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Adhikari, B.S.; Babu, M.M.; Saklani, P.L. and Rawat, G.S. 2005. Distribution, use pattern and potential for conservation of medicinal climbers in Uttaranchal state. The Indian Forester, 131(7): 901-916. Herbarium Section, Department of Habitat Ecology, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, Uttaranchal. [CONSERVATION; ECO-CLIMATIC REGIONS; PROTECTED AREA]

            This paper provides information on the distribution and use pattern of medicinal climbers in Uttaranchal State, India. A list of 88 medicinal climbers, found in Uttaranchal has been appended based on extensive literature survey. Their altitudinal distribution and part used in various ailments has been analyzed. Fabaceae, Vitaceae and Cucurbitaceae are the largest families, and have more than 10 species of medicinal climbers. The medicinal climbers in different ecological regions found in sub-tropical, warm temperate, cool-temperate, sub-alpine and alpine are 83,44,7,3 and 1, respectively. Including all the species the major parts used in various ailments are in the following order: Leaves and roots (44 species each) > fruits (17 species) > seed (15 species). Maximum climbers are used in dysentery, diarrhoea, fever, wounds, digestive complaints, skin diseases, rheumatism, bronchitis and asthama. The first region i.e., sub-tropical region is the most important zone for in-situ and ex-situ conservation of medicinal climbers, as most of them grow in this region. The paper will help in the formulation of strategies for promotion and cultivation of medicinal climbers in Uttaranchal State.

Agarwal, Manisha; Gupta, Sangeeta and Painuly, Veena 2005. Xylotomic study of the family Sapindaceae: Microstructure, systematics and ecological trends. The Indian Forester, 131(8): 1024-1040. Wood Anatomy Discipline, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun. [ANATOMICAL STUDY; VESSEL SIZE; WOOD SAMPLES]

            The present study provides detailed wood anatomical features of the family Sapindaceae. The wood anatomy of 18 species belonging to 14 genera of Sapindaceae native to or commonly cultivated in India is described in detail and a species wood anatomical key is given. The wood anatomical features collected are as per the feature list given by International Association of Wood Anatomists. Based on constant characters, a species identification key has been developed for the separation of the taxa at the species level. Photomicrographs showing diagnostic features have been given. Based on wood microstructure inter-tribe and sub familial studies were described. Relationship between wood element dimensions and their ecology has also been established.

Akimpou, G.; Rongmei, K. and Yadava, P.S. 2005. Traditional dye yielding plants of Manipur, North East India. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 33-38. Department of Life Sciences, Manipur University, Imphal 795 003, Manipur. [DYE YIELDING PLANTS; MANIPUR; NATURAL DYES; TRADITIONAL DYES]

            Manipur is one of the richest states in plant biodiversity in the North Eastern states of India. Different ethnic groups, residing in Manipur before the introduction of the chemical dyes into the state, used the dyes extracted from the plants. The survey was undertaken during 2002-2003 in different parts of Manipur. Eighteen traditional dye yielding plants belonging to sixteen families have been reported, which different ethnic communities of Manipur use for dyeing the cloth and other items.

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Bajpai, R.K. and Narayan, P.K. 2005. Natural analogue study of Resubelpara Group of thermal springs at Garo Hills, Meghalaya for demonstration of safe geological disposal of nuclear waste. Current Science, 88(6): 986-989. Back End Technology Development Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400 085, India. [GARO HILLS; GRANITIC ROCKS; MEGHALAYA; NUCLEAR WASTE]

            A group of thermal springs (with temperatures up to 50^oC) occuring around Resubelpara locality near Sarangkhol, East Garo Hills district, Meghalaya has been studied to elucidate the geological analogy of various geochemical, thermal and geological features around them with those expected around disposed nuclear waste over packs in granitic rocks in the depth range of 400-500 m in a geological repository. Discrete uraninite occuring in granites and high radon content have been considered to be analogous with a part of radio active waste. High mobility of uranium is noticed under combinations of favourable groundwater chemistry (high concentration of carbonates and phosphates) and potential geological pathways. It is found that hot groundwater in granites is capable of transporting uranium into the biosphere when provided with suitable structural conduits like deep-seated faults. While in the areas of granites devoid of potential pathways, no significant transport of uranium is observed, the study demonstrates the capability of good host rock coupled with suitable geological set-up in providing long-term safe disposal of nuclear wastes. This is also an attempt to use natural analogue in India to demonstrate safely of nuclear waste disposal.

