Abstract: Western Rajasthan—particularly Barmer, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Bikaner—is one of the hottest regions in India, with peak summer temperatures crossing 48–50°C. Agricultural laborers working in open fields are vulnerable to severe heat stress, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. This study evaluates the intensity and health impacts of occupational heat exposure among 310 agricultural laborers across 18 villages in western Rajasthan. Using Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) readings, health surveys, productivity observations, and physiological assessments, the study identifies that 64% of workers experienced moderate to high heat stress, 28% faced dehydration-related symptoms, and 13 cases of suspected heat exhaustion occurred during field visits. Heat exposure significantly reduced work productivity, especially during peak afternoon hours. The study recommends adaptive strategies such as hydration protocols, shaded rest shelters, modified work schedules, climate-resilient farming practices, and government-supported heat-health action plans.

Abstract: Rural health accessibility in semi-arid Rajasthan remains a critical concern due to sparse settlements, limited transport connectivity, water scarcity, and the uneven distribution of healthcare infrastructure. This research paper evaluates the geographical accessibility of rural health services spatial analysis in the semi-arid districts of Jaipur, Nagaur, Ajmer, Sikar, and Jhunjhunu. Primary Health Centres, Community Health Centres, Sub-centres, and district hospitals were mapped to analyse spatial distribution, service coverage, and travel-time accessibility. Village-level demographic data and road-network layers were integrated to generate accessibility zones of 5 km, 10 km, and 15 km buffers around health facilities. Results show that although the region has expanded health infrastructure since the National Rural Health Mission, significant disparities persist: many remote villages fall outside the 10 km service zone, particularly in Nagaur and Sikar. The study concludes that assessment provides a robust tool for identifying spatial gaps and can guide location-allocation planning for future facilities. The paper recommends targeted micro-planning, improved rural transport connectivity, mobile medical units, and spatially optimised resource distribution to strengthen rural healthcare accessibility.

Abstract: Vector-borne diseases represent a major public health challenge in Rajasthan, a state characterized by diverse physiographic, climatic, and socio-environmental conditions. This study investigates the spatial distribution, temporal variability, and environmental determinants of Malaria, Dengue, and Chikungunya across districts of Rajasthan using Geographic Information System tools. The research synthesizes epidemiological data, climatic variables, land use patterns, and demographic information from secondary sources before 2018. Through spatial mapping, hotspot analysis, and correlation evaluation, the study identifies high-risk zones in the eastern, southern, and urbanized regions of the state, particularly Jaipur, Alwar, Dausa, Bharatpur, Udaipur, and Kota. Results highlight that waterlogging, urban density, inadequate drainage, and monsoonal humidity are major drivers in Dengue and Chikungunya transmission, while Malaria is strongly influenced by rural water bodies, temperature ranges, and agricultural environments. The study underscores the importance of integrating GIS with public health decision-making for targeted interventions, disease surveillance, and resource allocation. Recommendations include strengthening GIS-based early-warning systems, community-level vector management, and climate-sensitive health planning. 

Abstract: Pansari practices involving Jadi Buti (medicinal plants) have been an integral part of Rajasthan’s healthcare system for centuries. This study investigates the continuity of these practices and the challenges faced by Pansaris in modern times. Ethnobotanical surveys, structured interviews with 60 Pansaris, and local market observations were conducted in Sikar, Jaipur, and Jodhpur districts. Results indicate that despite the rise of modern medicine, Pansaris remain essential for primary healthcare in rural and semi-urban areas. Challenges such as decreasing plant availability, knowledge erosion among younger generations, and competition from allopathic medicine were identified. Recommendations include systematic documentation, youth engagement, conservation strategies, and policy support to preserve and sustain traditional herbal practices.

Abstract: Traditional folk healers form an integral part of the healthcare system in rural Rajasthan, particularly in ecologically vulnerable districts such as Churu where formal medical infrastructure remains limited and reliance on indigenous medicinal knowledge persists. This study examines the role, knowledge systems, plant usage, spatial medical practices, and therapeutic relevance of three major categories of folk healers: Pansaris (herbal drug traders and formulators), Vaidyas (Ayurveda-based practitioners), and Hakims (practitioners of Unani medicine). Using applied medical geographical and ethnobotanical frameworks, the research assesses how environmental conditions, plant availability, cultural traditions, and drought-driven health patterns shape local healing practices. Fieldwork, interviews, spatial mapping, and ethnographic documentation reveal that healers rely heavily on the phytogeographical availability of species such as Commiphora wightii (Guggul), Capparis decidua (Kair), Tecomella undulata (Rohida), Aerva javanica (Bui), Salvadora persica (Pilu), and Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha). Findings demonstrate that folk healers continue to be primary healthcare providers for chronic, gastrointestinal, dental, dermatological, musculoskeletal, and reproductive ailments. The study concludes that folk healers serve as custodians of regional biocultural knowledge and are key actors in conserving medicinal plant heritage in the Churu region.

Abstract: Khetri, a semi-arid town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, has a rich heritage of traditional medicinal plant use and domestication. This study investigates the applied use of domesticated medicinal plants in households, farms, and community areas, focusing on modern adaptations of traditional practices. Data were collected through structured interviews with 115 households, 18 local pansaris, and 12 herbal vendors. Key domesticated species included Tulsi, Aloe vera, Ashwagandha, Guduchi, Neem, Harad, Mulethi, and Amla, used for preventive and curative purposes. Findings indicate that traditional knowledge remains relevant, supporting cultural identity, primary healthcare, and biodiversity conservation while adapting to modern lifestyles.