science and Biotechnology Students
Author: Suman Govil reviewed by S.C.Lakhotia
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 573-573 (2021)
Subject: DISHA: A career Resource Book for Life science and Biotechnology Students
Keywords: DISHA, career Resource Book, Life science and Biotechnology
Abstract: Disha is a comprehensive e-book that provides career guidance to Indian life science and biotechnology students. Suman Govil has a long experience of working in human resource development programmes of the Department of Biotechnology (Govt of India). India Bioscience has been acting as a facilitator in the life-science ecosystem in India. Skill building in an important vertical at India Bioscience, with one of the key activities being to create awareness about different career opportunities that exist for life-science graduates.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2:

ID: 62345
Title: Effective use of synthetic seed technology in the regeneration of Cymbidium aloifolium using protocorm-like bodies
Author: Shivani Verma and Promila Pathak
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 570-572 (2021)
Subject: Effective use of synthetic seed technology in the regeneration of Cymbidium aloifolium using protocorm-like bodies
Keywords: Cymbidium aloifolium, protocorm-like bodies, regeneration, synthetic seeds
Abstract: Synthetic seed technology offers tremendous potential in micropropagation.It deals with in vitro conservation and storage of rare and endangered plant species along with their easy handling and transportation. This technology is becoming prevalent due to its wide applications in germplasm conservation and for exchanges between countries in floricultural trade. The present study examines the regeneration and conversion capabilities of Cymbidium aloifolium using protocorm-like bodies when stored at different temperatures. The propagules showed high proliferative potential by multiplication and complete plantlets were obtained in 58 days on basal M medium supplemented with 1mg1-1 of indole-3acetic acid.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Hail, Z.R., Kareem, F., El-Mahrouk, M.E., and Fuller, M.P., Artificial seeds (principle, aspects and applications). Agronomy, 2017, 7, 71; doi: 10.3390/agronomy7040071. Vij. S.P., Regeneration response of orchid micropropagation. In Biotechnology in Horticultural and Plantation Crops (eds Chadha, K.L., Ravindran, P.N.an Sahijram, L), Malhotra Publishing House, New Delhi, 2000, pp.598-641.
Literature cited 2: Vij. S.P., Kher, A. and Gupta, A., Orchid micropropagation. In Biotechnology in Horticultural and plantation Crops (eds Chadha, K.L., Ravindran, P.N. and Sahijram, L), Malhotra Publishing House, New Delhi, 2000, pp.598-641. Lambardi, M., Benelli, C., Ozudogru, E.A., and Ozden-Tokatli, Y., Synthetic seed technology in ornamental plants. In Floriculture. Ornamental and Plant Biotechnology, Vol. II (ed.Teixeira da Silva, J.A.), Global Science Books, UK, 2006, pp.347-354.

ID: 62344
Title: Syncing phenology phase and canopy spectral reflectance of common tree species of four forest covers in India
Author: Amrita N.Chaurasia, Reshma M.Parmar, Maulik G.Dave, Nirav Mehta, Rajesh Kallaje, Aradhana Sahu, Indu K.Murthy, C.P.Singh and N.S.R. Krishnayya
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 567-570 (2021)
Subject: Syncing phenology phase and canopy spectral reflectance of common tree species of four forest covers in India
Keywords: Absorption band, canopy-level spectra, forest cover, phenology phase, rainfall gradient, tree species
Abstract: Variability in the leaf phenology of tropical trees impacts their growth. How phenology of tree species responds over rainfall gradient is relevant to study in the light of current climatic changes. Airborne visible and infrared imaging spectrometer-next generation (AVIRIS-NG) spectral datasets have been considered for this study as they not only provide wider area of coverage, but also high spatial and spectrally resolved output. Canopy-level spectra of 16 common species of four different forest covers in India were synced with observed phenology phase and the annual rainfall in each forest cover was recorded. Reflectance spectra of the same species in the four forest covers distinctively differed over rainfall gradient, indicating intra-species pliability. Consistent lower reflectance/higher absorption at chlorophyll bands of all the common deciduous species in the higher annual rainfall region over that with relatively lower rainfall indicated that deciduous species acclimate green foliage phase of the phenology cycle. Boxplots of reflectance values of chlorophyll absorption band of 16 species showed a decrease in the variability of the datasets over the four forest covers, revealing that increasing rainfall provides better synchrony in the phenology phase of the observed tree species. The study highlights the importance of AVIRIS-NG spectral datasets in monitoring different phases of forest phenology associated with growth potential dynamics effectively under changing rainfall pattern.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Wolkovich, E.M., Cook, B.I. and Davies, T.J., Progress towards an interdisciplinary science of plant phenology: building predictions across space, time and species diversity. New Phytol., 2014, 201, 1156-1162. Garonna, I., de Jong, R. and Schaepman, M.E., Variability and evolution of global land surface phenology over the past three decades (1982-2012) .Global Change Biol., 2016, 22 (4) , 1456-1468.
Literature cited 2: Dahlin, K.M., Spectral diversity area relationships for assessing biodiversity in a wildland-agriculture matrix. Ecol. Appl., 2016, 26, 2758-2768. Jha, C.S., et al., Characterization of species diversity and forest health using AVIRIS-NG hyperspectral remote sensing data. Hyper-spectral Imaging, 2019, 116, 12.