Baskar, Sushmitha; Baskar, R.; Mauclaire, L. and McKenzie, J.A. 2005. Role of microbial community in stalactite formation, Sahastradhara caves, Dehradun, India. Current Science, 88(8): 1305-1308. Geological Institute, ETH-Zentrum, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland. [BIOMINERALIZATION; MICROBIAL COMMUNITY; STALACTITE FORMATION]

            Speleothems found in three caves in Sahastradhara, Dehradun, India were studied to understand if geomicrobiological processes were involved in mineral formation. Mineralogical studies (XRD and SEM-EDAX) of the stalactite samples revealed that calcite is the dominant mineral. An abundant microbial community (9 x 10⁵ cells, g sed^-1) was detected by direct microscopic observation after DAPI staining. Application of fluorescence in situ hybridization techniques (FISH), based on the presence of rRNA, demonstrates the presence of a large number of active microbial cells (around 55% of the total cell number). The microbial community is dominated by Eubacteria, mainly sulphate-reducing bacteria (representing 10% of the total microbial community), but Archaea are also present. A significant fraction of these cells are active, indicating the high probability of their participation in biomineralization processes involved in the stalactite formation. This conclusion is at variance with the established classical model for stalactite formation based entirely on inorganic processes associated with carbonate solubility.

Bhardwaj, Sujata¹ and Gakhar, S.K². 2005. Ethnomedicinal plants used by the tribals of Mizoram to cure cuts & wounds. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 75-80. ¹Bhaskracharya College of Applied Sciences, Sector-2, Dwarka, New Delhi 110 045; ²Department of Biosciences, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak 124 001, Haryana, India. [ETHNOBOTANY; ETHNOMEDICINE; MIZORAM]

            Results of ethnobotanical studies carried out in the state of Mizoram are presented. The usage of wild plants by the native people for the cure of cuts and wounds is described. The use of 17 species, bolonging to 14 families together with their local names and other uses have been enumerated. The plants not only contain antiseptic value but also have regenerative and healing properties. Sticking property of paste of bark was also observed in Laki tree. In addition, blood-clotting properties of some plants has also been reported.

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Chakrapani, G.J. and Veizer, Jan 2005. Dissolved inorganic carbon isotopic compositions in the Upstream Ganga river in the Himalayas. Current Science, 89(3): 553-556. Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee 247667; Institut fur Geologie, Ruhr Universitat, 44780, Bochum, Germany. [DISSOLVED INORGANIC CARBON; GANGA; WATER SAMPLE]

            Dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) is a major component of river waters and is derived from atmospheric CO₂, from reactions for silicate and carbonate rock weathering and biological activities such as photosynthesis and respiration. To distinguish the sources of HCO₃^- in river waters, it is essential to estimate the amount of CO₂ consumed from the atmosphere during rock weathering and to understand the biogeochemical cycling of carbon. One of the more reliable method adopted to understand the different sources of DIC in rivers, is the measurements of carbon isotopes in DIC, since the fractionation factors between the different carbonate species in dissolved river water and gaseous CO₂ are well established. The present study is aimed at understanding the source of DIC in the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers in the Himalayas by measurements of ^δ13C_DIC in water samples. From the measurements made on these rivers in India through the present study, we find that the river waters have highly depleted ^δ13C_DIC, which indicates the importance of carbonate rock weathering and bacterial respiration as the major processes for dissolved inorganic carbon.

