The crystal vibrational frequency, capacitivity and dissipation loss in crystalline RDA are studied using an extended lattice coupled pseudospin Hamiltonian. Statistical two -time Zubarev’s Green function approach has been employed for derivations. In the model, four spin coupled term, anharmonic vibrational terms, additional lattice coupled-spins terms as well as static electric field term have been added. Theoretical formulae for capacitivity, dissipation loss and crystal vibrational frequency are developed. Thermal variations of above quantities are found for RDA crystal by fitting model values. Theoretical findings satisfactorily agree with Blinc and Burgar et al. (1973).

The most crucial element of every structure is the concrete slab. When we provided the bubble deck slab, it also provided a high standard of living, increasing the amount of thermal comfort that individuals enjoyed. When creating floors and roofs, more concrete is used in the concrete slabs. Concrete is a heavy material, and more than 5% of CO2 is produced during cement manufacture. When making bubble deck slabs, extra concrete that does not contribute to the interlocking of aggregates for shear strength can be removed, leaving behind the concrete that is needed as a compression block for flexural strength. Furthermore, this wellknown technique enables lower design loads for columns and footings and longer spans without compromising the slab's flexural strength with little deflection. According to a literature analysis, bubble deck slabs are more cost-effective and effective in terms of structural integrity than traditional slabs. In this work, we investigated whether or not it is possible to create concrete slabs that are both lightweight and functional by reducing the slab uses hollow, high-density polyethylene spheres and concrete. The dead weight and effectiveness of the slab can be improved by removing a significant percentage of the concrete from the centre, which is not necessary for the slab's structural integrity. This technique produces a slab that is 30 to 50% lighter and can lessen the strain on foundations, walls, and columns. Cost and CO2 emissions can both be decreased. A thorough overview of the structural behavior of deck slabs is given in this study.

Mountains are one of nature's earliest formations, providing a vibrant habitat for glaciers, wildlife, and a diverse array of communities, traditions, and languages. They are essential for sustaining the world’s ecosystem and account for roughly 25% of the Earth's surface. Different mountain ranges experience various climates, with the Greater Himalayas experiencing the coldest temperatures, while the Western Ghats can endure extreme heat. Uttarakhand, situated in the Greater Himalayan region, is home to a diverse array of mountains and serves as a vital freshwater source for surrounding mountainous and lowland communities, supporting numerous ecosystems and species. However, mountains face multiple threats, including deforestation, climate change, the exploitation of the Earth’s natural resources, and the decline of traditional cultures and communities. A key initiative aimed at preserving the Himalayan ecosystem seeks to coordinate and assess aspects related to Himalayan agriculture, traditional knowledge, m icroflora and fauna, wildlife, forest resources, and geological treasures like water, ice, snow, and glaciers. This mission requires a robust legal framework to implement its commitments effectively. Although the judiciary is crucial for tackling environmental violations and ensuring justice, the legal system may be complicated for remote and marginalised communities to access. Strengthening the legal framework and embracing international mountain conventions can help protect these ecosystems while fostering economic development alongside sustainability.

India, as one of the world’s megadiverse countries, faces significant ecological challenges from the spread of invasive alien species (IAS). This study investigates the diversity and ecological impact of IAS in and around Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, located in the foothills of the Himalayas. A total of 30 invasive plant species were recorded across varied habitats including wastelands, agricultural fields, and forest margins. Field surveys, herbarium references, and community consultations revealed that most species were herbs or undershrubs, primarily of tropical American origin. These species have caused native displacement, habitat degradation, and soil quality reduction. However, some also offer limited ecosystem services, such as pollinator support and medicinal use. The study emphasizes the importance of early detection, public awareness, and integrated management strategies—manual, mechanical, chemical, and biological—for effective IAS control. It underscores the urgent need for systematic monitoring and sustainable mitigation strategies to protect native biodiversity in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

The green synthesis of metal or metal oxide nanoparticles using biogenic materials is a sustainable and environmentally friendly technique. In the present investigation, titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) were synthesised by using Sea buckthorn (Hippophae salicifolia) fruit (SBF) extract. The phytochemical extract of SBF served as both a reducing and stabilizing agent for the precursor. Optical and structural properties also indicated the successful formation of TiO2NPs. UV–Vis absorption revealed a strong absorbance peak at 390 nm, with direct and indirect band gaps of 3.40 eV and 3.76 eV, respectively. The shape of the TiO2NPs was crystalline anatase, as identified by XRD. The SEM micrographs revealed that the particles were irregular in shape, with an average size of ~85 nm. The EDS spectra revealed Ti and O as dominant elements. The FT-IR results stated the participation of hydroxyl, carbonyl, and phenolic groups from the fruit extract. The characteristic peak found at 670.80 cm⁻¹ corresponds to Ti–O–Ti stretching vibrations. The antibacterial and antifungal activity of biosynthesized TiO2NPs was determined against bacterial and fungal strains using the disc diffusion method. The zone of inhibition values against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans were 26.67 ± 0.58 mm and 15.67 ± 0.58 mm, respectively. The MICs of Escherichia coli and Candida albicans were 40 µg/mL and 60 µg/mL, respectively. The antimicrobial action is attributed to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon light exposure, which damages cell walls and induces ROS-mediated degradation of DNA and proteins. These results indicate that Sea buckthorn TiO2NPs are potential candidates for antimicrobial applications.

