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Ways To Use Vegan Friendly Coconut Milk In Various Dishes

Ways To Use Vegan Friendly Coconut Milk In Various Dishes

Coconut milk is considered vegan-friendly because it is derived from the mature pulp of coconuts and does not involve any animal products. Coconut milk is a nutritious and versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into your diet in many ways to enhance health. It is commonly used in various cuisines, especially in Southeast Asia, India, and the Caribbean.

 

There are two types of coconut milk:

 

  1. Thick coconut milk: Extracted from the first pressing of the grated coconut meat, it is rich, creamy, and has a high fat content.
  2. Thin coconut milk: Extracted after further soaking the coconut meat in water and pressing again, it is lighter and thinner.

 

Coconut milk is a great alternative to dairy for vegans and people with lactose intolerance. It is often used in curries, soups, desserts, and beverages. In addition to being dairy-free, it is also gluten-free and soy-free, making it a versatile choice for people with different dietary restrictions.

 

Health benefits of coconut milk:

 

  • Healthy fats: Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide a quick source of energy and may aid in weight management.
  • Vitamins and minerals: Contains vitamins C, E, B1, B3, B5, and B6, as well as iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
  • Digestive health: Can be easier to digest for those who are lactose intolerant or have dairy allergies.
  • Heart health: The lauric acid in coconut milk may have beneficial effects on cholesterol levels and overall heart health.

Image credit: Image by Gábor Adonyi from Pixabay, Free for use under the Pixabay Content License Coconut image – https://pxhere.com/en/photo/561272  CC0 Public Domain

 

Coconut milk in smoothies and drinks

 

Coconut milk in smoothies and drinks

 

Coconut milk in curries and baking

 

Coconut milk in curries and baking

 

Coconut milk in ice cream and yogurt

 

Coconut milk in ice cream and yogurt

 

Coconut milk in kefir and oats

 

Coconut milk in kefir and oats

 

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 20, 2024
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Lactose intolerance in kids

Lactose Intolerance In Kids And How To Address The Condition

Lactose intolerance in kids occurs when they cannot properly digest lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. It happens because their bodies do not produce enough of the enzyme lactase, which is essential for breaking down lactose in the digestive system.

Lactose intolerance is manageable, and with proper care, most kids can still enjoy a balanced diet. They can live comfortably by avoiding triggers, using lactose-free alternatives, and maintaining adequate nutrition.

Symptoms in kids:

Children with lactose intolerance may experience symptoms within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming dairy products, including:

  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Nausea
  • Stomach rumbling

Causes for lactose intolerance:

  • Genetic factors: Children may inherit a tendency to produce less lactase over time, making it difficult to digest lactose. This is more common in children of Asian, African, Native American, and Hispanic descent.
  • Illness or infection: Lactose intolerance can develop after a viral or bacterial infection that affects the small intestine, such as gastroenteritis.
  • Premature birth: Premature babies may have temporary lactose intolerance due to underdeveloped lactase production.

Types of lactose intolerance:

  1. Primary lactose intolerance: Most common, develops gradually as lactase production decreases with age.
  2. Secondary lactose intolerance: Triggered by illness, injury, or medical conditions like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease that affect the small intestine.
  3. Congenital lactose intolerance: Rare and occurs when a baby is born without the ability to produce lactase.

Care for Kids with lactose intolerance:

1. Dietary management

  • Lactose-Free Milk: Replace regular milk with lactose-free options, such as lactose-free cow’s milk or plant-based alternatives like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk.
  • Dairy-free products: Look for lactose-free or dairy-free versions of cheese, yogurt, and ice cream.
  • Hard cheeses: Hard cheeses, like cheddar, parmesan, and Swiss, have lower lactose content and may be easier to digest.
  • Smaller portions: Sometimes, children can tolerate lesser amounts of lactose. Offer dairy in smaller portions to see if symptoms are less severe.

2. Lactase Supplements

  • Lactase enzyme supplements can be given to help children digest lactose when they consume dairy products. These can be in the form of chewable tablets, drops, or capsules and can be used before meals.

3. Ensure Nutritional Balance

  • Calcium and vitamin D: Dairy is a primary source of calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health. If dairy is removed from the diet, ensure your child gets calcium and vitamin D from other sources such as:
    • Fortified plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk)
    • Green leafy vegetables (broccoli, kale)
    • Fortified orange juice
    • Almonds, sesame seeds, and tofu
    • Supplements, if recommended by a pediatrician

4. Monitor symptoms

  • Keep a food diary to track which foods trigger symptoms and in what quantities. This can help identify how much lactose your child can tolerate without discomfort.

