NATURAL FARMING
Shivraj Singh Chouhan holds 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' in Odisha's Hirapur, urges farmers to protect soil health
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited the Chausathi Yogini Peetha at Hirapur to promote sustainable agriculture practices. He urged farmers to adopt measures that aid soil health and crop productivity. Chouhan emphasized the importance of using fertilizers based on soil tests to maintain agricultural balance. \
Illinois drained two lakes for farmland for about 70 years; after conservationists bought Emiquon in 2000 and began restoring the wetlands, spring waterbird counts exceeded 119,000
Since its transformation from farmland into a flourishing wetland began in 2000, Emiquon Preserve has seen extraordinary returns in wildlife, famously attracting over 119,000 waterbirds during the spring counts. Although the project has greatly enhanced wetland habitats and ecological recovery, vigilant management is required to combat threats from invasive species and to maintain aging infrastructures, underlining the importance of ongoing human efforts in environmental sustainability.
ICAR partners with Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, MSSRF and Bharat Krishak Samaj to document farmer-led innovations in natural farming
The MoU, signed in New Delhi will facilitate a collaborative action-research study titled “Capturing Farmer Innovation in Natural Farming Transitions” under the National Mission on Natural Farming.
Shift from higher yields to nutrient-efficient crops needed to cut fertiliser dependence: ICAR’s Jat
Jat emphasised that soil biodiversity and agrobiodiversity are fundamental to sustainable agriculture
First decade since Independence with over 4 pc agri growth, says PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that Indian agriculture grew more than 4 percent per year in the past decade. He emphasized that many small farmers have improved their economic situation significantly during this time. The government invested heavily in supporting farmers, especially in fertilizer subsidies, to reduce their input costs. Modi urged farmers to adopt natural farming practices and diversify their crops to enhance income sources.
Chhath Puja 2026: Why Sugarcane, Turmeric Plants and Banana Leaves Are Used in Traditional Worship
Sugarcane, turmeric plants and banana leaves are important elements of traditional Chhath Puja celebrations in Bihar. These natural ingredients are associated with prosperity, purity, abundance and gratitude towards nature. From decorating puja spaces to arranging traditional offerings, discover why these agricultural products hold cultural and religious significance during the four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.
- Go To Page 1
India should offer world new development model rooted in tradition: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat
Mohan Bhagwat called attention to India's heritage of traditional wisdom as a potential blueprint for global progress. He underlined the necessity of achieving equilibrium among human lifestyles, animal health, and environmental integrity. Concurrently, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confronted the agricultural issues arising from climate change, and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced the establishment of agriculture and veterinary institutions as vital steps for enhancing local development.
At China’s big import fair, sellers try to crack a tough market
At the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, a plethora of international firms exhibited their products tailored for the growing Chinese consumer market. Emphasizing the importance of cutting-edge technology and skilled craftsmanship, businesses recognize the fierce local competition, with Chinese manufacturers enhancing their capabilities.
In 2020, Ian Somerhalder said Kiss the Ground took 7 years to make; 4 years later, his Nutro campaign raised $300,000 for farmers working to restore healthy soil
Ian Somerhalder was born in 1978 in Covington, Louisiana. During an interview, he recalled an eye-opening trip to Zimbabwe. There, the actor saw how regenerative farming practices could revive degraded landscapes and reshape entire ecosystems. Somerhalder claimed that this shifted his life forever. He also talked about his personal and growing years.
World War II still has lessons for today’s wars
World War II offers four lessons for modern warfare: technology can rapidly transform battlefields, strong leadership requires strategic judgement, industrial capacity is vital to military strength, and war carries a heavy human cost. As conflicts in Iran and Ukraine reshape warfare, the US must invest in AI, defence production and shipbuilding while remaining united behind its military personnel.
Researchers tested tobacco plants engineered to emit isoprene; after 10 days, hornworms feeding on those leaves were smaller than those on ordinary plants
Research conducted at Michigan State University revealed that isoprene emissions from plants deter pest herbiory effectively. This chemical causes plants to release hormones that make their leaves less digestible for insects. Interestingly, soybean plants possess genes allowing them to produce isoprene when damaged, enhancing their resilience. However, the increase of isoprene in the atmosphere poses a risk for air quality due to ground-level ozone formation.
