Publications

Application of microbial resources in biorefineries: Current trend and future prospects

Research Paper
| April 18, 2024

The recent growing interest in sustainable and alternative sources of energy and bio-based products has driven the paradigm shift to an integrated model termed “biorefinery.” Biorefinery framework implements the concepts of novel eco-technologies and eco-efficient processes for the sustainable production of energy and value-added biomolecules. The utilization of microbial resources for the production of various value-added products has been documented in the literatures.

Penicillium: A Treasure Trove for Antimycobacterial and Antioxidant Metabolites

Research Paper
| April 18, 2024

Penicillium, belonging to the phylum Ascomycota, is one of the most studied genera for its therapeutic properties. Based on ascocarps, it can be divided into two groups: Eupenicillium and Talaromyces. Bioactive secondary metabolites with antimicrobial, anticancer, antimycobacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, insecticidal, and biocontrol properties have been isolated from various species of this genus. The agricultural, biotechnological, and pharmaceutical applications of these metabolites are currently being investigated.

Impact of Nature-based Innovative Biofertilizers on Agriculture

Article
| April 10, 2024

Global climate changes have resulted in unexpected drought, extreme temperatures, excessive rainfall, and unanticipated storms, causing disasters that had never occurred in the past. Considering this, establishment of an environment friendly mechanism is of vital importance. In recent years, there has been an unrestricted and unchecked use of agrochemicals to obtain higher yield which on the flip side has given rise to several agricultural problems and damaged soils.

SDG Blueprint for Sustainable Agriculture

Policy brief
| March 27, 2024

The sustainable development goals (SDGs) contain seventeen goals which have a bearing on multiple issue areas including agriculture. This study sought to develop an SDG Blueprint to inform integrated approaches to sustainable agriculture at the national level in India. It is crucial that the lenses of sustainable development, climate action, value chains, and multi-stakeholder approaches be considered for sustainable agriculture to contribute towards food security, livelihoods, and ecosystem integrity.

Seed treatment with biopolymers for alleviation of abiotic stresses in plants

Research Paper
| March 19, 2024

Seed germination is the most fundamental and crucial physiological phenomenon in the plant lifecycle, which often falls victim to external stress conditions. This causes inconsistent germination rate and crop stand which ultimately lowers the overall crop yield. One of the most promising approaches to getting favorable crop production is seed priming. These techniques have remarkable outcomes on germination processes and even during later stages of seedling emergence, crop growth, and productivity under drought and saline conditions.

Development of stimuli-responsive nano-based formulations as an opportunity for crop stress management

Research Paper
| March 19, 2024

Currently, the challenges associated with agriculture are to limit the extensive utilization of agrochemicals, including herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides. Agrochemicals harm the environment and society and can induce resistance in target micro-organisms. To overcome such issues, controlled-release nano-based formulations can be implemented. Numerous advantages of controlled release systems include the reduction of leaching losses, volatilization, drift, and soil degradation.

Climate Compatible Growth (CCG) in the iron and steel industry in India: rethinking patterns of innovation

Article
| March 13, 2024

The iron and steel industry plays a crucial role in societies worldwide, forming the backbone of various products, including buildings, infrastructure, and vehicles. However, it is a significant carbon emitter and poses challenges for sustainability. With global calls for sustainability and increasing industrialization in the Global South, the sector's growth is expected to continue, leading to a higher demand for materials like iron and steel.

Spirulina in fish immunity development: find the black box

Research Paper
| March 5, 2024

In aquaculture studies, Spirulina can be used to replace fish meal in aquafeed to lower the cost of producing fish feed while adding therapeutic and health benefits. Proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, pigments, and fatty acids from Spirulina could enhance the cellular and humoral immunities of a variety of fish species.

Impact of Biodiesel Blending on Indian Oil Market by 2030

Research Paper
| February 21, 2024

In the recent years, India’s demand for fuel and petroleum products has increased rapidly, leading to 87.3% reliance on imported crude in 2022-23, up from 85.5% in 2021-22 (PPAC, 2023). This further indicates the need for increased investment in domestic oil production alternatives to enhance energy security and reduce import dependence. As the nation seeks to transition towards a greener future, the adoption of biodiesel presents a promising area to reduce emissions and foster sustainable growth in the transport sector.

Unveiling the potential of cellulose nanofibre based nitrogen fertilizer and its transformative effect on Vigna radiata (Mung Bean): Nanofibre for sustainable agriculture

Research Paper
| February 15, 2024

Fertilizer management is crucial to maintaining a balance between environmental health, plant health, and total crop yield. Farmers are overutilizing fertilizers with a mind set to enhance the productive capacity of the field, which adversely impacts soil fertility and causes serious environmental hazards. To mitigate the issues of over-utilization of fertilizers, controlled-release fertilizers were developed using nitrogen fertilizer (ammonium chloride) loaded on cellulose nanofibres (named CNF*N).