This work centres on the contribution of the Nigerian government’s Anchor Borrowers’ Programmes on rice production in the country. This study employs quantitative methodology and with a primary objective to dissect the efficacy of modern farming techniques facilitated by the Anchor Borrowers’ Programmes (ABP), evaluates the advantages and disadvantages inherent in rice production under this programme. Conducted within the agricultural landscape of Ebonyi State, Nigeria, this study adopts a cross-sectional survey approach to gauge the symbiotic relationship between rice production and the ABP. Targeting a cohort of rice smallholder farmers who have directly benefited from the program, the work employs stratified random sampling and purposeful selection techniques to guarantee comprehensive representation within a population of 400 respondents. This study utilizes the mixed-methods approach to data collection, including structured questionnaires administered to rice farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. This research tests hypotheses by utilising statistical tools such as regression analysis. The outcome of this study underscores the imperative for continued support and refinement of the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme. Moreover, it elucidates the pivotal role of financial institutions and agricultural lending agencies in equipping farmers with the requisite skills and resources. Ultimately, this study affirms the crucial role of modern farming methodologies in propelling rice production within Ebonyi State, Nigeria. It recommends that young school leavers, especially those in the rural areas should also be encouraged to venture into agriculture through schemes such as the ABP, bank financing and innovative financing so as to help the Federal Government achieve its economic diversification drive.

Dong brocade, a fabric renowned for its intricate patterns and ethnic symbolism, has been woven by the Dong people for generations, showcasing their cultural significance. Traditional plant dyeing technology is one of the main aspects of Dong brocade but the documentation and understanding of this is still rather limited. With regard to the use of plant dye in Dong brocade, it is not as well explored as it should be since it has a traditional aspect. The main purpose is to investigate and apply the traditional plant dyeing technique to Dong brocade for the improvement of that sustainable concept and the preservation of cultural assets. Therefore, 121 Dong villagers were interviewed to elicit their awareness regarding prehistoric plant dyeing. By observing the dyeing conditions, this study provided accurate perception and learned how to differentiate between natural and synthetic mordants through ethnobotanical perception. The strategy is intended to integrate sustainable products into Dong brocade, employing orthogonal array development to find the right dyeing conditions for corresponding plant dyes. Research revealed that 8 genera of plants which include 7 species are used in dyeing Dong brocade. The findings presented in this work prove the effectiveness of the use of plant dyes in Dong brocade, showing its advantages with 30% of frequency and CI (Color Index) indices, 8% of them being cultural. 5 for ethnic cultural sustainment, developmental and bio-diversity reasons respectively. The unique integration between the traditional dyeing technique in Dong brocade and the utilization of sustainable resources is very promising for the improvement of identity enhancement and embodiment, and the preservation of the environment.

This research delves into the intricate world of lacquer art in East Asia, aiming to unravel the relationships among artisan perspectives, aesthetic values, and the contemporary relevance of this ancient craft. The purpose is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how historical development, apprenticeship traditions, and evolving aesthetic values shape the intricate landscape of lacquer artistry. Employing a qualitative approach, this study conducts in-depth interviews with artisans and experts in the field of lacquer art. The research involves a comparative analysis of past literature, drawing upon historical and contemporary works to contextualize the findings within the broader trajectory of lacquer art. Thematic analysis is also applied to unravel the nuances of artisan perspectives, the transmission of knowledge through apprenticeship traditions, and the cultural and aesthetic dimensions embedded in lacquer paintings. This mixed-methods approach enriches the study by providing a holistic and nuanced exploration of the identified variables. The findings illuminate the enduring significance of apprenticeship traditions in preserving traditional lacquer techniques, with artisans actively navigating challenges posed by globalization and digital platforms. Aesthetic values, including symbolism and visual harmony, are revealed as integral components contributing to the narrative richness of lacquer paintings. The study uncovers the dynamic relationships among these variables, emphasizing the adaptive nature of lacquer art in a contemporary context. The implications extend to cultural preservation, heritage management, and educational initiatives, offering valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and educators involved in the realm of traditional crafts. The study contributes to theoretical frameworks on cultural continuity, knowledge transmission, and the socio-cultural dynamics of artistic practices.

Himalayan ‘Ecotone’ temperate conifer forest is the cradle of life for human survival and wildlife existence. Human intervention and climate change are rapidly degrading and declining this transitional zone. This study aimed to quantify the floristic structure, important value index (IVI), topographic and edaphic variables between 2019 and 2020 utilizing circular quadrant method (10m × 10m). The upper-storey layer consisted of 17 tree species from 12 families and 9 orders. Middle-storey shrubs comprise 23 species representing 14 families and 12 orders. A total of 43 species of herbs, grasses, and ferns were identified from the ground-storey layer, representing 25 families and 21 orders. Upper-storey vegetation structure was dominated by Pinus roxburghii (22.45%), while middle-storey vegetation structure was dominated by Dodonaea viscosa (7.69%). However, the ground layer vegetation was diverse in species composition and distribution. By using Ward’s agglomerative clustering technique, the floral vegetation structure was divided into three floral communities. Ailanthus altissima, Pinus wallichiana, and P. roxburghii had the highest IVI values in Piro–Aial (Group 2), Piwa–Quin (Group 3) and Aial–Qugal (Group 2). The IVI values for Aesculus indica, Celtis australis, and Quercus incana in Aial-Qugal (Group 2) were not determined. Nevertheless, eleven of these species had 0 IVI values in Piro–Aial (Group 2) and Piwa–Quin (Group 3). Based on the CCA ordination biplot, significant differences were observed in floral characteristics and distribution depending on temperature, rainfall, soil pH, altitude, and topographic features. Based on Ward’s agglomerative clustering, it was found that Himalayan ‘Ecotone’ temperate conifer forests exhibit a rich and diverse floristic structure.

Cyber-physical Systems (CPS) have revolutionized urban transportation worldwide, but their implementation in developing countries faces significant challenges, including infrastructure modernization, resource constraints, and varying internet accessibility. This paper proposes a methodological framework for optimizing the implementation of Cyber-Physical Urban Mobility Systems (CPUMS) tailored to improve the quality of life in developing countries. Central to this framework is the Dependency Structure Matrix (DSM) approach, augmented with advanced artificial intelligence techniques. The DSM facilitates the visualization and integration of CPUMS components, while statistical and multivariate analysis tool such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and artificial intelligence methods such as K-means clustering enhance complex system the analysis and optimization of complex system decisions. These techniques enable engineers and urban planners to design modular and integrated CPUMS components that are crucial for efficient, and sustainable urban mobility solutions. The interdisciplinary approach addresses local challenges and streamlines the design process, fostering economic development and technological innovation. Using DSM and advanced artificial intelligence, this research aims to optimize CPS-based urban mobility solutions, by identifying critical outliers for targeted management and system optimization.