Providing Food Security Research Articles

Prediction of Soil Organic Carbon using Machine Learning Techniques and Geospatial Data for Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture revolves around soil organic carbon (SOC), which is essential for numerous soil functions and ecological attributes. Farmers are interested in conserving and adding additional soil organic carbon to certain fields in order to improve soil health and productivity. The relationship between soil and environment that has been discovered and standardized throughout time has enhanced the progress of digital soil-mapping techniques; therefore, a variety of machine learning techniques are used to predict soil properties. Studies are thriving at how effectively each machine learning method maps and predicts SOC, especially at high spatial resolutions. To predict SOC of soil at a 30 m resolution, four machine learning models—Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, Adaptive Boosting, and k-Nearest Neighbour were used. For model evaluation, two error metrics, namely R 2 and RMSE have been used. The findings demonstrated that the calibration and validation sets’ descriptive statistics sufficiently resembled the entire set of data. The range of the calculated SOC content was 0.06 to 1.76%. According to the findings of the study, Random Forest showed good results for both cases, i.e., evaluation using cross validation and without cross validation. Using cross validation, RF confirmed highest R 2 as 0.5278 and lowest RMSE as 0.1683 for calibration dataset while without cross validation it showed R 2 as 0.8612 and lowest RMSE as 0.0912 for calibration dataset. The generated soil maps will help farmers adopt precise knowledge for decisions that will increase farm productivity and provide food security through the sustainable use of nutrients and the agricultural environment.

The Role of Aquaculture and Fisheries in EU27 Food Security: A Comparative Analysis of EU13 and EU14 States

Ocean-sourced foods are essential for providing food security, putting an end to starvation, and building healthy, environmentally friendly, and resilient food systems. Still, it is important to keep these in mind while discussing food. More money was made for developing countries by exporting blue foods than by exporting any other agricultural products combined. The European Union Region (EU27) has countries with diverse economic structures, from highly developed industrial economies in older members to those in Central and Eastern Europe still catching up. Splitting them allows for in-depth study of economic structures, models, and growth mechanisms, and can inform targeted policy recommendations for growth and convergence. The core objective of this study is to analyse how aquaculture and fisheries production impact food security in the EU2 members based on their economic structure development; European Union Developing State (EU13) and European Union Developed State (EU14) countries from 1990 to 2023. To address potential endogeneity issues, robust least squares (RLS), two-stage least squares (2SLS), and ordinary least squares (OLS) estimators were employed, leading to significant findings. The findings confirm the existing knowledge and indicate that the role of aquaculture and fisheries production in ensuring food security is more pronounced in developing EU13 countries compared to wealthier EU14 countries. Aligning with existing knowledge, the analysis reveals that factors such as gross domestic product (GDP) and governance play a more crucial role in ensuring sustainable food security in developing EU13 countries relative to their wealthier EU14 counterparts. The reliance on fossil fuels has a more pronounced impact on food insecurity in developed EU14 nations compared to developing EU13 countries. This study suggests that policymakers in the EU14 developed countries provide policies targeted at promoting the growth of aquaculture production and fisheries production top priority based on the research conclusions. Additionally, this study suggests that policymakers in the industrialized EU14 countries improve governance, aquaculture economics, fisheries economics, and the efficiency of fossil fuel usage.

Practices and Challenges of Rural Youths Participation in Agriculture Extension Services Case of Adea Berga Woreda, West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

Background: study area is considered among the most regions affected by traditional practices, lack of credit facilities, limited startup capital, poor faming technology and absence of good strategy and policies for rural youths participations in Agriculture extension services in order to provide food security and desirable qualities that can promote for youths in Kalo, sire Berga and kito kebeles levels. The current study aimed to put solution as a recommendation of this province in order to manage and control problems. Methods: In this exploration Data were collected from Kalo, Sire Berga and Kito kebeles’ of Adea Berga district through questionnaires, focus group discussion and interviews and analyzed by the SPSS software model. Result: Most of the youths were migrate to the urban areas to search for job, employ in industries to work with, good social amenities and access to loans and enjoy high standard of living in the urban areas and Majority of the youths were attracted to invest more in their own farms rather than being employed as labour of rural youths who were participated in Agriculture Extension Service were provided with their socioeconomic needs. Furthermore, Federal and state governments in Ethiopia have not adopted capacity building on agriculture to reduce youth unemployment, restiveness and re-awake agriculture potentials and less attention was given by agriculture stake holders of the study kebeles the roles of youth’s participation in providing agriculture extension services, food insecurity and ineffective agriculture productivities were becoming a headache to the society of the study kebeles for several years.

