Journal of Agricultural Innovation and Sustainability
The Journal of Agricultural Innovation and Sustainability (JAIS),(ISSN Online: 3106-7921; ISSN Print: 3106-7913) is a peer-reviewed, open-access scholarly journal dedicated to advancing research and knowledge in agricultural sciences, innovation, and sustainable development. The journal provides a global platform for researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and academicians to exchange ideas and disseminate cutting-edge findings that contribute to resilient and sustainable food systems. The Journal is published under the auspices of the Factum Research Institute (SMC-Private) Limited, a legal entity duly incorporated and registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under Registration # 0310960 JAIS publishes original research articles, review papers, and case studies that address emerging trends and technologies in agriculture, including precision farming, climate-smart agriculture, agroecology, sustainable resource management, biotechnology, food security, and rural development. The journal emphasizes innovative solutions and policy frameworks that enhance agricultural productivity while preserving environmental integrity and promoting social equity. Committed to scientific excellence and ethical publishing standards, the Journal of Agricultural Innovation and Sustainability seeks to bridge the gap between research and practice by fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration among global experts.
Factum Research Institute (SMC-Private) Limited
ADVANCES IN UNDERSTANDING SILICON-MEDIATED MOLECULAR AND GENETIC RESPONSES TO ABIOTIC STRESS IN PLANTS
Sustainable agricultural production is increasingly threatened by unpredictable and adverse environmental conditions. The application of mineral elements has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate the effects of abiotic stress, offering an alternative to conventional management practices. Among these elements, silicon (Si)—the second most abundant element in the Earth’s lithosphere—plays a vital role in a wide range of cellular, physiological, and developmental processes in plants. Numerous studies have demonstrated that Si application enhances seed germination, plant growth, photosynthetic performance, gas exchange, and yield under both stress and non-stress conditions. The beneficial effects of silicon are particularly evident in silicon-accumulating plant species, especially when exposed to abiotic stresses such as salinity, drought, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Exogenous application of Si induces substantial modifications in morpho-physiological and biochemical traits, thereby strengthening plant tolerance to environmental stressors. This chapter reviews the occurrence, sources, uptake, accumulation, and transport of silicon in plants. It further highlights recent advances in silicon-mediated stress alleviation through molecular and genetic approaches, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, silicon nanoparticles, and genome-editing technologies. Overall, the chapter aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted role of silicon in alleviating abiotic stress and to emphasize its potential as a sustainable strategy for enhancing crop resilience and productivity
Silicon; Abiotic stress; Genome editing; Proteomics; Metabolomics; Plant stress physiology
SYNERGISTIC EFFECTS OF BIOGENIC SELENIUM NANOPARTICLES AND RHIZOBACTERIA ON GROWTH, PHYSIOLOGICAL, AND BIOCHEMICAL ATTRIBUTES OF LETTUCE
Sustainable agriculture demands innovative strategies to enhance crop productivity and stress resilience while minimizing environmental impacts. Plant growth–promoting bacteria (PGPB) and biogenic selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have individually demonstrated significant potential in improving plant performance; however, their combined effects on crop physiological and biochemical responses remain largely unexplored. In this study, twenty selenium (Se)-resistant Gram-positive bacterial strains were isolated from agricultural soils and screened for essential plant growth–promoting traits, including nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, and phytohormone production. Selected strains were subsequently used to inoculate Lactuca sativa (lettuce) seeds under semi-field conditions. Experimental treatments comprised bacterial inoculation alone, foliar application of SeNPs alone, and a combined application of both. After six weeks of growth, key plant growth parameters (root length, leaf length, and fresh weight) were assessed alongside biochemical attributes, including photosynthetic pigment content (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids), soluble protein concentration, and peroxidase activity. The combined application of selected bacterial strains and SeNPs resulted in a significant enhancement of lettuce growth and stress-related biochemical responses. Notably, the NB11 + SeNP treatment increased soluble protein content by 75% and peroxidase activity by 65% compared with the control (p ≤ 0.05). Heat map analysis revealed strong positive correlations between growth and biochemical parameters under combined treatments, while principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the first three components accounted for 77.1% of the total variance, clearly distinguishing the combined treatments from the other experimental groups. Overall, these findings demonstrate that the synergistic application of Se-resistant PGPB and SeNPs represents a promising bio-based strategy to enhance plant growth, stress tolerance, and nutritional quality. This approach offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical fertilizers, particularly in stress-prone agroecosystems
