Region Of Jammu Research Articles

Reviewing the Impact of Engineering Measures on Soil Erosion in Jammu and Kashmir Anantnag Watershed

Planners now find that stopping soil loss in India's watersheds must be their top priority. Currently, a wide range of mathematical models are used worldwide to predict soil erosion. The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE), which is frequently used to predict average soil loss, is one such model. Recently, there has been an increased emphasis on applying USLE/RUSLE in conjunction with Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, enabling grid-based analysis for predicting soil erosion and aiding management methods. This study assesses the efficacy of flood control and erosion management programs launched in 1914. Four different maps representing the possible erosion threats were created for four different time periods, and a comparison study was carried out to assess the changes that occurred. The implementation of various strategies such as terracing, afforestation, and rehabilitation in the watershed led to a noteworthy prediction of decreased soil loss in the watershed. In the temperate region of Jammu and Kashmir and sparsely vegetated areas, the rate of anticipated soil loss decreased from 632 to 378 metric tons per hectare per year between 1990 and 2020, indicating the efficacy of soil conservation measures in mitigating potential soil loss.

Perception of Students Towards Tech-enabled Startups: A Case of J&K UT

The research study on Perception of students towards tech-enabled startups in Jammu and Kashmir” has been conducted in Kashmir region of Jammu and Kashmir. The study is based on primary as well as secondary data collection and used descriptive and exploratory research models for conducting the survey among the respondents. This study delves into the nuanced perceptions of students in Jammu and Kashmir regarding tech-enabled startups, shedding light on the factors influencing their perception towards entrepreneurship. The study garnered responses encompassing a diverse age range. Notably, 56.7% of respondents were male, and 43.3% were female. The respondents hailed from various academic institutions, with SK University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, University of Kashmir, and Central University of Kashmir being the prominent contributors. Educational backgrounds varied, with predominantly 74.6% in undergraduate, the research unveils a tech-aware demographic. Awareness levels regarding government initiatives and incubation centres varied, indicating a need for improved information dissemination. The results indicated and depicted a moderate awareness of tech-enabled startups (55.2%), with varied exposure levels. Challenges in accessing information on government initiatives and incubation centres were evident, emphasizing the need for improved information dissemination. The study also revealed that students expressed diverse views on the impact of startups on the local economy and job market. University support for entrepreneurship garnered mixed responses, and 53.7% affirmed the importance of the inclusion of entrepreneurship subject in curriculum. Family and peer influence on entrepreneurial perceptions reflected varied attitudes. While 35.8% believed their parents were positively inclined, 52.2% were uncertain about their friends' views on entrepreneurship as a logical choice. While 46.3% engaged with tech-enabled startups, a majority remained unconnected to incubation centres (83.6%). This concise study offered crucial insights, suggesting areas for targeted support in fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Review Based Study of Prevalence and Association of Social Determinants with Tuberculosis in Doda Region of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to rank among the world’s most serious health problems caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. There are several factors which are responsible for the exposure of tuberculosis among the communities. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is one of the major factors for the exposure of tuberculosis disease among the persons. Worldwide, TB is one of the leading causes of death among people living with HIV. Tuberculosis is a serious health threat, especially for the people living with HIV. The socio-economic determinants such as unemployment, malnutrition and crowding play a significant role in increasing the rate of infection. In this article, we will discuss the socio-economic determinants of tuberculosis infection and disease. The rapidly growing consensus indicates that in the low and middle income country, the tuberculosis control programs are required with the investment in tuberculosis diagnostics and treatment in addition to action on the social determinants of tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is most common among the disadvantaged group which includes the poor, ethnic minorities as well as hungry.

