Sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a highly perishable, nutrient-rich vegetable, and maintaining its postharvest quality at room temperature is a major challenge. This study evaluated the fruit quality and shelf life of 11 (G1,G2,G3,G4,G5,G6,G7,G8,G9,G10,G11) sweet pepper genotypes stored at ambient storage conditions (24.73±0.21°C, 69.26±0.04% RH) for a period of 27 days. The experiment arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was carried out under laboratory conditions with three replications over period of September 2024 to March 2025. The maximum respiration rate (1723 μmol g-1 s-1), TPC (130.98 mg 100g⁻¹ DW), carotenoids (0.849mg 100g⁻¹DW), and anthocyanin (1.08 mg 100g⁻¹ FW) were recorded in G7, and G10 had the highest chlorophyll b (0.102 mg g-1). Maximum vitamin C (173.46 mg 100g⁻¹ FW), TFC exhibited by G11 higher than other varieties. Significant quality reductions was occurred by day 20. At this stage, G5 retained the highest vitamin C (146.38 mg 100g⁻¹ FW) and DPPH activity (56.74%). G7 had higher retention of TPC (80.97 mg 100g⁻¹ DW), carotenoids (0.627 mg g-1 FW) and anthocyanin (0.22 mg 100g⁻¹ FW); while G9 and G10 were better in retaining the chlorophyll a (0.051 mg g-1 FW) and TFC (93.68 mg 100g⁻¹ DW). G4, G9 and G10 genotypes had longer shelf life (24.67, 25.61 and 26.67 days respectively) retaining the higher overall quality. Conversely, G1 and G2 had a shorter shelf life and poorer nutrient retention, associated with higher respiration rates. Thus, the genotypes G4, G9 and G10 are recommended to store for longer duration( 24-27 days) at room temperature with minimum loss in quality. However, it needs to verify again before being conferring final recommendation.

Keywords: Sweet pepper, Ambient storage, Genotypes, Antioxidant, Shelf-life

The present study aimed to investigate the medicinal properties (phytochemical screening, antioxidant potentiality, and antibacterial activity) of seven plant species used by the Manipuri tribe in Bangladesh. Most extracts showed effective antimicrobial activity against the tested pathogenic species and doses of minimum inhibitory concentration of plant extracts ranged from 12.5 μg/mL to 100 μg/mL. When compared to seven medicinal plants, the crude extract of Melastonia malabathricum and Oxalis corniculata exerted best minimum inhibitory doses against all studied bacterial (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella sp and Staphylococcus aureus). Both Oxalis corniculata and Melastoma malabathricum showed best performance against Salmonella sp. Aerva sanguinolenta exhibited good performance to retard the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas spp, and Escherichia coli. Furthermore, four medicinal plants (Oxalis corniculata, Aerva sanguinolenta, Melastoma malabathricum, and Mikania scandens) displayed potential activity against E. coli growth. The results of the phytochemical screening revealed that the extracts of plants (Houttuynia cordata, Oxalis corniculata, Leucas aspera, Mikania scandens, Aerva sanguinolenta, Spilanthes acmella, Melastoma malabathricum) contained alkaloids, steroids, phenols, proteins, flavonoids, saponins, amino acids, coumarins, and other compounds. The presence of phytochemicals varied from plant to plant. The methanolic extract of Houttuynia cordata contained the highest amount of total phenolic compounds, measuring 94.53 ± 0.45 mg/g gallic acid equivalent (GAE) of dry leaf powder. High total flavonoid content was found in the ethanolic crude extract of Melastoma malabathricum, with 78.76 ± 0.67 mg/g quercetin equivalent (QE) of dry leaf powder. The ethanolic and methanolic extracts of Melastoma malabathricum showed the highest total tannin content, 51.20 ± 0.09 and 50.50 ± 0.17 mg/g tannic acid equivalent (TAE) of dry leaf powder, respectively. Houttuynia cordata, Melastoma malabathricum, and Oxalis corniculata extracts exhibited potent antioxidant activity. To extend the current study, in vivo models are needed to prove the effectiveness of leaves as alternative drugs.