Providing food security in Gaza for the “day after”

Poverty, conflict and war are the most prominent reasons for food insecurity worldwide including for the population of Gaza since October 7, 2023. It has been shown that at least during the seven-month period between January and July, 2024, an adequate supply of food was delivered to Gaza. However, a distinction must be made between food availability (entering Gaza), and food accessibility (food supply actually reached at the household level). The latter was apparently controlled by Hamas; and there are no reliable data available on the actual distribution of food. A prerequisite for achieving a better “day after” for the population of Gaza depends on achieving a permanent end to the hostilities between Hamas and other Gazan militants with Israel. That must be a top priority for policymakers. Nonetheless, understanding the elements involved in the planning for a successful “day after” can begin now. We know that most of the population needs housing, as well as sufficient, adequate and accessible food, water, energy sources, adequate health services for acute and chronic medical and surgical conditions, mental health, and preventive care. In this article, we focus on planning for food and nutrition security for the “day after,” a process that will require actions along the six dimensions of food security– availability, accessibility, utilization, stability, sustainability, and agency. We outline these dimensions and their necessary components.

Farmer selection of drought‐tolerant enset landraces reduces trait diversity in drier environments

Societal Impact StatementDrought stress poses a growing threat to food security worldwide. In this study, we investigated the putative drought tolerance traits of enset, a multipurpose staple crop endemic to Ethiopia that sustains over 20 million people. Our findings reveal that enset's domestication has reduced landrace diversity and trait variability, particularly in drier environments, potentially limiting the crop's adaptive potential. Farmers in arid areas preferentially selected landraces with drought tolerance traits, highlighting the vital role of indigenous knowledge in climate adaptation. By emphasizing the importance of preserving phenotypic and genetic diversity to enhance crop resilience, our study provides globally relevant insights for food security and sustainable agricultural systems under climate change.Summary Increasing drought stress driven by climate change presents a significant challenge to global food security, requiring crop adaptations. Indigenous knowledge and sustainable practices in drought‐prone agricultural systems may offer effective climate adaptation strategies. This study investigates the functional traits associated with the reported drought tolerance of enset (Ensete ventricosum), a multipurpose Ethiopian staple crop providing food security to more than 20 million people. Through field surveys and farmer interviews along three aridity gradients in southwest Ethiopia, we determined how domestication and farmer cultivation choices have shaped enset trait and landrace diversity. We measured 12 morphological and physiological traits of 430 cultivated enset plants on farms and a subset of traits of 30 wild enset plants. We also conducted interviews on farmers' knowledge of drought and enset, and how it influenced their choice of landraces. We showed that domestication reduced trait variance in cultivated enset and lowered landrace diversity in drier environments. Farmers in drier areas chose landraces with drought tolerance traits, resulting in trait differentiation between wetter and drier farms. Cultivated enset exhibited lower stomatal density and a narrower aridity niche compared to wild enset, suggesting adaptation to reduce water loss. We also found increased leaf wax coverage, leaf number, leaf temperature differential and plant height growth rate and reduced stomatal conductance on drier farms. Our findings are globally relevant, highlighting that climate adaptation and farmer selection may reduce trait and genetic diversity in drier environments, potentially resulting in less adaptative capacity under climate change.

Features of Business Activity in Agriculture

Agriculture is one of the key sectors of the economy of many countries, providing food security and employment for the population. Entrepreneurial activity in this area has its own unique features and challenges that must be taken into account for successful development. In this article, we will look at the main aspects of entrepreneurship in agriculture, including its characteristics, advantages and difficulties, as well as examples of successful practices.