Plant growth-promoting bacteria; Biogenic selenium nanoparticles; Rhizobacteria; Lettuce; Sustainable agriculture; Nano-enabled agriculture; Stress tolerance; Pigment stability; Plant–microbe interaction
ORGANIC AMENDMENTS AS A STRATEGY TO ENHANCE SOIL CARBON SEQUESTRATION AND SPINACH PRODUCTIVITY
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is an important leafy vegetable crop in Pakistan due to its high nutritional value and economic importance. However, climate change and rising atmospheric CO₂ concentrations pose increasing challenges to agricultural productivity and ecosystem sustainability. In this context, soil organic matter plays a crucial role in maintaining soil ecosystem functions, regulating biogeochemical cycles, and enhancing carbon sequestration. To assess the impact of organic amendments on soil carbon sequestration and spinach productivity, an experiment was conducted using residual soil and organic manures. The treatments included: a control with recommended inorganic fertilizers only, 1% organic amendment combined with 50% of the recommended fertilizer dose, 2% organic amendment combined with 50% of the recommended fertilizer dose, 1% organic amendment alone, and 2% organic amendment alone. The experiment was arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five treatments and three replications at the Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. The results indicated that organic amendments significantly (p < 0.05) improved soil carbon sequestration and spinach yield compared to the control treatment. Among all treatments, the application of 2% organic amendment showed the most pronounced effects, resulting in higher soil organic carbon content, improved water use efficiency, increased infiltration rate and soil porosity, and reduced soil bulk density. Overall, the application of a 2% organic amendment proved to be the most effective strategy for enhancing soil health, increasing carbon storage, and promoting spinach growth, thereby contributing to sustainable crop production and soil management under changing climatic conditions.
Spinach; Soil carbon sequestration; Organic amendments; Soil health; Plant growth; Nutrient management
IMPROVING SOIL HEALTH THROUGH ORGANIC AGRICULTURE: EFFECTS ON PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
Soil health is a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture and global food security. Organic farming practices are increasingly acknowledged for their capacity to enhance soil quality and crop performance. This study evaluated the effects of organic amendments—farmyard manure (FYM) and vermicompost (VC)—in comparison with conventional fertilizers, urea (U) and diammonium phosphate (DAP), on soil health indicators and wheat growth. The findings revealed significant (P < 0.05) improvements in both physicochemical and biological soil properties under organic treatments relative to conventional fertilization. Application of organic amendments substantially increased soil organic matter (6.33-fold with VC and 5.70-fold with FYM), porosity (2.60-fold and 1.78-fold), and moisture content (1.93-fold and 1.81-fold). In contrast, bulk density and soil pH were reduced by 1.19-fold and 1.12-fold under VC and FYM treatments, respectively. Biological parameters, including microbial biomass carbon (MBC), nitrogen (MBN), and phosphorus (MBP), showed marked increases, with VC resulting in 2.18-, 3.64-, and 4.10-fold enhancements and FYM producing 2.01-, 2.93-, and 3.08-fold increases. Moreover, populations of bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes were significantly higher in soils receiving organic amendments. Correlation analysis demonstrated strong relationships between soil physicochemical and biological attributes, underscoring their integrated role in maintaining soil health. Overall, the use of organic amendments significantly improved soil fertility, microbial diversity, and biological activity compared with conventional fertilizers, highlighting the importance of organic agriculture for long-term soil productivity and ecological sustainability
Organic agriculture; Physicochemical properties; Biological properties; Soil health; Sustainable farming; Wheat
INFLUENCE OF ZINC SULPHATE LEVELS ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND YIELD OF WHEAT
Zinc deficiency is a major constraint to wheat productivity, particularly in arid regions where the optimum application rate of zinc sulphate (ZnSO₄) has not been clearly established. This study evaluated the effects of varying ZnSO₄ levels on the growth and yield of the wheat variety Azric at the Experimental Research Site of Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan, during the 2022–2023 growing season. The experiment consisted of six treatments arranged in a randomized design with three replications. Key agronomic parameters assessed included plant height, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, grains per spike, 1000-grain weight, grain yield, and straw yield. The results demonstrated that the application of ZnSO₄ at 12 kg ha⁻¹ (T₆) significantly improved all growth and yield attributes compared to the control treatment. Notable increases were observed in plant height (6.93%), spike length (24.2%), spikelets per spike (18.42%), grains per spike (18.61%), 1000-grain weight (25.58%), grain yield (60.25%), and straw yield (9.96%). These findings suggest that a ZnSO₄ application rate of 12 kg ha⁻¹ is the most effective for maximizing wheat productivity under arid conditions. Adequate zinc fertilization not only enhances crop yield and grain quality but also improves soil fertility, thereby contributing to food security and better human nutrition.