These large-caps have ‘strong buy’ & ‘buy’ recos and an upside potential of over 25%
The FPIs that were selling in the Indian market all these months mostly owned large-cap stocks. And as they sold them, it was that segment which bore the brunt of the selling. The same logic will operate in reverse as they start buying, focusing once again on the safer and more liquid large-cap stocks.
Loved Sai Pallavi in Ramayana? You won’t get enough of their ancestral hometown, a dreamy hill station in Tamil Nadu, a paradise for tea lovers
Sai Pallavi has garnered attention for her portrayal of Mata Sita in the grand production Ramayana. The actress, who has captivated audiences throughout India with successes like Premam, Maari 2, and others, has also received praise for her poised role as Mata Sita.
Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan’s 10-year-old daughter vibe-codes several creations, including a messaging app, apps similar to GeoCities and a game inspired by FarmVille, with each project also featuring its own marketing and sales plan
Maxima Zuckerberg, daughter of Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan, is interested in artificial intelligence and software development. She is currently experimenting with vibe-coding, which uses natural language to create software with AI tools. While her parents support her enthusiasm, they have imposed restrictions on developing online projects. Priscilla Chan specifically did not allow Maxima to create a dating website due to safety concerns.
Fairness, churn, and India's rise: India has lifted millions out of poverty, but the next big challenge is helping people climb further
India's poverty rate has fallen sharply, with nearly 496 million people moving above the World Bank's lower-middle-income poverty line between 2011-12 and 2023-24. However, the next challenge is to expand economic mobility, improve wages and create opportunities. The article examines why growth, fair access and social mobility matter more than focusing on inequality alone.
In 1990, a Texas family donated a cave to protect its bats; today, about 4 million female bats use it as a nursery each summer
A Texas family's vision for conservation transformed their cave into the Eckert James River Bat Cave Preserve in 1990, eschewing fertilizer extraction. Annually, about 4 million female Mexican free-tailed bats find refuge here, utilizing the site as their maternity colony during the crucial breeding season from May to September. Dedicated research and management initiatives strive to protect this critical habitat and deepen understanding of bat population dynamics.
A Connecticut family donated nearly 100 acres of woodland in honour of two ancestors; the land became part of a 1,122-acre nature preserve
In a heartfelt tribute to their ancestors, the Pierson family from Connecticut has gifted nearly 100 acres of lush forest land, which is now incorporated into the Burnham Brook Preserve. Open to the public year-round, this preserve underscores the family's longstanding commitment to conservation, dating back to 2008. Studies highlight the health benefits of connecting with nature, and visitors are invited to explore, respecting the area's preservation guidelines.
AI boom draws chip supply from other end-markets, Siltronic CEO says
Siltronic, which makes silicon wafers used in semiconductors, raised its annual sales forecast for the second time this year on Wednesday, citing stronger demand for its wafers.
Scientists mixed just 3% volcanic ash into forest soil in a UC San Diego experiment; coleus plants grew roughly three times as much as plants in untreated soil
At UC San Diego, researchers have made an exciting discovery: adding volcanic ash to soil can significantly enhance plant growth. Their study revealed that incorporating just 3% basaltic ash not only boosts the biomass of coleus plants but also positively influences beneficial soil microbes. This finding showcases volcanic ash as a viable solution for rejuvenating poor agricultural soils, making it an effective tool for sustainable practices and carbon capture initiatives.
MIT researchers gave freshly cut pak choy melatonin through tiny needles; the vegetables stayed saleable for 4 extra days at room temperature without refrigeration
Researchers at MIT have developed innovative microneedles capable of delivering melatonin directly into vegetables post-harvest, drastically prolonging their freshness. For instance, lab studies revealed that treated pak choy stayed fresh for an additional four days at room temperature, even without refrigeration. This breakthrough allows melatonin to enter the plant’s vascular system, activating its natural defenses, thereby reducing decay rates compared to untreated produce.
