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AGRICULTURAN AND ANTHROPOLOGICAL STUDY OF SUMBAL BLOCK OF BANDIPORA DISTRIC OF KASHMIR

Author: PROF GHULAM MOHYUDDIN WANI

 

STRATEGIC RESEARCH AND EXTENSION PLAN USING

PARTICIPARTORY RURAL APPRAISAL

FOR

TEHSIL SUMBAL SONAWARI (BANDIPORA)

FROM

19th – 28th, JUNE 2008.

 

 

I. INTRODUCTION

 

Sumbal Sonawari is one of the Tehsil of district Bandipora erstwhile district Baramulla Kashmir.  Sumbal is located 34013’ N and 74037’ E with an average altitude of 5178 feet (1578.25 meter) above mean sea level.  The District Bandipora  is having 3 Tehsils viz. Bandiopa, Gurez and Sumbal Sonawari with a total population of 306511 persons comprising of 158754 males and 147757 females.  Out of the total population of the district Bandipora the tehsil Sumbal Sonawari is having population of 149013 persons comprising 76411 males and 72602 females. The district Bandipora consists of 53 Panchyat halqas with 200 villages out of which 12 Panchayat Halqas of 51 villages fall in Block Sumbal of tehsil Sonawari. 

 

The Bandipora district is surrounded by Kupwara in the West, Baramulla in the South, Kargil, Srinagar and Ganderbal in the East and LoC in the North. The district has severe cold climate in winter and a pleasant weather in summer. Each part of the district experiences snowfall during winter. Road to Gurez remains closed during winter due to snowfall. Average annual rainfall in District Bandipora has been recorded as 589 mm with approximately 82 rainy days. 

 

Tehsil Sumbal Sonwari located in the South of Bandipora having varied topography viz. plains, karewas, hillocks, and marshy lands, and water bodies.  This type of topography generally makes the area prone to flood as well to drought conditions.  The cultivable areas are fertile mostly rich in clay and silt. The river Jehlam and Sindh passing through the area serves as main source of irrigation.  At most of the places the water is lifted by the pumps and distributed through irrigation canals.  The high clay content makes soils very loose when wet and very hard when dry. 

  1. The farm women and farm youths were mostly found engaged in production of handicrafts like carpet making, shawl making, embroidery etc. and almost each household was having a carpet weaving unit.

 

The people mostly belong to low income groups and are economically backward. The situation becomes further aggravated due to low productivity, unemployment/ underemployment, lack of communication and basic facilities such as education and health. Majority of the people suffer from malnutrition and under nutrition and the worst hit group is children and women. The risk to health hazards is apprehended due to poor sanitary conditions, unsafe drinking water facilities etc.

 

            To alleviate poverty in the area Govt. Departments, Institutions, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and allied agencies are working hard to increase the production and productivity, generate employment and improve the living conditions through their progammes and activities. It is in this connection, that one such NGO namely Indo Global Social Service Society (IGSSS) approached to the University through Directorate of Extension Education for developing SREP and conducting of need based trainings on agriculture and allied fields.  The NGO has been busy in organization of Self Help Groups (SHGs) among the women folk of the area for micro financing facilities and ultimately women empowerment.

            Director Extension Education/ SMAETI, Prof. G.M. Wani appreciatandmediately constituted a team of experts/ scientists at the Directorate to carry the assignment systematically using Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) technique from 19th June 2008 to 28th June 2008 in the already identified villages of the IGSSS. The whole work was carried and conducted smoothly in a mission mode approach in the scheduled time through the active coordination and participation of the experts and the NGO personnel.

 

 

II.METHODOLOGY

 

            In order to prepare Strategic Research Extension Plan (SREP) for the area viz Sumbal Sonawari in the desired time schedule PRA technique was utilized to collect the responses from the villagers.  This included using of pre-tested interview schedules, interaction meetings, transect-walks, participatory observation methods, farm and home visits and discussion etc.  in a well planned way from 19th June 2008 to 28th June 2008 in the selected villages.

 

            The team deputed for the purpose comprised of scientists/ experts from Extension Education, Agronomy, Soil Science, Plant protection and Olericulture of the Directorate and SKUAST-K divisions.  The team was also assisted by State Coordinator and Project Supervisors of IGSSS in introduction of self help groups and villagers at large and good hospitality for the team.  The PRA was conducted in a systematic manner through observation of following steps:

 

Preparation of interview schedule and its use

  1. After pre-testing and further refinement of the schedule, the PRA was successfully conducted.

 

Rapport building

            In order to have a brief idea about the village resources, ecology, needs of farming community and opportunities etc. prior to make a plan for PRA, the team went to the office of IGSSS at Inderkot village of Sumbal Sonawari.  Immediately after an interaction meeting with the scientists, officials of IGSSS and farmers of the locality especially women self help groups some important information was gathered on the above aspects. 

This interaction meeting was also helpful in deciding the plan of work in the identified villages for PRA.  In each village, farmers/ farm women and youths gathered in the central places of the villages and were taken in to confidence through informal discussions.

  

 

The outcome of the first interaction meeting was such that it eased the rapport building in the identified villages through the playing of folk songs, idioms, proverbs and prayers etc.  In the beginning some ideas related to their routine works were floated and exchanged through which their ultimate discussions diverted them towards the farming and allied issues for further improvement.

 

Identification of Villages for PRA

            The villages identified by the IGSSS were selected as representative areas to prepare SREP for the Sumbal tehsil and accordingly PRA was conducted in them.  In this way, the villages for PRA were Inderkot, Ganastan, Gund Ibrahim and Tregam of Sumbal Sonawari tehsil.  Since the tehsil falls in temperate agro climatic zone and all the selected villages have almost uniform Agro Eco Situations (AES). The selected villages only differ to the extent of various problems and facilities.

 

 

 

Transect Walks

            Each selected village was visited as per schedule and first hand information about the topography, location, natural resources, demography, cropping patterns, vegetation, livestock and allied socio-economic activities were collected through the use of interview schedule and village transect walks.  These walks were welcomed by the villagers and they liked to share their information and experiences with the scientists/ experts. 

 

       

 

Mappings

            At the end of each transect walk and interaction meeting in the selected villages, the farmers were requested to draw the resource map of their villages on drawing sheets. This exercise was highly creative and enjoyable for the villagers as well as for the other participants.

 

     

 

 

Wealth Ranking

              Wealth ranking was done by direct and indirect questioning of the villagers/farmers on the basis of gross income/month/household without hurting their sentiments. In each village the farmers/villagers were classified as Low, Medium and High income group farmers.  The farmers/ villagers were finally identified as resource and resource rich.  The number of resource poor villagers is exceeding the resource rich in each village.

 

        

 

Existing Farming Systems

 

  1.             To identify the farming systems in each village various enterprises viz. growing of crops, fruits, vegetables, rearing of cattle, sheep, goat, poultry, sericulture and  other farming activities  along with their contribution being followed were analyzed and identified . These   systems slightly differ according to micro level agro-eco situations.

 

      

      

 

Gap Analysis

          This was done by making comparisons between the recommended packages and existing practices followed by farmers/villagers. The specific reasons for the gaps were enquired and the farmers  encouraged to propose research and extension strategies for filling such gaps. While preparing the SREP special attention is paid for farm youth and women   to generate employment and income through   imparting   of   trainings in various agro-vocations.   

 

        

        

III.GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT SELECTED VILLAGES AND THEIR SREP

Inderkot Village

            Inderkot village of  Sumbal  Sonawari Tehsil is spread over an area of about 150 hectares of land. More than 100 hectares are irrigated and remaining as un-irrigated and rainfed. Water is lifted from the Jehlum through irrigation canals by pump sets. Paddy is grown under water logged conditions and mostly single cropping pattern is followed. Nearly 10 hectares of land was reported under orchards.

 

Inderkot comprises of seven patis (hamlets), namely Chana-mohalla, Sadat-mohalla, Gunzri-mohalla, Bana-mohalla, Munz-mohalla, Sonabar and Murtazabad. The village is having 900 households with a population of 5500 persons, out of which 3000 are males and 2500 females. Besides farming, carpet making is another source of income. Almost each household is having a crossbred cow, 2-3 sheep/goat and 5-6 local poultry birds.

