Environment India

  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...

  Vultures in Assam die by pesticide poisoning targeting stray dogs On March 17, carcasses of 100 Himalayan griffon vultures and one steppe eagle were found in Assam’s Chaygaon. Pesticide poisoning is suspected to be the cause of death. The intended target for the poisoning was not the raptors but the stray dogs which have been attacking village livestock. The incident at Chaygaon is not an isolated incident of vultures dying after consuming contaminated carrion. A fortnight before the Chaygaon incident, 30 vultures died after feeding on a poisoned carcass in Dibrugarh and earlier in January this year, 23 vultures died under similar circumstances. Even three years ago, 19 and 39 vultures had died in two separate incidents in Sivasagar district. However with increasing awareness about the role of vultures in the ecosystem and the impact of pesticides along with the forest department’s efforts in vulture conservation, there seems to be hope in protecting the birds an...