ID: 62343
Title: Ecomorphological variations and flow-induced phenotypic plasticity in Trichogaster fasciata using geometric and truss analysis
Author: Farah Bano and M.Serajuddin
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 547-552 (2021)
Subject: Ecomorphological variations and flow-induced phenotypic plasticity in Trichogaster fasciata using geometric and truss analysis
Keywords: Geometric morphometrics, ecomorphological variation, phenotypic plasticity, Trichogaster fasciata, truss analysis
Abstract: Study of ecomorphological variations in fish of different habitats helps in understanding the diversification of body traits developed due to different environmental conditions. The morphological variations in sub-populations of Trichogaster fasciata induced by different habitats characterized by different environmental conditions have been studied. Overall, 86% and 92% of individuals were correctly classified using linear discriminant function analysis of truss and geometric morphometrics. The individuals from lotic habitat showed a more streamlined body, sloping head and inflated caudal peduncle than those of the lentic habitat which displayed deeper body, broader head and deflated caudal peduncle. Relative warps were used to quantify variations in the form of characteristic interpretation of body shape. The results from the present study help clarify the questions of morphological predictions in the sub-populations of this fish across different flow habitats and provide insights into phenotypic variations in the T.fasciata population.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Liem, K.F., Toward a new morphology: pluralism in research and education .Am, Zool., 1991, 31, 759-767. Wainwright, P.C., Ecomorphology: experimental functional anatomy for ecological problems. Integr. Comp. Biol., 1991, 31, 680-693.
Literature cited 2: Shukla, R. and Bhat, A., Morphological divergeneces and ecological correlates among wild populations of zebrafish (Danio rerio).Environ.Biol.Fish., 2017, 100, 251-264. Cadrin, S.X., Advances in morphometric identification of fishery stocks. Rev. Fish. Biol. Fish, 2000, 10, 91-112.

ID: 62342
Title: Characterization of lime plaster of a Portuguese medieval monument in the Indian Ocean coast
Author: M.P.Sujith, L.Rajeswari and G.Santhana Krishnan
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 538-546 (2021)
Subject: Characterization of lime plaster of a Portuguese medieval monument in the Indian Ocean coast
Keywords: Ancient monument, chemical and mineralogical analysis, coastal sites, lime plaster, salt intrusion
Abstract: The present study aimed to unravel important features regarding the ancient lime plaster for a Portuguese monument in the Indian Ocean coast for the formulation of compatible repairing materials and to determine its condition to plan conservation works. The study illustrates the hydraulic properties of lime used for the construction, the extent of salt intrusion into the plasters, area of intrusion and its source. Wet chemistry results reveal that the dampness and capillary actions led to salt diffusion into the walls and its percolation to different heights of the monument. Due to the intrusion of water into the matrix of the plaster , its inner core becomes less cohesive, resulting in brittleness of lime combination and peeling-off of the upper fabric. Thermal techniques, X-ray diffraction and X-ray fluorescence results identified the mineralogical composition of the construction materials, viz. Lime plaster and mortar. Further, they confirmed the uniqueness of lime combination used to build the monument with lime-silica ratio in the range 1: 1 to 4: 1 and its transformations over a period of time in saline atmosphere. This study provides an overview regarding the ancient lime plaster used in the monument and may help to devise new compatible materials for subsequent conservation works.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Schaffer, R.J. and Building Research Establishment (Great Britain) and Great Britain. Department of Scientific and Industrial Research: The weathering of natural building stones (Fiacsimile reprint of 1st edn, London, Department of Scientific an Industrial Research).Building Research Establishment, Watford, 1972. Posfai, M. et al., Compositional variations of sea-salt modeaerosol particles from the North Atlantic.J.Geophys.Res., 1995, 100, 23063-23074.
Literature cited 2: Taber, S., The growth of crystals under external pressure. Am. J. Sci., 1916, 41, 532-556. Jutson, J.T., The influence of salts in rock weathering in sub-arid Western Australia. R. Soc. Victoria. Proc., 1918, 30, 165-172.