Barriers to Successful Beekeeping: Insights from the Jammu Region of Jammu and Kashmir, India

This study focused on the constraints faced by the beekeepers of Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir, evaluating constraints perceived by the beekeepers identified from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) who have been involved in beekeeping for the last five years at least and the list contained eight beekeepers. By using the sampling method with replacement, the sample size of eight beekeepers were interviewed two times and comparison made for three time periods or years viz; 2019-20, 2021-22 and 2023-24, which made the ultimate sample size of twenty four (24) beekeepers. For analyzing the data collected for three time periods, Henry Garrett’s ranking and Chi-square test were used. Findings indicated that major production constraints were the disease of honey bees (78.60), death of the colony (70.00), and heavy rainfall (61.00). Marketing constraints included the fluctuating price of raw honey (69.20), unorganized and unregulated markets (63.20) and lack of government concern or support for the marketing of honey (55.80). Economic constraints featured the huge cost of investment is ranked first with an average score of 71.00, followed by no insurance facilities for the beehives with an average score of 53.67 and lack of credit supply for costly implements used in processing, packaging and quality testing (50.67). Chi-square test revealed that only two constraints under production problems such as, the lack of beehive equipments and materials in the local market (14.77) and pesticide poisoning (7.88) were significant and were showing dependency over the years. By addressing all these constraints through targeted interventions could significantly enhance the viability of beekeeping.

Poverty and Inequality in Jammu and Kashmir: A Sensitivity Analysis

The importance of adult equivalence and economies of scale in the estimation of poverty and inequality are well-established. Empirical investigations have validated that all measures of poverty and inequality are sensitive to various choices of equivalence scales. The current research attempts to examine the effects of equivalence scales on poverty and inequality measurement within the region of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) in order to validate whether poverty estimates are sensitive to these scales or not. Despite being industrially backward and politically fragile, J&K reflects better economic indicators than most other Indian states. The findings of the current study validate the same. The application of adult equivalence generates mixed results, and the economies of scale highlight the fact that standard measures of poverty and inequality are overstated. Most importantly, welfare rank reversal takes place when household size and gender of the household are tested for. JEL Codes: D63, I32, P43

Impact of Crop Bio-Intensification and Nutrient Management on Production and Productivity of Maize Crop under North West Himalayan Region of Jammu -Kashmir

A field experiment was conducted during for two years (2015 and 2016) at the Research Farm, FSR center, Main Campus, Chatha of SKUAST–Jammu, during rabi, zayad and kharif seasons on clay loam soil to study the effect of crop bio-intensification and nutrient management on productivity and sustainability of various cropping. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications. Under different treatments (crop bio-intensification and nutrient management) the grain yield, straw yield and total bio-mass (q/ha) of maize was found varying. The grain yield, straw yield and total bio-mass of maize was observed more in second year kharif 2015 than first year kharif 2016. Among crop bio-intensification, maize crop sown under Lentil (BB) + Mustard (B) – Summer Moongbean –Maize (BB) + Sorghum (F) practice produced higher grain yield ( 30.16 q/ha and 31.50 q/ha ) than the crop sown under wheat + mustard (6:1) –Summer moongbean – maize (bed) + Cowpea (B) (26.03 q/ha and 26.78 q/ha ) during both of the years of experimentations. The same trend was observed with straw yield and total bio-mass. Among nutrient management, application of 100% in- organic showed higher grain yield, straw yield and total bio-mass than 100% organic (FYM) and INM (50:50) during 1st and 2nd years of experimentations.

Evaluation of groundwater quality for drinking and irrigation purposes, ionic sources and land use/land cover impacts in the Kathua region of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Kathua is one of the fast-growing industrial districts of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, northern India. The primary source of water in Kathua is groundwater, which is widely used for industrial, agricultural, drinking, and building purposes. The groundwater system is changing significantly both in terms of quantity and quality in the study area due to recent industrial and infrastructural developments. Thus, 40 groundwater samples were collected from different wells in the pre-monsoon season, May 2022, and analyzed for physicochemical variables to determine the impact of geogenic and anthropogenic activities on the groundwater. The drinking groundwater quality appears to be excellent to good. Of the variables that were examined, two—TH and HCO3—had concentrations higher than the recommended limits of the BIS and WHO guidelines. Groundwater contains alkaline earth metals and weak acids, and its hydrochemistry is controlled by rock‒water interactions (silicate weathering or cation exchange and reverse-ion exchange processes). Several parameters (electrical conductivity, sodium percentage, sodium adsorption ratio, permeability index, magnesium adsorption ratio, residual sodium carbonate, and the Kelly’s ratio) were used to evaluate groundwater suitability for irrigation. The permeability index, magnesium adsorption ratio, and residual sodium carbonate indicate that the groundwater of a few samples is unsuitable for irrigation purposes. Land use/land cover (LULC) change analysis was used to determine the potential impacts of LULC changes on groundwater. Anthropogenic interventions are a major cause of LULC changes that are considerably reducing groundwater recharge zones, increasing surface runoff, and artificially polluting groundwater through domestic and industrial wastes, according to the LULC analysis conducted using satellite data for the year 2017 and 2022. Therefore, to minimize the effects of LULC on groundwater, prompt action must be taken, requiring regular monitoring of groundwater quality and LULC changes. The results of the study may be useful to the general public, farmers, and policy makers in the sustainable development and management of groundwater.