Chhetri, D.R.; Basnet, Deewa; Chiu, Po Fong; Kalikotay, Sujata; Chhetri, Gagan and Parajuli, Sippy 2005. Current status of ethnomedicinal plants in the Darjeeling Himalaya. Current Science, 89(2): 264-268. Panchvati Greentech Research Society, Post Box No. 79, Darjeeling-H.P.O., Darjeeling 714101; Department of Botany, Darjeeling Government College, Darjeeling 734101, India. [DARJEELING HIMALAYA; ETHNOMEDICINE; FOLK MEDICINE; HERBAL DRUG; TRADITIONAL MEDICINE]

            Darjeeling Himalayan region is characterized by a rich diversity of ethnomedicinal plants as well as a rich heritage of traditional medicine practices. The present study has revealed that 281 species of plants belonging to 108 different families are used in the fold-medicine of this region. Among the enumerated plants, about 58% shows hitherto unreported uses. However, 14% of the medicinal plants of this region is under different categories of threat. Therefore, domestication of important medicinal plants of this region is of utmost necessity.

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Dhaulakhandi, Manoj and Rajwar, G.S. 2005. Litter dynamics of two oak species (Quercus Leucotrichophora and Q. Floribunda) in Garhwal Himalaya. The Indian Forester, 131(6): 829-834. Department of Botany, Government P.G. College, Rishikesh, Uttaranchal. [ABIOTIC FACTORS; FOREST ECOSYSTEM; GARHWAL HIMALAYA]

            Quercus leucotrichophora and Q. floribunda were two important tree species of the montane zone of Garhwal Himalaya. Total litter production of Quercus leucotrichophora (site I) forest was estimated as 663.9 ± 56.8 gm^-2 yr^-1 and Q. floribunda (site II) forest as 564.1 ± 27.74 gm^-2 yr^-1. Leaf fall contribution to the total litter fall was 530.0 ± 50.1 on site I and 446.0 ± 25.7 gm^-2 yr^-1 on site II. The litter decomposition rate on both the sites was maximum in August. Total litter decomposition after a period of 13 months on site I was 75.1 and on site II 66.6%. Decomposition constant (K') values for these species were 0.75 and 0.67 respectively.

Dimri, A.P.¹; Mohanty, U.C.² and Rathore, L.S³. 2005. Minimum temperature forecast at Manali, India. Current Science, 88(6): 927-934. ¹Research and Development Centre, Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment, Him Parisar, Sector 37A, Chandigarh 160 023, India; ²Centre for Atmospheric Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016; ³National Center for Medium Range Weather Forecasting, Mausam Bhawan Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi 110 003, India. [ENVIRONMENTAL PREDICTION; PERFECT PROGNOSTIC METHOD; WEATHER FORECASTING]

            Northern India is comprised of complex Himalayan mountain ranges having different altitude and orientation. Knowledge of minimum temperature in this region during winter months is very useful for assessing human comfort and natural hazards. In the present study, Perfect Prognostic Method (PPM) is used for forecasting minimum surface temperature at one of the stations, Manali, in Pir Panjal range of Himalayas. Firstly, a statistical dynamical model is developed for assessing next day's temperature category, i.e. £ 0^oC or >0^oC. Once the category is known, then temperature forecast model is developed for that category. Statistical dynamical models are developed for winter season, December, January, February and March (DJFM) using multivariate regression analysis. model is developed with data of DJFM for 12 years (1984-96) and tested with data of DJFM for the year 1996-97. Analysis data from National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), US, station surface and upper air data of three stations of India Meteorological Department (IMD), India and surface data at Manali are used. Four experiments are carried out with four different sets of predictors of evaluate performance of the models with independent data sets. They are: (i) NCEP reanalysis data, (ii) operational analyses from the National Center for Medium Range Weather Forecasting ((NCMRWF) in India, (iii) day 1 forecast with a T80 global spectral model at NCMRWF and (iv) forecasts from the regional mesoscale model MM5 day 1 forecast. A comparison of skill is drawn among these four set of experiments. It is found that best prediction for temperature category is made with an accuracy of 71.2% with MM5 day 1 forecast as predictors in temperature category forecast model. Further, temperature forecast model for £0^oC category selects only station data and shows skill of 62.1% with independent data, whereas, model for >0^oC category selected predictor from numerical analysis also. Here MM5 day 1 forecaste makes best prediction with 90.0% skill.