5. Encourage probiotics

  • Some children may benefit from probiotic foods (like certain yogurts) or supplements, as probiotics can help support a healthy gut environment and may aid in digesting lactose.

It is important to consult a pediatrician if you suspect lactose intolerance in your child. They may recommend tests to confirm the condition and help create a care plan to ensure your child continues to receive adequate nutrition for growth and development.

Image credit: Image by StockSnap from Pixabay (Free to use under pixabay content license )

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Vegetarian cooking tips

These Twenty Cooking Tips Bring Flavor and Texture To Authentic Vegetarian Foods

There are cooking tips that are time-honored and passed down through generations, helping to create wholesome and delicious vegetarian meals. These tips will help you create delicious, authentic Indian vegetarian dishes with the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

1. Use fresh spices:  Grind your own masalas from whole spices for fresher and more potent flavors.

  • Why: Freshly ground spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala elevate the aroma and taste of Indian dishes.

2. Tempering (tadka): Always temper your dishes with whole spices like cumin, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and hing (asafoetida) at the beginning of cooking.

  • Why: Tadka adds a layer of flavor and aroma that is essential to many Indian dishes, making the spices more fragrant and infusing the oil with their flavors.

3. Cook lentils and beans thoroughly:  Cook lentils (dal) and beans (rajma, chana) until they are soft and creamy.

  • Why: Properly cooked lentils and beans absorb flavors better and are easier to digest, making them the hearty base of many Indian vegetarian meals.

4. Soak rice and grains:  Soak rice, dals, and grains like quinoa or millets for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

  • Why: Soaking reduces cooking time, improves texture, and helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains.

5. Use ghee for flavor:  Cook or finish dishes with a small amount of ghee for a rich, nutty flavor.

  • Why: Ghee is a traditional fat used in Indian cooking that enhances the flavor of everything from dals to sweets.

6. Balance the use of onions, ginger, and garlic:  For a balanced base, sauté onions, ginger, and garlic until they are golden brown before adding other ingredients.

  • Why: This trio forms the flavor foundation for many Indian dishes, giving depth and richness to the curry.

7. Add a touch of sweetness:  Add a small amount of jaggery or sugar to balance the spices in curries, sambhar, and dals.

  • Why: This enhances the overall flavor profile, balancing the heat and acidity in the dish.

8. Cook with seasonal vegetables:  Use seasonal and locally available vegetables for freshness and optimal taste.

  • Why: Seasonal vegetables are fresher and more flavorful, making your dishes naturally delicious.

9. Layer spices for depth:  Add spices in stages rather than all at once to build layers of flavor.

  • Why: Layering spices at various stages of cooking brings out assorted flavors and intensities, making the dish more complex and satisfying.

10. Incorporate curd and buttermilk:  Use curd or buttermilk in dishes like kadhi, raita, and gravies to add creaminess and tang.

  • Why: These dairy products add a cooling, creamy element that complements the spiciness of Indian food.

11. Dry roast spices and flour:  Dry roast spices and flour like besan (gram flour) before using them in dishes like curries or batters.

  • Why: Roasting enhances the nutty flavor of flour and releases the essential oils in spices, making them more aromatic.

12. Use hing (Asafoetida): Add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) when cooking dals, curries, or when tempering spices.

  • Why: Hing enhances the flavors and aids digestion, especially in lentil-based dishes.

13. Keep fresh coriander and curry leaves handy: Garnish your dishes with freshly chopped coriander or add curry leaves during cooking for added flavor.

  • Why: These fresh herbs add a burst of color and flavor, making your dishes more vibrant and aromatic.

14. Use besan for binding: Use besan (gram flour) as a binding agent in dishes like pakoras, koftas, and cutlets.

  • Why: Besan adds a subtle nutty flavor and holds the ingredients together while keeping the dish gluten-free.

15. Cook low and slow: Slow-cook curries, dals, and sabzis (vegetable dishes) to allow the flavors to meld together.

  • Why: Slow cooking enhances the depth of flavors and helps the spices infuse the dish more thoroughly.

16.  Add a squeeze of lemon: Finish dishes with a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors.

  • Why: Acidity cuts through richness and brings out the best in vegetables, grains, and legumes.

17.  Cook with cast iron: Use a cast-iron skillet for cooking vegetables and flatbreads like roti or dosa.

  • Why: Cast iron retains and evenly distributes heat, enhancing the texture and flavor of your dishes, while also adding a small amount of iron to your food.

18. Balance flavors: Always taste your food and balance the flavors. Add a pinch of sugar or a squeeze of lemon to balance out bitterness or excessive saltiness.