Zinc; Wheat yield; Micronutrient deficiency; Arid agriculture; Grain quality; Soil fertility management
EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF IRRIGATION TECHNIQUES ON CARBON EMISSIONS IN BONSUCRO AND NON-BONSUCRO SUGARCANE CULTIVATION SYSTEMS
Bonsucro, Sustainable agriculture, Renewable energy, Carbon emissions, Climate resilience, Irrigation practices
STRENGTHENING GLOBAL NUTRITION THROUGH OILSEED CROP BIOFORTIFICATION
Malnutrition, caused by deficiencies in essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, remains a pressing global public health issue. Biofortification—the enhancement of crop nutritional quality through genetic engineering, plant breeding, and agronomic practices—offers a sustainable, long-term solution to this challenge. Oilseed crops, including soybean, canola, sunflower, olive, safflower, and sesame, are vital to human diets due to their rich content of fats, proteins, and essential micronutrients. Biofortifying these crops holds significant potential to address deficiencies in iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, D, and E. Recent advances include biofortified canola varieties enriched with lysine, carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids, transgenic safflower with increased omega-9 content, and selenium-fortified olive oil. Innovative techniques such as nutrient priming and gene editing have enabled the development of transgenic cultivars with enhanced nutrient profiles, boosting both their nutritional value and associated health benefits. Implementing biofortification strategies in oilseed crops can significantly improve global nutrient intake and reduce malnutrition, particularly in low-income regions. Furthermore, integrating these strategies with precision agriculture and modern technological innovations can strengthen global food security and public health. Overall, biofortification represents a forward-looking, sustainable approach to ensuring a nutrient-rich food supply for future generations.
VARIATION IN MORPHOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONG THREE CULTIVARS OF MANGO (MANGIFERA INDICA L.)
Mango (Mangifera indica L.), often referred to as the “King of Fruits,” is valued for its distinctive aroma, flavor, and nutrient-rich composition, making it economically and nutritionally important. Characterizing mango varieties is essential for genetic improvement and breeding efforts. This study, conducted at the Horticultural Research Station in Bahawalpur, aimed to evaluate and characterize three mango varieties—Sindhri, Langra, and Kingstone Pride—using a combined morpho-biochemical approach. Morphological traits, including fruit length, width, peel, pulp, stone, and overall fruit weight, were assessed alongside biochemical parameters such as total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), ascorbic acid, total phenolic content, anthocyanin, carotenoid levels, and antioxidant enzyme activities (POD and CAT). Results indicated that the Langra variety exhibited superior morphological traits, Sindhri excelled in fruit quality attributes, and Kingstone Pride showed the highest antioxidative potential. The study highlights significant variation among the evaluated genotypes in both morphological and biochemical characteristics, providing a valuable foundation for future mango breeding and improvement programs.
EXPLORING THE BIOFERTILIZATION EFFICIENCY OF CHLORELLA VULGARIS ON TOMATO (LYCOPERSICON ESCULENTUM L.) GROWTH AND PRODUCTIVITY
Rising global populations have intensified food demand, driving the excessive use of synthetic fertilizers, which degrade soil quality and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. As a sustainable alternative, algal biofertilizers—especially those derived from Chlorella vulgaris—present a promising strategy to boost crop productivity while preserving ecological balance. This study examined the impact of a Chlorella vulgaris-based biofertilizer on the growth and biochemical parameters of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.). The nutrient-rich microalga C. vulgaris was cultivated in Bold’s Basal Medium, identified via microscopy, PCR, and Sanger sequencing, and formulated into a biofertilizer (OD 0.27). Tomato seedlings were assigned to three treatments: control, Chlorella-treated, and urea-treated. Plants receiving the Chlorella biofertilizer exhibited enhanced growth, including increased root length, leaf number, and plant height. Biochemical analyses revealed higher levels of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids, reflecting improved photosynthetic activity and overall plant health, while elevated proline levels indicated a mild stress response. These results underscore the potential of Chlorella vulgaris as a sustainable biofertilizer for improving plant growth, though further research is needed to fully elucidate plant stress mechanisms prior to large-scale application.
