Madhya Pradesh Research Articles

Historical Background, Origin, Distribution & Present Status of Wood Apple

Wood apple (Feronia limonia L.; Rutaceae family) commonly known as poor man’s fruit in India due to its several nutraceutical importance, is native to South India and Sri Lanka. Sanskrit term, “kapittha,” receives several mentions in a number of ancient texts including “Hinduism: an Alphabetical Guide”. Buddhist scholar mentioned wood apple as an Indian fruit while, military commander and poet Chauvundaraya (940-989AD) listed wood apple in numerous medicinal remedies and also mentioned in Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. Wood apple has been planted extensively or being allowed to grow naturally in the reserved forests throughout Southeast Asia, Northern Malaysia and on Penang Island. In India, it is more common in Deccan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Chhatishgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Odisha, however, no data is available for its area and production. Unfortunately, the lack of attention has meant that their potential value is under-exploited and they are in danger of continued genetic erosion, ultimately leading to disappearance. Therefore, it is necessary to spread the awareness of its importance among common people and researches to identify superior genotypes, production problems of wood apple for their ex-situ collection, conservation, evaluation and utilization that is being explained by this study after having various literatures available in different forms from different sources. This review article will help future researchers to conserve as well as explore the possible benefits of this crop to the common people harnessing societal value of growers.

Smartphones: A Catalyst for Tobacco Control Training in India

The tobacco crisis confronting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) requires scale-up of effective tobacco control programs, such as Tobacco Free Teachers-Tobacco Free Society (TFT-TFS). We previously demonstrated the efficacy of TFT-TFS in increasing tobacco use cessation among teachers and schools’ adoption of tobacco control policies in Bihar, India. To scale TFT-TFS, we are now pioneering a smartphone-based mobile learning strategy to train principals (or their designees) in Madhya Pradesh to implement and monitor TFT-TFS in schools. Research underscores the transformative potential of mobile learning: a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective alternative to in-person training methods. Our study is a unique opportunity to test a training approach that could have implications for wider and more efficient delivery of other public health programs. The strategic use of gamification and digital storytelling enhances the TFT-TFS mobile training app. Gamification mechanics—including points, leaderboards, and digital badging—foster a dynamic learning environment to enhance learning outcomes. This approach propels continuous participant engagement toward understanding and implementation of TFT-TFS’s six monthly themes and four program components. The TFT-TFS smartphone training program weaves in elements of Indian culture, notably the symbolic use of colors and kites. The Indian kite festival celebrates communal harmony through healthy competition. Similarly, the app employs the idea of school kites, which are divided into six blank segments corresponding to the TFT-TFS monthly themes. Participants navigate each module, engaging with animated videos, digital assessments, and interactive activities. Upon a principal’s successful completion of each monthly theme’s program components, the school’s kite receives a new color, unlocking the subsequent theme. The TFT-TFS smartphone training showcases a unique interactive mobile learning application that integrates gamification and tests how to scale up an effective tobacco control program in schools in India and other LMICs. The TFT-TFS smartphone-based training app may also have relevance to other public health-related training efforts in resource-constrained areas.

Direct Seeding of wheat Using Happy Seeder in Paddy Residue Conditions in Madhya Pradesh, India

Trials were conducted on direct sowing of wheat variety GW-322 through happy seeder in combine harvested rice fields in district Narsinghpur, Madhya Pradesh, during two successive year’s viz. 2015-16 and 2016-17. The control treatment was conventional field preparation after combine harvesting of rice followed by sowing of wheat by seed cum fertilizer drill. District Narsinghpur lies in Central Narmada valley region of India. The average annual rainfall of the district is 1136 mm [1] (Yadav et.al. 2021). Soils of the district come under the vertisol category. Results showed that crop yield and net return under the direct sowing of wheat through happy seeder was higher than that obtained under the conventional method. Direct sowing through happy seeder fetched an average crop yield of 47.45 q/ha whereas under the conventional method it was 43.10 q/ha. The net return under direct sowing through happy seeder was Rs. 59025/- per ha whereas it was only Rs. 48850/- per ha under the conventional method. Happy seeder is an innovative technology and is being widely adopted to reduce stubble problem and conserve soil and environment. The results showed that the direct sowing of wheat through happy seeder performed better than conventional field preparation followed by sowing through conventional seed cum fertilizer drill in combine harvested rice fields.

Carbon farming in India: are the existing projects inclusive, additional, and permanent?