ADVANCEMENTS IN POTATO SCIENCE: AGRONOMY, GENETICS, AND BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR SUSTAINABLE FOOD SECURITY

Irish potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a globally significant crop, valued for its high nutritional content,adaptability, and contribution to food security. This study explores its role in addressing global challenges such asmalnutrition, poverty, and climate change. Despite its importance, knowledge gaps persist regarding its full nutritionalpotential, bioavailability of nutrients, and sustainable production practices. By employing a multidisciplinary approach,this research evaluates the potato’s nutritional value, its potential to combat micronutrient deficiencies, and strategiesfor enhancing productivity under changing environmental conditions. Key findings highlight the potato’s pivotal role inimproving diet quality, supporting livelihoods, and promoting sustainable agriculture. However, challenges such as pestsusceptibility, production variability, and cultural barriers to dietary integration remain. Addressing these limitationsthrough improved breeding, biofortification, and targeted education campaigns can further optimize the potato’s impact.This article reviews the agronomical aspects of the Irish potato and its taxonomy nomenclature. Together, these findingshighlight the importance of potatoes in providing food security to the international community, alongside the global fightagainst malnutrition. The aim of this study is to underscore the need for renewed focus on the Irish potato as a tool forglobal food security and sustainable development, offering a foundation for future research and policy innovation.

Techno-Economic Analysis of a Marine Aquavoltaic System in Iran

In oil-rich countries such as the Middle East, the affordability and viability of renewable technologies and resources is hampered by the accessibility and low cost of fossil fuel resources. This represents a significant barrier to the progress and acceptance of renewable energy. The use of aquavoltaics is one of the creative measures that can solve the land and food problem and increase the attractiveness for investors. In this method, the simultaneous integration of the two systems of fish farming and photovoltaics, both of which play a crucial role in providing food security and sustainable energy, partially solves the problems of the two systems when implemented separately. The results of this research have shown that the aquavoltaic system has an annual profit of 42.32% and within 4 years the initial investment cost is returned to the investor. In addition, the aquaculture system produces 498.48 kg of Salmo Salar fish annually and the floating photovoltaic system, which consists of thin-film modules, feeds 300.85 MWh of energy into the power grid annually. The considerable profitability and shorter payback period of this project compared to the interest rates offered by Iranian banks to depositors, as well as the results of previous studies, have prompted investors to support this initiative. This in turn has encouraged the expansion of renewable energy and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.

A Strategic Framework for Promoting Agricultural Marketing and Agribusiness Development in the West Bank, Palestine

The Palestinian agricultural sector which is a part of the national economy that helps in providing food security, rural livelihood, and cultural heritage. However, is still unable to develop as a result of low market efficiency, infrastructural deficiencies, resource limitations, and political constraints. This research provides a strategic framework for the development of agricultural marketing and agribusiness in the West Bank, using qualitative methods like stakeholder interviews, Social Network Analysis (SNA), and Value Chain Analysis (VCA). The framework denotes three main strategies to improve the sector: one of them is the development of regional marketing for supplying the market thereby reduction of costs and increase of profitability, reinvestment in infrastructure for value addition and supply chain resilience, and lastly working with local and international partnerships to get new markets. The technologically advanced applications like blockchain-based supply chains, collective farming, and regulations facilitating the practice of precision irrigation are suggested. Besides, it involves the land tenure reforms, financial inclusion, and gender-responsive initiatives as a way to empower vulnerable groups. Citing the examples of successful export strategies in Vietnam, and Thailand, the research points out the importance of building digital platforms and export-oriented strategies. One of the most important recommendations is the establishment of a Palestinian Agricultural Marketing and Agribusiness Promotion Service (PAMAPS), which is intended to smooth trade, bring in investment, and propel policy reforms. The research, although the existence of conflict and the lack of resources, through digital transformation, sustainable practices, and inclusive policies aims to diminish post-harvest losses and boost productivity, thus positioning the agricultural sector in West Bank as competitive, resilient, and globally integrated.

Drivers of Credit Supply in Iran's Agriculture: Symmetric or Asymmetric Relationship?

