Current Issue - Volume 17 Issue 5 (August 2024)

In this article, Sarita Brara highlights that the burning of paddy straw in Punjab and Haryana significantly contributes to rising pollution levels in Delhi each October and November. To combat this issue, the states are implementing various methods, including the use of Super Seeder machines. These advanced agricultural implements not only incorporate paddy residue into the soil but also help manage crop residue more effectively. By reducing the need for stubble burning, Super Seeders play a crucial role in mitigating air pollution and enhancing soil health. They simplify residue incorporation, improve soil structure and fertility, and support microbial activity and nutrient cycling. Additionally, these machines minimize the need for extra tillage, saving both time and fuel for farmers. The adoption of Super Seeders across India is expected to improve soil management practices, promote environmental sustainability, and boost agricultural productivity.

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The perennial flood menace in Assam is a significant and recurring challenge, driven primarily by the Brahmaputra River's immense volume and the state's heavy monsoon rains. Each year, the confluence of these factors results in widespread flooding that disrupts communities, displaces thousands, and causes extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and agriculture. Despite efforts to mitigate the impacts through infrastructure, early warning systems, and community preparedness, the frequency and intensity of these floods continue to pose a severe threat, necessitating ongoing adaptation and resilience strategies to protect the affected populations and their livelihoods. Nava Thakuria assesses the current situation and also highlights government's efforts in this regard.

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Bethany Mc Lean, an American journalist says, "Choices of right and wrong are not presented to you in black and white. If they were, I am sure most people would choose white."... And this is true for the central Himalayan landraces like black soybeans, a wide range of millets and pseudo cereals, uncultivated food plants, etc., which despite their nutritional worth and active role in keeping the ecological parameters intact, have for long been denied their due. Indeed, these black edibles have been the unfortunate victims of apartheid in the realm of gastronomy... says Rajshekhar Pant.

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Jeeva Bhavana is a national environmental non-profit organization headquartered in Pune. In 2020, they introduced their flagship initiative, Urvarasa, aimed at supporting Indian farmers in shifting from animal-based to natural, plant-based farming methods. This transition is designed to foster a self-sufficient and sustainable food system, ensuring fair compensation for farmers' crucial work. Urvarasa collaborates with farmers who choose to follow Jeeva Bhavana's guidelines, cultivating crops for mindful consumers who seek fair trade, sustainably grown, cruelty-free, and nutritious food. Keep reading to know more...

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The intrepid wildlife photographer Sandesh Kadur, lives life on the edge, bringing to us high-quality wildlife and conservation documentaries, for globally renowned networks like National Geographic, BBC, and Netflix. read more

Tomography with neutrons and X-rays shows where particles are deposited

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As people increasingly invest in the future of our planet and seek an improved quality of living, Earthenhive, along with other firms in the sustainable architecture domain, holds significant potential to integrate sustainability into global standards.

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