  • Why: Balancing sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors ensures a well-rounded and satisfying dish.

19. Fermentation is your friend: Incorporate fermented foods like homemade pickles, yogurt, or sauerkraut into your meals.

  • Why: Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which are great for gut health and add a tangy flavor to dishes.

20. Use whole spices: Toast and grind whole spices instead of using pre-ground ones. It enhances the flavor and aroma of your dishes.

  • Why: Freshly ground spices have a more potent and vibrant taste, which can elevate even the simplest vegetarian dishes.

Image credit: www.werindia.com – Generated with AI ∙ August 12, 2024 at 3:57 PM

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 13, 2024
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Brain eating amoeba

Brain Eating Amoeba Reported In Kerala, India

Kerala has issued an alert for a brain-eating amoeba called Naegleria fowleri. So far, four deaths have been reported from the state. This brain eating amoeba can cause a rare but often fatal brain infection called Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM). It is typically found in warm freshwater bodies like lakes, rivers, and hot springs.

The amoeba is known to enter the human body through nasal passages, and it travels through the cribriform plate – which is located at the base of the skull and transmits olfactory nerves to enable the sense of smell – to reach the brain -BBC report.

Since 1965, around the world four hundred cases of PAM reported, while India has had fewer than thirty cases so far. The mortality rate is 97%.

Infection usually occurs when contaminated water enters the body through the nose, allowing the amoeba to travel to the brain. Early detection and treatment are crucial for survival.

Precautions and care measures to help prevent infection from the brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri.

Symptoms:

If you suspect exposure to Naegleria fowleri and experience symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of PAM usually appear within 1 to 9 days of exposure and can include:

  • Severe headache
  • Fever
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Stiff neck
  • Loss of balance
  • Seizures
  • Hallucinations
  • Altered mental status.

Precautions:

  1. Avoid warm freshwater: Refrain from swimming or diving in warm freshwater bodies like lakes, rivers, hot springs, and poorly maintained or minimally chlorinated pools, especially in the summer.
  2. Nose protection: Use nose clips or hold your nose shut when swimming in freshwater to prevent water from entering your nasal passages.
  3. Avoid stirring up sediment: Try not to disturb sediment in shallow, warm freshwater areas where the amoeba may be present.
  4. Use treated water: Ensure that water used for activities such as nasal rinsing, showering, or swimming is properly treated and chlorinated.
  5. Boil or filter water: Use boiled or distilled water for sinus rinses or neti pots. Tap water should be boiled for at least one minute (or three minutes at higher altitudes) and then cooled before use. Alternatively, use water that has been filtered using filters with a pore size of one micron or smaller.
  6. Avoid using untreated tap water: Do not use untreated tap water for nasal irrigation or ablution practices.

Treatment:

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving survival chances. Healthcare providers may use a combination of antifungal and antimicrobial medications, including:

  • Amphotericin B: An antifungal medication administered intravenously or intrathecally (into the spinal canal).
  • Miltefosine: An experimental drug that has shown some success in treating PAM.
  • Fluconazole, Rifampin, and Azithromycin: Additional medications that may be used in combination.

What public can do to prevent spreading the amoeba?

  • Stay informed about local health advisories, especially if you live in or plan to visit areas where Naegleria fowleri is known to exist.
  • Practice good hygiene and safety measures when engaging in activities involving freshwater.
  • Educate family members and friends about the risks and precautions associated with Naegleria fowleri to raise awareness and prevent infections.

References:

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/

Kerala: Teenager survives rare brain-eating amoeba disease (bbc.com)

Everything you need to know about the brain-eating amoeba that is killed three children in Kerala (gavi.org)

Image credit: www.CDC.gov: High resolution of Naegleria fowleri ameba in a person’s cerebrospinal fluid. Photo: Dr. James Roberts, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 7, 2024
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Coconut milk for skin care

Ways To Use Coconut Milk For Skin And Hair Health

Coconut milk is beneficial not just for internal health but also for external body care. Using coconut milk for body care can enhance your beauty routine naturally, providing hydration, nourishment, and soothing properties to your skin and hair.

Ways to use coconut milk in skin care routine:

1. Moisturizing bath: Add 1-2 cups of coconut milk to your bathwater. Soak in the bath for 20-30 minutes.

  • Coconut milk helps to hydrate and soften the skin, leaving it smooth and moisturized.

2. Skin moisturizer: Apply coconut milk directly to your skin after a bath or shower. Gently massage it in until fully absorbed.

  • It helps to keep the skin hydrated and can soothe dry or irritated skin.