NDA government stands firmly with farmers amid drought situation: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi affirmed his government's commitment to assist drought-affected farmers in Maharashtra. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the happiness of farmers during the festive season. The Maharashtra state government has declared 85 percent of the state drought-hit and announced interim aid.
In 2022, Dwayne Johnson bought a 180-acre Virginia farm for $12 million. Inside the 1903 estate with 7 bedrooms, private fishing pond, horse stables and a gym in the barn
In 2022, Dwayne Johnson purchased a sprawling 180-acre farm in Virginia for a whopping $12 million. This exquisite estate boasts a magnificent 12,000-square-foot main house, complemented by a barn featuring a gym. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers a tranquil fishing pond, horse stables, and charming guest cottages along scenic hiking trails, all enveloped in beautiful colonial architecture.
Govardhan Puja 2026: Why Are Cow Dung Hills Made? The Tradition City Dwellers Are Reviving
Govardhan Puja is a celebration honoring Lord Krishna's protection through the crafting of cow dung mounds symbolizing Govardhan Hill. In urban settings, this tradition is adapted into smaller, more manageable versions using plates or trays. The significance of cow dung reflects the vital role of agriculture and cattle in Hindu culture. The celebration is filled with prayers and offerings, including Annakut, a feast presented to Lord Krishna in gratitude.
75,000-year-old Neanderthal fed soft food before murdered with a sharp spear in a possible ‘heart shot’, Cambridge study finds
Researchers found evidence that a Neanderthal named Shanidar A may have been deliberately killed by a spear. The discovery suggests early instances of lethal conflict among Neanderthals in Iraq's Shanidar Cave. A circular hole in the scapula indicates a violent death likely aimed at the heart. Prior to this fatal injury, Shanidar A showed signs of care after suffering a severe facial trauma.
Sophie Cunningham reveals what she wants after WNBA retirement: Marriage, babies, farm life and broadcasting
Sophie Cunningham has opened up about her plans beyond basketball, including her dream of having a family, owning land and raising horses and cows. She has also made headlines for her views on WNBA players skipping the national anthem and her concerns about stalking and personal safety.
IIT Kharagpur and Absolute launch Smart Scout AI project for soybean farming
Absolute and IIT Kharagpur are developing an early warning system for soybean farmers to minimize crop losses. The Smart Scout project aims to detect lodging risks, assess damage, and estimate yields using artificial intelligence. This initiative is part of the Quad-backed AI-ENGAGE program focusing on agricultural innovations. Pilot trials will be conducted across major soybean-growing states in India over the next three years.
In 2016, a North Carolina solar company began using 80 sheep alongside mechanical and chemical methods; the operation later grew to 590 sheep across 300 acres
North Carolina has employed sheep for vegetation management in solar farms to reduce mechanical maintenance. This strategy began as an experiment in 2016 and has expanded significantly since then. A study showed higher organic matter and soil health in grazed areas, though longer-term data is needed. Grazing costs can be competitive with mechanical methods over extended periods. The solar energy sector is growing, necessitating sustainable management solutions like sheep grazing.
Amid layoff news, how 7 million oysters saved 1,000 jobs and environment in US
More than 7 million oysters have helped protect over 1,000 aquaculture and related jobs in the US while supporting marine conservation. The Supporting Oyster Aquaculture and Restoration (SOAR) programme was launched in 2020 after the COVID-19 pandemic left oyster farmers with large quantities of unsold shellfish. According to The Pew Charitable Trusts, the initiative has purchased oysters from over 150 growers, supported 35 restoration sites across eight US states and helped restore more than 60 acres of native oyster reefs.
Cox Enterprises conservation deal: Why 4,400 acres at South Carolina's Clarendon Farms will remain wild
Cox Enterprises has successfully safeguarded approximately 4,400 acres in Clarendon Farms, South Carolina. This pivotal conservation initiative, announced in March 2026, aims to protect freshwater wetlands, lush forests, and vital wildlife habitats while curbing any imminent development. Renowned organisation Ducks Unlimited will manage the easement to ensure the area's environmental integrity, showcasing the essential need for safeguarding interconnected ecosystems against escalating urban expansion.
Load More
