Abstract: Sikar district, part of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, is known for its arid climate and rich heritage of traditional medicinal knowledge. Domestication of medicinal plants in households, farms, and community areas ensures accessibility for daily healthcare and preserves cultural practices. This study investigates the contemporary application of domesticated medicinal plants in Sikar, documenting species, preparation methods, and usage patterns. Primary data were collected through interviews with 130 households, 20 pansaris, and 10 local herbal vendors. Findings reveal that plants such as Tulsi, Aloe vera, Ashwagandha, Guduchi, Neem, and Harad are widely cultivated and utilized for both preventive and curative purposes. Traditional knowledge remains resilient, adapting to modern lifestyles while maintaining ecological and socio-cultural relevance.

Abstract: Climate change has emerged as a critical ecological factor influencing the spatial distribution, growth dynamics, and survival of medicinal plant species globally. In arid regions like the Churu district of Rajasthan, where climatic extremes dictate vegetation patterns, phytogeographical shifts are increasingly observable. This study investigates the effects of changing climatic variables—temperature rise, rainfall variability, and increased aridity—on medicinal plant diversity, distribution, and ethnobotanical practices in Churu. Through a mixed methodology approach combining field surveys, herbarium verification, GIS mapping, and community-based ethnobotanical interviews, a detailed assessment of 42 medicinal plant species was conducted across varied microhabitats. The study identifies noticeable distributional shifts in species such as Withania somnifera, Asparagus racemosus, Acacia senegal, and Aloe vera, with some species exhibiting range contraction and others showing adaptive expansion toward microclimatically favorable habitats. Results indicate significant correlations between declining rainfall (17–22% reduction over four decades), increased mean maximum temperature (~2.1°C rise), and reduced abundance of key ethnomedicinal taxa. The paper concludes that climate-driven phytogeographical changes pose risks to medicinal knowledge continuity, biodiversity stability, and regional pharmaco-cultural heritage. The study recommends conservation planning, community-based nurseries, GIS-enabled monitoring, and integration of climate-resilient agroforestry models.

Abstract: The Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, known for its arid climate and rich cultural heritage, has maintained traditional Pansari practices involving Jadi Buti (medicinal plants) for centuries. This study documents contemporary Pansari knowledge, plant usage, preparation techniques, and socio-economic significance. Data were collected through ethnobotanical surveys, structured interviews with Pansaris, and observations in local markets. Findings reveal that despite modern medical influences, traditional herbal practices remain prevalent, particularly in rural areas. Challenges such as declining plant availability, modernization, and reduced interest among youth threaten knowledge continuity. The study emphasizes the need for systematic documentation, conservation strategies, and integration of Pansari knowledge with modern healthcare.

Abstract: Western Rajasthan, characterized by arid and semi-arid climatic conditions, experiences extreme temperature fluctuations, low rainfall, and frequent droughts. These climatic stressors significantly affect crop health and alter pest incidence patterns. This study investigates how climatic variability from 2000 to 2017 influences key crops—bajra, guar, wheat, mustard, and moth bean—and the occurrence of major pests such as white grub, aphids, termites, and Helicoverpa armigera. Using a mixed-method approach combining meteorological data, agricultural statistics, field surveys (196 farmers), and interviews with agricultural officers, the research identifies strong correlations between climatic anomalies and pest outbreaks. Results reveal that increased temperature (>45°C days), delayed monsoon, reduced humidity, and erratic rainfall dramatically reduce crop vigor and enhance pest proliferation. The study concludes that climate variability is a major driver of declining crop health and rising pest incidence in Western Rajasthan, necessitating climate-smart agriculture, early warning systems, and integrated pest management.

Abstract: Maternal health remains a key indicator of regional development and public health status. Rajasthan, with its diverse geographical and socio-cultural landscape, experiences pronounced rural–urban disparities in maternal healthcare access, utilization, and maternal outcomes. This study examines the geographical patterns of maternal health indicators—including antenatal care, institutional delivery, skilled birth attendance, maternal mortality, and postnatal care—in selected urban centres (Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Ajmer) and rural–tribal districts (Baran, Pratapgarh, Dungarpur, Karauli, Jalore). Using secondary data (2006–2017), field surveys, interviews with ASHA workers, and spatial analysis, the study highlights significant disparities in health infrastructure, socio-economic status, cultural norms, and geographic accessibility. The results indicate that while urban areas show high institutional delivery rates (85–95%), rural–tribal regions lag behind (45–65%), leading to higher maternal mortality. Clusters of poor maternal health in tribal belts and desert margins. The study underscores the importance of improving transportation, health facility density, and women’s education for reducing maternal health inequality.