Punjab Region Research Articles

Inclusive Democracy Through the 73rd Amendment Act: An Empirical Evaluation of Scheduled Castes in Majha Region of Punjab

The concept of inclusive democracy has gained special attention in the past few decades, as it is a prerequisite for transparent and participatory governance. Also, it promotes decentralization with the open participation of the citizens. In order to attain inclusive governance with a transparent and efficient system, the 73rd Amendment Act has been providing opportunities to promote inclusive democracy in rural India in the form of panchayats since its inception. In Punjab, village democracies are also known as Gram Sabhas. The 73rd Amendment is meant for the inclusion of the marginals, especially the Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and women at the grassroot politics. This study examines the status of participation and representation of SCs at the Panchayati level in general and particularly in comparison to the General category (GC) representatives in the Majha region. Moreover, the study locates where the SCs stand against GCs in the process of decision-making at the Panchayati level. The opinions and observations of the study were based upon in-depth interviews of 408 representatives of panchayats, which show that 73rd Amendment increases awareness, consciousness and assertion among the SCs for their rights in the Panchayati Raj. It also leads to the emergence of grassroot leadership among them. Also, the study depicts the frontward representation of SC women in the panchayats. Similarly, the study reflects some regional issues and concerns predominant in the panchayats. Besides, suggestions and recommendations are also made to promote inclusiveness at the grassroots.

Elemental profiling of agricultural soil in Hoshiarpur utilizing analytical techniques.

Our study aimed to assess the soil quality in Punjab's Hoshiarpur district through a meticulous analysis of nutrient and elemental composition. Using a variety of analytical techniques, including Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA), external Particle-induced Gamma-ray Emission (PIGE) an Ion beam analysis Technique, and energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF), we delved into soil characterization for 22 agricultural soil samples in the Punjab region. Within the NAA framework, utilizing the Pneumatic Carrier Facility and the self-serve facility at Dhruva reactor in Mumbai, a brief 1-min irradiation procedure identified pivotal elements-Na, Mg, V, Al, Mn, and K. Conversely, an extended neutron irradiation process of approximately 4h within the self-serve facility enabled the estimation of nearly 12 elements, including Rare Earth Elements (REEs), Transition elements, and other significant elements. The external PIGE technique quantified low Z elements (Na, Mg, Al, and Si), contributing to our analytical arsenal. Rigorously validating both NAA and PIGE methodologies, we compared results meticulously against established geological standard reference materials-specifically USGS RGM-1 and USGS AGV-1.Instrumental in elemental analysis, ED-XRF spectroscopy fortified our investigative endeavors by quick assessment of ten crucial elements. The elemental analysis revealed notable accumulations of Mn and Zn in the soil, surpassing the suggested permissible limits, whereas Co, Cr, and Pb were found to be within the recommended thresholds set by WHO/UNEP. Beyond elemental profiling, our study extended to estimate the accumulation levels of various elements utilizing ecological risk factors such as Contamination Factor, Potential Ecological Risk Index, Pollution Load Index, and Geoaccumulation Factor. Our findings highlighted significant accumulation of REEs including La, Sm and Yb.. This evaluation sheds new light on the interplay between soil composition and environmental health, emphasizing the need for advanced accessible agricultural technologies to prevent and forecast contaminant discharge in arable soil. This commitment aligns with our broader goal of advancing sustainable practices in soil management.

Influence of Growth Regulators on Growth, Seed Yield and Qualty of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.)