ABSTRACT As voluntary carbon markets gain popularity, carbon farming emerges as a win-win strategy to mitigate climate change and improve farmers’ income in developing countries. India, with over 50 active carbon farming projects and an impending domestic carbon market, forms an ideal case to explore the early-stage challenges of these initiatives. Using survey data from 841 farmers from seven carbon farming project villages in Haryana and Madhya Pradesh, this study focused on socio-economic inclusion and adherence to additionality and permanence principles, which are underexplored in the existing literature. We found that carbon farmers were predominantly large-holders and from non-marginalized castes, showing patterns of systematic exclusion. Only 4% of participants were women. Around 99% of farmers had not received any monetary benefit. While certain agricultural practices predated carbon projects, raising concerns about additionality, practices like no-tillage, alternate wetting and drying, intercropping, reduced chemical fertilizers, micro-irrigation, and tree planting aligned with additionality principles. Nonetheless, a high disadoption rate (28%) raises concerns about the permanence of emissions reduction. Our findings also indicated that companies that exclusively focus on carbon credits, termed ‘Carbon Core’ companies in this study, were more efficient in spreading regenerative agricultural practices than subsidiaries or offshoots of larger corporations whose primary businesses are unrelated to carbon credits.

Biological Properties Influenced by Different Tree Species in Deep Chambal Ravine of Madhya Pradesh, India

An experiment site planted with different multipurpose trees and their impact on soil biological properties were measured and analyzed. Based on overall growth on biological properties showed that preferred ranking tree species in the following order viz., maximum soil microbial biomass carbon, dehydrogenease acticity and soil respiration were recorded under Moring a oleifera, respectively followed by Albizia lebbeck, Azadirachta indica, Acacia nilotica, Dalbergia sissoo, Terminalia arjuna, Millettia pinnata and Gmelina arborea while Justicia adhatoda was recorded minimum, respectively. Tree stand growth significantly improved the soil biological properties. Thus, A. Moringa oleifera and Albizia lebbeck species are most suitable multipurpose hardy tree species for rehabilitation of medium and deep ravines of Chambal ravines in India.

Effectiveness of an Educational Package on Knowledge Regarding Telehealth among B.Sc Nursing Final Year Students in Selected College of Indore, Madhya Pradesh

The onset of Covid-19 emerged the need of telehealth as a new standard of care for patient. The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational package on telehealth among B.Sc. nursing final year students. A quantitative approach with pre experimental one group pre-test, post-test design was adopted for the study. The samples from the selected college were selected using purposive sampling technique. The sample consist of 200 B.Sc. nursing final year students. The tool used for data collection was structured knowledge questionnaire. Comparing the knowledge level between pretest and posttest revealed that the mean pretest score rose from 9.05 to mean score 12.98 in posttest and was found to be statistically significant at p<0.001. Study result showed significant improvement in the level of knowledge among B.Sc nursing final year students on telehealth.

Determining the thermal comfort of naturally ventilated state colleges located in Madhya Pradesh, India

ABSTRACT Through the establishment of optimal thermal conditions, educational institutions can develop an environment favourable to learning, concentration, and academic achievements. Additionally, comfortable temperatures can contribute to the overall well-being and satisfaction of both students and teachers, fostering a positive educational experience. In this study, we aimed to determine the impacts of environmental factors on students’ thermal comfort in three state colleges of Madhya Pradesh. A total of 784 students participated in a questionnaire study conducted during May (Summer season), August (Monsoon season), October (Autumn season), and December (Winter season) of 2023 to assess occupants’ degree of clothing, temperature preference, and metabolic rates. Indoor and outdoor temperatures, relative humidity, and air velocity were measured using an anemometer. Throughout the study period, the thermal comfort range was determined to be between 21.5°C and 28.5°C, with 25°C as the neutral temperature. It has been noted that the clothing pattern varies during the year (0.47-0.85 Clo). Additionally, implementation of the adaptation strategies, such as switching on and off fans or opening windows, helped lessen discomfort in the classroom. The findings indicate that, in contrast to the other seasons, the summers brought exceptionally high levels of heat discomfort to the occupants.

From forests to tables: wild edible plants’ contribution to ethnomedicine and nutrition in northeastern Madhya Pradesh, India

From forests to tables: wild edible plants’ contribution to ethnomedicine and nutrition in northeastern Madhya Pradesh, India