 

The village is having 1 middle school, 1 primary school, 2 EGS, 3 SSA and 3 Anganwari centers. In addition, two self help groups (2 SHGs), namely Karwane - Zainab and Himayat are active under IGSS with their focus on carpet weaving, needle work, pashmina spinning, cow and/ goat rearing and vegetable growing.

 

The further analysis of the data revealed the following: -

Income Groups 

 

 S.No

Income in Rupees/Month

Level of Income Group

No of Households

Percentage of Households

1

Up to 6000

Lower

342

38.00

2

6001-12000

Middle

522

58.00

3

12001 & Above

High

  36

04.00

 

Total

 

900

100.00

 

Wealth Ranking

S.No

Category

No of Households

Percent Household

1.

Resource Poor

621

69.00

2

Resource Rich

279

31.00

 

Total

900

100

 

Existing Farming Enterprises

S.No

Enterprises

No. of households

Percentage

1

Agriculture

571

63.4

2

Horticulture

7

0.8

3

Olericulture

14

1.5

4

Animal Husbandry

338

37.5

5

Sheep Husbandry

309

34.2

6

Poultry Keeping

23

2.5

7

Sericulture (Non farm)

11

1.2

8

Handloom

435

48.3

9

Embroidery

144

16

10

Others

383

42.5

 

Existing Farming System

 

S. No

Existing Farming system

No. of households

Percentage

1.

Agriculture + Animal Husbandry + Poultry keeping

310

35

2.

Animal Husbandry + Sheep/ Goat + Horticulture

217

24

3.

Sheep/ Goat + Poultry Keeping + Agriculture

301

33

3.

Handloom + Embroidery

72

8.0

 

Total

900

100

 

Contribution of Various Enterprises

S. No

Name of Enterprises

No of Households

% contribution

1

Agriculture

369

41

2

Sheep Husbandry

171

19

3

Animal Husbandry

108

12

4

Vegetable

27

3

5

Fruits

9

1

6

Poultry Keeping

18

2

7

Sericulture (Non farm)

198

22

 

Total

900

100

 

 

Gund Ibrahim Village

            The village is having an area of about 160 ha of land out of which 120 ha are irrigated and remaining as unirrigated or rainded.  Paddy and maize are grown in Kharif and Sarson in Rabi in some lands.  More than 15 ha of land is used for orchard and vegetable cultivation.  The village is having about 275 households with a total population of about 2500 persons comprising of 1500 males and 1000 females.  The main sources of irrigation are lift irrigation from Sukhnal, Trazpora Nallah and are also named as Trukulbal. 


 

  1. The further analysis of the data reveals as under:

 

Resources

Income Groups

S.No

Income in Rupees/Month

Level of Income Group

No of Households

Percentage of Households

1

Up to 6000

Lower

43

16

2

6001-12000

Middle

215

78

3

12001 & Above

High

17

06

 

Total

 

275

100

 

 

Wealth Ranking

S.No

Category

No of Households

Percent Household

1.

Resource Poor

154

56

2

Resource Rich

121

44

 

Total

275

100

 

 

Existing Farming Enterprises

 

S.No

Enterprises

No. of households

Percentage

1

Agriculture

160

58

2

Horticulture

14

5

3

Olericulture

11

4

4

Animal Husbandry

66

24

5

Sheep Husbandry

83

30

6

Poultry Keeping

28

10

7

Handloom

105

38

8

Embroidery

8

3

9

Services

6

2

 

Existing Farming System

 

S. No

Existing Farming system

No. of households

Percentage

1.

Agriculture + Animal Husbandry + Vegetable + Poultry keeping

127

46

2.

Sheep/ Goat + Animal Husbandry +Agriculture + Poultry keeping

66

24

3.

Animal Husbandry + Agriculture + Horticulture + Poultry

49

18

3.

Handloom + Embroidery

33

12

 

Total

275

100

 

Contribution of Various Enterprises

S. No

Name of Enterprises

No of Households

% contribution

1

Agriculture

111

40

2

Horticulture

3

1

3

Vegetable

2

1

4

Animal Husbandry

50

18

5

Sheep Husbandry

56

20

6

Poultry Keeping

2

1

7

Sericulture (Non farm)

7

3

8

Handloom (Carpet Making)

44

16

 

Total

275

100

 

 

 

Ganastan Village

            Ganastan village of Sumbal Tehsil is comprised of 5 Paties (hamlets) namely – Khanpet, Ganastan, Checki, Goonchipora and Rukh mohalla.  It is having about 420 households with a total population of 3200 persons, out of which 1920 are males and 1280 females.  The village is extended to an area of 400 hectares, out of which 300 hectares are irrigated and 100 hectares as unirrigated and rainfed.  About 100 hectares of land is put under orchard and vegetables.  Paddy and maize are grown in Kharief and wheat, oat and Sarson grown in Rabi. 

 

The village is provided with one each high school, Angan Wari Center, post office, ECGS, SSA, Cooperative society, Unani Dispensary and sheep center. The various activities commonly carried in the village includes growing of crops, cattle rearing, sheep and goat rearing and carpet making etc. two self help groups namely Usman and Ummar Groups under IGSSS are presently helping in Sozni work and desired to divert for agricultural and other value addition activities.

 

Income Groups

S.No

Income in Rupees/Month

Level of Income Group

No of Households

Percentage of Households

1

Up to 6000

Lower

82

19

2

6001-12000

Middle

188

45

3

12001 & Above

High

150

36

 

Total

 

420

100

 

Wealth Ranking

S.No

Category

No of Households

Percent Household

1.

Resource Poor

305

72

2

Resource Rich

115

28

 

Total

420

100

 

Existing Farming Enterprises

 

S.No

Enterprises

No. of households

Percentage

1

Agriculture

294

70

2

Horticulture

23

5

3

Olericulture

288

69

4

Animal Husbandry

198

47

5

Sheep Husbandry

201

48

6

Poultry Keeping

150

36

7

Sericulture

48

11

8

Handloom

223

53

9

Embroidery

80

19

 

 Existing Farming System

S. No

Existing Farming system

No. of households

Percentage

1.

Agriculture + Vegetable + Horticulture + Animal Husbandry

154

36

2.

Sheep/ Goat + Agriculture + Sericulture

130

31

3.

Agriculture + Animal Husbandry + Sheep / Goat + Poultry Keeping

104

25

3.

Handloom + Embroidery

32

8

 

Total

420

100

 

Contribution of Various Enterprises

S. No

Name of Enterprises

No of Households

% contribution

1

Agriculture

229

54

2

Horticulture

21

5

3

Olericulture

34

8

4

Animal Husbandry

28

7

5

Sheep Husbandry

43

10

6

Poultry Keeping

12

3

7

Sericulture

12

3

8

Handloom

38

9

 

Embroidery

3

1

 

Total

420

100

 

 

Tregam Village

            Tregam village of Tehsil Sonawari consists of Paties (helmets) like Odina, Malikpora, Mallapora and Parraypora spread over an area of about 15 ha of land, out of which 10 ha is irrigated and rest is unirrigated and rainfed.  The village is having nearly 350 households with a total population of 3261 persons.  The male and female population reported is 1655 and 1605 respectively.  The village is provided with four schools, one SSA and a veterinary center.  The water is lifted by the pump sets from Kawasoo gauge and Badi Numble.

 

The cultivable area is put under paddy, maize, rajmash and vegetables in kharief and peas and oats in rabi.  Only 4 ha of land is under orchards.  Livestock population consists of 250 cattle, and about 200 sheep/goat.  Almost each household is having 5-7 local poultry birds.  The village is also having one poultry farm.

 

Two self help groups namely Kirmani and Gulshan under IGSSS are active for various income generating activities like needle work, carpet weaving and goat/ sheep rearing etc. These groups are well linked with various development agencies of the area.  The further analysis reveals as under:

 

Income Groups

S.No

Income in Rupees/Month

Level of Income Group

No of Households

Percentage of Households

1

Up to 6000

Lower

60

17

2

6001-12000

Middle

130

37

3

12001 & Above

High

160

46

 

Total

 

350

100

 

Wealth Ranking

S.No

Category

No of Households

Percent Household

1.