Dutta, B.K. and Dutta, P.K. 2005. Potential of ethnobotanical studies in North East India: An overview. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 7-14. Microbial & Agricultural Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation Laboratory, Department of Ecology & Environmental Sciences, Assam University, Silchar 788 011, Assam. [BIODIVERSITY; CONSERVATION; ETHNOBOTANY; MEDICINAL PLANTS; NORTH EAST INDIA; TRIBES]

            North East India has a valuable heritage of herbal remedies. Its rural people and tribals living in remote/forest areas still depend to a great extent on the indigenous systems of medicine/cultivation. So far studies in this regard have been reported from a very limited number of the tribes of North East region, viz. Ler, Mikir, Karbis, Miris, Khasi and Jaintai, Garo, Monpas, Nishi, Apatani, Reangs, etc. A wide range of plants with ethnobotanical value against some very important diseases have been reported but much larger numbers of folk medicines have remained endemic to certain tribal pockets in North East India. Therefore, further detailed studies on the ethnobotanical aspects in the region may provide meaningful ways for the promotion of traditional herbal medicinal plants/land races of crop plants for the benefit of mankind at large. In the present papar, the work that has been reported and the potentials of the ethnobotanical studies with particular reference to biodiversity conservation of the important medicinal/crop plants in the North Eastern region have been highlighted and discussed.

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Garbyal, S.S.; Aggarwal, K.K. and Babu, C.R¹. 2005. Return of biodiversity in Darma valley, Dharchula Himalayas, Uttaranchal, North India following fortuitous changes in traditional lifestyle of the local inhabitants. Current Science, 88(5): 722-725. School of Biotechnology, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Kashmere Gate, Delhi 110 006, India; ¹Department of Botany, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India. [BIODIVERSITY; DARMA VALLEY; UTTARANCHAL]

            Darma Valley situated in 30⁰ North and 80⁰ East, in Kumaon region of Uttaranchal state in India, at an altitude between 7000 and 14000 feet has 12 villages with population less than 1000. Traditionally, the main occupation of the villagers in the region has been trading, sheep rearing and cultivation of Fagopyrum esculentum and potatoes. The valley has always been very rich in biodiversity. Many plant species, some of which are rare and threatened, had been under severe pressure in the past due to over-extraction, large livestock population and extensive cultivation. Lifestyles of the people in the area changed in 1970s due to increased level of literacy and awarenes resulting in increased downward migration. Only about 25% of the earlier population lives in the villages now. The sheep population also came down drastically by as much as 90% in some places. Only about 25% of the fields are now cultivated. Thus the species got opportunities to flourish and many rare herbs and shrubs like Aconitum heterophyllum, Bergenia ciliata, Cordyceps sinensis, Dactylorhiza hatagirea, Hippophae tibetana, Picrorhiza kurroa, Swertia ciliata, Taraxacum, etc. are now found growing in abundance in the abandoned fields and meadows. The biotic factors in Darma valley appear to be in balance. Now one can see biodiversity having returned to its glory in Darma Valley.

Garbyal, S.S.; Aggarwal, K.K. and Babu, C.R¹. 2005. Traditionally used medicinal plants in Dharchula Himalayas of Pithoragarh district, Uttaranchal. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(2): 199-207. School of Biotechnology, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Kashmiri Gate, Delhi 110006; ¹Department of Botany, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007. [ECONOMIC UPLIFTMENT; ECONOMICS; ENDANGERED PLANTS; ETHNOMEDICINE; MEDICINAL PLANTS; MEDICINAL PLANTS TRADE; SUSTAINABLE USE; TRADITIONAL MEDICINE]

            An attempt has been made to evaluate the traditionally used medicinal plants found in Dharchula areas of Kumaun Himalayas in Pithoragarh district, Uttaranchal, North India. The reported plant species are also highly valued in the Indian, Tibetan and Chinese Systems of Medicine. Based on interactions with the locals and traders and considering the potentials of some species for developing new drugs, the value of the species of medicinal importance occurring in the area has been worked out. The value is high enough for taking appropriate measures to conserve these valuable species and use them sustainable for the economic upliftment of the region.

