Saturday, April 12, 2025

Tamil Nadu Agriculture(तमिलनाडु कृषि)-Jio


 Dairy farming in India

Dairy farming in India is a cornerstone of the country's agricultural economy, playing a vital role in nutrition, employment, and rural development. India is the largest producer and consumer of milk globally, contributing significantly to the global dairy market and its own national economy.
Key Highlights of Dairy Farming in India:
Economic Importance:The dairy sector contributes approximately 5% to India's national economy and employs over 80 million farmers directly . 1 2 With a market size of INR 16,792.1 billion in 2023, the Indian dairy industry is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate CAGR) of 13%, reaching INR 49,953.5 billion by 2032 . 1 Milk production in India grew from 187.3 million tonnes in 2018-19 to an estimated 236.35 million tonnes in 2023-24, with a CAGR of around 6% .Production and Consumption India accounts for about 25% of global milk production, with per capita availability at 459 grams per day, significantly higher than the global average of 322 grams per day . 2 The country has a vast livestock population of over 300 million bovines, including indigenous breeds like Sahiwal and Gir as well as crossbred and exotic breeds such as Holstein Friesian and Jersey . 3 Buffaloes contribute nearly half of India's milk production, followed by cows and goats . 3 Cooperative Movement Cooperatives like Amul and Mother Dairy have been instrumental in organizing dairy farmers, ensuring fair pricing, and providing infrastructure and marketing support . 4 2 There are over 230,000 villages involved in cooperative dairy activities, with approximately 18 million farmers as members. Women play a significant role, constituting about 35% of cooperative members . 
Government Support:The Indian government has implemented various policies to boost dairy farmingPrograms like the National Dairy Plan, Rashtriya Gokul Mission, and Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme aim to improve productivity and infrastructure . 4 Despite its success, the Indian dairy sector faces several challenges: The Indian dairy industry is poised for robust growth due to increasing domestic demand driven by population growth, rising incomes, and changing dietary preferences. The focus on modernizing infrastructure, promoting high-yielding breeds, and empowering rural farmers through cooperatives will further strengthen this sector. In summary, dairy farming in India is not just an economic activity but also a means of socioeconomic transformation for millions of rural households. With continued investment and innovation, it holds immense potential for sustainable growth. ⁂ Foreign Direct Investment FDI) is allowed up to 100% in animal husbandry and food processing sectors . 4 Regulatory bodies such as the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying DAH&D) oversee the sector's development . Challenges:Despite its success, the Indian dairy sector faces several challenges: The Indian dairy industry is poised for robust growth due to increasing domestic demand driven by population growth, rising incomes, and changing dietary preferences. The focus on modernizing infrastructure, promoting high-yielding breeds, and empowering rural farmers through cooperatives will further strengthen this sector. In summary, dairy farming in India is not just an economic activity but also a means of socioeconomic transformation for millions of rural households. With continued investment and innovation, it holds immense potential for sustainable growth. ⁂ Foreign Direct Investment FDI) is allowed up to 100% in animal husbandry and food processing sectors . 4 Regulatory bodies such as the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying DAH&D) oversee the sector's development . 3 Challenges 1. Feed Shortages: There is a significant deficit in quality fodder—23.4% for dry fodder and 11.24% for green fodder—which affects milk yield . 4 2. Low Productivity: Indigenous cattle produce less milk compared to crossbred or exotic breeds; however, their milk is considered nutritionally superior . 3 3. Fragmented Farming: Most dairy farms are small-scale operations with fewer than ten animals, limiting economies of scale . 3 4. Awareness Gap: Many farmers lack knowledge about modern dairy farming techniques that could enhance productivity.  Future Outlook:The Indian dairy industry is poised for robust growth due to increasing domestic demand driven by population growth, rising incomes, and changing dietary preferences. The focus on modernizing infrastructure, promoting high-yielding breeds, and empowering rural farmers through cooperatives will further strengthen this sector. In summary, dairy farming in India is not just an economic activity but also a means of socioeconomic transformation for millions of rural households. With continued investment and innovation, it holds immense potential for sustainable growth.
1. https://timesofagriculture.in/dairy-farming-in-india/ . https://pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=151889&ModuleId=3 3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dairy_in_India . https://www.manage.gov.in/publications/eBooks/Dairy Farming A Profitable Venture.pdf 5. https://ncert.nic.in/vocational/pdf/kedf101.pdf

Sunday, October 8, 2023

To reduce world hunger, governments need to think beyond making food cheap — The Conversation

Hi. I found an article that you might like: "To reduce world hunger, governments need to think beyond making food cheap" — https://theconversation.com/to-reduce-world-hunger-governments-need-to-think-beyond-making-food-cheap-142361

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The Green Revolution is a warning, not a blueprint for feeding a hungry planet

https://news.yahoo.com/green-revolution-warning-not-blueprint-123415442.html?soc_src=social-sh&soc_trk=ma

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Friday, October 6, 2023

Wastewater management -A Short Study

 Wastewater management refers to the collection, treatment, and safe disposal or reuse of wastewater[1]. Wastewater, also known as sewage, contains impurities that need to be removed before it can be released into natural bodies of water or reused for various purposes[1].