Agriculture, one of the most important sectors of the Iranian economy that plays a vital role in providing food security and job opportunities, has always been faced with a lack of financial and credit resources. Therefore, identifying the drivers of credit supply to this sector is of great importance. The main objective of this study was to determine the factors affecting Agriculture Bank (Bank Keshavarzi of Iran) credit supply as the main source for financing agricultural activities, in Iran. In this regard, provincial panel data for period 2007-2020 and non-linear autoregressive distributed lag model, which distinguishes this research from those of previous years, have been used. The results indicate the asymmetric effect of all independent variables on credit supply of Agricultural Bank or the superiority of non-linear model in explaining the relationship between variables. For example, the positive shock on the value of bank assets with coefficient of 0.18 and its negative shock with coefficient of -0.05 will affect the growth of credit supply in the long run. Based on research findings and in order to increase credit supply, it is recommended that Agricultural Bank put the control of non-current receivable more effectively (especially through careful evaluation of borrowers' eligibility) in its policy priorities and, therefore, reduce credit risk and perform more effective services in financing of agricultural sector. In addition, an increase in the bank's assets through investment in modern information and communication technologies is strongly recommended.

A Comparative Analysis of the Indira Rasoi Yojana and Annapurna Scheme

The Indira Rasoi Scheme, launched by the Ashok Gehlot-led Rajasthan Government on the 76th birth anniversary of Late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, represents a significant milestone in the state's efforts to combat food insecurity and malnutrition. This comprehensive program is designed to provide affordable and nutritious meals to those in need, and it has left an indelible mark on the lives of Rajasthan's residents. At the heart of the Indira Rasoi Scheme lies its extensive infrastructure, boasting 358 kitchens strategically positioned across 213 city wards throughout the state. These kitchens operate diligently, serving meals twice daily, ensuring that individuals dependent on this initiative have access to nourishment during crucial hours. This widespread accessibility is one of the scheme's most commendable features, enabling it to reach a broad spectrum of the population. Affordability is another pillar of the Indira Rasoi Scheme. With an annual budget of ₹100 crores, it is well-funded, further enhancing its ability to meet its ambitious target of serving 1.34 lakh people daily. Additionally, the scheme's adaptability to regional variations and its collaboration with local organizations demonstrate a thoughtful approach to implementation. Transparency and food quality are also paramount, instilling trust in beneficiaries. On the other hand, the Annapurna Scheme, initiated in 2000 under the Ministry of Rural Development, focuses on providing food security to senior citizens aged 65 and above. It complements the National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS) by offering free food grains to 20% of eligible pension recipients in various states and union territories. To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of these schemes, a comprehensive research study is planned. This research will rely on secondary sources such as websites, journals, and news reports to assess food accessibility in Rajasthan and other pertinent factors within the domain. The study's descriptive nature will provide valuable insights into how these programs impact the lives of beneficiaries. The schemes stand as a testament to Rajasthan's commitment to eradicating hunger and enhancing the well-being of its populace. These initiatives serve as a beacon of hope, setting an example for other states to emulate and reinforcing the potential of government programs in creating a more equitable and nourished society.

Silvopastoral Systems in India for Fodder Production and Livestock Sustainability: A Review

Silvopastoral systems combine trees, forage crops, and livestock to maximize land productivity, conserve biodiversity, and promote the sustainable rearing of livestock. These systems play a crucial role in enhancing the ecological and economic sustainability of livestock production, particularly in developing nations such as India. Livestock farming is a key component of rural livelihoods, providing food security, employment, and farm diversification. However, its sustainability is under threat due to challenges such as fodder shortages, land degradation, and climate change. Silvopastoral systems offer a viable alternative by integrating multipurpose tree species, nutrient-rich forage crops, and resilient livestock species in a synergistic manner. These systems improve soil fertility, enhance carbon sequestration, reduce heat stress in animals, and ensure year-round fodder availability. This review examines the importance, structure, advantages, disadvantages, and future scope of silvopastoral systems in India, focusing on their role in enhancing fodder productivity and ensuring livestock sustainability under changing climatic conditions.