The present investigation was carried out during 2021 at the experimental farm of Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, DAV University, Jalandhar. Radish is an important crop of Punjab region. Use of Plant Growth Regulators is one of the most recent trends in the field of agriculture science. Plant growth regulators are signal molecules, which occurs in plants naturally in very low concentration. In an attempt to find out the influence of growth regulators on growth, seed yield and quality of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) the experiment was planned and executed. It consisted of nine treatments viz., T1 (Control), T2 (GA3 @ 5 ppm), T3 (GA3 @ 10 ppm), T4 (GA3 @ 15 ppm), T5 (GA3 @ 20 ppm), T6 (NAA @ 5 ppm), T7 (NAA @ 10 ppm), T8 (NAA @ 15 ppm), T9 (NAA @ 20 ppm) and was laid in Randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Punjab Safed Mooli variety was used for the experiment. Observations were recorded on number of leaves per plant, leaf area per plant (cm2), root length (cm), root diameter (cm), root weight (g), fresh weight of plant (g), dry weight of plant (g), plant height (cm), 100 seed weight (g), seed yield plant-1 (g), seed yield plot-1 (g), seed yield ha-1 (q ha-1), TSS (°Brix), ascorbic acid (mg 100 g-1), chlorophyll content (mg 100 g-1) and germination percentage (%). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significantly differences among treatments for all the characters under study. It was concluded that the application of GA3 @ 20 ppm showed superior performance in all growth, seed yield and quality parameters of radish.

Determination of threshold crop water stress index for sub-surface drip irrigated maize-wheat cropping sequence in semi-arid region of Punjab

A thorough understanding of how crops respond to water stress is essential for effective irrigation management under changing climate conditions and declining water resources. Amongst the various methods of irrigation, crop water stress index (CWSI)-based irrigation is popular due to its non-invasive techniques that require less data and can precisely indicate the severity of crop water deficiency. The present study focuses on establishing the upper- and lower-baselines of canopy-air temperature difference (Tc-Ta) for the estimation of the CWSI and to determine the CWSI threshold for maize and wheat crops. The upper- and lower-baseline of (Tc-Ta) was established using the relationship between (Tc-Ta) and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) for different irrigation treatments such as 60 %ETc, 70 %ETc, 80 %ETc, 90 %ETc, and 100 %ETc with irrigation interval of 1-day, 2-days, and 3-days. The study showed that the baselines varied with the growth stages of the crop and with irrigation treatments and reached the maximum in Anthesis and Silking growth stage for wheat and maize, respectively. The threshold of CWSI was estimated by developing a relationship between the normalized values of grain yield (GY) and irrigation water productivity (WPI). For the Rabi wheat, a quadratic correlation was identified between CWSI and WPI (r2 = 0.89), and GY (r2 = 0.93). Similarly, for Kharif maize, a quadratic relationship was noted between CWSI and both WPI (r2 = 0.75) and GY (r2 = 0.85). From the study, it was found that the CWSI thresholds of Rabi wheat and Kharif maize are 0.29 and 0.31, respectively. Based on the study, it can be concluded that by utilizing the thresholds for a winter wheat-summer maize cropping system, high GY and WPI can be achieved.

Meteorological and hydrogeochemical control on the co-occurrence of geogenic contaminants in the alluvial aquifers of northwest India

Innumerable studies have emphasized elevated fluoride (Fˉ) and uranium (U) levels in shallow aquifers in the semi-arid region of Punjab, India, endangering the groundwater-dependent population's health. This study examines the factors and mechanisms contributing to Fˉ and U co-occurrence in the region's aquifers to enhance the understanding of the contaminants' behaviour. Fˉ and U concentrations were higher in shallow aquifers (<60 m) compared to deeper (>60 m), and both the contaminants surpassed their respective permissible limits under excess EC, TDS, Clˉ, NO3ˉ, SO42ˉ, Na+, and K+ levels. Elevated EC and TDS and their strong correlation with U and Fˉ suggest high salinity facilitated mobilization and co-contamination by increasing ionic strength and competitive behaviour through ion exchange mechanisms. Additionally, scanty precipitation, enhanced evapotranspiration, and aridity were significantly correlated to Fˉ and U, highlighting that these meteorological variables positively influence this co-contamination, particularly in the Malwa region. The mixed chemical composition of the groundwater emanated from rock-water interaction and evaporation, which further increased Fˉ and U and facilitated their co-occurrence. U existed predominantly as UO2(CO3)22ˉ and UO2(CO3)34ˉ (95%), which corroborated with a strong positive correlation with HCO3ˉ, whereas fluoride existed mainly as free Fˉ (90%). The findings of this work will help the scientific community to address similar issues in other arid and semi-arid regions globally and investigate the potential synergistic effect and health risks associated with the co-occurrence of Fˉ and U in the groundwater.

