inspiriences

Research by archaeologists from Chinese and US institutes suggests that pigs were already domesticated in southern China around 8,000 years ago. The team, which included researchers from Dartmouth College and the Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, analysed two early Neolithic sites in the province’s Yangtze Delta region. The study – published on June 9 in the prestigious international journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) – “is the first to find that pigs were eating humans’ cooked foods and waste”, according to a Dartmouth College press release. Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge , our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. The findings suggested the domestication process of Sus scrofa – the wild boar – occurred alongside the development...

Alternate wetting and drying is a climate-resilient rice farming solution and pathway to carbon credit markets When applied to rice farming, AWD promotes efficient water use and significantly reduces methane emissions from paddy fields. Alternating wet and dry soil conditions foster aerobic processes and suppress the activity of anaerobic microorganisms, the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in flooded fields. Emission reductions are achieved through precise cultivation techniques and strict monitoring procedures, from controlling water levels to determining optimal irrigation timing. This model lowers emissions and allows for measurable outcomes that can be converted into carbon credits. It incentivises farmers to maintain and expand the model while building a bridge between agricultural production and sustainable markets committed to emission reduction. Provinces like Nghe An can progressively develop emission reduction verification systems...

Kenya relies heavily on potatoes economically, which have grown both in popularity and importance. These crops serve as a stable source of revenue for smaller-scale farmers and contribute significantly to regional economics—from rural regions to city marketplaces, potatoes play an integral role within Kenya’s agricultural framework. However, obstacles like reduced output levels, inferior planting materials, illnesses, and environmental shifts still impede progress in Kenya's potato sector. This is precisely where Nakuru Tubers steps in under the leadership of founder and Managing Director Winnie Wambugu. With extensive knowledge spanning horticulture, seed-potato studies, and managerial skills, Ms. Wambugu leverages her educational qualifications and practical experiences to spearhead efforts aimed at reshaping potato cultivation across Kenya. "Our objective revolves around equipping lesser-farming operators—especially females, young individuals, and community members—with sol...

This planting season, numerous farmers across the region are bustling about trying to secure inputs that promise optimal crop yield. However, agriculture confronts myriad obstacles; thus, there’s no assurance that purportedly reliable products available now truly deliver effective outcomes. Last year saw fraudulent transactions involving substandard fertilizer supplies, leaving some farmers victimized by counterfeit goods. An innovative approach addressing these issues could be through adopting organic farming methods. Environmental experts based out of Homa Bay County spearheaded an initiative aimed at promoting sustainable agronomy. This venture focuses primarily on manufacturing local organic fertilizers, thereby mitigating reliance on potentially harmful chemical alternatives. Kibmist Enterprises Limited utilizes vermiculture techniques—specifically employing worm-driven processes—to generate eco-friendly liquid organic fertilizers known as "vermi-liquids." These solution...

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), under the leadership of Chairman Mr. Kriengkrai Thiennukul, has entered into an agreement through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mahidol University, headed by Professor Dr. Piyamitr Sritara, MD, FRCP, who serves as the university’s president. This collaboration aims to initiate the ‘Innovation Project for Developing Smart Agricultural Techniques Through Prototypes’ designed for education and fostering advanced agricultural practices. Mr. Kriengkrai states that the FTI acknowledges the vital significance of progressing Thailand’s agricultural industry. Given the nation's extensive biodiversity and plentiful natural assets, significant opportunities exist for generating economic wealth via technological advancements. The SAI initiative seeks to improve each phase of the agricultural supply chain—from farming practices and transportation to manufacturing and sales—by utilizing contemporary technologies. Through this p...

New Delhi [India], April 5 (ANI): Startups In the agricultural sector, new opportunities for profitable living are arising through the smart integration of conventional organic farming methods with advanced scientific technologies, according to the Union Minister of State. Dr Jitendra Singh on Saturday. At the "Natural and Organic Farmers Summit 2025" held in Shankarpalli nearby, the Minister praised the work of local pioneers and farmer-businesspeople who are leveraging scientific methods to expand farming operations, boost yields, and secure steady earnings. He stated during his speech that Agri Startups are rapidly becoming a profitable source of income by adeptly combining conventional organic farming methods with advanced scientific technologies. " Startups "In agriculture, activities now extend beyond traditional farming practices," explained Dr. Jitendra Singh. "Farmers are leveraging scientific...

Agartala ( Tripura [India], March 29 (ANI): Tripura Minister of Agriculture and Farmer's Development Ratan Lal Nath On Saturday credited the "significant advancement" in potato cultivation within the state to the implementation of new practices. Apical Rooted Cutting (ARC) technology. The Minister likewise presented the Chief Minister Manik Saha With a basket of locally sourced potatoes, two packs of 'Kali-Khasha' rice, and millet cookies placed on the floor of the state legislative chamber, these goods were likewise handed out to every member present, encompassing delegates from IPFT, TIPRA Motha Party, CPIM, and Congress. The state has achieved notable progress in potato cultivation, and the implementation of ARC technology has resulted in higher production levels. This effort will help to Tripura Nath stated during the budget session at the State Legislative Assembly that enhancing the state’s self...