The process of wastewater treatment involves several steps, including physical, biological, and chemical processes, to remove contaminants from the wastewater[1]. It typically includes the removal of solids, organic matter, nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus), and harmful substances like pathogens and toxic chemicals[1].



Proper wastewater management is essential for protecting public health and the environment[1]. It helps prevent the contamination of surface water and groundwater sources, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases and ensuring the availability of clean water for various uses[1].


In addition to protecting human health, wastewater management plays a crucial role in sustainable development. By treating and reusing wastewater, valuable resources such as water, nutrients, and energy can be recovered[1]. This contributes to water conservation, reduces the strain on freshwater sources, and promotes a circular economy approach to resource management[1].


To optimize wastewater treatment and sanitation, it is important to consider the causes and impacts of the global water quality crisis, as well as implement innovative solutions[2]. Advances in technology have led to new trends in the wastewater management industry, such as digital platforms for waste management and the adoption of more efficient treatment systems[3].



Overall, wastewater management is a critical aspect of environmental stewardship, public health protection, and sustainable development[1][3].


Sources:


Wastewater treatment | Process, History, Importance, Systems | Encyclopedia Britannica


Wastewater management: 1. Introduction - GreenFacts


New Technology Trends in the Wastewater Management Industry - Forbes Wastewater treatment | Process, History, Importance, Systems | Encyclopedia Britannica Wastewater treatment | Process, History, Importance, Systems | Encyclopedia Britannica


Wastewater management refers to the collection, treatment, and safe disposal or reuse of wastewater[1]. Wastewater, also known as sewage, contains impurities that need to be removed before it can be released into natural bodies of water or reused for various purposes[1].


The process of wastewater treatment involves several steps, including physical, biological, and chemical processes, to remove contaminants from the wastewater[1]. It typically includes the removal of solids, organic matter, nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus), and harmful substances like pathogens and toxic chemicals[1].


Proper wastewater management is essential for protecting public health and the environment[1]. It helps prevent the contamination of surface water and groundwater sources, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases and ensuring the availability of clean water for various uses[1].


In addition to protecting human health, wastewater management plays a crucial role in sustainable development. By treating and reusing wastewater, valuable resources such as water, nutrients, and energy can be recovered[1]. This contributes to water conservation, reduces the strain on freshwater sources, and promotes a circular economy approach to resource management[1].


To optimize wastewater treatment and sanitation, it is important to consider the causes and impacts of the global water quality crisis, as well as implement innovative solutions[2]. Advances in technology have led to new trends in the wastewater management industry, such as digital platforms for waste management and the adoption of more efficient treatment systems[3].


Overall, wastewater management is a critical aspect of environmental stewardship, public health protection, and sustainable development[1][3].


Sources:


Wastewater treatment | Process, History, Importance, Systems | Encyclopedia Britannica


Wastewater management: 1. Introduction - GreenFacts


New Technology Trends in the Wastewater Management Industry - Forbes

                                                                                      By

                                                                            -T.Krishna

Sunday, October 1, 2023

PRIMARY WASTEWATER TREATMENT

                                   PRIMARY WASTEWATER  TREATMENT


                                                                                                         Presenter name:

                                                                                                                KRISHNA T


Physical processes that remove non-homogenize solids and

Homogenize the remaining effluent.

The purpose of wastewater treatment is to remove the

contaminates from wastewater to that treated water can meet the

Acceptable quality standards.

• The quality standards usually depend upon whether water will be

reused or discharged into a receiving stream.

• These types of processes can be classified as

􀀀 Physical

􀀀 Chemical

􀀀 Biological

• The primary treatment of wastewater involves two essential steps:

Pretreatment and sedimentation.

• Pretreatment is a crucial phase where large suspended and

floating solids are removed from the wastewater.

• Flow measurement and prechlorination are sometimes included in

the pretreatment process to prevent odors.