Surviving the desert's grasp: Decipherment phreatophyte Tamarix aphylla (L.) Karst. Adaptive strategies for arid resilience

Phreatophytes play an important role in maintaining the ecological services in arid and semi-arid areas. Characterizing the interaction between groundwater and phreatophytes is critical for the land and water management in such areas. Therefore, the identification of key traits related to mitigating desertification in differently adapted T. aphylla populations was the focus. Fifteen naturally adapted populations of the prominent phreatophyte T. aphylla from diverse ecological regions of Punjab, Pakistan were selected. Key structural and functional modifications involved in ecological success and adaptations against heterogeneous environments for water conservation include widened metaxylem vessels in roots, enlarged brachy sclereids in stems/leaves, tissues succulence, and elevated organic osmolytes and antioxidants activity for osmoregulation and defense mechanism. Populations from hot and dry deserts (Dratio: 43.17−34.88) exhibited longer roots and fine-scaled leaves, along with enlarged vascular bundles and parenchyma cells in stems. Populations inhabiting saline deserts (Dratio: 38.59−33.29) displayed enhanced belowground biomass production, larger root cellular area, broadest phloem region in stems, and numerous large stomata in leaves. Hyper-arid populations (Dratio: 33.54−23.07) excelled in shoot biomass production, stem cellular area, epidermal thickness, pith region in stems, and lamina thickness in leaves. In conclusion, this research highlights T. aphylla as a vital model for comprehending plant resilience to environmental stresses, with implications for carbon sequestration and ecosystem restoration.

Ecological and morphological perspectives of root rot pathogens of peanut (Arachis hypogea L.) in Pothwar region of Punjab, Pakistan

Ecological and morphological perspectives of root rot pathogens of peanut (Arachis hypogea L.) in Pothwar region of Punjab, Pakistan

SUBSISTENCE FARMER'S PRODUCTION DIVERSITY AND MARKET ACCESS: IMPACT ON RURAL WOMEN AND CHILDREN'S DIETARY DIVERSITY

Hunger and poverty are severe threats to developing nations like Pakistan. Rural people in developing countries are facing malnutrition and undernourishment due to low-income levels and limited access to nutritious food. Women's diets are the most crucial factor for their health and children. Increased dietary diversity is a significant approach to improving nutrition and health, and it can be enhanced by improving the production diversity among rural subsistence farming households. The study was conducted in four districts of the south Punjab region of Pakistan. Using the well-structured and pretested questionnaire, multistage stratified random sampling was employed to collect data from 600 rural households. The women's dietary diversity score, children's dietary diversity score, and production diversity score were calculated. The results indicate that women's dietary diversity is concerned with production diversity score; its interaction with market access, education, family size, and farming experience positively impacts dietary diversity. In contrast, the age of the respondent has a negative impact. The same association among factors was also observed for children's dietary diversity score. Based on the study results, it is recommended that there is a need to diversify the crops produced by small farmers, especially food crops so that they can get balanced food and not rely much on external purchases. Overall, the Government can play a crucial role by providing opportunities and facilities to grow non-conventional crops instead of conventional cash crops.

Study on soil organic carbon dynamics and its different pools in maize crop (Zea mays L.) under different agricultural practices in semiarid region of Punjab, India

Study on soil organic carbon dynamics and its different pools in maize crop (Zea mays L.) under different agricultural practices in semiarid region of Punjab, India

Monitoring insecticide resistance in Bemisia tabaci mitotypes in the South Punjab region of Pakistan

Monitoring insecticide resistance in Bemisia tabaci mitotypes in the South Punjab region of Pakistan

Dominance of Cotton leaf curl Multan virus-Rajasthan strain associated with third epidemic of cotton leaf curl disease in Pakistan

