This chapter explores the transformative impact of internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (A.I.), and robotics in modern agriculture. By addressing challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and labor shortages, these technologies have revolutionized farming practices, enabling precise monitoring of crops, data-driven decision-making, and increased operational efficiency. The integration of advanced A.I. algorithms and robotic systems has led to optimized resource utilization, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced sustainable practices. However, challenges such as cost, data security, and adoption barriers must be addressed to fully realize the potential of these technologies. The chapter also highlights future trends and areas for research and development, emphasizing the potential for further innovation and sustainable farming practices in the agriculture sector.

General and specific combining ability variance and their effects were studied for thirteen characters in line × tester mating design in bottle gourd. Based on overall per se performance and among the parents, Narendra Dharidar, Punjab Long, and parents Narendra Rashmi were identified as good specific combiners for a maximum of 5 to 6 attributes, including yield for other contributing traits, suggesting that these parents may be used in the hybridization program aimed at the development of superior genotypes/varieties in bottle guard. Tester Arka Bahar and Narendra Madhuri were considered to be good general combiners for 6 to 8 characters. These parents must be utilized in a suitable breeding programme visa-vis selection breeding for improvement productivity of yield and per unit area in bottle gourd. Based on overall results and per se performance, the F1 hybrids, i.e. Pusa Sandesh × Kashi Ganga, IC-321747 × Narendra Madhuri, and NDBG-132 × Narendra Madhuri emerged to be the good specific combiners for maximum traits, including yield, which may be utilized for obtaining transgressive segregants in the next generation. Out of sixty-four cross combinations, only seventeen hybrids revealed superiority over better parents for yield. The seventeen cross combinations that showed more than 24% heterobeltiosis over better parents include: IC-498541×Narendra Madhuri, IC-592210×Arka bahar, Pusa Sandesh×Narendra Madhuri, NDBG-132×Pusa Naveen, Narendra Rashmi×Kashi Ganga, IC-321412×Pusa Naveen, Narendra Rashmi×Arka bahar, Narendra Rashmi×Pusa Naveen, Narendra Dharidar×Narendra Madhuri, Pusa Sandesh×Kashi Ganga, NDBG-132×Arka bahar, NDBG-132×Narendra Madhuri, Punjab long×Narendra Madhuri, Narendra Jyothi×Narendra Madhuri, IC-592210×Arka bahar, IC-338119×Arka bahar and IC- 498541×Kashi Ganga. This suggests that there is a great possibility to produce higher yielding varieties/genotypes.

During the rabi season of 2021, a field experiment was conducted in the North Western plains of Uttarakhand at Crop Research Centre, School of Agriculture, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun to examine the impact of integrated nutrient management (INM) on lentil growth, yield, and economics (Lens culinaris Medik.). The experiment was laid in Randomized Block Design with seven treatments i.e. T1 (Control, 100% RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertilizers), T2 (75 % NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) + 25 % FYM (Farm Yard Manure), T3 (50 % NPK + 50 % FYM), T4 (75 % NPK + 25 % Azotobacter), T5 (50 % NPK + 50 % Azotobacter), T6 (75 % NPK + 25 % (Vermicompost + Azotobacter)) & T7 (50 % NPK+ 50 % (Vermicompost + Azotobacter)). The treatments T7 with the combination of 50 per cent NPK and 50 per cent vermicompost plus Azotobacter showed maximum LAI (Leaf Area Index) (0.25), NAR (Net Assimilation Rate) (0.0020), chlorophyll content (3.05), dry matter (4.44 g), and protein content (26.99 %) in contrast to other six treatments.

Nano-diammonium phosphate (Nano-DAP) is a promising source of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P₂O₅) for crops and provides an effective remedy for nutrient deficiencies in standing plants. This review highlights the critical role of phosphorus in plant growth and examines the limitations of conventional fertilizers such as urea, DAP, and compost, which, although essential for crop production, often suffer from low nutrient use efficiency and contribute to environmental pollution. Drawing on a synthesis of published studies, this review demonstrates that Nano-DAP enhances phosphorus solubility and availability in soil–plant systems, thereby improving nutrient absorption, stimulating plant growth, and increasing crop yields compared to conventional fertilizers. The review also evaluates the impact of Nano-DAP on yield performance, nutrient uptake, and its application in major field crops. Furthermore, the advantages and potential limitations of Nano-DAP are discussed in the context of sustainable agriculture. Overall, the use of nano-fertilizers, particularly Nano-DAP, presents a promising strategy to improve agricultural productivity while reducing environmental risks.

Plastic pollution, particularly in the form of microplastics and nanoplastics, has emerged as a significant environmental concern with far-reaching implications. This chapter delves into the origins, characteristics, effects, and identification and methods of removal of these micro/nano plastic particles that are prevailing in our ecosystems. The properties of these plastics make them versatile and widely used materials in the commercial world, but this has led to their extensive production and disposal, contributing to the formation and accumulation of more and more microplastics and nanoplastics in various natural habitats. These smaller plastic fragments, categorized as primary and secondary micro/nano plastic, pose a greater threat to the environment due to their ability to carry harmful substances and disrupt ecosystems. Collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, and industries are essential to developing effective strategies for detecting, mitigating, and preventing further plastic pollution.

Soil health indicators, covering physical, chemical, and biological parameters, serve as crucial diagnostic tools, empowering farmers with a holistic understanding of soil conditions. Systematic assessment facilitates informed decision-making to improve productivity, mitigate environmental impact, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Examining the historical context of soil science sheds light on its evolution, identifies pioneers, and addresses challenges arising from the green revolution. Review highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and technological innovation in comprehensive soil health management. Challenges in adopting soil health indicators, including awareness, complexity, and cost issues, are identified. There is an emphasis on collaborative efforts among policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals to prioritize soil health. This collective perspective is essential for establishing sustainable agricultural systems, ensuring benefits for both current and future generations. Keywords: Soil Health Indicators, Sustainable Agriculture, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Environmental Impact, Green Revolution.