• Sedimentation follows the pretreatment and aids in further

separation of particles from the wastewater.• Efficient pretreatment ensures smooth operation in the subsequent treatment processes. • The removal of suspended solids during pretreatment prevents interference with later treatment stages. • Prechlorination is applied as part of pretreatment to avoid any potential odors in the following processes.

Pretreatment in Wastewater Treatment

•Pretreatment involves two key steps: screening and grit removal. •Screens come in various sizes and shapes, tailored to the characteristics of the solids to be removed. •Cleaning methods include manual and mechanical approaches.

Screening Process

• Fixed bar screens are commonly used in domestic wastewater treatment facilities. • Fixed bar screens consist of parallel metal bars. •Apertures range from 20-60 mm for coarse screens, and 10-20 mm for medium and fine screens.







Coarse Screens •Coarse screens eliminate large solids before fine screening. • Helps prevent clogging issues in downstream processes. •Ensures effective functioning of the fine screen.
Enhanced Efficiency with Fine Screens
 • Fine screens remove smaller particles from wastewater. 
•Apertures range from 10-20 mm, targeting finer solids. 
•Preceded by coarse screens for optimal performance.
Grit Removal:
                        •Grit removal is a crucial aspect of pretreatment.
•Involves eliminating heavy particles like sand and gravel. 
•Ensures protection of downstream equipment from abrasion.
Sedimentation Process in Waste Treatment:
Sedimentation removes settleable solids from water using gravitational settling. 
• Key goal: separate sludge from clear liquid for effective waste treatment.
Tank Designs:
Three main tank designs: rectangular horizontal flow, circular radial flow, and vertical flow basins.
 • Each design has unique mechanisms for sludge removal and effluent clarification.
Rectangular Horizontal Flow Tanks:
Feed is introduced at one end, and overflow is collected at the surface. • Floating material scraped into a screen, and settled solids into a sludge hopper. • •Endless conveyor mechanism aids in the process.
Circular Radial Flow Tanks:
Feed enters through the center well, and clarified effluent is collected at the periphery. •Rotary sludge scraper forces settled sludge into a central hopper. •Surface skimming board removes scum efficiently.
Vertical Flow Tanks:
Suitable for small treatment plants. • Feed applied at tank bottom, effluent rises through suspension. •Sludge blanket maintained at the bottom, acts as a filter for small particles. •Careful control of sludge withdrawal and bleeding is necessary to avoid losing the blanket.

Importance of Sludge Blanket:
•Sludge blanket vital for effective particle filtration. • Maintains suspended particles, and acts as a filter layer. • Control measures needed to prevent blanket loss.
Sedimentation:
• Crucial process in water treatment and quality management. • Utilizes sedimentation basins or clarifiers. • Remove suspended particles and solids from water. • It results in improved water clarity and quality. • Clarifies water by allowing particles to settle.
Flotation:
Particles of density very close to that of water are very difficult to settle in normal sedimentation tanks and take a long time to separate. •In such cases, the separation can be specced up by a crating of the effluent whereby air bubbles are attached to the suspended matter. •The two types of flotation used commonly are a) dispersed-air flotation and b) dissolved-air flotation.
Dispersed-Air Flotation:
Air is introduced directly into the liquid. • Done through a revolving impeller or diffuser. • Generates 1 mm diameter air bubbles. • Turbulence from bubbles can break up fragile floc particles. • Less favored for municipal wastewater treatment due to turbulence. • Limited use in treating industrial wastes with oil, grease, and fine powders.

Dissolved-Air Flotation:
Air brought into contact with wastewater at high pressure. • Pressure reduced to release micron-sized bubbles. • Micron-sized bubbles carry suspended solids and oil to the tank surface. • Pressure systems can degrade flocculent suspensions or oil emulsions. • Recirculation of clear effluent prevents degradation.


Dissolved-Air Flotation:
Compressed air is introduced into the recycle pump discharge for contact. •Recycled flow mixed with influent for flotation. •Pressurization flow based on the required air-to-solids ratio. •Effective ratios range from 0.01 to 0.05, with design value often 0.02. •Residence time in the flotation tank is about 30 minutes.
REFERENCES:
Environmental Pollution and Control, 4th ed. by J. Jeffrey Peirce, P. Aarne Vesilind, Ruth F. Weiner •Environmental Pollution and Control,5th ed. by C S Rao •https://www.keeservices.com/dispersed-air-flotation-syst ems/
                                 
                                                THANK YOU

Saturday, September 9, 2023

Modernizing SNAP Transactions with Local Farmers-USA(Posted by Katrina Johnston, Public Affairs Specialist, Food and Nutrition Service in Food and Nutrition Aug 10, 2023)

 

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides nutrition assistance to about 42 million Americans in need each month. USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) ensures that benefits are as convenient and easy to use as possible, however, historically there have been challenges when it comes to connecting participants with local farmers. Fortunately, modern technologies and innovative solutions have emerged to bridge this gap. By embracing online purchasing and mobile payment systems, FNS is creating a more efficient, inclusive, and mutually beneficial relationship between SNAP participants and farmers.

