eChapters

Principal Scientist and I/c Head, Division of Social Sciences and Training, IIHR, Hessaraghatta Lake Post, Bangalore – 560 089, Karnataka

Introduction

In the face of growing threat of accelerating climate change, global focus is shifting towards plant-based alternatives as a means for climate resilient ecosystems to meet the food requirements of global population. Such a change in priority is also seen in the growing global awareness towards a shift in daily ‘diets’ away from the meat-based ones towards healthier and balanced ones involving fruits and vegetables that provides cheaper yet nutritionally secure alternatives. A reiteration of this fact that speaks volumes about the changing priority is the UN declaration of the year 2021-22 as ‘the International Year of Fruits & Vegetables’ to raise awareness about balanced nutrition and to direct policy towards efficient management of production with minimizing post- harvest losses and wastage.

The success of any country’s agricultural sector depends on the strength of its farmer producer companies (FPCs) or farmer producer organizations (FPOs). These organizations, formed by farmers for farmers, are essential for ensuring the fair and sustainable production and distribution of food. However, many FPCs face significant challenges, including lack of access to finance, technology, and markets. To address these challenges, governments and other institutions have implemented various schemes and programs to support FPCs. 

1. What are Primary produce?

Primary produce, also known as primary products, refers to raw materials or natural resources that are derived from agriculture, forestry, fishing, or mining activities. These products are typically unprocessed or minimally processed, and are often used as inputs in further manufacturing or production processes. Examples of primary produce include crops such as wheat, corn, and soybeans, as well as livestock such as cattle, sheep, and pigs. Forestry products such as timber and paper pulp, as well as fish and other seafood harvested from the ocean or inland waterways, are also considered primary produce.

Introduction

Minerals are essentially required for growth maintenance, egg and meat production, health, nutrient metabolism, physiological function, reproduction, skeletal growth and development and maintenance of normal immune function. There are 25 essential minerals, seven are major minerals, as they are present in relatively higher amount in the body than the trace minerals and need to be supplemented in higher quantities in the feed. These major minerals are calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, chloride, potassium, and sulphur. The micro minerals are present in small quantities in the body and their requirements in the diet are below 100 mg/kg. The 18 trace minerals are iron, copper, zinc, manganese, iodine, selenium, cobalt, molybdenum, chromium, tin, vanadium, fluorine, silicon, nickel, arsenic, aluminium, lead and rubidium. Among these, the first nine micro minerals have been identified to play a significant role in birds. Total minerals in diet include feed sources and supplementary sources. 

Introduction

Poultry production is practiced at levels ranging from subsistence to large scale commercial operations. Commercial operations depend on hatcheries for the supply of day-old chicks while the subsistence farmers hatch their chicks by natural incubation. The hatchery plays a central role in the poultry production chain. Optimization of hatchery and breeder farm management can lead to improvement of the result throughout the production chain (Heier and Jarp, 2001). Generally, the success of hatchery management is monitored by the percentage of eggs set that are hatched (hatchability) and the number of chicks that are placed for grow-out (saleable chicks). 

Introduction

Women and girls in rural areas bear the brunt of poverty, feminisation and its intergenerational ramifications and the effects of desertification, extreme weather events, and natural disasters. Women are most at risk in conflict situations, as migrants and refugees and in humanitarian crises. Rural women have higher rates of disability, have inadequate or non-existent support services, and are stigmatised. Despite being the leading food growers and processors, the paradox is that they are often the last to consume the nutritious and healthy food they need to stay strong.

Although women work in household chores, agricultural activities, factories, and different workplaces in days of yore, their valuable work is still not recognized as a financial entity (Kathrivel and Sivakumar, 2003). The multiple roles performed by ‘Nari shakti share many working hours, but financial terms are off the records. Women’s power at construction work is greater utilization as labour and their daily routine employment. 

Indira Awaas Yojana (IAY)

Indira Awaas Yojana, which used to be a component of Jawahar Rozgar Yojana became an independent Scheme from 1997-1998 onwards. Its objective is construction of free houses to members of the Scheduled Castes/ Scheduled Tribes, Freed Bonded Labourers in Rural areas and also to non SC/ST rural poor living below poverty line. The beneficiaries are selected from the Below Poverty Line (BPL) list approved by the Grama Sabha. Atleast 60% of the total IAY allocation during a financial year should be utilized for construction/ upgradation of dwelling units for SC/ST BPL rural households. A maximum 40% of allocation is for non- SC/ST BPL rural households. 3% of the above categories should be allocated for physically and mentally challenged persons. 