Yield Gap and Impact Analysis of Groundnut Cultivation Through Front Line in Chandel District, Manipur

Background: One of the most important oil seed crops grown in India is Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). It is abundant in energy, minerals and vitamins. It is a significant food legume and oilseed crop grown in tropical and subtropical regions of India that is used in various forms and aids in the reduction of malnutrition. Even if groundnut cultivation is not customary in the North Eastern Region of India, more groundnuts must be produced there to provide food security and nutrition. The crop has been newly introduced for cultivation in Manipur and found successful as rainfed crop during kharif season and has got very high yield potential. The technical gap is a major barrier to increasing groundnut output in Chandel district, Manipur State. Frontline demonstration (FLD), is one of the most significant and effective methods for technology transfer. By using the newest technologies, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra Chandel’s interventions aim to boost productivity and production. Methods: The present front-line demonstration was carried out by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chandel, ICAR-Manipur Centre to find out yield gaps and it impact between demonstration practices under Front Line Demonstration and farmer’s practice of kharif groundnut in 22 hectares of land with 54 numbers of demonstrations in different villages during 2018 to 2022, respectively. Prior to the demonstrations, a survey was conducted to collect the data on groundnut farming methods and based on survey data selection of farmers was done and improved technology for cultivation of groundnut was demonstrated. Result: The results of the frontline demonstrations indicated that average seed yield of groundnut in Demonstration practices ranged between 18.10 q/ha to 24.45 q/ha whereas in Farmers practices it was 10.55 q/ha to 13.80 q/ha during demonstrated years. The per cent increased in yield with Demonstration practices over Farmer Practices was ranged between 41.71% to 43.56 %. The technological or Yield Gap ranges from 5.55 q/ha to 11.90 q/ha and extension gap were from 7.55 q/ha to 10.65 q/ha respectively. Similarly, technological index decreased from 39.67% to 18.50% during the study period. The benefit cost ratio was in the range of 2.81:1 to 3.94:1 under demonstrations, while it was 1.67:1 to 2.30:1 under farmer practices. By conducting front line demonstration on improved practices with High Yielding Verities of proven technologies in farmer’s field can reduce the yield/technology Gap to a considerable extent and thus yield potential of groundnut enhanced to a great extent which increased in the income level of farmers and improved livelihood of farming community in the region by reducing the technology gaps.

Production and characterization of a functional pasta for individuals with gluten-related disorders

PurposeThis study aimed to produce a functional gluten-free pasta, fortified with shrimp meat and shell powder, designed to be nutritionally rich and easily consumable and to meet the specific dietary needs of individuals with particular nutritional requirements.Design/methodology/approachThe gluten-free pasta, developed using response surface methodology, incorporated 5.1% shrimp meat, 1.0% shrimp shell powder and 0.5% microbial transglutaminase, with psyllium husk powder utilized to enhance consistency. The pasta was dried using oven drying, fluidized bed drying and freeze-drying, and the resulting properties were characterized.FindingsThe nutritional content of the pasta remained consistent across the different drying methods. The cooking loss and weight gain values of the gluten-free pasta ranged from 6.95% to 7.29% and from 222.2% to 246.7%, respectively, with oven drying yielding the best cooking quality. The gluten-free pasta contained astaxanthin (1.361–1.691 ppm) and exhibited more than twice the antioxidant activity (0.158–0.187 µmol TE/g) compared to commercial pasta. While hardness, cohesion and chewiness values were highest in the freeze-dried pasta, the lowest springiness was observed. Texture profile analysis results were consistent with the scanning electron microscopy images. Mineral content was largely preserved by the freeze-drying method, with Na, P, K, Ca, Mg and Se being the most abundant, respectively. Gluten-free pasta offers a viable alternative for individuals with gluten intolerance, promotes increased consumption of aquatic products and contributes to waste recycling efforts.Research limitations/implicationsThe authors are aware that individuals with gluten intolerance have difficulty finding alternative foods.Practical implicationsIntroducing a new formulation in gluten-free pasta production in order to overcome the difficulty of creating consistency in gluten-free dough. In addition to its nutritional value, a pasta that is rich in bioactive compounds has been produced, prominent in terms of astaxanthin, antioxidant activity and minerals.Social implicationsBring added value to pieces of shrimp meat with reduced economic value. Reuse of shrimp shells. Providing food security and a sustainable environment. Figure out the role of drying methods on gluten-free pasta comparatively with commercial pasta including gluten.Originality/valueThis study developed a novel functional gluten-free pasta formulation that promotes seafood consumption while offering ecological and economic benefits through the utilization of by-products.

