Silk, the fibrous material woven by silkworms to form their protective cocoons during the pupal stage, stands out as a remarkable natural creation. China ranks first of being the first nation to cultivate the mulberry plant, rear silkworms and manufacture silk goods. Across millennia, silk has remained China's premier export, surpassing all other commodities in global reach and influence. The term "Silk Road," coined in 1877 by German geographer F. VonRichtofen, links the historic trade route connecting China to South Western and Central Asia, as well as India. Dating back to the Han Dynasty (202 BC - 220 AD), this ancient path facilitated the exchange of various goods, with silk emerging as its principal commodity. Originating from the heart of China, the Silk Road traversed North Western China before stretching westward across Asia. It served as a link for extensive interactions, fostering political, economic, and cultural exchanges among diverse regions and ethnic groups.

India has become the world's most populous country, with nearly 1.4 billion people. While this presents opportunities for higher demographic dividends beneficial to the economy, it also exacerbates issues like resource scarcity, particularly in food security. Addressing this challenge is daunting, given the lack of scope for expanding cultivable land. Therefore, the imperative is to maximize productivity within the available land area. Vertical farming offers an innovative solution to food security concerns by maximizing production in limited spaces. It presents a lucrative opportunity for vertical farming in India. Many nations globally, including India, have witnessed significant expansion in vertical farming owing to its potential in addressing a critical issue: food security. These vertical farms can be established in densely populated regions to provide fresh, nutritious food to millions year-round, irrespective of weather conditions. In India, agricultural production faces constant challenges from soil degradation, desertification, and extreme weather events such as floods and droughts. Consequently, alternative farming methods like vertical farming are gaining popularity. Numerous startups and vertical farming enterprises are already operational in India, striving to supply major urban centers with locally sourced produce. This article aims to explore some of these vertical farms, the scope of the Indian vertical farming market, and the ongoing research in this area.

Probiotics play a crucial role in animal nutrition, offering a spectrum of benefits that contribute to overall health and well-being. These beneficial microorganisms, primarily bacteria and yeast, exert positive effects on digestive health by maintaining gut microbiome in balanced condition. They enhance nutrient absorption, promoting optimal growth and development in animals. Additionally, probiotics support immune modulation, improve the defence mechanisms of body against infections and diseases. In both agricultural and companion animal settings, the incorporation of probiotics has been linked to improved feed efficiency and enhanced resistance to stressors. Overall, the judicious use of probiotics in animal nutrition not only optimizes digestive processes but also contributes to robust immune function, culminating in healthier and more resilient animals.