History of plant propagation

The propagation of plants is one of the absolutely necessary occupations of human beings since time immemorial. Civilization might have started when ancient man learned to plant and grow different kinds of plants, which fulfilled the nutritional and other allied needs of human beings and their animals. Cultivated plants commenced mainly by direct selection from wild species (e,g., lima bean, barley, tomato, and rice), hybridization between species, accompanied by changes in chromosome number (e,g., strawberry, pear, and prunes), and a group of plants occurs naturally as rare monstrosities (e,g., cabbage, broccoli, and brussel’s sprouts).

“The light of unconditional love awakens the dormant seed potential of the soul helping them ripen, blossom and bear fruit, allowing us to bring the unique gifts that are ours to offer in this life”

–John Wehwood

Introduction

In nature and in humans, seeds are vehicles for spreading new life from place to place. In plants, it refers to the unit of dispersal that survives between seed maturation and its establishment as a seedling. A seed, like a fortress, protects and sustains life as they are well-stocked with special food supplies to endure long sieges. There are many things that seeds are, but above all else, they are the means of survival of their species. It is a way of suspending embryonic development and then resuming it years later after the parents have passed away.

Seed quality is the possession of seed that is genetically pure and physically homogeneous, coupled with health and wellness.

A seed is the first genetic material that becomes the basis for future agriculture and seeds are the basic building blocks of agriculture. A great deal of farming has been modernized by technology, but without a regular and steady supply of high quality seed, yields would be drastically reduced and crop quality would decrease as well. The production of horticultural and agronomic crops depends largely on quality seed. For farmers, seed characteristics such as genetic purity, germination percentage, vigor, and appearance have a significant effect on yield. Every professional seed producer strives to achieve and maintain high seed quality.

Introduction

The nursery is an area where tender seedlings are raised and conditioned before planting out in transplant beds or directly in the field. The increasing demand for quality planting material has up stepped the nursery business in many countries. The sophisticated technology, research and novel production approaches has transformed the traditional horticultural nursery to a technology intensive business. The tools and accessories associated with nursery production helps in aiding productivity of the nursery. The colour-coded and labelled plant materials, textured pots etc. are fascinating to consumers, indirectly increasing the salability of the plants and profitability of the enterprise. 

In the global scenario, the increasing energy crisis and consequent escalation of chemical fertilizer prices along with increasing risk associated with soil degradation have reviewed interest in bio-resources for attaining soil health and sustainable crop production. The use of organic manures, bio-fertilizers and chemical fertilizers will augment the efficiency of combined application of nutrients to maintain a high level of soil productivity and rice production (Thakuria et al., 1991; Prasad et al., 1995). Several experimental evidences showed that the combination of various bio-resources with chemical fertilizers improved the rice production in sustainable way (Roy and Jha, 1987; Subba Rao, 1995; Mahapatra et al., 1997; Suresh et al., 2001).

ntroduction

Millions of living organisms present in soil make it a living and a dynamic system. Under a microscope, it reveals a complex array of soil particles and pore spaces filled with air and water. In these pore spaces that plant roots and millions of organisms develop, which are ranging from sub-microscopic to macroscopic in size. The physical and chemical characteristics of soil determine the nature of the environment in which vast number of soil microorganisms especially soil microorganisms are found. Living organisms in soils include both macro (earthworms, rodents, termites etc.) and microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, algae and protozoa). These organisms not only help in the development of soils but also carry out a number of transformations, facilitating the availability of nutrients to the plants.

Introduction

Soil algae are not as numerous as bacteria, actinomycetes and fungi. Furthermore, these are photosynthetic microorganisms. Recent work has led to a more complete knowledge of the ecology and importance of terrestrial algae. These algae are found abundant in the habitats in which moisture is adequate and light is accessible.