Environmental aspects of livestock farming as a factor in food security in Ukraine

Agriculture is a key link in the Ukrainian economy, providing food security and raw materials for the processing industry. At the same time, this industry has a significant impact on the environment. The main negative consequences include pollution of soil, water resources, and atmospheric air due to the intensive use of pesticides and mineral fertilizers. In addition, plowing up land and cutting down forests to create new agricultural land leads to the loss of biodiversity and disruption of ecosystems. Greenhouse gas emissions, in particular methane and nitrogen oxides, produced during livestock farming, make a significant contribution to climate change. However, provided that restorative management methods are introduced, modern agricultural technologies and environmentally friendly equipment are used, agriculture can not only reduce the negative impact on the environment but also contribute to its restoration. In particular, the use of organic fertilizers, crop rotation, precision farming, moisture conservation technologies, and energy-saving systems allows maintaining soil fertility, rationally using water resources, and reducing pollution levels. The article considers the issue of ensuring food security in Ukraine through the prism of environmentally responsible activities of livestock enterprises. Modern approaches to the production of livestock products are analyzed, taking into account environmental aspects, such as minimizing pollutant emissions, efficient use of waste, energy efficiency, and the creation of sanitary protection zones. The importance of implementing sustainable development technologies is outlined using the example of the activities of the JV LLC “Nyva Pereyaslavshchyny”, Pereyaslav-Khmelnytskyi district of Kyiv region, where it carries out its planned activities in all branches of agriculture: livestock (pig breeding) is the main type of activity, crop production, feed production. This enterprise is characterized by a comprehensive approach, greening of the enterprise, and social significance. The purpose of this article is to analyze the environmental activities of JV LLC “Nyva Pereyaslavshchyny” with an emphasis on the implementation of modern technologies and management methods aimed at reducing the negative impact on the environment. Particular attention is paid to the assessment of emissions, waste disposal, water use, and modernization of equipment that ensures compliance with environmental standards. The role of the enterprise in supporting the sustainable development of the agricultural sector and ensuring the country's food security is also considered. The conducted environmental analysis of the production activities of JV LLC “Nyva Pereyaslavshchyny” demonstrated a high level of compliance with environmental standards. In particular, it was recorded that the volumes of pollutant emissions into the atmospheric air do not exceed the established maximum permissible concentrations (MPC), which indicates the effective implementation of technologies for reducing harmful emissions. Thus, the transition to sustainable agriculture is not only an economic necessity, but also an important step towards preserving the environment and ensuring the country's food security. The obtained research results can become the basis for improving the production processes of enterprises. In particular, they will contribute to reducing waste generation through the introduction of modern high-tech equipment and innovative processing methods. The implementation of such measures will not only increase production efficiency but also ensure a reduction in the negative impact on the environment, which will comply with the principles of environmental sustainability and resource conservation.

Food Production and Global Environmental Change: Stewardship as a Guiding Principle for Christian Development Organizations

Providing food security has traditionally been an important motive for development cooperation. At the same time, agriculture also has a major impact on the environment, which in turn threatens food production itself. This article argues that the tension between food production and global environmental change is largely caused by a modern dualism that pits man and nature, donor and recipient, and modernity and tradition against each other. It explores whether stewardship can help Christian NGOs find a way forward. Stewardship is closely linked to a Christian view of the relationship between man and earth and the relationship of people to each other. However, it is not uncontroversial. Therefore, a reinterpretation of the concept is needed. Finally, three principles are discussed that derive from a renewed vision of stewardship and can provide strategic direction: working together with nature, empowering local communities and adaptive transformation. Stewardship does not offer ready-made solutions, but that is precisely its strength. It appeals to practical wisdom. Every context is different and requires its own balance of values and interests.

Value Chain Opportunities for Pacific Coastal Resources

Oceanic tuna fisheries are a major contributor to the economic health of Pacific Island countries (PICs), with coastal fisheries underpinning the livelihoods of locals, providing food security, significant employment, culture, and human welfare. Livelihood development across various PICs is hindered by the inability to harness the maximum potential of coastal fishery resources, particularly through the lack of identifying targeted development needs. Development of coastal value chains facilitates resilience by reducing local reliance on tuna fisheries and associated vulnerability to tuna industry dynamics to support socio-economic development throughout the PICs while maintaining food security. The aim of this paper is to identify priority opportunities for developing coastal resource value chains in PICs, targeting increased local economic resilience and food security. A methodology developed by the World Bank was used to assist stakeholders and policymakers to coalesce around common strategies for the value chains. Six value chains were identified: beche-de-mer; ornamental black pearls and Trochus shell; fresh fish for the domestic market; reef fish exports; export of live lobsters; and export of aquarium fish products. Porter’s Five Forces framework was used for value chain analysis, and strategic repositioning considerations and areas for investment support within high-priority value chains were identified. Fisheries data collection, community-based sustainable management and aquaculture restocking programmes, habitat restoration, development of the cold chain, air freight logistics for export, and facilitating international market connections and market access were identified for external investment support.

