In many parts of the world food security is being affected due to declining quality and/or quantity of the soil resource base and climate change. In this context, farming with zeolites has drawn attention. Zeolites are natural aluminosilicates present in rocks different part of the world. Use of zeolite has gained a momentum in the recent past owing to multitude of benefits accured from them. Zeolites are useful in agriculture because of their large porosity, cation exchange capacity and selectivity for ammonium and potassium cations. They can be used both as carriers of nutrients and as a medium to free nutrients. Although considerable research has been advanced, further research needs to carried out for their efficient utilization in farming.
The 3 oyster mushroom species namely Pleurotus florida, P. eous, and Hypsizygus ulmarius were evaluated for their biological efficiency (BE) and net returns from the rupee invested (NRRI) in late kharif and rabi seasons. The BE and NRRI of P. florida and H. ulmarius were on par and significantly superior to P. eous in both the seasons. The present study provided corroboration for the suitability of P. florida and H. ulmarius cultivation in the late kharif and rabi seasons whereas, P. eous cultivation in the summer and early kharif seasons. Thus, the season-specific selection of oyster mushroom species promotes the concept of year-round mushroom cultivation.
This comprehensive review highlights the multifaceted potential of millets as a nutritional powerhouse, a sustainable agricultural choice, and a means to tackle global nutritional challenges. Coinciding with the International Year of Millets, the paper focuses on the significance of millets as highly nutritious and resilient cereal staples that can address both food security and malnutrition issues, while enhancing agricultural sustainability. A comparative analysis of the nutritional composition of various millet types against major cereal crops reveals their superior micronutrient profile, protein content, and health benefits. Their role in combating micronutrient deficiencies such as iron, zinc, and vitamin A, as well as non-communicable diseases like diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases is underlined. Moreover, their immune-supporting properties are discussed. The climate resilience of millets and their potential to diversify agricultural systems while enhancing farmers' incomes are considered. The review also addresses challenges in promoting millet consumption and production, including perception issues, supply chain barriers, and policy constraints. Strategies to maximize millet potential, like enhancing value chains, promoting dietary diversification, incorporating millets into school feeding programs, and utilizing technological advancements for improved varieties are proposed. Policy recommendations emphasize the need for institutional support for millet farmers, raising consumer awareness, and strengthening research and development in millet agriculture. This paper serves as a call to action for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders to promote millets as a key component in our food systems to tackle nutritional challenges and enhance agricultural sustainability.
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