Classification

Soil algae are classified into four major classes:

1. Cyanophyceae (Blue green algae)
2. Chlorophyceae (Green algae)

Introduction

The various reactions of nitrogen (N₂) cycle, transform one form of the element to another. Mineralization liberates nitrogen in inorganic form, immobilization converts its back to an unavailable state, while nitrification changes the nitrogen from a reduced to oxidized state. Certain transformations of nitrogen lead to a net loss of element from the soil through volatilization. For the purpose of crop production, nitrogen volatilization has a deleterious influence because it depletes part of soils reserve of an essential nutrient. The sequence of steps that results in gaseous loss is called denitrification. So denitrification refers to the reduction of nitrates and nitrites to gaseous nitrogen products, principally di-nitrogen and nitrous oxide, coupled to energy production through oxidative phosphorylation.

This chapter presents the conclusions of the research study. Based on these conclusions, recommendations relating to the effective implementation and management of Cyber Reference Service (CRS) in agricultural libraries in Maharashtra are made.

6.1 Introduction

The overall aim of this research was to investigate and analyze CRS in the Agricultural College and University libraries of Maharashtra. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach by combining quantitative and qualitative methods to achieve its aims and objectives. 

The deliberation on the methodology has been made to understand the concept, methods and techniques which have been executed for delineating the study, collection of information, analysis of data, and interpretation of the findings for the revelation of hard evidences and formulation of theories. This chapter deals with the method and procedure used in the study consisting of eight main parts

A. Locale of research

B. Pilot study

C. Sampling Design

D. Item analysis and experts rating for devising scoring technique on dependent variables

E. Empirical measurement of the variables.

3.1. Maturity

• During process of maturation, fruit receives regular supply of food material from plant.

• When mature, abscission or corky layer forms at stern end stops inflow.

• Afterwards, fruit depends on own reserves, carbohydrates dehydrated and sugars accumulate until sugar acid ratio form.

• In addition, typical flavour and characteristic colour also develop.

• Stage of maturity at the time of picking influence storage life and quality of fruit

• Fruits harvested over mature or full ripe are easily susceptible to microbial and physiological spoilage and storage life reduction.

• Necessary to pick up fruits or vegetables at correct stage of maturity to facilitate proper ripening, distant transportation and maximum storage life.

• Principles of harvest maturity

? Harvested commodity should have its peak acceptable quality when it reaches the consumer.

? Produce should develop an acceptable flavour or appearance.

? Produce should have optimum size and shape required by the market.

Growth and development of any horticultural crop is mostly depending upon two chief natural factors i.e. climate and soil, which decides success or failure. Therefore, understanding about climate and soil requirements for different horticultural crops for optimum growth and development is a prerequisite for profitable farming.

There is often confusion between weather and climate. Weather describes the condition of the atmosphere over a short period of time e.g. from day to day or week to week. It is current atmospheric conditions including temperature, rainfall, wind, humidity, sky condition at a given place. Climate on the other hand, is the average condition of weather over a longer period of time. Climate is the sum of all the statistical weather information that helps to describe a place or region.

Climate includes different factors namely temperature (minimum & maximum),

According to the present state of our knowledge, sixteen-elements are considered to be essential for plant growth and development. These nutrients are chemical elements, which are absorbed by the plants in more or less quantity to transform light energy into chemical energy and to keep up plant metabolism for the synthesis of organic material. These elements are regarded as essential in higher plants.

These are Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potash, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulphur, Zinc, Manganese, Copper, Iron, Boron, Molybdenum and Chlorine. Carbon, Hydrogen and Oxygen are obtained from air and water. Carbon makes up the great bulk of the plant and is obtained from carbon dioxide in the air. Hydrogen is derived mainly from the breakdown of water. Oxygen is obtained from air as well as water. Other thirteen elements are obtained from mineral and organic components of the soil. These elements are further grouped into major/macro and minor/micro-elements. The nutrients that are required in relatively larger quantities are termed as macro elements. Micronutrients that are required in relatively lesser quantities are termed as micro nutrients.

Major industries constituting the food processing industry are grains, sugar, edible oils, beverages and dairy products. The key sub-segments of the food processing industry in India are dairy, fruits and vegetables, poultry and meat processing, fisheries, food retail etc. Agro processing is the sunrise sector of the Indian economy in view of its large potential for growth and likely socio economic impact specifically on employment and income generation. India has the advantage of being one of the fastest growing economies in the world and it is the largest producer of several agricultural commodities. The food processing sector ranks first in terms of employment and number of factories in operation and third in terms of output.

In India, out of the total production of fruits and vegetables, nearly 76 per cent is consumed in fresh form, while wastage due to improper post harvest accounts for 20 to 35 per cent. Only around 2 percent of vegetables and 4 percent of fruit production are being processed. 