ID: 62341
Title: Aspergillus aeneus rediscovered in India from an extreme habitat
Author: Skarma Nonzom and Geeta Sumbali
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 514-518 (2021)
Subject: Aspergillus aeneus rediscovered in India from an extreme habitat
Keywords: Aspergillus aeneus, cold desert isolate, phenotypic and genotypic characterization, rediscovered
Abstract: During a survey of psychrotrophic soil fungi from a high-altitude cold desert (4000 masl), nine species of the genus Aspergillus were discovered. One of the species was identified as Aspergillus aeneus based on its morphological and molecular characterization. This species has been rediscovered from India from an extreme habitat as a psychrotolerant after 56 years of its first report from topical soil in Madhya Pradesh. Globally, this fungus is a rare species with limited occurrence, being reported so far only from India, Somalia and Costa Rica. It is a novel representative of desert fungi that showed cellulose and protease activity but lack lipase activity.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Varga, J., Frisvad, J.C. and Samson, R.A., Aspergillus sect. Aenei sect. nov., a new section of the genus for A.karnatakaensis sp.nov.and some allied fungi.IMA Fungus, 2010, 1, 197-205. Raper, K.B. and Fennell, D.I., The Genus Aspergillus, The Williams and Wilkins Co, Baltimotre, USA, 1965, p. 686.
Literature cited 2: Gams, W., Christensen, M., Onions, A.H.S., Pitt, J.I., and Samson, R.A., Infrageneric taxa of Aspergillus.In Advances in Penicillium and Aspergillus systematic (eds Samson, R.A. and Pitt, J.I.), NATO ASI Series A: Life Sciences, Plenum Press, New York, 1985, vol. 102, pp.55-62. Frisvad, J.C. and Samson, R.A., Emericella venezuelensis, a new species with stellate ascopores producing sterigmatocystin and aflatoxin B1. Syst.Appl.Microbiol., 2004, 27, 672-680.

ID: 62340
Title: Niger seed (Guizotia abyssinica) alters in vitro rumen fermentation and reduces methane emission
Author: Tariq A. Malik and Madhu Mohini
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 509-513 (2021)
Subject: Niger seed (Guizotia abyssinica) alters in vitro rumen fermentation and reduces methane emission
Keywords: Digestibility, methane emission, niger and sunflower seeds, rumen fermentation, total mixed rations.
Abstract: Oilseeds can be used to manipulate ruminal fermentation for attaining cleaner and better production. The effect of feed-grade niger seeds was studied on in vitro rumen fermentation parameters in comparison to sunflower seeds. Methane production decreased (P≤0.01) with incorporation of both seeds. In vitro digestibility of dry matter and organic matter reduced at higher incorporation levels (above 5 %, DM basis). Fermentation pattern of niger and sunflower seed-based total mixed rations was highly comparable. The relatively higher anti-methanogenic potential of niger seeds could make it a better choice for alleviation of enteric methane and formulation of environment-friendly rations.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Knapp, J.R., Laur, G.L., Vada, P.A. Weiss, W.Pand Tricarico, J.M., Invited review: enteric methane in dairy cattle Production: quantifying the opportunities and impact of reducing emissions. J. Dairy Sci., 2014, 97, 3231-3261. Patra, A.K. and Saxena, J.A., New perspective on the use of plant secondary metabolites to inhibit methanogenesis in the rumen Photochemistry, 2010, 71, 1198-1222.
Literature cited 2: Beauchemin, K.A., McGinn, S.M.and Petit, H.V., Methane abatement strategies for cattle: lipid supplementation of diets. Can .J. Anim. Sci., 2007, 87, 431-440. Calsamigila, S., Busquet, M., Cardozo, P.W., Castillejos, L. and Ferret, A., Invited review: essential oils as modifiers of rumen microbial fermentation. J. Dairy Sci., 2007, 90, 2580-2595.