Spatial heterogeneity in unintended pregnancy and its determinants in India

BackgroundUnderstanding the geographic variation of unintended pregnancy is crucial for informing tailored policies and programs to improve maternal and child health outcomes. Although spatial analyses of unintended pregnancy have been conducted in several developing countries, such research is lacking in India. This study addresses this gap by investigating the geographic distribution and determinants of unintended pregnancy in India.MethodsWe analysed data from the National Family Health Survey-5 encompassing 232,920 pregnancies occurring between 2014 and 2021 in India. We conducted a spatial analysis to investigate the distribution of unintended pregnancies at both state and district levels using choropleth maps. To assess spatial autocorrelation, Global Moran’s I statistic was employed. Cluster and outlier analysis techniques were then utilized to identify significant clusters of unintended pregnancies across India. Furthermore, we employed Spatial Lag Model (SLM) and Spatial Error Model (SEM) to investigate the factors influencing the occurrence of unintended pregnancies within districts.ResultsThe national rate of unintended pregnancy in India is approximately 9.1%, but this rate varies significantly between different states and districts of India. The rate exceeded 10% in the states situated in the northern plain such as Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal, as well as in the Himalayan states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh. Moreover, within these states, numerous districts reported rates exceeding 15%. The results of Global Moran’s I indicated a statistically significant geographical clustering of unintended pregnancy rates at the district level, with a coefficient of 0.47 (p < 0.01). Cluster and outlier analysis further identified three major high-high clusters, predominantly located in the districts of Arunachal Pradesh, northern West Bengal, Bihar, western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, alongside a few smaller clusters in Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. This geographic clustering of unintended pregnancy may be attributed to factors such as unmet needs for family planning, preferences for smaller family sizes, or the desire for male children. Results from the SEM underscored that parity and use of modern contraceptive were statistically significant predictors of unintended pregnancy at the district level.ConclusionOur analysis of comprehensive, nationally representative data from NFHS-5 in India reveals significant geographical disparities in unintended pregnancies, evident at both state and district levels. These findings underscore the critical importance of targeted policy interventions, particularly in geographical hotspots, to effectively reduce unintended pregnancy rates and can contribute significantly to improving reproductive health outcomes across the country.

Molecular Characterization and Genomic Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 Lineages in Central India.

Since the first reported case of COVID-19 in December 2019, several SARS-CoV-2 variants have evolved, and some of them have shown higher transmissibility, becoming the prevalent strains. Genomic epidemiological investigations into strains from different time points, including the early stages of the pandemic, are very crucial for understanding the evolution and transmission patterns. Using whole-genome sequences, our study describes the early landscape of SARS-CoV-2 variants in central India retrospectively (including the first known occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 in Madhya Pradesh). We performed amplicon-based whole-genome sequencing of randomly selected SARS-CoV-2 isolates (n = 38) collected between 2020 and 2022 at state level VRDL, ICMR-NIRTH, Jabalpur, from 11899 RT-qPCR-positive samples. We observed the presence of five lineages, namely B.1, B.1.1, B.1.36.8, B.1.195, and B.6, in 19 genomes from the first wave cases and variants of concern (VOCs) lineages, i.e., B.1.617.2 (Delta) and BA.2.10 (Omicron) in the second wave cases. There was a shift in mutational pattern in the spike protein coding region of SRAS-CoV-2 strains from the second wave in contrast to the first wave. In the first wave of infections, we observed variations in the ORF1Ab region, and with the emergence of Delta lineages, the D614G mutation associated with an increase in infectivity became a prominent change. We have identified five immune escape variants in the S gene, P681R, P681H, L452R, Q57H, and N501Y, in the isolates collected during the second wave. Furthermore, these genomes were compared with 2160 complete genome sequences reported from central India that encompass 109 different SARS-CoV-2 lineages. Among them, VOC lineages Delta (28.93%) and Omicron (56.11%) were circulating predominantly in this region. This study provides useful insights into the genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 strains over the initial course of the COVID-19 pandemic in central India.

Gond painting, and their women artiest: journey from tradition to modernity

ABSTRACT The central region of India, home to several tribal groups, is rich in cultural heritage, with the Gond tribe being one of the largest and most renowned for its artistic traditions. Gond painting, in particular, has evolved from wall art to canvas, gaining global recognition. This study examines the transformation of Gond painting, focusing on female Gond artists from Patangarh Mal village in Madhya Pradesh. Through 87 in-depth interviews, 3 case studies, and long-term observations, this research explores the evolution of Gond art, the challenges women face in adapting to technology, navigating markets, and interacting with media, and their current socio-economic status. The findings reveal that while the content of Gond painting has shifted to address contemporary issues, women artists struggle with patriarchal norms, low literacy, and limited mobility. These challenges hinder their professional growth and market engagement, resulting in noticeable disparities compared to male artists.