1. Introduction

A combination of art and science had been used for a longer but due to the exponential increase in human population and reduction in operational land holdings its practices became narrow. Nowadays, gardening has gained much popularity among people, as the Covid-19 pandemic has forced them to lock themselves in their houses. These days Mass population is involved in gardening for growing their own food, resulting in a more personal approach to more economical, better-tasting, and healthier products (Pawelek et al., 2009). Gardens have grown increasingly significant for producing nutrient-dense food, protecting biodiversity, and conducting biological and ecological research and education. Biological communities, which are interacting groups of numerous species in the same place, can also be found in gardens. Pollinators and other visitors to flowers eat nectar and pollen from flowers, and some may use floral volatile oils, lipids, or resins for their food, shelter, and mating locations (Simpson and Neff, 1983).

1. Introduction

India’s horticulture production has exposed multiple rises in the historical two decades and the country is ranking second in the world next to China. The horticultural crops viz., fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, plantation crops and medicinal and aromatic plants have become a vital motorist for economy development in numerous states in India. Horticulture contributes 30.4 per cent to GDP of agriculture, which calls for the need of research and technical backstopping in this sector. Horticulture is a division which has the potential to create multiple springs of income, thereby boosting the economic growth of a country. Horticulture can be undertaken as market driven cultivation of vegetables, fruits and flowers, as ecotourism, as therapeutic medicinal plant harvesting and as a part of multiple farming to accompaniment the main source of income.

With the sharp development of urban and industrial growth, the area under agriculture is declining year by year. On the other hand, human and animal population is increasing at a very fast rate. So, to meet the growing demand of food and fodders, a vertical increase in yield is required. Crop productivity per unit area can be enhanced with the manipulations of some agronomist practices such as sowing the crops at appropriate time, selection of suitable field for raising a crop, adoption of best planting techniques, use of appropriate seed rates, adoption of proper irrigation schedule, proper and need based application of fertilizers, adoption of zero till technology, green manuring, mulching, addition of well decomposed farm yard manure, timely and proper weed management, selection of recommended crops and crop varieties, proper control of insects and pests, adoption of marketing tips etc.

Sapota, Manilkara zapota (Linn.) (Family: Sapotaceae), commonly known as sapodilla or chiku, is a perennial and evergreen fruit tree. It is native to Southern Mexico, Central America as well as Caribbean. This fruit was introduced during 1888 in Thane district of Maharashtra in India (Cheema et al., 1954). Now, it is an important tropical fruit grown almost throughout the country except in hilly areas. The fruit is a rich source of sugar, minerals, vitamins and dietary fibers. Presently the India is considered to be the largest producer of Sapota in the world (Nandre and Shukla, 2014).

Strawberry (Fragaria vesca) is an important fruit crop in India and its commercial production is possible in temperate and sub-tropical areas of the country. According to the Ministry Agriculture, Government of India estimates, production of the fruit in India has dropped by 40% from 8,000 metric tonnes in 2014-15 to around 5,000 metric tonnes in both 2015-16 and 2016-17. Strawberries mainly consist of water (91%) and carbohydrates (7.7%). They contain only minor amounts of fat (0.3%) and protein (0.7%). The nutrients in 100 gm of raw strawberries are, calories 32, 91% water, 0.7gm protein, 7.7 gm carbohydrate, 4.9 gm sugar, 2 gm fiber and 0.3 gm fat. Strawberries should not lead to big spikes in blood sugar levels and are considered safe for people with diabetes. It is also useful for weight loss and can help prevent many diseases.The most abundant vitamins and minerals in strawberries are, vitamin C, vitamin B9, potassium and manganese. To a lesser extent, strawberries also provide iron, copper, magnesium, phosphorus and vitamins B6, K and E.

Globally saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is cultivated in regions spanning from the Mediterranean in the west to Kashmir in the east. Countries like Iran, Spain, Italy, India, Greece, Turkey, Afghanistan, Morocco and Azerbaijan harbour suitable climatic and soil conditions required for its growth and harvesting (Mehdi and Reza, 2012). However, the crop is also cultivated on small scales inFrance, Switzerland, Israel, Pakistan, China, Egypt, United Arab Emirates and Japan. Recently its cultivation has been introduced in non-traditional countries like Australia, New Zealand, USA, Argentina and Chile (Fernandez, 2004). Globally, about 85 thousand hectares of land is under saffron cultivation, giving a produce of 288 MT. Iran leads with 90 per cent of total global share for saffron production (Baghalian et al., 2010) and 70% of global export earning a revenue of US$ 51million. India’s global share is about 4.5 per cent in production followed by Greece (2.5%), Morocco (0.9%), Spain (0.8%), Italy and China (0.3% each), Afghanistan (0.2%) and Azerbaijan (0.06%).