ID: 62339
Title: Mortality due to COVID-19 in different countries is associated with their demographic character and prevalence of autoimmunity
Author: Bithika Chatterjee, Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar and Shekhar C.Mande
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 501-508 (2021)
Subject: Mortality due to COVID-19 in different countries is associated with their demographic character and prevalence of autoimmunity
Keywords: Autoimmunity, epidemiology, hygiene, mortality, risk factors, COVID-19
Abstract: In the first few months of its deadly spread across the world, COVID-19 mortality has exhibited a wide range of variability across different nations. In order to explain this phenomenon empirically, we have taken into consideration all publicly available data for 106 countries on parameters like demography, prevalence of communicable an non-communicable diseases, BCG vaccination status, sanitation parameters, etc. We used multivariate linear regression models and found that the incidence of communicable diseases correlated negatively. Demography, improved hygiene and higher incidence of autoimmune disorders correlated positively with COVID-9 mortality, and they were among the most plausible factors to explain COVID-19 mortality compared to GDP of the nations.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: GBD 2017 Disease and Injury Incidence and Prevalence Collaborators ,Global , regional and national incidence , prevalence , and years lived with disability for 354 diseases and injuries for 195 countries and territories, 1990-2017:a systematic analysis for the Gloabal Burden of Disease Study 2017.Lancet, 2018, 392, 1789-1858. Pan, H.-Y. et al., National incidence of autoimmune liver diseases and its relationship with the human development index. Oncotarget, 2016, 7, 46273-46282.
Literature cited 2: https://datahelpdesk.worldbank.org/knowledgebase/article/90651-9-world-bank-country-and-lending-groups (accessed on 29 June 2020). Li, B. Et al., Prevalence and impact of cardiovascular metabolic diseases on COVID-19 in China.Cin.Res.Cardiol., 2020, 109, 531-538.

ID: 62338
Title: Soil degradation challenges for sustainable agriculture in tropical India
Author: Ch.Srinivasarao, S.Rakesh, G.Ranjith Kumar, R.Manasa, G.Somashekar, C.Subha Lakshmi and Sumanta Kundu
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 492-500 (2021)
Subject: Soil degradation challenges for sustainable agriculture in tropical India
Keywords: Soil degradation, sustainable agriculture, mitigation strategies, policies
Abstract: Soil degradation is a pervasive, systematic phenomenon and a n urgent priority in order to ensure human well-being, protect biodiversity and ecosystem services. Agriculture sector is frequently affected by soil loss resulting into unproductive soil and lowered crop yields. This article focuses on critical sustainable challenges of Indian agriculture, soil degradation status and mitigation strategies as well as policies and management response options in respect of development of degraded lands. It also provides policymakers with the necessary information to develop appropriate mitigation technologies at the local, regional and national scale.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Looking Back to Change Track: GREEN India 2047 Renewed (eds Datt, D. and Nischal, S.), TERI Press, New Delhi, 2010, p.219. Bhattacharyya, R. et al., Soil degradation in India: challenges and potential solutions. Sustainability, 2015, 7, 3528-3570; doi: 10.3390/su7043528.
Literature cited 2: Singh, S.K.and Parihar, P., Challenges of sustainable agriculture development in India.J.Nat.Resour.Policy Res., 2015, 2(5), 355-359. Alam, A., Soil degradation: a challenge to sustainable agriculture.Int.J.Sci.Res.Agric.Sci., 2014, 1 (4), 50-55.