CONFLICT AND COEXISTENCE: A REVIEW OF HUMAN–SNOW LEOPARD CONSERVATION DYNAMICS IN PAKISTAN
The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is an ecologically and evolutionarily important apex predator, crucial for maintaining the balance of Pakistan’s high-mountain ecosystems. Despite this, its long-term survival faces mounting threats from habitat fragmentation, declining prey populations, and ongoing human–wildlife conflict. This review critically evaluates four principal conservation strategies implemented in Pakistan: community-based conservation programs, predator-proof livestock enclosures, compensation and insurance schemes, and habitat restoration initiatives. Recent research highlights both the successes and limitations of these approaches, offering a nuanced assessment of their effectiveness. Livestock depredation continues to be the main source of human–snow leopard conflict, frequently leading to retaliatory killings that erode local support for conservation. Effectively addressing these challenges requires adaptive management, participatory governance, and stronger cross-sector collaboration to harmonize conservation objectives with local livelihoods. The review also identifies three key knowledge gaps: (1) the need for standardized conflict data, (2) consistent and improved monitoring of snow leopard populations, and (3) enhanced transboundary conservation planning. Addressing these gaps is critical for informing policy and developing coexistence strategies that safeguard both the snow leopard and the socioeconomic well-being of the mountain communities that share its habitat.
MODERN DEVELOPMENTS IN GENETIC MAPPING OF COTTON FOR YIELD, FIBER EXCELLENCE, AND ABIOTIC STRESS RESISTANCE
Cotton (Gossypium spp.) is among the world’s most significant cash crops, supplying natural fiber and supporting both the textile and agricultural sectors. Its productivity, however, is often limited by pests, diseases, and various abiotic stresses, which are inadequately addressed by conventional breeding approaches. Recent advances in genome sequencing and molecular breeding have opened new avenues for improving fiber quality and stress tolerance. This review highlights recent progress in genetic mapping, quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis, and marker-assisted selection (MAS) for identifying genes linked to key agronomic traits. Innovations in high-throughput sequencing and genome-editing technologies, particularly CRISPR/Cas9, have enabled precise manipulation of target genes to enhance cotton performance. The integration of high-density molecular markers with genomic selection has accelerated breeding cycles by allowing early prediction of desirable traits. Furthermore, combining traditional breeding with genomic tools has helped overcome challenges associated with polyploidy and genetic bottlenecks, leading to more stable yields under stress conditions. Future research should focus on the wider application of genome-assisted breeding, functional genomics, and high-throughput phenotyping to improve cotton’s adaptability to climate variability and biotic pressures. Overall, genomics-integrated breeding offers a promising strategy for achieving sustainable gains in cotton yield, fiber quality, and stress resilience.
EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF HELMINTH PARASITE INFECTIONS IN MARINE FISHES FROM COASTAL WATERS OF KARACHI, PAKISTAN
Fish are a major source of affordable protein globally and play an essential role in supporting economic livelihoods through fisheries. The present study assessed the prevalence and intensity of helminth parasite infections in four commercially valuable marine fish species—Lutjanus argentimaculatus, Johnius dussumieri, Plectorhynchus cinctus, and Pampus argenteus—collected from the Karachi coast. From January to December 2022, a total of 113 fish specimens were collected monthly using cast nets, hand nets, and fishing rods with the help of local fishermen. Parasitological examination revealed that 84.07% of the fish were infected with helminth parasites. The highest infection prevalence was recorded in June (45.46%), while the lowest occurred in January (3.33%). Among the studied species, Pampus argenteus showed the greatest mean infection intensity (2.15 parasites per infected fish), followed by Johnius dussumieri (1.89), Plectorhynchus cinctus (1.87), and Lutjanus argentimaculatus (1.70). Seasonal analysis indicated a markedly higher infection rate during summer compared to winter. These results highlight the species-specific vulnerability of marine fish to helminth infections and underscore their implications for fish health, food safety, and sustainable fisheries management.
EVALUATION OF THE SOCIOECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF SUSTAINABLE FARMING PRACTICES IN RURAL PAKISTAN
The growing global demand for food and agricultural commodities has exerted tremendous pressure on natural ecosystems, leading to environmental degradation, resource depletion, and ecological imbalance. While modern intensive farming systems have substantially enhanced agricultural productivity, they have also intensified challenges such as soil erosion, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, and greenhouse gas emissions—posing significant threats to environmental sustainability. This study explores strategies to increase food production through sustainable agricultural practices while minimizing environmental impacts under field conditions in Sindh, Pakistan. Specifically, it evaluates the effectiveness of organic farming, integrated pest management (IPM), conservation tillage, efficient water management, drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and crop diversification. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, integrating qualitative and quantitative analyses based on both primary and secondary data sources. Real-time experimental trials were carried out at the Latif Experimental Farm, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam. The findings provide valuable insights into the transition toward sustainable agriculture, offering strategies to enhance food security and promote environmental conservation. This research presents practical recommendations for policymakers, researchers, farmers, and development organizations, emphasizing the importance of region-specific approaches that balance productivity with ecological sustainability. Overall, it underscores sustainable agriculture as a pivotal pathway toward achieving long-term environmental resilience and economic stability.