Keywords: Medicinal plants, Antibacterial activity, Phytochemical, Antioxidant, Minimum inhibitory concentration

Livestock production plays a vital role in rural livelihoods and household security in Bangladesh, yet gender disparities often limit women’s participation and decision making in this sector. This study investigates the relationship between livestock production efficiency and women’s empowerment among beneficiaries of the Livestock Development and Dairy Production (LDDP) project in Bangladesh. The main objective was to examine how women’s empowerment influence by technical efficiency in livestock production. Primary data were collected from 450 livestock-farming household across six upazilas in the LDDP coverage three southern divisions. Descriptive and inferential statistics, the Alkire–Foster methodology, stochastic frontier analysis (SFA), and ordered probit regression were applied to analyze the data. Results showed that the overall WELI score was 0.735, with 26.65% of women (WELI ≥ 0.80) classified as empowered. The mean TE scores were 0.941 for male-headed and 0.940 for female-headed households, respectively. A positive and statistically significant (p < 0.05) relationship between TE and WELI was observed, indicating that households with greater gender parity exhibit higher production efficiency. The study concludes that enhancing livestock production not only women empowers them but also improve overall productivity, supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on gender equality and inclusive economic growth. Future research should explore longitudinal impacts and the role of institutional support in sustaining women’s empowerment in livestock farming.

Keywords: WELI; Technical efficiency; stochastic frontier model; Livestock; Bangladesh

Among the most important non-wood forest products worldwide, Agarwood, derived from Aquilaria malaccensis Roxb., has growing economic and livelihood importance along with Bangladesh. Despite its significant export potential, empirical data regarding farm-level production practices, profitability and limitations are still scarce. This present study assessed the opportunities, obstacles and cost–benefit aids of agar tree cultivation based on the perspectives of growers in Barlekha upazila, Moulvibazar district of northeastern Bangladesh. A survey was administered to 120 households between November 2019 to May 2020. Primary data were obtained using structured questionnaire surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs) and field observations. Descriptive statistics, a Constraints Facing Index (CFI) and financial evaluation instruments, such as net present value (NPV), benefit-cost ratio (BCR) and internal rate of return (IRR) were utilized for the study. The findings indicated that agar farming is primarily showed by middle aged farmers (51.67%) posing primary to secondary education, small land holdings and moderate to high production experience. Agarwood was mostly grown in mixed cropping systems within homesteads and fallow lands often in association with jackfruit, mango and acacia species reflecting significant on-farm biodiversity. The majority of famers are depended on seedlings, cultivate in nurseries and followed a traditional management technique utilizing minimal irrigation and agrochemicals. The economic analysis revealed remarkable profitability with a net return of BDT 3,300.28 per tree and a benefit cost ratio of 5.92 over a 12 years production cycle. At the hectare level the NPV was BDT 3.36 million the discounted BCR was 3.54 and the IRR was 27.45% indicating strong financial viability. However, significant barriers included inadequate finance, poor technical assistance, unavailability of enhanced varieties and restricted access to contemporary production technology. Farmers indicated that enhanced agar production needed stronger marketing channels, training, technical support, favorable government policies and access to finance facilities. The study indicates that agar tree farming is a lucrative and viable agroforestry practice in Bangladesh and certain policy and institutional interventions might significantly improve its sustainability and impact on rural life.

Keywords: Agarwood production, Prospects and challenges, Agroforestry systems, Cost–benefit analysis

Youth is the epitome of a creative force. As a dynamic source of innovation, they have participated, contributed, and even catalyzed essential changes in political systems, power-sharing dynamics and history. Youths have reshaped the democratic trajectory of
Bangladesh from 1952 to the July 2024 revolution, demonstrating an indomitable spirit of sacrifice. But unfortunately, a significant portion of the youth are detached from the political process. As voting is widely considered the most important form of political participation, this study was carried out to analyze the perception of youths about the electoral process in Bangladesh and identify the factors that trigger their disengagement. The study was conducted in Sylhet City Corporation among 471 participants from diverse backgrounds. A convergent parallel mixed-methods study design was used in this study to collect, analyse and interpret quantitative and qualitative data. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data, which were analysed using SPSS and content analysis. The results show that 50.3% of respondents consider the existing electoral process flawed, and 58.8% believe that the existing electoral process does not reflect the demands of the youth. The study suggests that to ensure youth engagement, the administration and the election commission must play a neutral role. Moreover, credible candidates must be nominated, and a peaceful environment should be ensured at the polling centers to motivate youths to participate in the electoral process.