Analysis of Growth and Instability of Rice Production in Madhya Pradesh, India: A District Level Study

Rice is one of the important food crops cultivated in Madhya Pradesh state covering 4.55% rice area and 3.72% rice production of the country. Its contribution is very vital in agricultural growth of the country. But, yield of the state is less than the national average yield. So, for further improvement of its contribution in the agriculture sector of the country, it is essential to study the growth pattern of rice production in the state. Therefore the present study has been undertaken to examine the growth rate and instability in area, production and yield of rice in Madhya Pradesh state. The district-wise data on rice of Madhya Pradesh state was collected from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India and from the online sources of the state departments for the period 1992-93 to 2019-20. The data was divided into four periods for analysis. Compound annual growth rate and Cuddy-Della Valle Instability index have been computed for the four periods. The districts have been classified into five classes based on the classification of instability. These classes are very low instability, low instability, medium instability, high instability and very high instability. For the state, growth rate for area ranges from -0.80 to 4.23; for production ranges from 0.90 to 12.82 and for yield ranges from 1.31 to 8.24. The highest growth rate for area and production was observed in Hosangabad and Raisen districts respectively in period III; and for yield Datia district in period I. For the state instability ranges from 3.77 to 9.00 for area, 5.93 to 30.70 for production and 6.29 to 22.57 for yield. None of the districts were classified as very low instability for production and yield. Most of the districts recorded medium instability in period I, II and III for yield. The information about growth rate and instability may help the policy makers of Madhya Pradesh state to select the appropriate districts for enhancing the rice yield of the state.

Multivariate analysis in chickpea genotypes under timely sown condition

Abstract Yield, a multifaceted trait influenced by genetic and environmental factors, requires a comprehensive assessment beyond emphasizing only on yield alone. Thus, understanding the intricate relationship between yield and its associated traits across diverse chickpea genotypes is essential. The current investigation was undertaken at the Breeder seed production unit, JNKVV, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, during the 2021-22 cropping season. Significant variations were found by analysis of variance (ANOVA) among the 40 genotypes under study, indicating substantial variability. Post hoc DMRT analysis further confirmed notable genetic diversity across all traits. Regression and Principal component analysis highlighted the significance of optimizing biological yield per plant, effective pods, total number of pods, and secondary branches to enhance grain yield. Strategic selection prioritizing these traits can facilitate the development of high-yielding chickpea varieties with enhanced agronomic characteristics. This analysis identified five principal components explaining 80.74% of genotypic variability. Ultimately, the genotypes ICCV 211210, RVG-204, and ICCV 211206 emerged as promising based on PC scores. Keywords: Chickpea, DMRT, Regression, PCA, Yield

A Short Note on Agricultural Household’s Farm Income: Evidence from the National Sample Survey 77th Round

An examination of monthly farm income obtained by agricultural households in India presents a very dismal picture of these households. Only a small percentage of agricultural households in India receive a monthly farm income greater than ₹10,000. Furthermore, nearly 70 per cent of agricultural households in India earn a farm income of less than ₹5,000 per month. Agricultural households in several states are too poor even after accounting for income from non-farm sources. A large proportion of agricultural households in Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh are unable to obtain a subsistence level of income. JEL Codes: Q12, D31, R20

The role of farm subsidies in changing India’s water footprint

Dwindling groundwater supplies threaten food security and livelihoods. Output subsidies for farmers are a ubiquitous agricultural policy tool, yet their contribution to growing groundwater stress remains poorly quantified. We show how output subsidies guaranteeing the purchase of crops at higher than market prices may have contributed substantially to declining water tables in India. Our analysis suggests that these policies may have led to a 30% over-production of water intensive crops. In the northwestern state of Punjab, rice procurement can potentially account for at least 50% of the groundwater table decline over 34 years. In the central state of Madhya Pradesh, wheat procurement adopted in the late 2000s appears to have driven a 5.3 percentage point increase in dry wells and a consequent 3.4 percentage point increase in deep tubewells. These results suggest that well-intentioned but poorly designed subsidies can impose harmful externalities on the environment and undermine long-term sustainable development.

An Analysis of Millets in Odisha and Madhya Pradesh, India: A Comparative Study

An Analysis of Millets in Odisha and Madhya Pradesh, India: A Comparative Study

A Mixed Method Study on Supportive Supervision of Community Health Workers From Central India