EFFECT OF LIQUID POLLEN CONCENTRATIONS ON FRUIT SET, YIELD, AND QUALITY OF DHAKKI AND ZAHIDI DATE PALM IN D.I. KHAN
Fish represent a crucial source of affordable protein globally and contribute significantly to economic livelihoods through fisheries. The present study investigated the prevalence and intensity of helminth parasite infections in four commercially important marine fish species—Lutjanus argentimaculatus, Johnius dussumieri, Plectorhynchus cinctus, and Pampus argenteus—collected from the Karachi coast. Between January and December 2022, a total of 113 fish specimens were collected monthly using cast nets, hand nets, and fishing rods with the assistance of local fishermen. Parasitological examination revealed that 84.07% of the fish were infected with helminth parasites. The highest infection prevalence was recorded in June (45.46%), while the lowest occurred in January (3.33%). Among the studied species, Pampus argenteus exhibited the greatest mean infection intensity (2.15 parasites per infected fish), followed by Johnius dussumieri (1.89), Plectorhynchus cinctus (1.87), and Lutjanus argentimaculatus (1.70). Seasonal analysis indicated a substantially higher infection rate during summer compared to winter. These results demonstrate species-specific differences in susceptibility to helminth infections and emphasize their implications for fish health, food safety, and sustainable fisheries management.
EVALUATION OF MORPHOLOGICAL AND POSTHARVEST VARIABILITY IN IRIS KASHMIRIANA UNDER EMS-INDUCED MUTAGENESIS
Iris kashmiriana, a hardy perennial cut flower of the family Iridaceae and native to northern Pakistan, possesses notable floral, commercial, and medicinal importance. The present study was conducted to induce phenotypic variation through ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS)—a potent chemical mutagen capable of causing point mutations in DNA. Five EMS concentrations (control, 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1.0%) were tested using a 5-minute dipping treatment, and a range of morphological, floral, and postharvest traits were evaluated to determine the mutagenic response. Among the treatments, 0.5% EMS (T3) produced the most favorable results, showing marked increases in rhizome diameter (3.16 cm), leaf length (29.1 cm), number of leaves (8.4), plant height (32.8 cm), stalk length (28.26 cm), and flower count (2.26). This treatment also delayed floral senescence (2.46 days), extended vase life (4.66 days), and achieved the highest overall quality score (7.5), demonstrating improved postharvest performance. A moderate improvement was observed at 0.25% EMS (T2), while the highest concentration (1.0%; T4) had adverse effects, resulting in reduced flower diameter (0.7 cm), smaller petal area (3 cm²), and shorter vase life (0.7 days). Overall, the 0.5% EMS treatment proved to be the most effective in enhancing the morphological, floral, and postharvest traits of Iris kashmiriana, indicating its strong potential for use in mutation breeding and quality enhancement of ornamental crops.
ASSESSING THE TOXIC IMPACT OF COBOX ON SALMO TRUTTA FARIO: LETHAL CONCENTRATION AND BEHAVIORAL RESPONSE ANALYSIS
URBANIZATION AND ITS CROSS-SECTORAL IMPACTS ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND AGRICULTURE: A NEXUS APPROACH
EVALUATION OF BIOPESTICIDES FOR MANAGING SUCKING INSECTS AND IMPROVING YIELD IN BITTER GOURD (MOMORDICA CHARANTIAL.)
ESTABLISHMENT AND VALIDATION OF A RELIABLE GRAVIMETRIC METHOD FOR HUMIC ACID ESTIMATION
EFFECT OF VARIOUS ORGANIC FERTILIZERS ON THE GROWTH AND YIELD PERFORMANCE OF CORIANDER (CORIANDRUM SATIVUM L.)
INFLUENCE OF DIVERSE GROWING MEDIA ON MORPHOLOGICAL AND FLORAL ATTRIBUTES OF ROSA HYBRIDA CV. “CHRISTIAN DIOR”
SCREENING OF PAKISTANI WHEAT CULTIVARS FOR YIELD ATTRIBUTES AND RESISTANCE TO YELLOW RUST UNDER LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS OF DERA ISMAIL KHAN
ASSESSMENT OF GENETIC INHERITANCE FOR SPIKE-RELATED TRAITS IN SEGREGATING WHEAT POPULATIONS
EFFECT OF FUNGICIDE TREATMENTS ON THE BIOCHEMICAL AND MORPHOLOGICAL RESPONSES OF WHEAT (TRITICUM AESTIVUM L.)
REGULATORY EFFECTS OF EXOGENOUS CARBOHYDRATE SOURCES ON GROWTH AND BIOCHEMICAL TRAITS OF SPEARMINT (MENTHA SPICATA L.)