Keywords: Politics; Electoral Participation; Youth; Bangladesh; Vote

Pulses (Pisum sativum L.) are important grain legume crops that contribute significantly to Bangladesh’s nutritional security as inexpensive, high-protein food sources. This research assessed the agronomic performance and environmental adaptability of four pea varieties (Pea Nator Local, Pea Jikorgacha Local, BARI Khesari-2, and BARI Motorshuti-3) at the experimental field of Sylhet Agricultural
University during the 2019-2020 Rabi season. The experiment employed a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. The results showed significant variation among varieties for plant population, leaves plant⁻¹, branches plant⁻¹, plant height, fresh weight of plant, pods plant⁻¹, pod length, seeds pod⁻¹, 100 seeds weight, and seed yield. The results revealed that the highest seed yield was obtained from Natore local (1572.37 kg ha⁻¹) and it was similar to Jhikorgacha local (1440 kg ha⁻¹). The lowest seed yield was obtained from BARI motorshuti-3 (961.87 kg ha⁻¹). Environmental suitability analysis showed that Pea Nator local had perfect adaptation with 5.5% yield loss while BARI motorshuti-3 suffered 38.8% yield loss due to environmental stress. Above all Pea Nator local and Jikorgacha local may be suggested to farmers to cultivate in Sylhet.

Keywords: Pulse cultivation, Environmental adaptation, Varietal performance, Agro-ecological Zone, Northeastern Bangladesh

Neglected and underutilized plant species (NUPS), often referred to as future smart foods, hold immense potential for enhancing food security, nutritional diversity, and climate resilience in marginal environments. This study investigated the diversity, cultivation status, and adoption constraints of NUPS in homestead agroforestry systems at Zakiganj Upazila of Sylhet District in Bangladesh a subtropical, flood-prone region characterized by high rainfall (2,540–3,810 mm annually) and acidic soils. Using a survey-based design, data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 120 randomly selected respondents across nine unions from January to June 2025 at Zakiganj Upazila. Though the NUPS are in the verse of extinction, results revealed that still 58.3% of households cultivating them primarily due to their climate tolerance (31.7%), low input requirements (28.3%), and local availability (25.0%). Key information sources of neighbors (29.2%) and extension workers (25.0%) showed major constraints comprised of lack of knowledge (38.3%), limited seed availability (25.0%), and perceived low yields (21.7%). Only 45.8% of respondents had received relevant training. Biodiversity analysis of the seven dominant NUPS (betel nut, mulberry, bonkochu, toikor, lukluki, shaplagota, and jaralebu) showed exceptionally high diversity, with a Shannon-Weaver Index (H′) of 1.9360 (near maximum 1.9459), evenness of 0.9949, and Simpson’s Index of Diversity (1–D) of 0.8544, indicating balanced species distribution. These findings highlighted the critical and important role of traditional homegardens in conserving resilient, nutrient-dense NUPS amid a lot of climate stresses. Improving knowledge gaps, seed systems, and extension services are essential to mainstream these orphan crops, which in turn, will support dietary diversification, hidden hunger mitigation, and sustainable agriculture in the vulnerable regions of Bangladesh.