3. Face mask:  Mix equal parts of coconut milk and honey. Apply the mixture to your face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.

  • This mask can hydrate and nourish the skin, giving it a natural glow.

4. Hair conditioner: After shampooing, apply coconut milk to your hair, focusing on the ends. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

  • Coconut milk helps to condition and detangle hair, making it soft and shiny.

5. Scalp treatment: Massage coconut milk into your scalp and leave it on for 20-30 minutes before washing it out with shampoo.

6. Body scrub: Mix coconut milk with sugar or sea salt to create a natural exfoliating scrub. Gently massage it onto your skin in circular motions, then rinse off with warm water.

  • This helps to remove dead skin cells and leaves your skin smooth and radiant.

7. Sunburn relief: Apply chilled coconut milk to sunburned areas. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.

  • The cooling and hydrating properties of coconut milk can help to soothe and heal sunburned skin.

8. Razor burn relief: Apply coconut milk to the skin after shaving to help soothe and reduce razor burn.

  • It can help to calm irritated skin and provide moisture.

9. Foot soak: Add coconut milk to a basin of warm water and soak your feet for 15-20 minutes.

10. Eye makeup remover: Dab a cotton ball with coconut milk and gently wipe away eye makeup.

  • It effectively removes makeup while also moisturizing the delicate skin around the eyes.

Tips for using coconut milk for body care: Even though the chance of having skin allergy to coconut milk is rare, it is better to take precautions before applying it on skin.

  • Patch test: Before applying coconut milk all over, do a patch test to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction.
  • Natural and pure: Use pure coconut milk without added sugars or preservatives for the best results.
  • Storage: If you are preparing coconut milk at home, then store coconut milk in the refrigerator and use it within a few days to ensure freshness.

Image credit: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/527019 (CC0 Public Domain)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 6, 2024
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Coconut milk rice recipe

Delicious Aromatic Coconut Milk Rice Recipe

Coconut milk rice is aromatic and tastes good. Adding coconut milk to dishes improves tastes and serves many health benefits. It is an alternative for lactose free food, boosts immunity, rich in Vitamin E, B and C. It is also considered as a healthy fat that supports health heart.

When incorporating coconut milk into your diet, opt for unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars. Best is to prepare coconut milk at home by grinding freshly grated coconut.

Ingredients:

1.        Basmati rice (or any long-grain rice) – 1 cup

2.        Coconut milk – 1.5 cup

3.        Water – 1 cup

4.        Medium onion, finely chopped -1

5.        Garlic clove -2 (minced)

6.        Ginger – 1 tsp (minced)

7.        Green chili, slit (optional for heat) – 1 or 2

8.        Cooking oil – 1 Tbsp (coconut oil preferred)

9.        Cumin – 1 tsp

10.   Mustard – ½ tsp

11.   Bay leaf – 1

12.   Cinnamon -1-inch stick

13.   Salt – as per taste

14.   Chopped coriander – ½ cup

15.   Curry leaves – few

Preparation:

1.        Rinse the rice under cold water. Soak the rice in water for about 15-20 minutes, then drain.

2.        Chop the onion, mince the garlic and ginger, and slit the green chili.

3.        In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4.        Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic, ginger, curry leaves and slit green chili. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5.        Coconut milk preparation: Grate one coconut and grind with ½ cup water – strain and collect the coconut milk. Alternatively, you can use store bought canned unsweetened coconut milk.

6.        Add the soaked and drained rice to the cooking vessel. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and spices.  Pour in the coconut milk and water. Add salt to taste.

7.        Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

8.        Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

9.        Serve the coconut milk rice with your 

 

Image credit: Coconut Image by manueltapi from Pixabay (Free for use under Pixabay content license)

Coconut milk rice image credit:  www.werindia.com (Copilot Designer August 4th 3:56 pm)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 5, 2024
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Ai technology in agriculture

Impact of AI in Agricultural Industry And Challenges

AI is playing an increasingly significant role in the agriculture industry worldwide, transforming traditional farming practices into more efficient, productive, and sustainable ones.

The future of AI in agriculture promises to enhance productivity, sustainability, and resilience in farming, helping to address global challenges such as food security, climate change, and environmental sustainability. As technology continues to evolve, its integration into agriculture will bring about transformative changes, making farming smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable than ever before.

Ways AI impacting current agriculture practices –

Precision farming

  • Soil and crop monitoring: AI uses sensors and IoT devices to collect data on soil moisture, nutrient levels, and crop health. This data helps in precise application of water, fertilizers, and pesticides.
  • Variable rate technology (VRT): AI algorithms determine the optimal number of inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and chemicals to be applied at specific locations in the field, reducing waste and costs.