Pest

A pest is any animal or plant detrimental to crops, livestock and forestry. The term is also used of organisms that cause a nuisance, such as in the home. An older usage is of a deadly epidemic disease, specifically plague. In its broadest sense, a pest is a competitor of humanity, means disease causing microbes, plant devouring insects, macro-fauna like rats and moles, weeds, off type plants and even human beings are pests in perspective of plants.

IPM

IPM is a pest management system that in the context of associated environment and population dynamics, utilizes all the appropriate techniques to minimize the pest population levels below those causing economic injury. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) includes cultural Practices, Host Plant Residence, Mechanical control, Biological control, Use of Bio-pesticides, botanicals and Chemical control.

Introduction

Being a global agricultural powerhouse, agriculture sector’s importance in India’s economy goes well beyond imagination. As, our nation have second-largest agricultural land in the world, with around 60% rural Indian households making their living from agriculture. In India, the agriculture sector employs half of country’s growing population and rest of the population is greatly dependent on the farmers for subsistence. It has been the primary sector of India serving people from times immemorial till now.

Budget experts of India have estimated the agricultural growth rate to be near to 3.9 per cent in FY 2022-23, surpassing the 2021-22 growth rate of 3.6 percent approximately. The government of India’s priority shall continue on doubling farmers’ income by 2022-23 and becoming a USD 5 trillion economy by 2024-25.

Introduction

‘Infrastructure’ connotes physical assets. The meaning may differ based on the sector under which the term is in use. More often, it has been used to describe the public as-sets that facilitate production. Historically, Lewis (1955) included public utilities, ports, water supply and electricity as infrastructure, whereas Hirschman (1958) outlined four conditions that characterise infrastructure or social overhead capital: the services provided to facilitate or are basic to economic activity; the services are usually public goods because of economic externalities; these services cannot be imported; these investments tend to be indivisible or ‘lumpy’. 

What is Artificial Intelligence

‘Artificial’ is taken to mean a property of a human-made machine. ‘Intelligence’ will be that when something is able to perform a new action or change its state to achieve the optimal response it could perform given external inputs. This term is coined by- John McCarthy (American computer and cognitive scientist) during 1956 So, AI is basically a machine able to mimic human intelligence by having the ability to predict, classify, learn, plan, reason and perceive.

AI is an emerging technology in the field of agriculture. AI-based equipment and machines, has taken today’s agriculture system to a different level. This technology has enhanced crop production and improved real-time monitoring, harvesting, processing and marketing . The latest technologies of automated systems using agricultural robots and drones have made a tremendous contribution in the agro-based sector. Various hi-tech computer-based systems are designed to determine various important parameters like weed detection, yield detection and crop quality and many other techniques.

Introduction

Information and communications technologies (ICT) is defined as a diverse set of technological tools and resources used to transmit, store, create, share or exchange information. These technological tools and resources include mobile phones, computers, the internet (website, blogs, emails), live broadcasting technologies (radio, television and webcasting), recorded broadcasting technologies (podcasting, audio and video players, and storage devices) and telephony.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in agriculture can act as a driving force in the development process. It facilitates marketing decisions, directs the competitive process and simplifies marketing mechanisms. Accuracy, Availability, Applicability and Analysis are the four ‘A’’s of marketing information; a farmer may decide how much to produce, when and where to sell and a trader may expand trade (Behera, 2015).