Effect of Starch And Propolis Films On Post-Harvest Conservation of Tommy Atkins Mango

Objective: Develop protective films of cornstarch incorporated with propolis extract to preserve Tommy Atkins mango post-harvest. Method: The fruits were immersed in eight coatings of different proportions of starch and propolis extract and stored for evaluation every 3 days for 15 days, at the Laboratory of Teaching and Research in Food Analysis of the University of Pernambuco, Petrolina Campus. To evaluate their quality, the following were determined: mass loss, pulp firmness, pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids, SST/ATT ratio, determination of ascorbic acid, moisture, and characteristics of skin color and appearance. The results were analyzed using Jamovi software. Results and Discussion: Pronounced effects were observed on firmness, weight loss, soluble solids, moisture, skin color and appearance. However, analyses of pH, total acidity and vitamin C showed no significant difference in the preservation of the quality of the mangoes. Furthermore, the treatment that best preserved the physical-chemical and sensory characteristics of the fruits was 5% starch added to 2.5% propolis extract, followed by coating with only 5% starch. Research Implications: The implications highlighted are discussed in food technology, covering solutions for sustainable agriculture, food conservation with the potential to provide food security, objectives present in the 2030 agenda. Originality: This study has an innovative approach. Its relevance is proven by the functionality of the film, which gives the fruit better quality, in addition to providing an economic, social and cultural impact for the region, benefiting the farmer, the domestic and foreign markets and the consumer.

Unveiling key adaptation strategies: A systematic review of climate variability’s impact on agriculture

This review aims to comprehensively analyze the variability of climate in agriculture and theadaptive behaviour of farmers in response to climate change, synthesizing existing knowledge andexamining measures for mitigate climate fluctuations. To achieve this, a systematic literaturereview (SLR) was conducted using the Scopus database, covering the past eleven years. A total of177 articles were identified through a methodological application of the Preferred Reporting Itemsfor Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) framework. While these studies encompass abroad geographical scope, the selection was deliberately constrained by a small sample size toexclude regions lacking conflicting evidence, ensuring relevance and high-quality information, astandard practice in systematic reviews within this field. This study hypothesizes that adaptivestrategies, such as climate-smart agriculture and early warning systems, significantly reducefarmers’ vulnerability under climate change. Key findings indicates that practices like conservationtillage, agroforestry, and other climate-resilient approaches enhances agricultural sustainability andresilience. The results highlight the urgent need for further investigation and policy incentives toencourage adaptive behaviour and provide food security in the presence of climatic variability.Thus, the conclusion of these findings encourages the widespread uptake of climate-smart practicescoupled with early warning mechanisms to reduce climatic risks effectively.

The role of agriculture in Nepal's economic development: Challenges, opportunities, and pathways for modernization.

Nepal's economy is primarily dependent on agriculture, which generates a significant amount of GDP and jobs, particularly in rural areas. Despite its importance, the business still faces challenges from low productivity, traditional methods, inadequate access to advanced technologies, and increasing climate change sensitivity. These problems prevent agriculture from realizing its full potential to advance economic development, reduce poverty, and provide food security. Modernization requires increasing productivity through mechanization, expanding infrastructure, and improving market accessibility. Finding a balance between these advancements and the need to protect rural jobs is therefore very important. Developing agro-industries, integrating value-added product, and empowering women and youth in agriculture are all essential approaches for inclusive growth. Since agriculture would free up labor and resources for other sectors, it is possible that agriculture also pushed Nepal's industrialization. The significance of strategic investments and reforms in the agriculture sector for Nepal's sustained economic growth and poverty eradication is emphasized in this article.