ID: 62337
Title: Role of electrostatics in artificial pollination and future agriculture
Author: Dipak S. Khatawkar, Shaji P.James and D.Dhalin
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 484-491 (2021)
Subject: Role of electrostatics in artificial pollination and future agriculture
Keywords: Artificial pollination, crop production, electrostatic charging, food security, honeybee
Abstract: Pollination is the process of pollen detachment from the male part, i.e., anther of a flower, travel through a medium and deposition onto the female part, i.e., pistil of flower, thereby enabling fertilization and reproduction. Majority (87.5%) of flowering plants rely on animal pollination, on insects in particular with the remnants of species being wind-pollinated and with autonomous seed-producing capabilities. The reproductive phase of a plant has direct impact on crop yield and quality of produce in terms of bio morphological characters which affect its market value. On a global account, 80% of all plant species depend on pollination for reproduction, which influences 35% of crop production and worth US $117 billion per year. However, drastic decline in native pollinators has raised major concerns for the assurance of pollination services. Studies have revealed that the absence of pollinators may reduce the global agricultural crop production by 3-8%.Also, keeping in mind the world scenario of crop production and population expansion in relation to land under cultivation which remains the same; rather it shows a decreasing trend. Crop productivity has to be optimized from all possible points of view to meet the future food demand. Here the concept of precision agriculture arises, i.e. optimum utilization of available resources to achieve maximum possible yield from the same land area and desirable quality, without jeopardizing the environment. If the pollination process is disturbed due to climatic factors or insufficient pollinators during the period of bloom, it may directly result in lower yield, undesirable bio morphological changes and quality loss, leading to mass economic drop. To overcome this situation, artificial pollination techniques have been developed.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Klein, A.M., Vaissiere, B.E., Cane, J.H., Steffan-Dewenter, I., Cunningham, S.A., Kremen, C. and Tscharntke, T., Importance of pollinators in changing landscapes for world crops. Proc. R. Soc., London B., 2007, 274, 303-313; doi:10.1098/rspb.2006.3721. Lawrence., Pollination and protecting bees and other pollinators. Extension –Washington State University, USA, 2015, pp.1-9; doi:10.13140/RG.2.1.3099.1203.
Literature cited 2: Ollerton, J., Winfree, R. and Tarrant, S., How many flowering plants are pollinated by animals? Oikos Forum, 2011, 120, 321-326; doi:10.1111/j.1600-0706.2010.18644. x. Linder, H.P., Morphology and the evolution of wind pollination. Reprod. Biol. R. Bot. Gard., 1998, 123-135.

ID: 62336
Title: Challenges to identify and mentor gifted children in developing countries: the Indian experience
Author: Anitha Karup
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2021
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 120 (3) 472-478 (2021)
Subject: Challenges to identify and mentor gifted children in developing countries: the Indian experience
Keywords: Developing countries, gifted children, identification, mentoring, psychometric measurements
Abstract: The National Education Policy 2020 (NEP-2020) has recognized the need to identify, and nurture gifted and talented children beyond the school curriculum. Through systematic research, the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru has developed multiple protocols for identifying and multi-level, multi-stage mentoring of gifted children. This study argues that there is need for a paradigm shift in the identification process that predominantly uses psychometric measurements in the portfolio that captures the actual data points of gifted children. This is particularly relevant for developing countries like India, which has a diverse population predominantly from disadvantaged communities. Establishing norms for standardized psychometric tests developed for the western populations will have inherent limitations to identifying the gifted children in multi-lingual and multi-cultural contexts. Needless to state, India has far too few trained psychologists to accomplish this task.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: NAGC, Key considerations in identifying and supporting gifted and talented learners-a report from the 2018 NAGC Definition Task Force. National Association for the Gifted Children, Washington DC, 2019; https://www.nagc.org/sites/default/files/Position% 20Statement/Definition %20Giftedness%20%-282019%29.pdf (accessed in September 2020).
Literature cited 2: Davalos, R. and Griffin, G., The impact of teachers’ individualized practices on gifted students in rural, heterogeneous classrooms. Roeper Rev., 1999, 21 (4), 308-314; doi: 10.1080/027831999-09553982. MHRD, National Education Policy 2020, p.65; https://www.mhrd.gov.in/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/nep/NEP_Final_English.pdf (accessed in September 2020).