Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology

ABSTRACT This study provides the systematic evaluation of methyl jasmonate (MeJA), yeast extract (YE) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as elicitors for essential oil biosynthesis in Zanthoxylum armatum callus cultures. Thirteen elicitation treatments revealed pronounced quantitative and qualitative metabolic plasticity. Across treatments, total identified compounds ranged from 91.3% to 97.5%, confirming high analytical coverage. Monoterpene hydrocarbons represented 17.4%–61.4% of the oils, while oxygenated monoterpenes ranged from 14.1% to 69.1%, demonstrating strong elicitor‐ and concentration‐dependent shifts, indicating differential activation of terpenoid biosynthetic pathways. Linalool, a key bioactive constituent, varied substantially (10.4%–45.5%), aligning with previously reported natural oils. Limonene also showed high abundance (10.3%–21.3%), and β‐phellandrene peaked at 37.6% in one treatment. Notably, treatment T4 generated the most oxygenated monoterpene–rich profile (69.1%), whereas T6, T11, and T12 produced hydrocarbon‐dominant profiles (59%–61%), demonstrating elicitor‐driven chemotype‐like modulation in vitro. These findings highlight the metabolic flexibility of Z. armatum callus tissues and establish elicitation as a controllable biotechnological strategy for tailoring terpenoid profiles and producing high‐value aroma compounds independent of environmental variability. This study is the first to demonstrate elicitor‐induced chemotype‐like modulation of essential oil composition in Zanthoxylum armatum callus cultures. By integrating biotic and abiotic elicitors (MeJA, yeast extract and AgNPs), we reveal pronounced metabolic plasticity and controllable shifts between monoterpene hydrocarbon and oxygenated monoterpene dominant profiles. The findings establish callus elicitation as a precision biotechnological platform for tailoring terpenoid biosynthesis and producing high‐value aroma compounds independent of environmental constraints. These findings reinforce callus culture as a valuable system for controlled production of essential oil constituents and for advancing biotechnological strategies targeting specific chemotypes.

Accurate mapping of tree species is essential for effective forest management and conservation. This paper explores various methods for tree species mapping, focusing on the Forest Research Institute (FRI). Authors evaluate GIS and remote sensing techniques through a case study within the FRI campus, presenting an innovative approach that integrates adaptive object-oriented and spectral-based methods. Utilizing moderate resolution Sentinel-2A and hyperspectral EO-1 Hyperion data enhances forest type classification precision. The methodology segments satellite imagery into meaningful objects and applies spectral analysis, achieving an overall classification accuracy of 92.5% and a Kappa coefficient of 0.89. The findings of the study demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach over traditional methods, providing valuable insights for future forest monitoring and management strategies.

his review focuses on the springs of the Uttarakhand mountains, particularly within the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), synthesizing existing published work. It delves into the empirical evidence supporting the reasons for the drying up of springs and the decline in spring discharge. Furthermore, it explores various methodologies and techniques employed in spring hydrological studies; including spring recharge zone delineation, spring rejuvenation strategies, and springshed management efforts undertaken by diverse stakeholders such as R&D organizations, Government Departments, and Non-Government Organizations, specifically within the Uttarakhand mountains. The key emphasis of this review is to underscore that existing studies on springs in Uttarakhand are inadequate for drawing firm conclusions on sustainable water management. Research varies widely - some focus only on summer discharge, others take single measurements, or report annual averages - often without considering spring types. Many studies also lack methodological rigor and fail to interpret key factors like discharge, climate, geology, and land use, hindering problem assessment and solution development. Efforts to enhance spring discharge through recharge zone treatments are often based on limited understanding, particularly regarding appropriate species for plantation. Additionally, the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of these measures, along with their ecosystem services benefits, remain under-evaluated. There is a clear need for more rigorous research by regional R&D institutions. The review also notes that significant work by NGOs and community stakeholders often remains undocumented and unrecognized in academic literature, limiting its influence and visibility. The overarching conclusion is that augmenting water yield in drying mountain springs necessitates a transdisciplinary and community-centric approach. This involves seamlessly integrating scientific knowledge with local wisdom, effectively translating research findings into actionable practices through a robust Science-Policy-Practice interface, and empowering communities to effectively overcome the prevalent water scarcity challenges in this region. Additionally, there is a strong imperative to build the capacity of implementing agencies and NGOs in springshed management methods and techniques. Regional research institutions, universities, and the newly established Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority (SARRA, Government of Uttarakhand) are expected to take a leading role in fostering better coordination across the region to contribute towards fulfilling SDG 6. Finally, the review highlights specific gap areas in spring hydrology and spring rejuvenation research, outlining avenues for future R&D activities. Uttarakhand has emerged as a significant hotspot for drying springs, evidenced by the highest number of publications among all the IHR States.

Secondary metabolites obtained from marine biodiversity have varied bioactive compounds that possess various properties of pharmaceutical relevance. The diversity in chemical and molecular forms imparts these metabolites tremendous pharmacological significance. So many diseases are still untreatable due to the non-availability of proper medicines. The novel drugs isolated from the marine microbes which are not yet explored will provide an extraordinary, advanced approach to drug discovery. The novelty in drug development owing to the presence of such bioactive compounds has led to exploring new horizons pertaining to diseases and their treatment. These metabolites also serve as an important tool in the field of agriculture as biocides for crop improvement. Nowadays, much of the research is being focused on alternative sources of energy, in which algae are contributing a great deal. Thus, these metabolites play a pivotal role in various industries in the production of commercial products that are beneficial for mankind. Much of the research still needs to be done in this field as most of the marine microbes are not easily accessible due to the ocean depths. If such microbes can be isolated from the deep ocean, then novel research will pave the drug discovery to treat those ailments which are not possible till date. Even a lot of study is needed in the area of bioprospecting for the advancements in isolation and characterization of potential compounds. If we can isolate the potent compound, we will not only be able to prevent the occurrence of such lethal diseases but also be able to save human lives. The present review focuses on the important metabolites extracted from the marine microbes and their pharmacological significance, which owe special significance to the medical community and drug development.

Abstract The Himalayas, spanning across eight countries and covering 18% of the Indian subcontinent, is a treasure trove of medicinal plants, with approximately 1,748 species utilized for medicinal purposes. However, these invaluable resources are under threat due to over-harvesting and climate change. For centuries, medicinal plants have been integral to the lives of tribal communities in the Himalayas, providing essential products for food and medicine. This review highlights the traditional, therapeutic, and pharmacological values of selected seven medicinal plants from the Indian Himalayas that are on the brink of extinction. We provide an updated overview of their distribution, medicinal properties, cultivation practices, key phytochemical constituents, and market potential. These plants play a vital role in traditional health systems and the global pharmaceutical industry, but their over-collection has led to many species becoming threatened, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation efforts.