Abstract Background: Supportive supervision of the Community health workers (CHWs) is critical for their efficient functioning in various health programmes. CHWs in India are supervised by facilitators known as ASHA Sahyogini. Our study aimed to investigate the linkage between the knowledge and skills of CHW facilitators and their CHWs. To understand the problems encountered by the CHW facilitators while assisting their CHWs. Also, to determine the perceptions of CHWs on the nature of supportive supervision of their facilitators. Materials and Methods: A mixed-method explanatory study using purposive sampling was conducted in a rural block of Madhya Pradesh (Central India). The CHWs were categorized into relatively high performing (RHP) and relatively low performing (RLP) groups based on their performance-based incentives received during (2017-2018). The quantitative component comprised of self-administered questionnaire and skill assessment while the qualitative component comprised of three focused group discussions with RHP, RLP CHWs and their facilitators. Results: The mean (SD) supportive supervision score given by CHW facilitators were found to be significantly associated with CHW’s performance. Problems faced by CHW facilitators while assisting their CHWs resulted from inadequate education of CHWs, insufficient incentives, transport problems and repetitive surveys. While some CHWs perceived to have received good assistance from their facilitators, there were a few who were not dependent on their facilitators and executed duties by themselves. Conclusion: CHW’s performance cannot be ascribed completely to the CHW facilitator’s performance. The challenges perceived by CHW facilitators were unmodifiable and required them to strongly motivate and support their CHWs to improve their functionality.

Role of Emotional Intelligence on Employee Performance in Selected Public Sector Banks in Madhya Pradesh State (Jabalpur Region)

In the wake of a seemingly rigorous recruitment process in the banking industry, where candidates' intelligence level appears to be more important than their emotional state, this study investigated how employees' emotional intelligence is related with job performance in selected banks in Madhya Pradesh state. Emotional intelligence was categorized by empathy, while employee performance was categorized by employee turnover. This study used a correlational research design. Three banks from the state of Madhya Pradesh have been selected for coverage. Pearson's Product Moment Correlation Coefficient was used for data analysis. The results revealed that empathy has a strong negative relationship with employee turnover. It is recommended that management implement policies that both ensure the employment of emotionally intelligent employees and create opportunities within the organization that improve employee relations and employee performance to reduce employee turnover.

Menstruation and masculinity: Exploring the relationship between boys and menstruation

ABSTRACT Background: Menstruation is considered a “women’s” topic in India because the majority of studies on the subject solely include girls and women. Adolescent boys are excluded from this discussion, which obscures the fact that menstruation is a social epidemiological phenomenon with ingrained gender disparities. In order to motivate boys to contribute significantly to women’s health, research on their knowledge, attitudes, and experiences linked to menstruation, including socioeconomic factors, must be done. Reducing gender differences in adolescent health requires addressing this. Objectives: The study aims to explore the knowledge and attitudes of school-going adolescent boys in urban Jabalpur regarding menstruation, considering factors such as family structure and sociocultural practices. Materials and Methods: Qualitative data using focus group discussions with 25 boys, age group 13-17 years from Jabalpur Urban area, Madhya Pradesh was conducted. Data was analysed by thematic analysis. Results: There was a mixture of curiosity and embarrassment about menstruation. Many were misinformed and lacked correct knowledge. Most of the children gained information from either the parents or their peer group. Sex education is not given properly in most of the schools. Boys with either sisters or female friends has more knowledge and good attitude regarding menstruation. Conclusion: Our study highlights the need of improving Indian boys’ understanding and beliefs about menstruation by addressing the social determinants that influence their menstruation-related experiences.

Evaluation of effect of low-level laser therapy on alleviation of pain in patients with implant-supported mandibular overdenture: A pilot study

Aim: Rehabilitation of edentulous jaws with implant-supported overdenture has achieved a comprehensive acclamation across the globe due to compromised retention and stability in conventional complete dentures. In dentistry, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has become a viable treatment option for lowering inflammation, easing pain, and speeding up wound healing. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of LLLT on alleviation of pain in patients with two implant-supported mandibular overdentures. Study Setting and Design: This study was carried out in the Department of Prosthodontics at Index Institute of Dental Sciences, Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Completely edentulous patients willing for implant-supported mandibular overdenture and who gave consent, were enrolled. Materials and Methods: A total of ten implants were placed in five patients with completely edentulous mandibular arch willing for implant-supported mandibular overdenture. Individuals from the outpatient division of Department of Prosthodontics, Crown &amp; Bridge, Index Institute of Dental Sciences, Indore were chosen as patients. Bilateral implants were inserted into the mandible at locations B and D. On the experimental side, low-level laser therapy (wavelength 810 nm) was administered immediately following implant insertion and on the third day. Over the course of 72 hours, pain after surgery was assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS) values, beginning at baseline. Statistical Analysis Used: The Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical analysis of the intergroup pain alleviation scores. Results: The results showed that on intergroup comparison, the experimental side exhibited significantly reduced VAS pain scores relative to the control side (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: LLLT can be used as a promising adjuvant therapy to lower the degree and duration of pain after undergoing dental implant surgery.