Resource Poor

220

63

2

Resource Rich

130

37

 

Total

350

100

 

Existing Farming Enterprises

S.No

Enterprises

No. of households

Percentage

1

Agriculture

220

63

2

Horticulture

55

16

3

Olericulture

58

17

4

Animal Husbandry

38

11

5

Sheep Husbandry

43

12

6

Poultry Keeping

215

61

7

Sericulture

45

13

8

Handloom

80

23

9

Services

10

3

 

Existing Farming System

 

S. No

Existing Farming system

No. of households

Percentage

1.

Agriculture + Vegetable + Horticulture + Poultry Keeping

195

56

2.

Sheep/ Goat + Animal Husbandry + Agriculture + Poultry Keeping

85

24

3.

Agriculture + Vegetable + Sericulture + Poultry Keeping

60

17

3.

Handloom + Embroidery

10

3

 

Total

350

100

 

 

 

 

Contribution of Various Enterprises

S. No

Name of Enterprises

No of Households

% contribution

1

Agriculture

148

42

2

Horticulture

8

2

3

Olericulture

22

6

4

Animal Husbandry

32

9

5

Sheep/ Goat Husbandry

44

13

6

Poultry Keeping

14

4

7

Sericulture

10

3

8

Handloom

62

18

 

Services

10

3

 

Total

350

100

 

 

 

 

 

IV. Selected villages of Sumbal Sonawari  Tehsil at a Glance (Facts and figures)                                              

                                                                                                                                       N = 46

1

Age (Yrs)

upto 20

21-35

36-50

51 & above

Total

 

 

 

No./%age

2 (4.3)

10 (21.7)

27 (58.7)

7 (15.2)

46 (100)

 

 

2

Education

Illiterate

Primary

Middle

Matric

Graduate & above

Total

 

 

No./%age

24 (52.2)

5 (10.9)

9 (19.6)

6 (13.0)

2 (4.3)

46 (100)

 

3

Family size

upto 4 members (small)

5-8 members (medium0

9 & above (composite)

 

 

 

 

 

No./%age

2 (4.3)

23 (50)

21 (45.7)

46 (100)

 

 

 

4

Occupation

Farming

Business

Services

More than one

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

18(39.1)

4(8.7)

2(4.3)

22(47.8)

46(100)

 

 

5

Income(Rs)/ Month /head

Upto 6000(Low)

6001-12000(Medium)

12001 & Above(High)

Total

 

 

 

 

No/%age

22(47.8)

14(30.5)

10(21.7)

46(100)

 

 

 

6

Land Holding(Size) in Kanals

Upto 5

5.1-10

10.1-15

15.1 & Above

Landless

Total

 

 

No/%age

12(26.1)

14(30.4)

11(23.9)

8(17.4)

1(2.2)

46(100)

 

7

Source of Information (Persons)

Family Member

Relative

Neighbour

Friends

Village Head

Total

 

 

No/%age

25(54.3)

6(13.0)

6(13.0)

3(6.5)

6(13.0)

46(100)

 

 

(Officers)

VEW

AEO

HDO

NGO

U.Scientists

None

Total

 

No/%age

14(30.4)

1(2.2)

1(2.2)

9(19.6)

5(10.9)

16(34.8)

46(100)

 

(Media)

Radio

TV

Radio & TV

Newspapers

All

None

Total

 

No/%age

7(15.2)

7(15.2)

24(52.2)

2(4.3)

5(10.9)

1(2.2)

46(100)

8

Frequency of Visits/ Offices

Weekly

Fortnightly

Monthly

Seasonally

Never

Total

 

 

Dev. Department.

1(2.2)

3(6.5)

3(6.5)

8(17.4)

31(67.4)

46(100)

 

 

ATIC

-

-

2(4.3)

4(8.7)

40(87.0)

46(100)

 

 

KVK

-

-

-

1(2.2)

45(97.8)

46(100)

 

 

Research Stn.

-

-

-

2(4.3)

44(95.7)

46(100)

 

 

Univ. HQ

-

-

-

10(21.7)

36(78.3)

46(100)

 

9

Adoption of Technology

Paddy Crop

 Varieties

Local

Improved

Latest

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

21(45.7)

13(28.3)

7(15.2)

5(10.9)

46(100)

 

 

 

Seed Rate(Kgs/Kanal)

Upto 3

3.1 – 4

4.1 & Above

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

5(10.9)

5(10.9)

31(67.4)

5(10.9)

46(100)

 

 

 

Plants/Hill

5-8

More than 8

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

 

No/%age

22(47.8)

19(41.3)

5(10.9)

46(100)

 

 

 

 

Fertilizer Application

Complete NPK

Partial NPK

No NPK

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

12(26.1)

26(56.5)

3(6.5)

5(10.9)

46(100)

 

 

 

Plant Protection

Use of Weedicides

Use of Fungicide/Insecticide

Use of more than one

None of Chemicals

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

No/$age

15(32.6)

1(2.2)

1(2.2)

24(52.2)

5(10.9)

46(100)

 

 

Yield/Kanal(Qtls.)

Upto 2

2.1-3.5

More than 3.5

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

9(19.6)

18(39.1)

14(30.4)

5(10.9)

46(100)

 

 

 

Problems

Input Availability

Technical Know how

Natural Proneness

All Types of Problems

None of the Problems

Not Applicable

Total

 

No/%age

13(28.3)

8(17.4)

3(6.5)

14(30.4)

3(6.5)

5(10.9)

46(100)

10

Maize Crop

Varieties

Local

Improved

Latest

None

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

9(19.6)

3(6.5)

2(4.3)

32(69.6)

46(100)

 

 

 

Seed Rate Kgs/Kanal

Upto 1.5

1.6-3.0

More than 3

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

3(6.5)

6(13.0)

5(10.9)

32(69.6)

46(100)

 

 

 

Fertilizer Application

Complete NPK

Partial NPK

No NPK

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

1(2.2)

5(10.9)

8(17.4)

32(69.6)

46(100)

 

 

 

Plant Protection

Applying insecticide etc.

Not Applying any Chemical

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

 

No/%age

1(2.2)

13(28.3)

32(69.6)

46(100)

 

 

 

 

Yield/Kanal (Qtls.)

Upto 1

1.1-2.0

More than 2

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

5(10.9)

6(13.0)

3(6.5)

32(69.6)

46(100)

 

 

 

Problems

Input Availability

Technical Know how

Natural Proneness

None of Problems

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

No/%age

3(6.5)

3(6.5)

4(8.7)

4(8.7)

32(60.6)

46(100)

 

11

Rabi Crops Grown

Sarson/Mustard

Oats

Wheat

More than one

None of Crops

Total

 

 

No/%age

 2(4.3)

5(10.9)

2(4.3)

9(19.6)

28(60.9)

46(100)

 

12

Kharif Vegetables Grown

More than One

None

Total

 

 

 

 

 

No/%age

39(84.8)

7(15.2)

46(100)

 

 

 

 

13

Rabi Vegetables Grown

More than One

None

Total

 

 

 

 

 

No/%age

35(76.1)

11(23.9)

46(100)

 

 

 

 

14

Vegetable Problems

Input Availability

Technical Know how

All Types

None

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

5(10.9)

16(34.8)

13(28.3)

12(26.1)

46(100)

 

 

15

Fruit Orchard

Apple

Walnut

Mixed

None

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

11(23.9)

2(4.3)

2(4.3)

31(67.4)

46(100)

 

 

16

Apple Varieties

Local

Commercial

Mixed

None

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

1(2.2)

10(21.7)

2(4.3)

33(71.7)

46(100)

 

 

 

Orchard Age(Yrs.)

upto-5 (New)

5.1-15 (Young)

15.1-30 & More (Old)

None

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

6(13.0)

5(10.9)

2(4.3)

33(71.7)

46(100)

 

 

 

Training & Pruning

Yes

No

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

 

