NOPR Collection:http://nopr.niscpr.res.in/handle/123456789/665522026-10-11T10:29:15Z2026-10-11T10:29:15ZHistorical footprints of iron metallurgy works in ancient India: A comprehensive reviewDhakla, ShwetaK Deendyal, ParveshKumar, SarveshTiwari, VimleshK Pandey, BrajeshK Kashyap, Manishhttp://nopr.niscpr.res.in/handle/123456789/665612025-10-01T10:58:49Z2025-09-01T00:00:00ZTitle: Historical footprints of iron metallurgy works in ancient India: A comprehensive review
Authors: Dhakla, Shweta; K Deendyal, Parvesh; Kumar, Sarvesh; Tiwari, Vimlesh; K Pandey, Brajesh; K Kashyap, Manish
Abstract: The practice of iron metallurgy in ancient India represents a profound and influential aspect of the subcontinent's history, with far-reaching implications for culture, technology, and society. The origins of iron production in India can be traced back to the early 2nd millennium BCE, coinciding with the transition from the Bronze Age to Iron Age. This technological revolution marked a pivotal moment in human history as the knowledge and mastery of ironworking gradually spread across the Indian subcontinent. The present review article delves into the evolution of iron metallurgy in ancient India including early iron working and its time frame, and the discussion of iron through the lens of ancient Indian literature. It showcases iconic examples of ancient iron craftsmanship, such as the Delhi Iron Pillar, iron beams at Sun Temple Konark, Dhar Iron Pillar, Damascus steel, and India‘s iron and steel industry. Furthermore, the scientific and analytical analysis of iron samples are also included in the present study. In essence, the footprints of iron metallurgy in ancient India guide us through the annals of history, revealing a story of technological innovation, cultural significance, and enduring relevance that continues to inspire and inform our journey into the future.
Page(s): 809-8202025-09-01T00:00:00ZEthnomedicinal plants of Sapi valley of Ladakh and its uses in Sowa-Rigpa System of medicineGurmet, PadmaLhamo, SkalzangRinchen, TsewangKareem, Abdulhttp://nopr.niscpr.res.in/handle/123456789/665602025-10-01T10:55:13Z2025-09-01T00:00:00ZTitle: Ethnomedicinal plants of Sapi valley of Ladakh and its uses in Sowa-Rigpa System of medicine
Authors: Gurmet, Padma; Lhamo, Skalzang; Rinchen, Tsewang; Kareem, Abdul
Abstract: Sapi Valley, situated in the Kargil district of Ladakh within India's Trans-Himalayan region, is characterized by its harsh, cold, and arid climate. Despite these challenging conditions, the valley boasts a rich diversity of medicinal plants, many of which are integral to the traditional Sowa-Rigpa system of medicine. A comprehensive field study conducted from 2022 to 2024 documented 126 plant species across 39 botanical families in Sapi Valley. The vegetation predominantly comprises herbs (87%), followed by shrubs (11%) and trees (2%), a composition typical of alpine and above-tree-line ecosystems. Notably, 55 of these species are recognized for their medicinal applications within the Sowa-Rigpa tradition. The indigenous Boto and Balti Scheduled Tribes, primarily agrarian communities, heavily rely on these local plant resources for daily sustenance and healthcare needs. Traditional healers, known as Amchi, play a pivotal role in providing health services, utilizing their extensive knowledge of medicinal plants. However, the region faces increasing threats from climate change and human activities, leading to habitat degradation and a decline in plant populations. These challenges underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts and the systematic documentation of ethnomedicinal knowledge to preserve this invaluable heritage for future generations.
Page(s): 821-8322025-09-01T00:00:00ZThe role of transhumance in the traditional food uses among three ethnic groups in GreeceKapsalis, DimitriosCharalampidou, CharalampiaTheodoropoulos, KonstantinosKaratassiou, Mariahttp://nopr.niscpr.res.in/handle/123456789/665592025-10-01T10:53:19Z2025-09-01T00:00:00ZTitle: The role of transhumance in the traditional food uses among three ethnic groups in Greece
Authors: Kapsalis, Dimitrios; Charalampidou, Charalampia; Theodoropoulos, Konstantinos; Karatassiou, Maria
Abstract: Transhumance shaped a particular way of life for the herders. In Greece, there were three ethnic groups, mainly who moved their animals for grazing. During the summer period, they moved to mountain rangelands, while during the winter period, to the lowlands. This process influenced various aspects of their lifestyle, particularly their diet, as they adapted to the natural environment in which they lived. Through this research, a first attempt is made to record the ethnobotanical knowledge regarding the plants they used in their diet and to capture any differences between these three ethnic groups. The results showed that they used 41 taxa for their diet, with most of them belonging to the Rosaceae family. The most mentioned plant part was the "fruit" with 23 citations, and the most mentioned taxa were Cornus mas with four different uses: juice, jam, beverage, and raw. Furthermore, the differences in plant species consumed among the three ethnic groups were minimal. Nowadays, the dietary habits of the three ethnic groups, Koupatsaraioi, Sarakatsanaioi, and Vlachs, haven't changed.
Page(s): 833-8402025-09-01T00:00:00ZTraditional plant-based remedies for gynaecological problems prevailing in Nerwa, district Shimla, Himachal PradeshPriyaRawat, Sumanhttp://nopr.niscpr.res.in/handle/123456789/665582025-10-01T10:51:15Z2025-09-01T00:00:00ZTitle: Traditional plant-based remedies for gynaecological problems prevailing in Nerwa, district Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Authors: Priya; Rawat, Suman
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to understand about the traditional plant-based formulations that the Nerwa region's people utilised against gynaecological problems.This study contributes region-specific documentation, particularly from areas where such knowledge remains under-represented in the literature. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 72 informants, predominantly women, using random and snowball sampling methods. A total of 31 plant species belonging to 27 families were recorded for their role in managing various gynaecological issues, including menstrual cramps, menorrhagia, infertility, and postpartum care. Among these, Zingiber officinale exhibited the highest Use Value (UV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), and Cultural Importance Index (CI), indicating its widespread recognition and use in the community. The findings highlight the continued reliance on traditional medicinal practices among rural women and emphasize the need to preserve this knowledge. Currently, there is no existing documentation in the region regarding the use of plants for treating gynaecological disorders. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to explore and document plant species that have traditionally been used in the area to manage gynaecological ailments. By examining associated cultural practices and beliefs, the research aims to enhance our understanding of women’s reproductive health. Furthermore, the documented ethnobotanical knowledge may serve as a basis for evaluating the pharmaceutical potential of these plants.
Page(s): 841-8522025-09-01T00:00:00Z