Keywords: Neglected and underutilized plant species (NUPS), future smart food, homestead agroforestry, biodiversity indices, climate resilience, food security, Zakiganj, Bangladesh

An experiment was conducted at the experimental field of the Department of Agronomy and Haor Agriculture, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh during October 2015 to October 2016 to find out the effect of environmental factors on growth and yield performances of the mungbean varieties in Sylhet region. At the present experiment mungbean variety BARI mung-6 was evaluated at thirteen different sowing dates started from October 2015 (S1) to October 2016 (S13). Due to unfavorable environmental conditions, only plants grown from nine sowing dates could successfully complete vegetative and reproductive phase. The experiments were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and maintain 3 plots for each sowing time. The combinations of treatments were allocated randomly to the plots in each replication. The unit plot size was 10 m2 (4m × 2.5m). The distance between the replication was 1.0 m and the adjacent unit plot was 0.5 m. The result of the experiment revealed that maximum temperature, minimum temperature, average temperature had positive relationship along with other factors on yield and yield attributes of mungbean. Temperature parameters showed significant positive correlations (p≤0.01) with most growth and yield attributes, while relative humidity and rainfall showed weaker, non-significant associations. The highest grain yield (866.07 kg ha-1) was obtained 1 October, 2015 sowing and lowest (131.79 kg ha-1) was obtained 1 November, 2015 sowing (S2). The results also showed that BARI mung-6 performed better in 1 October, 2015 sowing and 8 April, 2016 sowing in Sylhet.

Keywords: Mungbean (Vigna radiata), Sowing date, Environmental factors, Growth parameters

The present study focused on investigating the Length-Weight Relationships (LWRs) and condition factors of Mystus cavasius species in Tanguar Haor, Bangladesh, over a time frame from November 2022 to June 2023. A total of 800 Mystus cavasius specimens were collected using a variety of equipment and nets with the assistance of local fishermen. The length of each fish was measured in centimeters (cm) using a digital slide caliper, while their body weight was determined in g by using a digital balance. The analysis revealed significant differences in the LWR parameters such as rate of change of weight with length (a), weight at unit length (b), condition factor (k), and the co-efficient of correlation (r2), across different months. The maximum value of parameter a (intercept) for M. cavasius was observed in June 2023, reaching 4.4106, whereas the lowest a value occurred in May 2023 of 0.5605. Similarly, the maximum b value of 1.4463 was recorded in May 2023, while the lowest b value of 0.6155 was observed in December 2022. The condition factor (k) exhibited its peak value in March 2023 (0.8400), followed by a subsequent increase to 1.0221 in May 2023. Regarding the coefficient of correlation (r2), the highest value of 0.9531 was documented in December 2022, indicating a strong relationship between length and weight. Conversely, the lowest r2 value of 0.8563 was observed in May 2023, suggesting a relatively weaker correlation during that period. These findings provide valuable insights into the length-weight relationships and condition factors of M. cavasius in Tanguar Haor, such information is crucial for understanding the growth and overall well-being of this species in the study area, thereby facilitating effective fisheries management and conservation efforts.

Keywords: Mystus cavasius; Length–weight relationship (LWR); Condition factor (K); Small indigenous fish (SIS); Tanguar Haor; Freshwater fisheries