Predictive analytics

  • Yield prediction: AI models analyze weather patterns, soil conditions, and crop health data to predict yield outcomes, allowing farmers to plan better.
  • Disease and pest forecasting: AI systems can predict the likelihood of disease outbreaks or pest infestations, enabling timely preventive measures.

Automation and robotics

  • Autonomous equipment: AI-powered tractors and machinery can perform planting, weeding, and harvesting tasks autonomously, improving efficiency and reducing labor dependency.
  • Harvesting robots: Robots equipped with AI can identify and harvest ripe fruits and vegetables, minimizing damage and increasing productivity.

Drones and satellite imaging

  • Aerial surveillance: Drones equipped with AI analyze aerial images to assess crop health, identify stressed areas, and monitor irrigation levels.
  • Remote sensing: Satellites provide large-scale images and data, which AI analyzes to monitor crop growth, soil conditions, and environmental changes.

Supply Chain Optimization

  • Demand forecasting: AI predicts market demand for various crops, helping farmers decide what to plant and when to harvest.
  • Planning: AI optimizes the supply chain by managing inventory, reducing waste, and ensuring timely delivery of fresh produce.

Livestock management

  • Health monitoring: AI systems monitor livestock health through wearable devices and cameras, detecting signs of illness, stress, or abnormal behavior early.
  • Feeding optimization: AI analyzes data on feed intake and growth rates to optimize feeding schedules and compositions.

Climate change adaptation

  • Weather prediction: AI models predict short-term and long-term weather patterns, helping farmers make informed decisions about planting and harvesting.
  • Resilient crop varieties: AI research aids in developing crop varieties that are more resistant to drought, pests, and diseases.

Smart irrigation systems

  • Efficient water use: AI-powered systems use real-time data to determine the precise amount of water needed for crops, reducing water waste.
  • Automated irrigation: AI controls irrigation systems to water crops at optimal times, ensuring better growth and yield.

Market forecasting

  • Price prediction: AI analyzes market trends to forecast prices of agricultural products, helping farmers decide the best times to sell their produce.
  • Consumer preference analysis: AI identifies consumer preferences and trends, guiding farmers on what crops to grow for better profitability.

Resource management

  • Optimizing inputs: AI helps in the efficient use of resources like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides by determining the exact quantities needed.
  • Environmental impact reduction: AI promotes sustainable farming practices by minimizing the overuse of chemicals and conserving natural resources.

Several leading agricultural companies are leveraging AI technology to innovate and enhance their farming practices are – John Deere, Bayer, Syngenta, Corteva Agriscience, Trimble Agriculture etc. In India – Salam Kisan, DeHaat, Ninjacart, Cropin Technology, AgNext are examples where AI is using AI to help farmers. These companies are at the forefront of integrating AI into agriculture, driving innovation, and helping farmers meet the challenges of modern farming through advanced technology and data-driven solutions.

Challenges faced by AI supported Ag Industry:

1. High Initial costs of technology investment – this is a big challenge mainly small-scale farmers face.

2. Data management and quality which requires a vast amount of accurate and comprehensive data.

3. Technical complexity of understanding AI technologies and knowledge by farmers including maintenance and support

4. Infrastructure Limitations like connectivity issues for AI Apps through network and power supply

5. Regulatory and ethical concerns – data protection and privacy concerns by farmers. Data should be ethical.

6. Regulatory compliance: Navigating drones and autonomous machinery through AI can be complex.

6. Environmental and social Impact – it is important to ensure farmers that these technologies promote sustainable practices.

7. Automation of the farm work due to AI application could cause Job displacement and can lead to social and economic concerns.

8. Reliability and accuracy of AI based models – if there is incorrect recommendation or predications it could lead to heavy losses. Ensuring farmers with practical knowledge under varying conditions that AI technology works is essential.

9. Economic barriers – small scale farmers might not be able to afford the technology. Another major challenge is funding and investment.

10. Cultural and behavioral resistance – farmers who rely on traditional practices might be hesitant to adopt innovative technologies. Building trust with transparency approaches is critical to introduce AI technology in the field.

Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from technology developers, policymakers, educational institutions, and the farming community to create a supportive ecosystem for AI in agriculture.

References:

  1. https://www.nifa.usda.gov/artificial-intelligence
  2. https://www.forbes.com/
  3. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/agriculture
  4. https://www.basic.ai/blog-post/7-applications-of-ai-in-agriculture
  5. https://krishijagran.com/

Image credit: Generated with AI ∙ July 31, 2024, at 7:57 PM

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 1, 2024
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