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is an economically potent crop in many countries including Pakistan, India, and China. For the last three decades, cotton production is under the constant stress of cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD) caused by begomoviruses/satellites complex that is transmitted through the insect pest, whitefly (Bemisia tabaci). In 2018, we identified a highly recombinant strain; Cotton leaf curl Multan virus-Rajasthan (CLCuMuV-Raj), associated with the Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite-Vehari (CLCuMuBVeh). This strain is dominant in cotton-growing hub areas of central Punjab, Pakistan, causing the third epidemic of CLCuD. In the present study, we have explored the CLCuD diversity from central to southern districts of Punjab (Faisalabad, Lodhran, Bahawalpur, Rahimyar Khan) and the major cotton-growing region of Sindh (Tandojam), Pakistan for 2 years (2020–2021). Interestingly, we found same virus (CLCuMuV-Raj) and associated betasatellite (CLCuMuBVeh) strain that was previously reported with the third epidemic in the central Punjab region. Furthermore, we found minor mutations in two genes of CLCuMuV-Raj C4 and C1 in 2020 and 2021 respectively as compared to its isolates in 2018, which exhibited virus evolution. Surprisingly, we did not find these mutations in CLCuMuV-Raj isolates identified from Sindh province. The findings of the current study represent the stability of CLCuMuV-Raj and its spread toward the Sindh province where previously Cotton leaf curl Kokhran virus (CLCuKoV) and Cotton leaf curl Shahdadpur virus (CLCuShV) have been reported. The findings of the current study demand future research on CLCuD complex to explore the possible reasons for prevalence in the field and how the virus-host-vector compatible interaction can be broken to develop resistant cultivars.

Effect of grafting on success and survivability of jamun (&lt;i&gt;Syzygium cumini &lt;/i&gt;Skeels.) varieties

Jamun (Syzygium cumini Skeels) is a vital fruit crop for arid regions. An investigation was conducted to assess the propagation success of four jamun varieties (CISH-42, CISH-37, Konkan Bahadoli and Goma Priyanka) in the south western region of Punjab. Data were collected on grafting success, graft survival, sprout initiation, number of sprouts and leaves per graft, graft height, and chlorophyll index. The results revealed that the variety Konkan Bahadoli recorded highest graft success (83.7%, 82.8%) and survival rates (76.6%, 73.9%) during both the years, followed by Goma Priyanka. The var. Konkan Bahadoli recorded earliest sprouting (16.6 days, 15.3 days, respectively in both years) and superior growth parameters, including the number of sprouts and leaves, graft height, and chlorophyll index. Overall, the var. Konkan Bahadoli responded best to grafting performed in March under south-western region of Punjab.

Effect of grafting on success and survivability of jamun (&lt;i&gt;Syzygium cumini &lt;/i&gt;Skeels.) varieties

Jamun (Syzygium cumini Skeels) is a vital fruit crop for arid regions. An investigation was conducted to assess the propagation success of four jamun varieties (CISH-42, CISH-37, Konkan Bahadoli and Goma Priyanka) in the south western region of Punjab. Data were collected on grafting success, graft survival, sprout initiation, number of sprouts and leaves per graft, graft height, and chlorophyll index. The results revealed that the variety Konkan Bahadoli recorded highest graft success (83.7%, 82.8%) and survival rates (76.6%, 73.9%) during both the years, followed by Goma Priyanka. The var. Konkan Bahadoli recorded earliest sprouting (16.6 days, 15.3 days, respectively in both years) and superior growth parameters, including the number of sprouts and leaves, graft height, and chlorophyll index. Overall, the var. Konkan Bahadoli responded best to grafting performed in March under south-western region of Punjab.