No/%age

7(15.2)

6((13.0)

33(71.7)

46(100)

 

 

 

 

Fertilizer Applications

Complete NPK

Partial NPK

No NPK

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

2(4.3)

7(15.2)

4(8.7)

33(71.7)

46(100)

 

 

 

Apple Problems

Pollination

Diseases/Pests

Fertilizer application

More than  one Problem

Not Applicable

Total

 

 

No/%age

1(2.2)

8(17.4)

1(2.2)

3(6.5)

33(71.7)

46(100)

 

17

Cattle Rearing Breed

Local

Crossbred

Both(L&C)

None

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

13(28.3)

18(39.1)

2(4.3)

13(28.3)

46(100)

 

 

 

No/Household

None

Upto 2

More than 2

Total

 

 

 

 

No/%age

13(28.3)

29(63.0)

4(8.7)

46(100)

 

 

 

 

Milk Yield/H/D (Litres)

Upto 4 (Low)

4.1 – 8.0 (Medium)

8.1 – 15.0 (High)

Nil

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

9(19.6)

17(37.0)

5(10.9)

15(32.6)

46(100)

 

 

 

Cattle Problem

Feeding

Diseases

Vet.Facilities

None

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

3(6.5)

25(54.3)

3(6.5)

15(32.6)

46(100)

 

 

18

Sheep/Goat Rearing Breed

Local/Improved

None

Total

 

 

 

 

 

No/%age

11(23.9)

35(76.1)

46(100)

 

 

 

 

 

No/Household

None

Upto- 2

3 - 6

More than 6

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

35(76.1)

5(10.9)

2(4.3)

4(8.7)

46(100)

 

 

 

Sheep/Goat Problem

Diseases

None

Total

 

 

 

 

 

No/%age

11(23.9)

35(76.1)

46(100)

 

 

 

 

19

Poultry Keeping Breed

Local

Improved

None

Total

 

 

 

 

No/%age

36(78.3)

1(2.2)

9(19.6)

46(100)

 

 

 

 

Birds/Household

None

Upto-2

3-6

More than 6

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

10(21.7)

3(6.5)

11(23.9)

22(47.8)

46(100)

 

 

 

Poultry Problems

Feeding

Housing

Diseases

None

Total

 

 

 

No/%age

1(2.2)

1(2.2)

27(58.7)

17(37.0)

46(100)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IV. Gap Analysis and Proposed Extension Training Strategy/ Action Plan for the Representative Villages of Sumbal Sonawari Tehsil

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S. No

Enterprise/ Package Item

Existing situation/ problem

Village-wise status of the situation / problem

Recommended programme/ action plan for Sumbal Sonawari area

Inderkot

Gundibrahim

Ganastan

Tregam

A. Agriculture (Crops)

1

Paddy cultivation

Growing paddy mostly under waterlogged conditions

Severe waterlogged conditions

Less waterlogged

Mild waterlogged

Severe waterlogged

Introduction of Technology for paddy cultivation in waterlogged area through research and demonstration.

 

 

More use of local and old cultivars of paddy (Nikchina, Safed China, Roosi, China 1007 etc.)

More than one third of area under local and traditional varieties

Half of the area under local and traditional varieties

One third of area under local and traditional varieties

Three fourth area under local and traditional varieties

Replacement of paddy varieties by improved and new varieties such as China 1039, K39, Jehlum and Shalimar rice 1, through FLD programme and seed village development concept

 

 

Paddy area naturally prone to water logging stress conditions

Due to faulty and irregular water distribution system

Due to faulty and irregular water distribution system

Due to faulty and irregular water distribution system

Due to faulty and irregular water distribution system

Fair and just water distribution needs the introduction of water harvesting technologies and more water lifting stations and canals

 

 

Using higher seed rates (more than 60-80 kg /ha)

Two third of the farmers using higher seed rate than recommended

More than two third farmers using higher seed rate than recommended

Nearly two third farmer using higher seed rate than recommended

Half of the farmers using higher seed rate than recommended

Awareness training programmes can be helpful to reduce the seed rates through better nursery management

 

 

Transplanting method using more seedling per hill (Above 8 seedling per hill)

More than one third farmers using above 8  seedlings per hill

Less than one third using above 8 seedlings per hill

One third using above 8 seedling per hill

Two third farmers using above 8 seedling per hill

Mortality of seedlings should be reduced using improved seed, proper seed treatment and method of taking plants with the mud ball.

 

 

Fertilizer application (Use of NPK fertilizers)

Nearly half of the farmers using all the three fertilizers rest are using either NP of N only

More than three fourth using partial application i.e. NP or N only

Nearly two third farmers using Partial application i.e. NP or N only

Half of the farmers using Partial application i.e NP or N only

Awareness cum demonstration on use of improved seed and balanced fertilizers through FLD and OFT programmes

 

 

Plant protection measures

More than half of the farmer using weedicide and only five percent using insecticide/ fungicides

More than 15 % farmers using weedicide only

One fourth of the farmers using weedicide and more than 8% are using fungicide

None of the farmers using any plant protection measure

Conducting of training programmes related to weed control, blast management and paddy grasshoppers.

 

 

Yield

Nearly half of the farmers harvesting 2.1 to 3.5 q /kanal

Less than half of the farmers harvesting 2.1 to 3.5 q/kanal

Two third farmers harvesting 2.1 to 3.5 q/kanal

Only one fourth of the farmers harvesting 2.1 to 3.5 q/ kanal

The yields per kanal can be increased through the demonstration of scientific cultivation of paddy under water logged conditions in each village.

2

Maize

Grown local varieties under rainfed conditions as cattle fodder or mixed with Rajmash

One fourth of the farmers growing maize under rainfed conditions

Two third of the farmers growing maize under rainfed conditions

Less than one fourth of the farmers growing maize under rainfed conditions

One fourth of the farmers growing maize under rainfed conditions

High yielding (for grain and  fodder) and low water requirement varieties should be popularized through demonstrations and training programmes

 

 

Methods of sowing and seed rate

One fourth of the farmers growing maize under rainfed conditions and using seed rate 1.6 to 3 kg/kanal

Two third of the farmers growing maize under rainfed conditions and using seed rate 1.6 to 3 kg/kanal

Less than one fourth of the farmers growing maize under rainfed conditions and using seed rate 1.6 to 3 kg/kanal

One fourth of the farmers growing maize under rainfed conditions and using seed rate 1.6 to 3 kg/kanal

FLD programme on maize cultivation may be conducted in each village. Emphasis be given on recommended seed rate

 

 

Fertilizer application (Use of NPK fertilizers)

None of the farmer using any fertilizer

None of the farmer using any fertilizer

Few farmers (8%) using fertilizers

None of the farmer using any fertilizer

Awareness should be created to apply recommended dose of fertilizers through FLDs

 

 

Plant protection measures

Although problem of stem borer and leaf sheath blight reported but none of the plant protection measures taken

Although problem of stem borer and leaf sheath blight reported but none of the plant protection measures taken

Although problem of stem borer and leaf sheath blight reported but none of the plant protection measures taken

Although problem of stem borer and leaf sheath blight reported but none of the plant protection measures taken

Integrated Pest Management on Maize may be introduced.

 

 

Yield

Maize is generally grown as fodder however grain yield from 50 kg to 2 q /kanal is reported

Maize is generally grown as fodder however grain yield from 50 kg to 2 q /kanal is reported

Maize is generally grown as fodder however grain yield from 50 kg to 2 q /kanal is reported

Maize is generally grown as fodder however grain yield from 50 kg to 2 q /kanal is reported

Technology related to farmers encouragement in getting dual benefit may be demonstrated in each village

3

Rabi Crops

Mustard,oats and Wheat

Two third of the farmers not taking any rabi crop, however remaining one third taking oats and wheat for fodder purposes.

Half of the farmers not taking any rabi crop, however remaining one third taking mustard (Oilseed) and wheat for fodder purposes.

More than half of the farmers not taking any rabi crop, however remaining one third taking oats and wheat for fodder purposes.

Two third of the farmers not taking any rabi crop, however remaining one third taking wheat for fodder purposes.