Clonal propagated 'Ek Pothi Lehsun' as a potential antifungal agent against Candida sp.

'Ek Pothi Lehsun', also known as snow mountain garlic, is a type of garlic grown in the high mountainous region of Jammu and Kashmir state of India. The present study aimed to develop a protocol for propagating snow mountain garlic in-vitro using corm seed as an explant. The study also assessed the antifungal potential of in vitro-grown bulbils against different Candida species. Four different concentrations of NAA and 2,4-D were tested for their effectiveness in promoting root formation, and eighteen different combinations of BAP (µM), KN (µM) and TDZ (µM) were investigated for effective proliferation of shoots with varied lengths. Shoot with maximum length (5.03±1.40) was obtained in MS medium containing 1.0 µM TDZ after 24 days of inoculation, whereas MS basal media was found effective for rooting plantlets. Rooted micro shoots were acclimatized successfully in hardening treys with a percent survival of nearly 80%. Seven different concentrations of Sucrose, i.e. 5%, 7%, 10%, 15%, 17%, 20%, and 25% were investigated for effective bulbil formation. Bulbil with a maximum diameter of 0.86 cm was obtained in 20% sucrose-containing MS media in 5 days. Further, the antifungal potential of aqueous extract (TC-SMG) of in vitro grown bulbils was investigated against three Candida sp. A zone of inhibition of 22.30±0.33 mm, 17.3±0.33 mm and 19.3±0.33 mm was observed against C. albicans, C. tropicalis and C. glabrata respectively, by using 200 mg/mL extract after 24 hrs depicting the remarkable potential of TC-SMG as an antifungal agent. In vitro culture of snow mountain garlic has demonstrated promising antifungal properties against Candida species.

Medicinal plants traditionally used in health care practices by inhabitants of Paddar region of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe present study is the first quantitative assessment of ethno-medicinal plants of Paddar region of Jammu and Kashmir. Aim of the studyThe study aimed to document the relative importance of medicinal plants used in human ailments by the villagers in the Paddar region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Material and methodsData were collected from 132 informants (72 male and 60 female) through semi structured interviews and group discussions. Use report (UR) and Informant consensus factor (ICF) were employed to quantitatively examine the data. ResultsThe inhabitants of Paddar reported the use of 98 plants species of 55 families to treat 63 ailments. Rosaceae (10 spp.) was the most frequently used family in the study area. Herbs were dominantly (66 spp., 50%) utilized in herbal preparation and leaves the mostly used plant parts (25%). The highest informant consensus factor (ICF = 0.96) was obtained for parasitic problems. Important new uses for species stated by informants to treat human diseases were; Viburnum grandiflorum Wall. ex DC., Sium latijugum C.B.Clarke, Corylus jacquemontii Decne., Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik., Cannabis sativa L., Taraxacum campylodes G.E.Haglund, Euphorbia helioscopia L., Juglans regia L., Cotoneaster acuminatus Lindl., Ficus palmata Forssk., Plantago lanceolata L., and Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn. ConclusionsThe current study contributes towards the preservation of indigenous plants’ based knowledge. Although the therapeutic value of most of the preferred medicinal plants has already been validated, some medicinal plants lack proper scientific validation. We recommend further phytochemical investigations and pharmacological validations of Viburnum grandiflorum, C. jacquemontii, F. palmata, Viola pilosa, Cotoneaster acuminatus, Eleucine coracana, Sium latijugum, Aquilegia pubiflora, Euphorbia helioscopia, Plantago lanceolata and Pinus gerardiana.