Thanks to a partnership between USDA and the National Association of Farmers Market Nutrition Programs (NAFMNP), direct marketing farmers are now able to accept SNAP payment online. The first direct marketing farmer enabled to accept SNAP online is River Queen Greens, a vegetable farm in New Orleans, Louisiana. SNAP online payments increase accessibility for River Queen Greens customers. “Having the capability for SNAP online payments makes the purchasing process much more seamless,” said co-owner Annie Moore.

Until recently, accepting SNAP payment online was an option primarily available for traditional brick and mortar retailers. As a result of the partnership with NAFMNP, SNAP participants can now purchase produce online from participating local farmers for pick-up or delivery. NAFMNP MarketLink’s Online SNAP solution will help small farmers attract new SNAP customers while providing SNAP participants with better access to fresh, locally grown produce. A win-win for all parties involved!

Thousands of direct marketing farmers apply for SNAP authorization each year. As part of our ongoing support for these farmers, USDA recently opened the competition for the Mobile Application Cooperative Agreement for SNAP Farmers and Markets. Through this grant, up to $4 million in funding will be provided to up to two grantees over a three-year period. The grantees will provide technical assistance to direct marketing farmers selling at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, or pick-your-own operations, who wish to become SNAP authorized and enable them to use their mobile phone to conduct transactions. As with past grants, farmers marketing directly to consumers would continue to be provided with a mobile app and a card reader to accept SNAP payments using their mobile phone. The current grant competition is open for applications between July 6-September 5, 2023.

USDA is also helping SNAP participants access more healthy foods from local producers. The SNAP Healthy Incentives Programs encourage healthier eating by incentivizing the purchase of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy foods at participating retailers, including at farmers’ markets. To find out how your local farmers market can participate in an incentive program, you may visit the SNAP Healthy Incentives page.

For more information about the SNAP Online Purchasing program and the full list of retailers approved to provide SNAP online purchasing, visit the SNAP Online webpage. USDA also recommends visiting your local retailer’s website to find out whether grocery delivery is available for your location.


USDA- US Department of Agriculture

 

Feds Feed Families During Hunger Action Month.

Posted by Stacy Dean, USDA’s Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services in Food and Nutrition
Sep 08, 2023.



USDA's Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services is dedicated to advancing food and nutrition security through the administration of 16 federal nutrition assistance programs to ensure that every American, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background, has access to healthy, safe, affordable food. We reach 1 in 4 Americans through our programs.

Our 1,800 employees work tirelessly every day to support our partners in running these food and nutrition assistance programs.

With the Feds Feed Families (FFF) campaign, all federal employees have an opportunity to help ensure everyone in our communities has access to healthy food.

The FFF summer campaign was launched to help food banks meet the increased demand for food during summer break, when donations are typically lower and families with children do not have access to USDA’s school meal programs.

While Labor Day may mark the end of summer, food and nutrition insecurity persists year-round. And September is Hunger Action Month.

You can make a difference today. Donate food or give your time to local food banks and pantries to help ensure that everyone has greater access the healthy foods they need to thrive.

Recently, I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Capital Area Food Bank warehouse in Washington, D.C. where we spent the morning packing 5-pound boxes of protein (chicken and fish). When combined with a selection of fresh fruits and veggies and shelf-stable foods, each 25-pound box will feed a family of four for 4 days. During Hunger Action Month, please find ways to get involved on the FFF Hub.




A Short note on Indian Agriculture

 Agriculture, with its allied sectors, is unquestionably the largest livelihood provider in India, more so in the vast rural areas. It also contributes a significant figure to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Sustainable agriculture, in terms of food security, rural employment, and environmentally sustainable technologies such as soil conservation, sustainable natural resource management and biodiversity protection, are essential for holistic rural development. Indian agriculture and allied activities have witnessed a green revolution, a white revolution, a yellow revolution and a blue revolution.

This section provides the information on agriculture produces; machineries, research etc. Detailed information on the government policies, schemes, agriculture loans, market prices, animal husbandry, fisheries, horticulture, loans & credit, sericulture etc. is also available.