Technology for taking double cropping may be demonstrated and improved/ new fodder crop/ seed should be provided for cultivation purposes

4

General cropping pattern

Single cropping system (Monoculture) predominantly followed

In kharief mostly paddy is grown while in rabi the fields are water logged and remains fellow

In kharief mostly paddy is grown while in rabi the fields are water logged and remains fellow

In kharief mostly paddy is grown while in rabi the fields are water logged and remains fellow

In kharief mostly paddy is grown while in rabi the fields are water logged and remains fellow

Technology for taking double cropping may be demonstrated and improved/ new fodder crop/ seed should be provided for cultivation purposes

 

 

 

 

B. Vegetables

1

Kharief vegetables

Growing almost all types of vegetables for home consumption only (Cole, Solanaeceous, Cucurbits and other vegetables).

Two third growing vegetables for domestic purpose (Kitchen gardening)

Almost all growing vegetables for domestic purpose (Kitchen gardening)

Almost all growing vegetables for domestic purpose (Kitchen gardening)

More than Two third growing vegetables for domestic purpose (Kitchen gardening)

Almost all of the farmers have their own kitchen gardens. So imparting training on kitchen garden for fresh, balanced and regular supply of vegetables for home consumption shall be of paramount importance specially for the rural women

 

 

Input availability (seeds, fertilizers etc.)

Just adequate

Inadequate

Just adequate

Adequate

The SHGs in the villages can take the challenge of input availability and facilitate the community

 

 

Insect, pest and disease problems (Cut worms, borers, aphids, wilt and blight etc.)

Nearly half of the farmers/ growers facing insect, pest and disease problem

Half of the farmers /growers facing insect, pest and disease problem

More than three fourth of the farmers /growers facing insect, pest and disease problem

Nearly all the farmers /growers facing insect, pest and disease problem

Vegetable, pests and diseases (like cut worms, borers and wilt and blight in chillies, capsicum, tomato and brinjal) are posing a serious threat and envisages conduction of IPM training programmes / course for farm women and youth. Seed and seedling treatment may be popularized.

 

 

Latest polyhouse technology, seed production, off season, post-harvest vegetable production technologies for commercial purposes.

Unknown to the farmers but mostly interested in training

Unknown to the farmers but mostly interested in training

Unknown to the farmers but mostly interested in training

Unknown to the farmers but mostly interested in training

Training programme related to fruit set in cucurbits by pollination methods for women and farm youth. Training related to commercialization and vegetable seed production for farm youth and women.  Training on post harvest management of farm women and youth through SHGs shall lead to women empowerment

2

Rabi vegetables

Growing leafy, root vegetables, peas etc. on limited scale due to drainage system

More than half of the farmers growing rabi vegetables in their kitchen gardens

Nearly two third of the farmers growing rabi vegetables in their kitchen gardens

All the farmers growing rabi vegetables in their kitchen gardens

More than two third of the farmers growing rabi vegetables in their kitchen gardens

Awareness cum training programmes on scientific cultivation of rabi vegetables in the area for women folk specially is of great importance

 

 

Inputs and latest technical know-how

More than one third of the farmers face problem of inputs and technical know-how

Less than one fourth of the farmers face problem of inputs and technical know-how

One fourth of the farmers face problem of inputs and technical know-how

More than half of the farmers face problem of inputs and technical know-how

Vegetables with higher water requirement (water loving vegetables) be popularized.  Training programmes for seed production and post-harvest technology should be introduced

 

 

 

 

 

C. Horticulture

B

Fruit Growing (Apple, Pear, Walnut etc.)

Fruit growing is limited to higher elevations, karewa lands and recently earth filled lands. Mostly orchards are poorly managed and facing problems of insect pest diseases (Root rot, collar rot, scab, alterneria etc.), pollination, fruit set, fruit drop, false pruning etc. In apple and pear orchards. Insect, pest and disease problem in walnut (walnut weevil, stem borer etc.

 

More than one third growing apple only

One third growing apple and walnut equally

One fourth growing almost all types of temperate fruits

More than one third growing all types of fruits

Since fruit growing is not common, however apple pear and walnut trees in some of the orchard were poorly managed in absence of proper technical know-how.  To improve the horticulture in the area, intensive training is needed in orchard layout, management, IPM, pruning and training, plant propagation methods etc. for the farm youth to develop skill in fruit culture and generate employment.

D. Livestock

1

Cattle (cow and draught animals)

Lack of know-how and veterinary facilities with regards to breed improvement and milk yield

Three fourth of the farmers rearing cattle yielding mostly 4 liters of milk per day per head. Nearly half cattle population cross bred

Three fourth of the farmers rearing cattle yielding mostly 4 liters of milk per day per head. One fourth cattle population cross bred

More than Three fourth of the farmers rearing cattle yielding mostly 4 liters of milk per day per head. Half cattle population cross bred

More than one third of the farmers rearing cattle yielding mostly 4 to 8  liters of milk per day per head. One fourth cattle population cross bred

Cattle rearing in the area is prominent and nearly three fourth households keeping one or two cattle yielding milk even up to 15 liters in some cases per day. Training programme on stock improvement (Breed Improvement) through synchronization and AI programmes.

 

 

Dosing and vaccination,  cattle diseases like FMD, Mastitis, ecto and endo parasites, Rinderpest etc.

More than half farmers reported cattle diseases as main problem

Less than one fourth farmers reported cattle diseases as main problem

Nearly one third farmers reported cattle diseases as main problem

Negligible percentage of farmers reported cattle diseases as main problem

Training programme on treatment / vaccination and dosing against diseases like FMD, Mastitis and endo ecto parasites (Worms, ticks and mites) etc.

 

 

Feeding of cattle

One third of farmers reported fodder/ feed shortages for cattle

None of farmers reported fodder/ feed shortages for cattle

Nearly two third of farmers reported fodder/ feed shortages for cattle

None of farmers reported fodder/ feed shortages for cattle

Training programme on preparation and use of balanced cattle rations. Introduction and growing of new fodders in the area

 

 

Willing of development a dairy commercial unit

None of the farmer know about the commercial unit

None of the farmer know about the commercial unit

None of the farmer know about the commercial unit

None of the farmer know about the commercial unit

After crop production, cattle rearing are an important activity of the area and needs to be organized through development of dairy units and cooperatives for collection and distribution of milk.

2

Sheep/ goat rearing

Good number of local goats and cross breed sheep needs breed improvement

One fifth farmers rearing goat / sheep up to 6 Nos or more per head

Half of the farmers rearing goat / sheep up to 6 Nos or more per head

Less than one fifth farmers rearing goat / sheep up to 6 Nos or more per head

Less than one half farmers rearing goat / sheep up to 6 Nos or more per head

Nearly one fourth of the farmers rearing goat/ sheep in the area up to six Nos. or more per household.  Thus promoting the sheep / goat rearing activity as a viable unit for unemployed / farm youth can be popularized.

 

 

Dosing and vaccination

The diseases like FMD, Mangitits, foot rot, endo and ecto parasites reported.

The diseases like FMD, Mangitits, foot rot, endo and ecto parasites reported.

The diseases like FMD, Mangitits, foot rot, endo and ecto parasites reported.

The diseases like FMD, Mangitits, foot rot, endo and ecto parasites reported.

Sheep/ goat care units in the villages be established.  Training programme on treatment/ vaccination and dosing against the diseases prevalent in the area

 

 

Development of sheep and goat unit

None of the farmer know about the commercial unit

None of the farmer know about the commercial unit

None of the farmer know about the commercial unit

None of the farmer know about the commercial unit

Promoting the sheep and goat rearing activity on Establishment of sheep / goat unit for employment and income generation for rural youth and women.

3

Poultry keeping

Keeping of only few local birds per household for domestic purposes

Three fourth of the farmers keeping 3 to 6 local birds per household

Less than three fourth of the farmers keeping 3 to 6 local birds per household

More than three fourth of the farmers keeping 3 to 6 local birds per household

More than three fourth of the farmers keeping 3 to 6 local birds per household

Introduction of backyard poultry with improved / new breed (Vonraja) for commercial purposes through women SHGs of the area may be encouraged.