Molecular insights into fungal diversity reveal three novel species of Leucocoprinus from southern Punjab, Pakistan

ABSTRACT Three novel species of the genus Leucocoprinus, named Lc. cinnamomeodiscus, Lc. dahranwalanus, and Lc. iqbalii, are described from unexplored regions of southern Punjab, Pakistan, based on comprehensive analyses of morphoanatomical characteristics and molecular phylogenetic data. We provide illustrations of freshly collected basidiomata and detailed line drawings highlighting key anatomical features. The molecular phylogenetic analyses, which are based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and combined ITS-28S sequences, consistently position these newly described species within the genus Leucocoprinus. Additionally, this study also introduces new taxonomic combinations for previously reported Leucoagaricus species.

Mapping Sowing Dates of Paddy in Different Agro-Climatic Regions of Punjab using SAR Satellite Data

Mapping Sowing Dates of Paddy in Different Agro-Climatic Regions of Punjab using SAR Satellite Data

I am a Performer Because of Self-control! A Canvas Among Abusive Supervision, Silence, Voice, Self-control and Performance

In a dynamic and competitive world, organizations need healthy interpersonal relationships in the workplace to achieve success. Within the interpersonal relationship domain, the supervisor–employee bond is the most important that determines the fate of employee performance. Drawing on the conservation of resources and self-control theory, this empirical inquiry investigates the buffering effects of self-control on the relationship between abusive supervision and employee performance through the mediating effects of defensive silence and constructive voice behaviours. The data were collected from a sample of 293 respondents from the services sector organizations functioning in the southern Punjab region of Pakistan and were analyzed by deploying partial least squares structural equation modelling technique. The results revealed that abusive supervision has negative effects on employee performance with partial mediation of defensive silence and constructive voice behaviours. This research adds to the existing literature in organizational behaviour and psychology by introducing moderated mediation of self-control perspective between the relationship between abusive supervision and employee performance through silence and voice behaviours. Further, this study provides guidelines to practitioners on how to reduce the injurious effects of abusive supervision on employee performance.

Identification of Road Traffic Accident Hotspots on Sargodha-Jhang Road (Punjab) Pakistan

Globally, road traffic accidents must be addressed even in an advanced transportation system. However, accident frequency can be reduced by the improvement of a road network and infrastructure. The main objective of this study was to explore the various tendencies and attributes of road traffic accidents (RTAs) frequency and intensity related to weak infrastructure and non-systemized traffic patterns on a second-class inter-district road (Sargodha-Jhang) in the region of central Punjab. Secondary data of RTAs collected from Rescue 1122 for the last 3 years (2021, 2022, and 2023) and used to detect hotspots in the study area. Data analysis was carried out in SPSS 17 software by applying the mode of time and space by the latest Tucky method corresponding to the analysis of variance (ANOVA) with a fitted mean. Accident rates were found to be fatal and statistically significant at a 99% significance level with a p-value (of 0.000). The base map of the road obtained from the Survey of Pakistan published the Road Network Map of Pakistan. A total of 14 locations were pointed out using the Global Positioning System (GPS), and mapping was done in the ArcGIS 10.5 environment using on-screen digitization and geo-referencing. Some conditional and critical attributes like 50% poor road conditions and weak infrastructure, the vacuum of safety measures, the rate of accidents, and total traffic exposure contributed to the frequency and intensity of RTAs.

Prevalence of bovine herpes virus-1 among reproductive disorders in cattle and buffaloes in Punjab region of India.

Bovine Herpes Virus (BHV-1) is a virus prevalent among cattle and buffaloes which accounts for considerable reproductive failures. This study was undertaken with the objective of studying the prevalence of BHV-1 in reproductive tract infections of cattle and buffaloes in Punjab region in India. A total of 70 reproductive tract samples (like vaginal mucous, cervical mucous, uterine discharges, uterine pus and aborted materials like placenta, caruncles, foetal stomach contents, amniotic fluid and placental fluid) were taken from cattle and buffaloes from various areas of Punjab which were suffering from different reproductive disorders. The samples were screened for the presence of genome of BHV-1using PCR targeting gE gene. Out of 70 samples screened, only one sample was positive for the presence of BHV-1 genome which had an amplicon size of 468bp, specific to the targeted gene. The study concluded that BHV-1 has very low prevalence among reproductive disorders in cattle and buffaloes in Punjab region, but has increased over last few years, particularly in female cattle and buffaloes.