Introduction

The floriculture industry is changing quickly around the world. Due of globalization’s impact on revenue generation in various regions of the world, flowers are consumed per person in the majority of nations. Floriculture has a long history in India. Ancient Sanskrit classics like the Rig Veda (C 3000-2000 BC), Ramayana (C 1200-1300 BC), Mahabharata (before the 4th Century BC), Shudraka (C 100 BC), Ashvagodha (C 100 AD), Kalidasa (C 400 AD), and Sarangdhara (C. 400 AD) all make mention of flowers and gardens (C 1200 AD)(Dadlani, 2021).In many nations around the world, growing flowers is one of the industries’ tactics. India began producing flowers a few years ago, and the industry is now one of the nation’s major areas for expansion and change. Both socially and economically, floriculture is very advantageous. The trade in cut flowers has grown dramatically recently, both domestically and internationally. The freshness of the flowers for a longer period of time without losing their aesthetic value is what gives a flower its attractiveness. There is a massive loss in the value of cut flowers along the marketing channel, which may be 50% of the farm’s worth (Bhattacharjee, 1999).

Introduction

Lavender (Lamiaceae family) produces characteristically lavender- coloured (purple) flowers, although pink, white and green forms of some species also exist. There are approximately 20 species of lavenders with hundreds of various genotypes differentiated by variations ranging from morphology to chemical composition of essential oil. Cultivation of lavenders for essential oil is thought to have begun in the 16^th century. Recently there has been an upsurge of interest in lavender as a medicinal herb crop. Lavender is a perennial herb and is a native of the western Mediterranean and the eastern coast of Spain, France, Switzerland, North Italy, Corsica and North Africa. Lavender and lavandin oil have long been the major essential oils produced on the southern slopes of the French Alps. The oil possesses refreshing, sweet aroma and blends with many other essential oils. Therefore, it is widely used in perfumery, cosmetics and medicines.

Introduction

ICT in agriculture is an emerging field focusing on the enhancement of agriculture and rural development. It involves applications of innovative ways to use ICT in rural domain. The advancement in ICT can be utilized for providing accurate, timely, relevant information and services to the farmers, thereby facilitating an environment for more remunerative agriculture. (Mahant et. al. 2012). Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in agriculture can act as a driving force in the development process. It facilitates marketing decisions, directs the competitive process and simplifies marketing mechanisms. Accuracy, Availability, Applicability and Analysis are the four ‘A’’s of marketing information; a farmer may decide how much to produce, when and where to sell and a trader may expand trade (Behera, 2015). Social media is the new upcoming area in agricultural marketing that has blogs, microblogs, pages, groups etc. It saves time and cost of the farmers for getting information. Facebook is the most likely social media for pages and profiles.

Introduction

Agriculture forms the backbone of the Indian economy. Although there has been large industrialization in the last 60 years, agriculture still occupies the prominent place of importance (Banarsi Lal, 2019). The agriculture sector contributes about 20 per cent of GDP in India (MoF, 2020-21). Both the agriculture and livestock sectors provide employment to 52 per cent of the work force (Rathod and Dixit, 2019). In India, most of farmers have small average holdings. Agriculture marketing can play important role in increasing income of farmers with same landholding. Agriculture plays a vital role in India’s economy. 54.6 of the total workforces is engaged in agriculture and allied sector activities (Census 2011) and accounts for 18.8% (First Advance Estimates) of country’s Gross Value Added (GVA) for the year 2021-22 (at current prices). Agriculture sector needs structured and functional markets, preferably in the vicinity of farmers, to drive growth, employment, remunerative prices and economic prosperity in rural areas of the country.

Introduction The method of drying is expressed as applying heat under controlled conditions to remove the water or moisture from foods to get a dry product with low moisture content. The primary commitment of drying is to extend the shelf-life of foods by diminishing their water activity. Due to low water activity, microorganisms which cause food spoilage and decay and many of the enzymes which promote undesired changes in the chemical composition of the food are unable to grow, multiply or function. The need for drying in the food industry is increasing day by day, and Novel dehydration techniques are being invented for a more efficient drying process, less energy-consuming, and preserve the product characteristics and nutritional profile. Further, the drying technology is critical for moisture removal from food and non-food materials. Small scale farmers use this food preservation method as an indigenous method and the food processing industry as modern technology. Dried products have numerous benefits compared to raw products, including an extended shelf-life and reduced packaging, storage, handling, and transportation costs. However, drying is a highly energy-intensive food processing operation.