A SCALE TO MEASURE ENTREPRENEURIAL TRIATS OF MUSHROOM GROWERS

In the absence of a suitable scale to measure the entrepreneurial traits of mushroom growers in relation to mushroom production technology in the Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir (UT), there was a need to construct an entrepreneurial traits scale. Therefore, effort was made to construct a scale to measure the entrepreneurial traits of mushroom growers in relation to mushroom production technology. For the same, 39 statements covering eight traits namely, achievement motivation, decision making ability, economic motivation, risk taking ability, self-confidence, locus of control, planning ability and cosmopoliteness were put together. These statements illustrated the entrepreneurial traits of mushroom growers. Thirty statements were concluded in the final scale. The developed scale will be useful in identifying and studying mushroom entrepreneurs, in shaping government policies and in designing training and seminars through educational and research institutions. This scale will be very advantageous and convenient for researchers, to examine the entrepreneurial characteristics of mushroom growers. This scale can be useful to various financial institutions such as NABARD, MANAGE, govt. of India in setting criterion while grating loans to entrepreneurs.

Modeling the species occurrence probability and response of climate change on Himalayan Somalata plant under different Shared Socioeconomic Pathways.

In this study, the current distribution probability of Ephedra gerardiana (Somalata), a medicinally potent species of the Himalayas, was assessed, and its spatial distribution change was forecasted until the year 2100 under three Shared Socioeconomic Pathways. Here, we used the maximum entropy model (MaxEnt) on 274 spatially filtered occurrence data points accessed from GBIF and other publications, and 19 bioclimatic variables were used as predictors against the probability assessment. The area under the curve, Continuous Boyce Index, True Skill Statistics, and kappa values were used to evaluate and validate the model. It was observed that the SSP5-8.5, a fossil fuel-fed scenario, saw a maximum habitat decline for E. gerardiana driving its niche towards higher altitudes. Nepal Himalayas witnessed a maximum decline in suitable habitat for the species, whereas it gained area in Bhutan. In India, regions of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, and Sikkim saw a maximum negative response to climate change by the year 2100. Mean annual temperature, isothermality, diurnal temperature range, and precipitation seasonality are the most influential variables isolated by the model that contribute in defining the species' habitat. The results provide evidence of the effects of climate change on the distribution of endemic species in the study area under different scenarios of emissions and anthropogenic coupling. Certainly, the area of consideration encompasses several protected areas, which will become more vulnerable to increased variability of climate, and regulating their boundaries might become a necessary step to conserve the regions' biodiversity in the future.

Socio-Economic Analysis of Cauliflower Growers in Jammu Region of Jammu and Kashmir (UT)

A comprehensive investigation was undertaken in 2020-2021 in the Jammu district of the Jammu region, Jammu and Kashmir (Union Territory), India employing a descriptive study design. The primary objective was to discern the socio-economic characteristics of the cauliflower cultivators. Utilizing a multistage sampling methodology, a total of 160 cauliflower growers constituted the study sample. The results indicate that a substantial proportion of respondents (37%) fall within the middle-age category, holding matriculation level education (41%). The majority of respondents (54%) reside in joint family setups and agriculture emerges as the predominant occupation (76%). The majority of cauliflower growers in the study area have marginal farm sizes, primarily irrigated using canal water. While several critical information sources were conveniently located near the study area, including the agriculture office and input stores, access to others such as the SAU, KVK and the market was more distant. Respondents occasionally sought information from nearby sources in their villages.