Climate Trends and Wheat Yield in Punjab, Pakistan: Assessing the Change and Impact

Climate change has made weather patterns less predictable, making situations more challenging for farmers throughout the production process. This study investigates the impact of climatic variables (maximum and minimum temperature, rainfall, humidity at 8 AM and 5 PM) and fertilizer application on wheat production in Bahawalnagar district, a major wheat producing region of Punjab, Pakistan. The study utilizes the Mann–Kendall and multiple linear regression analysis to check climatic trends and identify the factors influencing wheat yield from 1991 to 2022. The study utilized a regression model to compare actual and predicted wheat yields. The results showed a decreasing trend in rainfall and an increasing trend in both maximum and minimum temperatures during the wheat growing season. Sen’s slope values for maximum temperature (0.037), minimum temperature (0.007), humidity at 8 AM (0.275), and humidity at 5 PM (0.167) indicate the direction and magnitude of trends. The regression model explained about 92% of the variance in the wheat yield. The regression analysis of humidity at both 8 AM (p = 0.001) and 5 PM (p = 0.001) shows a significant positive correlation with wheat yield. Fertilizer use exhibited a significant positive association with wheat yield (β = 9.58). Fertilizer application for wheat crops increased from 112.4 kg/ha in 1991 to 284.3 kg/ha in 2021. The regression model identifies that the average wheat yield loss from 1991 to 2022 is approximately 0.1208 t/ha per year because of the influence of climatic factors. The study findings underscore the importance of the utilization of adaptive agricultural practices that can ensure food security and improve agricultural sustainability in the region.

Variation of trace metal minerals among different soil orders under different land use systems falling in Malwa region of Punjab in North-western India

BackgroundTrace metal deficiency has become a major constraint on the productivity and sustainability of soils. Agriculture becomes more complex, advanced and intensive farming systems develop, however, the deficiency of trace metal are more frequent and extensive in different systems. MethodsThis study investigated the variation of trace metal minerals in soil profiles of diverse land use systems (LUSs), i.e. agriculture, horticulture and forestry, falling under three dominant soil orders (Entisol, Inceptisol and Aridisol) in Malwa region of Punjab. Through comprehensive analyses, we explore the intricate relationships between soil characteristics, land use practices, and the distribution of key trace metals—namely zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn). ResultsThe mean values of DTPA-extractable trace metal from soil profiles of different land uses varied from 1.75 to 2.09, 1.64–2.32, 1.18–1.69 mg kg−1 for Zn; 0.59–1.02, 0.59–0.99, 0.64–0.92 mg kg−1 for Cu; 12.12–16.49, 9.84–16.05, 7.94–11.56 mg kg−1 for Fe; 7.82–9.99, 4.66–9.39, 6.51–7.46 mg kg−1for Mn in soil orders Entisol, Inceptisol and Aridisol, respectively. The concentration of trace metals in different soil orders follows the pattern of ntisol>Inceptisol>Aridisol. In contrast, there is a considerable amount of variation and no discernible pattern in the distribution of trace metals under various LUSs in each soil order. Several LUSs were examined, and agriculture land use system (ALUS) had the greatest Fe and Mn content, while the horticulture land use system (HLUS) had the highest Zn and Cu content. The Irrespective of soil orders and LUSs, the concentration of trace metals decreased as soil depth increased. Diverse LUSs and management practices have a substantial impact on the physico-chemical characteristics of soils, which in turn influence the availability of trace metals. According to the Pearson correlation studies, trace metals were positively associated with soil OC and negatively associated with soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and there was also a positive correlation between DTPA-Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn in the investigated soils. The results of the principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that soil CaCO3 and organic carbon (OC) content were the most variable soil parameters influencing crop trace metal availability in different soil orders and land use systems. ConclusionThe findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of the dynamic interplay between soil properties and land use, providing valuable insights for sustainable agricultural practices and environmental management in the region.