Introduction In today’s environment, the greatest challenge for the food industry is to develop health promoting foods; it is determined by the raw materials used and its impact on consumer health. Furthermore, people lifestyle has changed greatly, resulting in a change in food eating patterns. In today’s world, people are moving towards eating foods that are nutrient base and tasty (Bonciu, 2018). of all the nutrient based products available in market, expanded snacks have become a popular snack all over the world because of its crunchy texture and low density making it consumer’s acceptance (Grasso, 2020). The basic idea for developing any expanded snacks is utilizing a starch-based material for a better crispy and crunchy product, but to make it more nutritious incorporation of protein and fibre rich raw materials is recommended (Gu et al., 2017). Along with the raw materials, the other important parameters for developing any extruded product is the particle of the flour, its physicochemical and rheological properties of the extrudates are much concentrated (Bouasla & Wójtowicz, 2021) Thereby, extruded snack is considering as functional food with major health benefits.

Introduction The onion (Allium cepa) is one of the world's oldest cultivated crops, with a history dating back over 5,000 years (Gorrepati et al., 2014). At present, India is one of the world's largest producers and exporters of onions. At the time, India ranked second in onion production with a yearly production of around 23262 TMT and an average yield of 18.10 MT/ha (Prajapati and Saini, 2019; Horticulture Statistics at a Glance, 2018; Tripathi and Lawande, 2016). Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand and Telangana are the major onion producing states in India. Maharashtra alone covers 55-60% of countries total production. Solapur, Satara, Dhule, Jalgoan, Osmanabad, Beed, Latur, Aurangabad are the major onion producing districts in Maharashtra (Tripathi et al., 2005). Unfortunately, India witnessed around 40-50% post-harvest losses of onions every year (Prajapati and Saini, 2019).

Introduction India is a country of festivals and celebrations. Indian sweets enjoy a legendary reputation across the world. India is home to a number of delicious sweets that play a vital role in every Indian celebration. While gulab jamuns, rasgullas and kaju katlis may be the most popular sweets in the country (Pal Sanchari, 2016). Functions and events in India are celebrated with intake of sweets. Also, it is customary to sweeten the mouth in social gathering like marriage, birthday, poojas, etc. (Gulati and Misra, 2014). In the past few years, guidelines are formulated based on analyses of all published scientific studies on the consumption of sugars. In view of the rising prevalence of overweight, obesity and related disorders globally, in 2002, the WHO recommended that sugar should be less than 10 percent of daily calories. The consensus dietary guidelines for Indians in 2011 recommend less than 10% of total calories from free sugars per day. In May 2014, the expert panel of WHO recently recommended decreasing sugar intake to 5% of total calorie intake to combat obesity. A high intake of added sugars is a primary risk factor for diabetes. It is these added sugars in sweets that makes them palatable, but also does the physical damage. (Willet Brian, 2011). People have developed taste towards food in which fat and sugar contents are high.

Introduction Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is a member of the Umbelliferae/Apiaceae family. Carrots is an important primitive cool season root vegetable crop cultivated in both tropical and temperate climatic conditions. Carrot is a significant winter root vegetable grown throughout India. Carrots are said to have originated in Afghanistan in western Asia, which is the principal source of variation. Carrots were grown in Asia Minor in the 10th and 11th centuries. It arrived in India from Persia in the 13th or 14th century. Its medicinal cultivation originated between 2000 and 3000 years ago. Carrots are a major root crop in European countries such as the United States, China, Japan, and India. Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan are the main carrot-growing states in India. During 2020-21, India produces 1885 thousand metric tonnes of carrot from 108 thousand hectares of carrot production. During 2020-21, Haryana ranked top in both area (19.83 thousand hectares) and production (337.43 thousand metric tonnes) of carrot in India (Anonymous, 2020). Carrot possesses antidiabetic, cholesterol and cardiovascular disease decreasing, anti-hypertensive, hepatoprotective, Reno-protective, and anti-inflammatory effects. Carrot roots are rich in carotene, iron, thiamine, riboflavin, ascorbic acid, niacin, and sugar.

Introduction Turnip (Brassica rapa subsp. repifera L.) is a root vegetable grown in temperate, subtropical and tropical regions of India that is commonly grown for its edible root and leaves. The root is typically white or cream-colored with a slightly purple or pink top, and has a slightly sweet and earthy flavor. The leaves, which are also edible, have a slightly bitter taste and are typically used in soups, stews, and salads. Turnips are a coolseason crop and are typically planted in the spring or fall. They are hardy and can tolerate frost, making them a popular choice for fall and winter gardens. Turnips are a very nutritious vegetable, they are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, as well as other minerals and vitamins. They are also low in calories and high in antioxidants. The root contains a compound called glucosinolate, which has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.