Ecological impact of heavy metal pollution on Limnodrilus cervix -abundance, bioaccumulation, and environmental dynamics in a perennial pond of Jammu, India

This study examines the ecological ramifications of heavy metal contamination on benthic invertebrate communities, with a focus on Limnodrilus cervix, in a perennial pond situated in the Raipur region of Jammu, India. The study identified 11,587 individuals of Limnodrilus cervix, showing seasonal variations in abundance. Through a multidisciplinary approach encompassing taxonomic analysis, heavy metal quantification, acute toxicity testing, and bioaccumulation assessments, the research explores the intricate dynamics between pollution and aquatic ecosystems. Findings reveal pronounced seasonal fluctuations in L. cervix populations, with copper emerging as the predominant metal. Acute toxicity tests underscore dose-dependent lead (Pb) toxicity with an LC50 value of 0.03 mg/L, while bioaccumulation experiments elucidate Pb absorption in worm tissue with a bioconcentration factor (BCF) of 0.4 at 0.005 mg/L and 0.7 at 0.01 mg/L. The study underscores the urgent need for informed management strategies to mitigate the ecological risks posed by heavy metal pollution and safeguard freshwater habitats and their inhabitants.

Camera trapping survey for snow leopard provides first photographic record of Woolly Flying Squirrel from Kishtwar Himalayas, India

Woolly Flying Squirrel, considered native to Northern Pakistan and North-Western Himalaya has remained an elusive species because of its presence in high rocky cliffs near tree lines in the Himalaya. These montane habitats have remained inaccessible for research thus making it difficult to study their distribution. Here, we present the first photographic evidence of the Woolly Flying Squirrel from Kishtwar region of Jammu and Kashmir obtained from cameras placed for snow leopard population estimation in the region. This record adds valuable presence information to the existing distribution range of the species from the North-Western Himalaya.

Ethnobotanical Studies in Northwest and Trans-Himalaya Vi. Contribution to the Ethnobotany of Basohli-Bani Region, J&K, India

The article deals with some aspects of ethnobotany of "Pahari" community living in Basohli-Bani region of Jammu and Kashmir State ; it had so far remained unrecorded due to inaccessibility of the area. A combination of sub-tropical and temperate climate has considerable effect on its vegetation and also the inhabitants. The uses of 39 plant species are recorded in this communication. Yams are of common occurrence in this region and are reputed not only as edible but also in home remedies against swellings due to sprains or wounds. The medicinal uses of Rosularia alpestris and Viburnum grandiflorum are reported for the first time.

Utilizing SSR markers to examine the population structure and molecular genetic diversity of walnut (Juglans regia L.) genotypes in the Northwestern Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir

By using 16 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, the genetic relatedness of 21 exceptional walnut genotypes was assessed. A significant degree of genetic diversity was observed within a given population, as indicated by the number of alleles per locus ranging from 2 to 4. WGA-1, WGA-4, and WGA-79 contained the greatest number of alleles (4), followed by WGA-118, WGA-202, and WGA-42. Conversely, WGA-27, WGA-69, and WGA-32 contained the fewest alleles. The range of the PIC value was 0.11 to 0.38. Using model-based cluster analysis, all genotypes were categorized into two primary clusters according to the UPGMA dendrogram, with varying degrees of sub-clustering. All the genotypes were categorized into six genetically distant subpopulations. The genotypes were genetically distinct but had variable degrees of admixture. The anticipated heterozygosity at a specific locus ranged from 0.563 to 0.741. Additionally, population differentiation (Fst) ranged between 0.176 and 0.261. These findings highlight the importance of considering germplasm diversity in walnut breeding programs and conservation efforts aimed at enhancing walnut cultivation in the region. Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of walnut genetic diversity in the Northwestern Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir and informs future breeding and conservation strategies.

Importance of Flora in the Economy of Local Inhabitants of Karnah in Jammu and Kashmir India

Present study, conducted in Karnah, Jammu and Kashmir, from February 2022 to August 2023, rigorously collected data through interviews, discussions, and observations. The Study investigated the economic significance of local flora, documenting 28 plant species across 20 families. Pinaceae (14%) stood out. Trees (n=18), herbs (n=10), and one shrub (n=1) were noted. Wild species (16) surpassed cultivated (12). Plant parts had varied economic uses; a significant difference (χ2=90.587, df=7, p<0.001) was observed. Notably, Juglans regia, Prunus cornuta, Celtis tetrandra, Ficus carica, Morus alba, and Cynodia oblang were highlighted for economic applications. "Whole plant" (51%), leaves (20%), fruits (17%), bulb and seeds (6% each) were the most used components. Six uses (Medicine, food, timber, fuel, aesthetic, and industrial) contributed to the local economy. This pioneering study sheds light on the economic role of plant taxa in the Karnah region of Jammu and Kashmir.