Global food systems are advancing towards vulnerable due to over reliance on a narrow range of staple crops (rice, wheat, maize), creating risks from climate change, environmental degradation, and malnutrition. Neglected and underutilized plant species (NUPS), are known as Future Smart Foods which are offering climate-resilient, nutrient-dense alternatives adapted to marginal environments, with potential dietary diversity, ability to combat hidden hunger, and support sustainable livelihoods. This study was conducted with the objectives of knowing the people perception and attitude towards the NUPS in Gowainghat Upazila of Sylhet District, Bangladesh. The research area is located in a humid sub-tropical region with heavy monsoon rainfall (~5,000 mm annually) and having diverse agroecology covering 200 randomly selected respondents from four unions (Fatehpur, Rustampur, Purba Jaflong, Alirgaon) with the above objectives during June 2022 to and April 2023. Data were collected by using semi-structured interviews, pre-tested questionnaires, field observations, and focus group discussions. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Likert scales. Results revealed strong appreciation for NUPS, with fruits dominating usage (55.5%) followed by vegetables (16.5%) and medicinal applications (15%), and were primarily for self-consumption (55%) and contributing to nutrition, health, and income security. Women played the prominent role in labor-intensive production tasks (e.g., planting 57.5%, harvesting 65.5%), creating gender empowerment, while marketing remained male-dominated (71.5%). Respondents hold positive attitudes toward NUPS benefits including nutritional security and women’s empowerment. But showed low awareness of environmental contributions (e.g., biodiversity enhancement), limited knowledge levels (47% nil), with a perceived decadal decline in availability/production (66.5%) attributed to marketing constraints (79 % respondents), uneven precipitation (72%), lack of training (69%), and inadequate knowledge (64%). These findings are aligned with global patterns of NUPS erosion due to policy negligence and climate stresses. The study underscores NUPS’ viability as climate-smart resources in vulnerable rural Bangladesh, affirming their role in advancing SDGs 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 5 (Gender Equality), and 15 (Life on Land). Promoting awareness, gender-inclusive training, market linkages, and resilient cultivation could reverse declining, boost up food/nutrition security, and foster diversified, sustainable food systems in similar agroecological contexts.

Keywords: Neglected and underutilized plant species (NUPS), Future Smart Foods, climate-smart agriculture, food and nutrition security

Fish diversity in Bangladesh’s major rivers is declining, but the lack of comprehensive research means their current status remains largely undocumented. This study addressed the issue in the Bangali River using a pre-tested questionnaire, direct catch assessments, and interviews with fishers, traders, locals, and the upazila fisheries officer. A total of 49 fish and prawn species were documented, belonging to 10 orders and 17 families. Cypriniformes, Siluriformes, and Perciformes emerged as the most prominent orders, accounting for 40.81%, 22.45%, and 14.28% of the total fish population in the Bangali River, respectively. Among the families, Cyprinidae (38.78%) was identified as the most dominant, followed by Bagridae (10.20%), Cobitidae, and Ambassidae (6.12%). These results demonstrate that the Bangali River is a highly valuable inland open waterbody, potentially serving as a vital fishery and gene bank. Therefore, it is imperative to implement conservation measures to safeguard this invaluable resource. Manmade activities like overfishing, use of pesticides, operation of illegal gear and natural causes such as climate change and drought are accelerating biodiversity degradation in the Bangali River. Furthermore, adopting ecosystem-based fisheries management strategies with active involvement from local communities is strongly recommended to ensure the sustainability of these water bodies.

Keywords: Fish biodiversity; Bangali River; Freshwater ecosystem; Anthropogenic impacts; Conservation management

Over the last few decades, river ecosystems have been increasingly degraded by natural and human-induced pressures, leading to serious consequences for fish biodiversity and fishers’ livelihoods. The Kalni River ecosystem has been severely affected by climate-related factors such as rainfall variability, temperature fluctuations, and flash floods, as well as anthropogenic activities including overfishing, destructive fishing gear, and water pollution. A six-month field survey (December 2023–May 2024) involving 100 randomly selected fishers was conducted using structured questionnaires and interviews. The results showed that 82% of fishers experienced livelihood losses due to declining fish diversity, with 65% reporting severe impacts. Daily fish catch declined across seasons, with most fishers catching only 1.0–2.0 kg during pre-monsoon, 3.0–4.0 kg in monsoon, and 2.0–3.0 kg in post-monsoon periods. Reduced income limited households’ ability to support education; although primary school enrollment remained high (60% girls), dropout rates increased at higher levels due to financial constraints. Housing conditions improved for 47% of respondents, while 43% reported no change and 10% experienced deterioration. Sanitation facilities remained unchanged for 43% of fishers, improved for 36%, and declined for 10%. Health services deteriorated for 51% of households, and declining income forced 82% of fishers to depend on loans, compared to only 24% two decades ago. Overall, the decline in fish biodiversity has severely undermined the socioeconomic conditions and livelihood security of the Kalni River fishing community.

Keywords: Fish biodiversity; Climate change impacts; River ecosystems; Livelihood vulnerability; Conservation management