As already discussed in above chapter there are various physical, geographical and environmental constraints that are associated with the hill agriculture, thus the scope for` agricultural policies based on modern input-intensive agriculture is inhibited in the hilly areas resulting in the majority of the hill communities to either live on subsistence agriculture or immigrating to other parts of the country for employment. The policies that might give successful results for any other state in India situated in the plains, may not prove to be fruitful in this hilly state. As the livelihood of the weaker sections in the hill areas is absolutely dependent on natural resources, their devastation will make the process of inclusive growth unsustainable in the long run. For sustainable agriculture it is necessary that agriculture of hill can be b understood in the right way and it should include all the necessary interventions on those activities in which farmers are dependent to make a livelihood. 

Introduction Agriculture plays a vital role in human societies and economies around the world. It is the prime food source for human populations, ensuring a reliable supply of nutritious food for the health and well-being of people everywhere. It is a major contributor to the economy of many countries, particularly in the developing world, where it provides livelihoods for millions of people and supports local and national economies. Agriculture is both impacted by and contributes to climate change. However, sustainable agriculture cultivation can also help to reduce the consequences of climate change by decreasing emissions of greenhouse gas and increasing resilience to extreme weather events.

Introduction Surimi and surimi based seafoods are traditional products of Japan and occupy an important position in the dietary culture of the country. Today, the largest producers of surimi are the United States, Japan and Thailand. Surimi is also manufactured in China, Vietnam and Malaysia. The process of makingsurimi originated in Southeast Asia and was further developed in Japan in the 16th century. Surimi is a product of Japanese origin, derived from a traditional Japanese way of using and preserving fresh fish. The word ‘surimi’ comes from the Japanese words ‘suru’ meaning ‘to process’ and ‘mash/mi’ meaning ‘meat’. Technically, surimi is the stabilized myofibrillar protein which is obtained by mechanically deboned fish flesh, which is washed, mixed with cryoprotectants, and stored frozen. Washing not only removes fat and undesirable matters such as blood, pigments and odoriferous substances but also increases the concentration of myofibrillar protein. A fish-based product serving the raw material for preparation of analog of seafoods like crab, lobster, scallop & other shellfish.

Introduction Fishermen of Gulf of Mannar coast were largely depending on traditional fishing gears, and they were mainly exploiting the coastal fishery resources before 1960’s. After the introduction of trawl gears and mechanized fishing boats during 1960’s fishermen were more comfortable with plenty of fish catch, especially the high-valued demersal shrimps. The fishing effort was also increased at a tremendous pace in this region with the addition of stern trawlers. Due to this increment in the fishing effort, the fishery resources and their life-supporting systems such as coral reefs and sea grass beds are seriouslydisturbed.

Introduction NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations) are organisations with professional staff that work to lessen human suffering and advance developing nations. The number of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in India is close to 3.4 million, and they work in a range of sectors, from disaster relief to advocacy for underserved and neglected groups. It is a nonprofit organisation that operates without interference from any governmental body. It is taskoriented and organised by people with common interests in a local, national, or international setting. It performs a variety of services and charitable tasks. Particularly, some are structured around particular concerns, such as health, the environment, or human rights. These make up a sizeable portion of civil society and bring about quick social change. They have developed into a vital and vocal platform for civil society participation in public affairs (Desai, 2014.).

Nanotechnology has emerged as a revolutionary force in the food industry, providing innovative solutions to improve food quality, safety, and usefulness. Researchers have devised novel ways to numerous issues in food production and preservation by harnessing nanoparticles' unique traits, such as their high surface area-to-volume ratio and customizable physicochemical characteristics. Nanotechnology-enabled food additives provide a wide range of benefits, including improved texture, taste, color, and nutritional value, as well as increased shelf life and microbiological safety. Furthermore, nanoparticles are effective transporters for bioactive chemicals, allowing for targeted and regulated release within the food matrix.

Agriculture serve as a backbone in improving economic growth of a country as well as it provides a base in meeting various needs of people in direct and indirect ways. The recent advancement in nanotechnology has shown a path to develop traditional agriculture into a sustainable practice. Several nanochemicals emerged as promising agents for better plant growth, used as fertilizer, pesticides, control weeds and also used as antimicrobial agents in food packaging. Nanotechnology may act as sensor for checking soil health of agriculture fields.