 

 

More bird mortality due to poultry diseases (Cocidiosis, Ranikhet etc.)

One half farmers facing disease problem in poultry keeping

One half farmers facing disease problem in poultry keeping

One half farmers facing disease problem in poultry keeping

All the farmers facing disease problem in poultry keeping

Organization of training programmes on scientific poultry keeping and control of diseases like Ranikhet, Cocidiosis etc.

E. Allied activities

 

Handicrafts

Prominent in handicraft activities

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/press-releases-articles/agriculturan-and-anthropological-study-of-sumbal-block-of-bandipora-distric-of-kashmir-1146947.html

About the Author

COMMENTS INVITED

myrayam and sarah and mamoon

Share Market Tips

Author: narendra nainani

Bullet Advisory Analyses Indian Share Market Nifty Shares Future Options

Bullet Advice For Indian Stocks Weekly – market will follow global cues

BSE Sensex (15896.28) and Nifty (4711.70) closed  down  by  5.4%  and 4.75 % respectively  last week.Nifty Future November was quoting at 3.95 points discount.Nifty Call Option November 4900 was very active.Support for Sensex is at  15100. Resistance for Sensex is at 16620 .Crude oil was at 77.30 $.

RCOM,SBI,Hindalco,Unitech and Hindustan Unilever will unveils Q2 results next week.U.S.Federal Reserve meeting is scheduled on 3rd and 4th November 2009.

Ashok Leylandand Hindalco added Open Interest in November series.Huge position was build up at  Ispat Industries November Call Option Strike Price 22.5.Good build up was also seen at IFCI November Call Option Strike Price 50..

1)Ranbaxy(390.40) Lot Size-800

Buy One Call Option of  November Strike Price 390@ Rs.19.50

Sell One Call Option of  November Strike Price 420@7.90 Rs.

Premium .Paid=19.50*800=.15600.00 Rs.

Premium Received=7.90*800=6320.00 Rs.

Net Premium Paid=15600-6320= 9280.00 Rs.

Maximum Profit==420-390=30*800==24000-6320=17680.00 Rs.

Maximum Loss=9280 Rs.

Break Even Price=401.60

2)Ashok Leyland(45.95) November Future-Lot Size 9550 shares.

Buy One Lot November Future @45.95

Sell One Call Option of November Strike Price 47.50@1.35Rs.

Premium Received=1.35*9550= 12892.50 Rs

Maximum Profit=47.50-45.95=1.55*9550==14802.50+12892.50=27695.00 Rs.

Max Loss=Unlimited.

Trend of Major Stocks

STOCK TREND Days WeeklyTrend MonthlyTrend

  1. BHEL.NS       Bearish 9          Falling  Falling
  2. ICICIBANK.NS         Bearish 8          Flat!     Flat!
  3. INFOSYSTC.NS        Bearish 2          Falling  Falling
  4. ITC.NS            Bearish 2          Flat!     Flat!
  5. MARUTI.NS   Neutral 1          Falling  Rising
  6. SBIN.NS         Bearish 8          Flat!     Flat!
  7. TATASTEEL.NS         Bearish 8          Flat!     Flat!
  8. TCS.NS           Bearish 2          Flat!     Flat!

Technical indicators of major Stocks

MFI=Money Flow Index

RSI=Relative Strength Index

ADX=Directional Momentum Index

STOCK CLOSE MFI-21 RSI-14 ADX-14

  1. BHEL.NS        2217.8 51.76   33.41   25.19
  2. ICICIBANK.NS         790.8   57.28   37.21   31.64
  3. INFOSYSTC.NS        2206.2 37.94   46.15   17.6
  4. ITC.NS            254.8   61.5     55.58   37.88
  5. MARUTI.NS   1403.3 39.59   36.73   17.43
  6. SBIN.NS         2191.05           46.77   50.07   26.65
  7. TATASTEEL.NS         471.55 61.97   38.04   28.79
  8. TCS.NS           628.3   46.77   59.13   19.6

Trading Idea

1)FSL(34.70)Buy this stock in decline and trade.

2)GDL(123.15) Buy this stock in decline and trade.

By

Bullet Advisory Indian Stocks-India's Top Most No.1 Best Stock Market Advice Blog,Hot Stock Tips Calls by Expert Technical Analyst Narendra Nainani of India.Most Preferred and Successful  Paid Subscription Stock Tips Calls Website of India.Excellent Success Ratio of more than 90% with Superb trading ideas.Most Successful Intraday Stock Future Calls Provider Service Indian Share Market.

-+919898162770

Website   http://www.narendranainani.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/investing-articles/share-market-tips-1407699.html

About the Author

Narendra Nainani AHMEDABAD, GUJARAT, India Narendra Nainani is renowned technical analyst and stock market advisor of INDIA having experience of more than 26 years having excellent success ratio.Expert in Derivatives Products-Futures & Options,Intraday,Short Term ,Medium Term,Long Term,Portfolio Management,IPO & Mutual Fund Advisor.Covered regularly by E TV & Business Magazines like The Economic Revolution for Market views. India's top most no.1 best stockmarket advice blog hot stocktips calls by expert technical analyst of India.Most preferred paid subscription stocktips calls website India.Excellent success ratio of more than 90%.good superb trading ideas.M-9898162770 Website MostSuccessfulIntraDayStockFutureTipsProviderIndia.

Radiologic Changes and Malignant Mesothelioma Disease

Author: Montwrobleski77

One interesting study is called, "Malignant and non-malignant asbestos-related pleural and lung disease: 10-yearfollow-up study." By Slavica Cvitanović, Ljubo Znaor, Tonći Konsa, Zeljko Ivancević, Irena Perić, Marijan Erceg, Mirjana Vujović, Jonatan Vuković, Zlata Beg-Zec  - Croat Med J 2003; 44(5):618-625.  Here is an excerpt: "AIM: To examine the presence of radiologically visible lung and pleuralchanges in patients who were exposed to the asbestos dust, and to correlate the progression of thesechanges with the duration and intensity of exposure and smoking. We also evaluated possible correlationbetween non-malignant asbestos-related pleural abnormalities and the occurrence of malignant pleuralmesothelioma. METHODS: Among 7,300 patients who visited our department between 1991 and 2000 due to non-specificrespiratory symptoms, we selected 2,420 with chest X-rays indicating the possible existence of non-malignantasbestos-related diseases. The selected group was followed-up for progression of radiological changesand the development of malignant pleural mesothelioma, and the changes were correlated with the intensityand duration of exposure to asbestos dust and smoking. RESULTS: Radiological changes characteristic fo rnon-malignant asbestos-related pleural disease or lung asbestosis were identified in 340 (14%) out of2,420 examined patients, of whom 77 (22.6%) developed malignant pleural mesothelioma, as compared with 13 patients out of 2,080 (0.6%) without radiological signs of asbestosis or pleural changes. Twenty-three(29.9%) patients who presented with a progression of pleural disease and lung asbestosis had a very significantincidence of malignant pleural Mesothelioma." 

Another interesting study is called, "Cytokine regulation of lung fibroblast proliferation. Pulmonary and systemic changes in asbestos-induced pulmonary fibrosis." By Lemaire, I  Beaudoin, H Dubois, C - American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine [AM. REV. RESPIR. DIS.]. Vol. 134, no. 4, pp. 653-658. 1986.   Here is an excerpt: "A complex series of interactions between immunocompetent cells and fibroblasts exists. Because pulmonary fibrosis may result from an increased number of collagen-producing fibroblasts, the authors studied the production of fibroblast growth factors derived from alveolar macrophages (AM) and peripheral blood mononuclear leukocytes (PBML) during the development of asbestos-induced fibrosis. One month after asbestos exposure, when fibrotic lesions were apparent, AM production of fibroblast growth factor was significantly enhanced, and such increase persisted for as long as 6 months."