Stubble burning, the practice of setting fire to paddy crop residues post-harvest to clear fields between mid-October and mid-November for the next sowing season has been a significant contributor to air pollution crisis in India's National Capital Region (NCR). It releases large quantities of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contributing to severe air pollution. Between 2020 and 2025, various policy measures and technological interventions have been implemented to address this issue. This paper examines the causes of stubble burning, its environmental and health impacts, evaluates the effectiveness of policy responses during this period and explores sustainable alternatives for crop residue management.

The Himalaya, often termed the “Third Pole,” supplies freshwater to nearly one billion people, yet its climate remains difficult to model due to complex terrain and sparse observations. This study tests the hypothesis that a high-resolution, physics-based regional model can better simulate monsoon rainfall over the Garhwal–Kumaon Himalaya than coarser parameterized approaches. Two regional climate models were evaluated: a convection-permitting dynamical model at 1 km resolution and a coarser meso-scale model at 10– 12 km resolution. Simulations were bias-corrected and compared with observed rainfall data. The fine-scale dynamical model reproduced the diurnal cycle of monsoon precipitation more realistically, while the statistical model underestimated rainfall and exhibited larger spatial biases. Bias correction reduced systematic errors but could not fully resolve under-reporting in the parameterized scheme. Overall, the 1 km simulation demonstrated superior skill in capturing rainfall intensity and spatial variability, providing more reliable down scaled climate information. The findings suggest that high-resolution dynamical down scaling can support hydrological planning and risk assessment in this fragile mountain environment.

The Eidgah Bawdi in Narnaul, Haryana, is a five-storied stepwell dating to the Mughal period, reflecting the rich tradition of water architecture. It features simple yet functional design elements such as arched gateways, staircases, and decorative chhatris, showcasing the skill of local artisans who balanced practical needs with aesthetic form. Unlike the decorative stepwells of Gujarat and Rajasthan, it represents a more utilitarian Mughal style appropriate to the semi-arid landscape. Presently, it faces threats like vegetation growth, soil deposition, neglect, and encroachments that have weakened its structure. Despite these issues, the Bawdi remains a significant example of medieval engineering and social architecture. This study highlights the significance of this Bawdi and also the need for detailed documentation, conservation efforts, and community involvement to preserve this lesser-known medieval heritage.

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a fast-growing, herbaceous tropical fruit crop belonging to the family Caricaceae. Indigenous to Central America and Southern Mexico, it is now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, with India ranking among the leading producers worldwide. Among the various cultivars grown in India, Pusa Nanha is a dwarf, gynodioecious papaya variety specifically developed for a high-density plantation system. The present study was conducted to enhance seed germination and seedling growth of papaya using various combinations of growing media. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) consisting of thirteen treatments with three replications. The treatments comprised various combinations of vermicompost, farmyard manure (FYM), leaf litter, and cocopeat. The result of the study revealed that the growing media combination T13 (Vermicompost + FYM + Leaf litter) showed superior performance over all other treatments, recording the fastest initial germination (16.14 days), highest germination per cent (82.10 %) and maximum survival per cent (90.11 %). Additionally, this combination also produced seedlings with superior growth characteristic, including the maximum plant height (58.14 cm), shoot diameter (16.34 mm), thickest root diameter (11.26 mm), highest number of leaves (24.41), longest root length (31.24cm), maximum shoot fresh and dry biomass (102.20 g and 30.19 g, respectively), maximum root fresh and dry biomass (28.17 g and 9.66 g, respectively) and maximum total fresh and dry biomass (130.24 g and 39.85 g, respectively).

The Yamuna Basin, integral to the Ganga Basin, possesses significant hydropower potential due to its extensive river system and pronounced elevation gradient. This paper scrutinises the multifaceted impacts (environmental, social, economic) of hydropower development therein. Applying the DPSIR framework to the Lakhwar and Vyasi projects, the study identifies energy demand and water security as principal drivers, exerting pressures such as forest land diversion, hydrological alterations, and waste generation. Consequent state changes include habitat loss and transformation from lotic to lentic ecosystems, with impacts manifesting as biodiversity decline, disrupted fish migration, and the displacement of 1809 families. Institutional responses encompass resettlement packages, compensatory afforestation, and environmental management plans. The research also examines governance mechanisms and stakeholder roles, advocating for an integrated strategy that balances energy generation with ecological conservation by minimising disruption, considering cumulative effects, and strengthening regulatory oversight and social responsibility. This work contributes to the discourse on sustainable hydropower within Himalayanriver systems, focusing on the Yamuna Basin's distinct environmental and socio-economic context.