Goyal, V.C.¹; Jain, Sanjay¹ and Pareek, Navneet² 2005. Water logging and drainage assessment in Ravi-Tawi irrigation command (J&K) using remote sensing approach. Journal of the Indian Society of Remote Sensing, 32(3): 7-15. ¹National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee 247 667, Uttaranchal; ²Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science & Technology, Jammu 181 102, India. [REMOTE SENSING; SATELLITE IMAGERY; SPATIAL PATTERN]

            Water logging is one of the major land degradation processes that restricts the economic and efficient utilization of soil and land resources in commond areas. Since independence, various irrigation schemes, for providing water for agriculture and drinking have been taken up by Central and State agencies in India. In most of these schemes very little efforts have been made for proper drainage. Obstruction of natural drainage by way of construction of roads, railways, aerodrome, various structures, etc., causes the ponding of monsoon runoff on the upstream of the structures. Periodic monitoring of command areas helps in analysing the extent of water logging, and should help in taking suitable remedial measures. Remote sensing and GIS are powerful tools, which could be effectively used to study the dynamic behaviour of waterlogged areas. In this study, waterlogged and salt-affected areas have been estimated in the command area of Ravi-Tawi Irrigation Complex in Jammu region. About 14% of the total commond area is water logged/salt-affected. Being a new project, this area is likely to grow in future when the project runs with its installed capacity, and as the distributaries expand in the command area. Plausible causes of water logging have been discussed, and remedial measures suggested for reclaiming operations.

Gupta, Sangeeta and Singh, Magan 2005. Wood microstructure, ultrastructure and systematic study of indian Terminalia. The Indian Forester, 131(8): 995-1011. Wood Anatomy Discipline, Botany Division, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun. [ANATOMICAL STUDY; NTFP; WOOD SAMPLES]

            The genus Terminalia L. is of great forestry and economic importance, as it includes a number of valuable timbers, gum and tannin yielding species. It comprises of 250 species distributed throughout the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. In india, the genus is represented by 18 species. In this paper a detailed microscopic wood anatomical survey of the 15 species of this genus is presented based on the standard list of features given by International association of Wood Anatomists (IAWA). Numeric key based on IAWA features and species identification key has been developed based on the study. Photomicrographs have been added of microstructure and ultra structure features as seen under Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Remarks on systematic positions of species have been presented specially with regards to T. tomentosa and T. chebula group.

Gupta, Vishal 2005. Jhum cultivation practices of the Bangnis (Nishis) of Arunachal Pradesh. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 47-56. Divisional Forest Officer, Seppa Forest Division, Seppa 790 102, Arunachal Pradesh, India. [ARUNACHAL PRADESH; BANGNI TRIBE; JHUM CULTIVATION; NISHIS TRIBE; RICE BEER]

            Jhum (slash and burn cultivation) is an age-old system of agriculture among the indigenous groups in the humid tropics. The Jhumias make use of the local ecological and environmental conditions to their advantage. The natural indicators, their magico-religious beliefs, and analogy & faith condition their decision-making. Worships, rituals, myths and folktales also govern their land and resource use. The entire gamut of their socio-cultural life is thus woven around Jhum that is not merely and `Agricultural Activity', but a Cultural Practice' and a `Way of Life'. The paper attemts at understanding the complex relation of how the socio-cultural life of Bangni jhumias of East Kameng to Jhum. The traditional calendar of Jhum activity is presented and is followed by tracing the origin, settlement history and land stewardship of the tribe that closely relates to origin of this practice. The socio-cultural beliefs, magico-religious practices, festivities and rituals associated with Jhum are described, to give a view of their traditional system of agriculture and land management.