Another study is called, "Sister chromatid exchange frequency in asbestos workers."Rom WN, Livingston GK, Casey KR, Wood SD, Egger MJ, Chiu GL, Jerominski L - J Natl Cancer Inst. 1983 Jan;70(1):45-8.  Here is an excerpt: "Abstract - In vitro cytogenetic studies of amosite, chrysotile, and crocidolite asbestos have shown that these fibers may induce chromosome abnormalities and an elevated sister chromatid exchange (SCE) rate in mammalian cells. Twenty-five asbestos insulators (6 with radiographic asbestosis) were compared to 14 controls frequency matched for age and were found to have a marginally increased SCE rate in circulating lymphocytes with increasing years of exposure (P= 0.057). There was a significant association between SCE rate and smoking (P=0.002) after controlling for years of asbestos exposure and age. Smoking asbestos insulators had the highest SCE rate. Sister chromatid exchanges in chromosomes of group A, i.e., the group with the longest chromosomes, were significantly associated with asbestos exposure and cigarette smoking, with an interaction between the two."

Another study is called, "Pathologic changes in the small airways of the guinea pig after amosite asbestos exposure." By D. Filipenko, J. L. Wright, and A. Churg - Am J Pathol. 1985 May; 119(2): 273–278.  Here is an excerpt: "Abstract - To determine whether asbestos dust produces pathologic changes in the small airways, and to determine where the anatomic lesions of asbestosis commence, the authors examined lungs from guinea pigs exposed to 10 or 30 mg of amosite asbestos by intratracheal instillation and sacrificed 6 months later. Measurement of airway wall thickness revealed that membranous and respiratory bronchioles of all sizes in exposed animals were significantly thicker than those of controls. Amosite fibers were found embedded in the walls of bronchi and in membranous and respiratory bronchioles; where these fibers penetrated the airway walls, an interstitial inflammatory and fibrotic reaction (asbestosis) occurred. It is concluded that 1) amosite asbestos produces diffuse abnormalities throughout the noncartilagenous airways and possibly the cartilagenous airways as well; 2) this effect is independent of interstitial fibrosis of the parenchyma (classical asbestosis); 3) asbestosis, at least that induced by amosite, commences at any site in the parenchyma to which the asbestos fibers can gain access, either by deposition in alveoli and alveolar ducts or by direct passage of fibers through the walls of all types and sizes of small airways."

If you found any of these excerpts interesting, please read the studies in their entirety.  We all owe a debt of gratitude to these fine researchers.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/cancer-articles/radiologic-changes-and-malignant-mesothelioma-disease-3344835.html

About the Author

Monty Wrobleski is the author of this article, for more information please visit the following links:

Mesothelioma Lawyer

Mesothelioma Lawyer

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Gold & Silver: protect your wealth from the ravages of inflation

Author: Rampart

"Deficit spending is simply a scheme for the 'hidden' confiscation of wealth. Gold stands in the way of this insidious process. It stands as a protector of property rights." - Alan Greenspan

Think that $20 bill in your pocket is money? Think again... it isn't! Real money has three very distinct attributes:

* It must be fungible
* It must be divisible
* It must be a store of wealth

Lets look at these attributes one at a time.

To be "fungible" an asset must be exchangeable for another of equal value. The best example of a fungible asset is gold. My 1 oz gold bar is worth exactly the same as your 1 oz gold bar. The same goes for silver bullion bars. Why not use diamonds or some other gem stone? Simple - diamonds are a product of nature, and come in many different qualities. Diamonds have different colors, flaws, clarity, etc.... An ounce of gold, on the other hand, is minted to a specific weight and purity.

Divisibility is another important aspect of money. True money must be divisible so that you can make small purchases. Through out history, silver coins have fulfilled this role. While gems have value, it is not practical to use them for daily business activities. You can't buy a loaf of bread and expect the seller to make change for a diamond.

Last - true money must be a store of wealth. The dollar in your pocket has lost 97% of its purchasing power since 1913, the year the Federal Reserve took over our banking system. Here is a frightening fact: The current rate of real inflation is about 6% a year. If you have 100k in the bank right now, it will only be worth 53k 10 years from now. Clearly, the dollar is not a store of wealth.

How did paper money lose it's ability to be a store of wealth?

Prior to 1971, our currency was backed by gold. In theory, one could go to the bank and exchange paper money for gold or silver. (Private citizens lost that right in 1933. After that time, only foreign creditors could exchange paper for gold). In order to preserve the nations gold hoard, President Nixon closed the gold window. Now, paper money was not backed by anything at all... this paved the way for inflation through reckless money printing. Since it was no longer exchangeable for gold, the government could print as much money as it needed. The flood of new money in the market place drove up prices. Homes, cars, and everything else became more expensive.

The dollar in your pocket no longer money - it is fiat currency. Fiat is a Latin term that means "by decree". That bit of colored paper only has purchasing power because the government decrees it. The longer you hold it, the less buying power it will have.

Now lets consider the purchasing power of gold. Soon after Nixon closed the gold window, the price of gold averaged $42.02 per ounce. To buy a brand new 1976 Cadillac Eldorado (retail price $7,546) would have cost you 179.58 ounces of gold. Years later, in 2006, a similar car would cost $77,295. The price of gold averaged $443.60 at that time. For the same 179.58 ounces of gold, you could buy an XLR and still have $2,367 left over to buy 739 gallons of gas!

Lets look at this another way. Rich Uncle has 2 nephews. In 1976 he spends $420 to buy 10 ounces of gold for one of his nephews. For the other boy, he places $420 in an envelope. He spent the same amount of money on both boys. Now, in September 2010, the price of gold is hovering around $1,250 an ounce. One boy has an inheritance worth about $12,500. The other boy has $420. Which would you rather have?

While it is true that the price of gold and silver has daily price fluctuations, it still the best store of value on the planet. Do not loose your wealth to mounting inflation - choose the hard assets that have stood the test of time.

 
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Article Source: Thomas Delgato - RampartSilver.com

 

 

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/investing-articles/gold-silver-protect-your-wealth-from-the-ravages-of-inflation-3195386.html

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Rampart Silver is dedicated to helping Americans preserve their wealth from the ravaging effects of inflation.

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Market Trends

Author: MTnews

Daily Market Commentary for July 29, 2008 from Millennium-Traders.Com

For rookies in these markets, it’s impossible to guess what the markets will do, one day to the next. Unless you have a crystal ball, any trader and day trader will merely, go with the flow of the markets and not try to go against the trend. (read more)
http://www.millennium-traders.com/news/newscommentary.aspx

Hot Stock pick on the move today for day trading: United States Steel Corporation (NYSE: X) which soared higher on the day trading session posted a double digit gain for the stock price. Second quarter net income doubled, per U.S. Steel at $688 million or $5.65 per share compared to year ago income of $302 million and $2.54 a share. Analysts estimates were $5.9 billion and $3.91 earnings, per share. Gross margin rose from 15 percent to 18 percent. Reported income from U.S. Steel operations soared  to $954 million from $391 million and sales jumped to $6.74 billion from $4.23 billion. U.S. Steel foresees earnings improvement during the third quarter which will be assisted by price increases. "We recorded the highest quarterly sales and net income in U.S. Steel's history during the second quarter as all three reportable segments posted record results," CEO John Surma wrote in a press release, adding that the company expects "another excellent quarter" for the period that ends September 30. Surma raised steel prices in June as demand has been booming around the globe. At the closing bell, U.S. Steel had a trading range for the day of 12 points with a gain of over 20 points with a closing price for the trading session of $165.76.

