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खाद: प्रकृति का उपहार, हमारी जिम्मेदारी

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 खाद का अर्थ होता है, खाद्य पदार्थ (पौधों का भोजन), पौधों को पानी के साथ साथ भोजन की भी आवश्यकता होती है। पौधे अधिकतर भोजन प्रकाश संश्लेषण से प्राप्त करते हैं, लेकिन पोषकतत्व (माइक्रो न्यूट्रेंट) जड़ों के माध्यम से पानी के साथ जमीन से ग्रहण करते हैं। भूमि में जो जैविक कार्बन तत्व होता है वह भूमि में जीवन का आधार होता है। यह भूमि में रहने वाले सभी जीव, जीवाणुओं का भोजन होता है। इससे ही भूमि उपजाऊ बनती है और पौधे पनपते है। रासायनिक खादों की वजह से मिट्टी में यह जैविक कार्बन तत्व कम होता जा रहा है और भूमि बंजर होती जा रही है। रसायनिक खाद रूपी नशा देकर धरती माता का दोहन, बलात्कार किया जा रहा है। एक इंच मिट्टी की परत बनने में हजारों वर्ष लग जाते हैं। दिनों दिन मिट्टी कम होती जा रही है। कुछ मिट्टी को हमने बिल्डिंग, शेड, सड़कों, फुटपाथ के नीचे दबा दिया है, कुछ से हम खनिज लवण, बिल्डिंग मैटेरियल, रेत, कोयला, निकालकर खत्म कर रहे हैं, कुछ से ईंट, मिट्टी के बर्तन बनाकर उसे हमेशा हमेशा के लिए मार दिया हैं। कुछ को रसायनिक केमिकल डालकर, जहरीला करके मार रहे हैं। कुछ को मलबे, प्लास्टिक के ...

Revolutionising Himalayan Agriculture: The Magic of Nepalese-Alder Forests

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  Imagine a world where forests aren't just pretty backdrops, but vital life-giving forces. A recent study from Jawaharlal Nehru University has revealed a fascinating secret: the type of forest can significantly impact the health of nearby farmland. Researchers found that broadleaf forests, with their wider leaves, are more beneficial to soil health than coniferous forests. These forests promote the growth of beneficial microbes, increase organic matter content, and release essential nutrients, leading to healthier and more productive farms. An Agricultural Farm Near Forest The research, led by Shankar and Garkoti (2024) , published in journal Science of The Total Environment , highlights the pivotal role of Nepalese-alder ( Alnus nepalensis ) forests in enhancing soil quality and nutrient availability. This remarkable improvement is largely attributed to the alder’s nitrogen-fixing capabilities and higher microbial biomass, which contribute to better soil structure...

Family Drama Beneath Our Feet: Genetic Tug of War in Soil

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 In the ever-evolving saga of nature's mysteries, scientists have uncovered a captivating twist in the age-old tale of plants and their soil companions. A recent research by Clark, K. M. et. al., has delved deep into the intricate relationship between these two entities, shining a spotlight on the role of genetic relatedness in shaping their dynamic dance. With Solidago altissima (North American species of Goldenrod ) as their muse, researchers embarked on an enthralling journey to unravel the secrets hidden beneath the earth's surface. Seedlings from a diverse array of parent plants were carefully nurtured, their destinies intertwined with the soil they grew in. Would kinship prove to be a blessing or a curse? The results of this groundbreaking experiment were nothing short of astonishing. Seedlings nestled in soil from their genetic relatives found themselves in a struggle for survival, their growth stunted by the very earth that bore their lineage. Meanwhile, ...

Unearthing Conflict: How Mining Shapes Human-Primate Encounters in Southern India

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A recent study by researchers  Anand, S., & Radhakrishna, S. (2024)   delve into the impact of mining on human-primate conflict in southern India. Through a blend of household surveys and geospatial analysis, they explore how alterations to the landscape due to mining activities shape the dynamics of conflict between humans and primates in coal mining regions. In a coal mining region of southern India, researchers delve into the intricate interplay between human activities and wildlife dynamics. Through a meticulous blend of household surveys and geospatial analysis, they unravel the impacts of mining-induced landscape changes on human-primate conflict. Unlike traditional conflict scenarios, where crop damage often takes center stage, house-raiding emerges as the predominant form of conflict. The study took place in Ramagundam Coal Belt region, situated in the Mancherial and Pedapalli districts of Telangana state, southern India, is part of the expansive Godavari Valley Co...

Ripple in the Waters: Eurasian Otter Discovery in Western Ghats' Sanctuary

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 A thrilling discovery made by Mohan, S. K., and team in 2023 reveals something incredible! They spotted the elusive Eurasian Otter ( Lutra lutra ) right here in the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary within our beautiful Western Ghats. Two of these otters spotted in a rocky-torrential stream back in March 2020. These little fellas were on a frenzy, darting among submerged rocks, exploring nooks and crannies, and sometimes taking playful dives. What’s fascinating is their preference for spots where the water roars with energy, avoiding the calm and shallow areas. Now, here’s the real scoop on where they were found – it's a paradise up there! At 1,275 meters altitude in the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, there’s lush greenery, these halfway-between forests (called transitional sholas), and patches of green along a speedy stream with big rocks and fallen trees. And get this – this place isn’t just for our Eurasian Otter friends; it's also a sweet spot for the Asian Small-clawed Ot...

From Selfies to Saviors: How Social Media Rescues Animals in Tourism

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In today's digital age, where social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, its impact on various aspects of society is truly remarkable. One area where this influence shines brightly is in the world of tourism, especially when it comes to our interactions with our furry and feathered friends. While social media can sometimes be a bit tricky, let's talk about a recent  case study  by  Madelene Blaer , that explores the heartwarming side of our four-legged companions in the tourism scene, with a special focus on how animal rescue organizations can turn travel enthusiasts into animal-loving heroes, all in the digital age. Photo by International Fund for Animal Welfare Now, let's not deny that social media can sometimes act like a double-edged sword. It's true that it has, on occasion, unintentionally encouraged practices that aren't great for our animal buddies, like those wildlife selfies or supporting not-so-friendly industry practices. But here's...

How much eco-conscious are Delhiites ? Unveiling Delhi's Urban Green Spaces through Residents' Eyes"

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In recent years, India has witnessed a rapid surge in economic growth and urban development, resulting in a distressing deterioration of environmental conditions. This trend is especially prevalent in densely populated urban areas like Delhi, where the adverse effects of this expansion are manifested through heightened pollution levels, water contamination, and the alarming loss of natural habitats and biodiversity. Amidst these pressing environmental challenges, urban green spaces (UGSs) have emerged as crucial assets for mitigating these issues and enhancing the overall quality of life within cities. UGSs, encompassing parks, gardens, and other green areas nestled in urban landscapes, offer a diverse range of benefits known as ecosystem services. A  recent study  by Anand & Prodyut Bhattacharya (2023) conducted in Delhi aimed to explore the perceptions and interactions of residents with the ecosystem services provided by UGSs. This study had multiple key objectives. Firs...