Navigating the Job-Seeking Journey: Challenges and Opportunities for Digital Employment Support in Kashmir

The issue of youth unemployment is a global concern, with active initiatives, policies, and technologies in place to support employment seekers. Despite these efforts, youth unemployment in various regions is attributed to the complex challenges that impede access to resources, particularly in contexts characterized by socio-political unrest. To understand the use of job-seeking resources in such a context, we situate our work in the region of Jammu & Kashmir, which has a long-standing history of socio-political conflict ongoing for more than three decades. For this work, we conducted 21 semi-structured interviews with participants from Kashmir to understand their current job-seeking practices and the challenges they encounter during the entire process. Our findings present the systemic infrastructural challenges the youths face due to the ongoing crisis. Analyzing the youths' workarounds to mitigate these challenges, we discuss how we might leverage these workarounds into designing systems while navigating through the contextual complexities. We discuss the challenges of designing in the context and provide design recommendations to support job seekers.

AN ANALYSIS OF CROSS-BORDER TERRORISM BETWEEN INDIA AND PAKISTAN: STRATEGIES AND CHALLENGES

The history of conflict between India and Pakistan indeed stems from the partition in 1947, which led to the creation of two separate nations based on religious lines. The region of Jammu and Kashmir has been a focal point of contention between the two countries, leading to several conflicts, including three major wars. The Kashmir issue has not only fueled tensions between India and Pakistan but has also had broader implications, including the proliferation of terrorism. Various militant groups have operated in the region, with some receiving support or sanctuary from elements within Pakistan. This has led to cross-border terrorism, with attacks in India being orchestrated or supported from across the border. The escalation of conflicts between India and Pakistan has contributed to a nuclear arms race in the region, raising concerns about nuclear proliferation and the potential for a catastrophic conflict with global ramifications. Efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and promote peace between India and Pakistan are crucial for regional stability and global security. Policy alternatives could include diplomatic dialogue, confidence-building measures, and efforts to address the underlying grievances of both sides. Confidence-building measures could include measures to reduce military tensions, such as agreements on border security and communication channels to prevent misunderstandings or miscalculations. Furthermore, addressing the Kashmir issue in a manner that respects the aspirations of the Kashmiri people while addressing the concerns of both India and Pakistan is essential. This could involve dialogue between the stakeholders, including India, Pakistan, and representatives of the Kashmiri people, to find a mutually acceptable solution. Ultimately, sustained efforts from both India and Pakistan, supported by the international community, will be necessary to achieve lasting peace and security in the region. KEYWORDS: Conflict, Government Policies and strategies, International Peace, Kashmir Issues.

Landslide susceptibility modelling in the Doda Kishtwar Ramban (DKR) region of Jammu and Kashmir using Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System

The present study represents a significant understanding, employing cutting-edge Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies by conducting a comprehensive landslide susceptibility modelling in the Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban (DKR) districts of the Union Territory of the Jammu and Kashmir in the NW Himalaya. The primary objective of this study is to determine the areas that are at high risk of landslides and accordingly classified these risk zones into five distinct categories, ranging from very high (VH) to very low (VL) susceptibility. To achieve this, a multifaceted approach, involving the utilization of various terrain thematic layers in the GIS environment was applied. The preferred framework employed in this study is the Weighted Overlay (WO) analysis. The final outcome of the study is the final landslide susceptibility map which is a significant and valuable resource for a wide range of stakeholders, including decision-makers, land managers, and local communities. It equips these stakeholders with the information and insights required to adopt proactive strategies in response to the identified landslide susceptibility zones.