At the NYSE closing bell on the New York Stock Exchange, here is how the major world indices and major U.S. stock indices ended the session on the world market as well as the emerging markets including the stock market closing bell price:
DOW (Dow Jones Industrial Average) triple digit gain of 267.30 points on the day to end the trading session at 11,398.38
NYSE (New York Stock Exchange) triple digit gain of 159.01 points to end the trading session at 8,419.20
NASDAQ gain of 55.40 points to end the trading session at 2,319.62
S&P 500 gain of 28.80 points to end the trading session at 1,263.17
FTSE All-World excluding - U.S. gain of 0.54 points to end the trading session at 223.08
FTSE RAFI 1000 triple digit gain of 131.67 points to end the trading session at 4,942.14
BEL 20 (BEL20) loss of 8.6 points to end the trading session at 2,991.17
CAC 40 (CAC40) loss of 3.96 points to end the trading session at 4,320.49
FTSE100 (UKX100) gain of 6.6 points to end the trading session at 5,319.20
NIKKEI 225 (NIK/O) triple digit loss of 194.33 points on the day to end the trading session at 13,159.45

New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) stock market indicators for the day:
Advanced stock prices 2,399; declined stock prices 780; unchanged stock prices 78; stock prices hitting new highs 19 stock prices hitting new lows 72.
NYSE quotes for volatile stocks and market trends, as well as stock quotes, stock prices and stock symbols of Day Trading Stock Picks on the New York Stock Exchange stock market for Day Trading online and active Day Trading for those who are or would like to be Day Trading for a living: CME Group Incorporated (NYSE: CME) stock price gained 22.20 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $374.18, low on the trading session $350.40 for a closing stock price at $373.50; Mosaic Company (NYSE: MOS) stock price shed 0.30 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $124.71, low on the trading session $117.52 for a closing stock price at $122.36; Rio Tinto plc (NYSE: RTP) stock price gained 7.08 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $420.24, low on the trading session $402.70 for a closing stock price at $409.76; Walter Industries Incorporated (NYSE: WLT) stock price gained 12.98 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $99.58, low on the trading session $90.04 for a closing stock price at $99.26; XTO Energy Incorporated (NYSE: XTO) stock price shed 2.06 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $47.93, low on the trading session $45.71 for a closing stock price at $46.05; Patriot Coal Corporation (NYSE: PCX) stock price shed 6.75 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $130.60, low on the trading session $122.00 for a closing stock price at $127.95; United States Steel Corporation (NYSE: X) stock price gained 20.43 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $169.48, low on the trading session $157.08 for a closing stock price at $165.76; Continental Resources (NYSE: CLR) stock price shed 7.94 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $61.51, low on the trading session $53.18 for a closing stock price at $55.78; AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AG) stock price gained 6.58 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $61.97, low on the trading session $56.40 for a closing stock price at $58.88; Whiting Petroleum Corporation (NYSE: WLL) stock price shed 4.53 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $88.75, low on the trading session $82.95 for a closing stock price at $84.60; Potash Corporation Saskatchewan (NYSE: POT) stock price gained 4.34 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $203.09, low on the trading session $195.26 for a closing stock price at $202.99; Monsanto Company (NYSE: MON) stock price gained 1.19 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $116.35, low on the trading session $113.40 for a closing stock price at $115.70; Kaydon Corporation (NYSE: KDN) stock price shed 7.64 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $51.90, low on the trading session $47.13 for a closing stock price at $48.31; CONSOL Energy Incorporated (NYSE: CNX) stock price shed 0.88 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $85.69, low on the trading session $78.00 for a closing stock price at $81.50; Petroleo Brasileiro SA (NYSE: PBR) stock price gained 0.39 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $54.44 low on the trading session $52.84 for a closing stock price at $54.00; ULTRASHORT Financial Corporation (NYSE: SKF) stock price shed 18.47 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $144.62, low on the trading session $123.32 for a closing stock price at $123.69; Mechel OAO (NYSE: MTL) stock price shed 0.89 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $19.70, low on the trading session $16.73 for a closing stock price at $18.61; MasterCard Incorporated (NYSE: MA) stock price gained 8.40 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $263.53, low on the trading session $255.03 for a closing stock price at $262.10.

National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations (NASDAQ) stock market indicators today:
Advanced stock prices 2,030; declined stock prices 878; unchanged stock prices 123; stock prices hitting new highs 29; stock prices hitting new lows 75.
NASDAQ quotes, volatile stocks and market trends, as well as stock quotes, stock prices and stock symbols of Day Trading Stock Picks on the NASDAQ stock market for Day Trading online and active Day Trading for those who are or would like to be Day Trading for a living: Zoran Corporation (NasdaqGS: ZRAN) stock price shed 1.44 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $8.74, low on the trading session $7.92 for a closing stock price at $8.15; Cognex Corporation (NasdaqGS: CGNX) stock price shed 4.15 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $18.71, low on the trading session $16.57 for a closing stock price at $17.78; Google Incorporated (NasdaqGS: GOOG) stock price gained 5.99 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $487.26, low on the trading session $478.00 for a closing stock price at $483.11; First Solar Incorporated (NasdaqGS: FSLR) stock price gained 5.76 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $281.26, low on the trading session $261.79 for a closing stock price at $272.66; Sohu.com Incorporated (NasdaqGS: SOHU) stock price shed 3.34 points on the trading session, high on the trading session $79.11, low on the trading session $72.41 for a closing stock price at $75.26.

Market trends on the American Stock Exchange (AMEX) and stock market indicators for today:
Advanced stock prices 680; declined stock prices 506; unchanged stock prices 102; stock prices hitting new highs 11; stock prices hitting new lows 45.

Chicago Board of Trade Futures Market activity for the day, at time of this posting for September 2008 Contracts:
E-mini S&P 500 (ES) end of day price 1,262.00, change 27.00
E-mini NASDAQ-100 (NQ) end of day price 1,843.25, change 29.50
E-mini S&P SmallCap 600 (SMP) end of day price 373.10, change 9.20
$5 DJIA (YM) end of day price 11,371, change 235

World Currencies for the Forex Market, for Forex Trading by active Forex Traders, at time of this posting:
Euro 0.641 to U.S. Dollars 1.5601
Japanese Yen 108.15 to U.S. Dollars 0.0092
British Pound 0.5048 to U.S. Dollars 1.9809
Canadian Dollar 1.0269 to U.S. Dollars 0.9738
Swiss Franc 1.0445 to U.S. Dollars 0.9574

Commodity Markets:
Energy Sector: Light Crude (NYMEX: NYM) shed $2.54 on the day for a closing price of the range of $122.19 a gallon ($US per barrel)
Heating Oil (NYMEX: NYM) shed $0.09 on the day for a closing price of $3.50 a gallon ($US per gallon)
Natural Gas (NYMEX: NYM) shed $0.07 on the day for a closing price of $9.13 per million BTU ($US per mmbtu.)
Unleaded Gas (NYMEX: NYM) shed $0.06 on the day for a closing price of $3.01 a gallon ($US per gallon)

Metals Markets:
Gold Market Price (COMEX: CMX) shed $11.40 on the day for a closing price of $926.40 ($US per Troy ounce)
Silver (COMEX: CMX) shed $0.09 on the day for a closing price of $17.38 ($US per Troy ounce)
Platinum (NYMEX: NYM) shed $31.30 on the day for a closing price of $1,745.40 ($US per Troy ounce)
Copper (COMEX: CMX) shed $0.02 on the day for a closing price of $3.59 ($US per pound)

Livestock and Meat Markets (cents per lb.):
Lean Hogs (Chicago Mercantile Exchange: CME) shed 1.10 on the day for a closing price of 72.30
Pork Bellies (Chicago Mercantile Exchange: CME) shed 0.40 on the day for a closing price of 72.05
Live Cattle (Chicago Mercantile Exchange: CME) gained 0.80 on the day for a closing price of 105.60
Feeder Cattle (Chicago Mercantile Exchange: CME) gained 1.55 on the day for a closing price of 112.65

Other Commodities (cents per bushel):
Corn (Chicago Board of Trade: CBT) gained 12.25 on the day for a closing price of 613.50
Soybeans (Chicago Board of Trade: CBT) shed 5.00 on the day for a closing price of 1,391.00

Bond Market:
2 year bond shed 4/32 on the day for a closing price of 100 6/32 with a Yield of 2.64, Yield Change +0.07
5 year bond shed 13/32 on the day for a closing price of 99 28/32 with a Yield of 3.39, Yield Change +0.08
10 year bond shed 21/32 on the day for a closing price of 98 21/32 with a Yield of 4.06, Yield Change +0.06
30 year bond shed 1 1/32 on the day for a closing price of 95 9/32 with a Yield of 4.64, Yield Change +0.04

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