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Hatwar, H.R.; Yadav, B.P. and Rama Rao, Y.V. 2005. Prediction of western disturbances and associated weather over Western Himalayas. Current Science, 88(6): 913-920. India Meteorological Department, Lodi Road, New Delhi 110 003, India. [RAINFALL FORECASTS; SATELLITE DATA; STREM LINE ANALYSIS; SYNOPTIC ANALYSIS; SYNOPTIC OBSERVATIONS]

            Two cases of intense western disturbances which affected the northwest India have been investigated using the India Meteorological Department's operational limited area analysis and forecast system. The model results are compared with the synoptic observations, which have been enriched by additional stations installed under the national project ‘Parwat’. The analysis shows that the 24-hour model forecasts are in good agreement with the observations both in respect of western disturbance's movement and intensification. Even the numerical model could predict the spatial distribution of precipitation with a high success rate and was found to be very useful in providing numerical guidance in day-to-day operational short range forecasts.

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Jamir, N.S. and Lal, P. 2005. Ethnozoological practices among Naga tribes. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 100-104. Nagaland University, Headquarter: Lumami Mokokchung 798 601, Nagaland, India. [ETHNO ZOOLOGY; NAGA TRIBES; NAGALAND; TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE]

            The present paper describes the traditional method of treating various kinds of ailments using different vertebrates and invertebrates and/or their products by different Naga tribes. Since different Naga tribes have their own distinct language and vernacular of a particular animal differs from one tribe to other. Efforts have been made to identify different animals of medicinal value used by Naga tribes and decode their names in common English language along with their lcoal and zoologicl names as far as possible. A list of twentysix animal species and their products, nature of ailments and mode of treatments has been presented. Efforts have been to make known the animal based remedial measures practiced by and large by the Naga tribes. Though traditional in nature, most of the treatments have been reported to provide miraculous healing in various kinds of ailments.

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Kalita, Bhagaban¹; Dutta, Amalesh¹ and Choudhury, M². 2005. Fish attractant: An indigenous device to prevent escapement of fishes. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 91-93. ¹Department of Zoology, Gauhati University, Guwahati 781 014, Assam; ²Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, NER Centre, Guwahati, Assam, India. [ASSAM; FISH ATTRACTANT; JUBULEE; OIL CAKE; RICE BEER; RICE BRAN]

            Studies on fish attractant especially in fresh water fish are very scanty. Tribal people, who practice fish attractant against the escapement of fish during inundation of ponds during flood, mainly inhabit the Karbi-Anglong district of Assam. This fish attractant is made from locally available ingredients such as rice bran, oil cake, Jubulee, etc. The practice is quite popular among the fishers in Karbi-Anglong. On verification of the efficacy of this indegenous method, it was observed that as many as 70% of fishes remain in the pond after flood.

Kanwar, Promila and Yadav, Dinesh 2005. Indigenous animal healthcare practices of Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(2): 164-168. Department of Home Science Extension Education, College of Home Science, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur 176062, H.P., India. [ANIMAL HEALTH CARE; ETHNOMEDICINE; INDIGENOUS HEALTH CARE; KANGRA VALLEY]

            Indigenous technical knowledge in animal healthcare practices was documented in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh by using participatory rural appraisal technique (PRA). Among the documented indigenous practices, food and mouth disease, diarrhoea, tympany, cold, fever, skin diseases, conjunctivities, wound and eaten placenta were primarily treated with medicinal plants along with other materials available with the farmers. In the opinion of the experts, these practices could be recommended as they have some scientific rationale. However, practices applied for hemorrhagic septicemia, indigestion, tail necrosis, dislocation of joints and horn fracture, were doubtful for recommendations.

Kharkwal, Geeta; Mehrotra, Poonam and Pangtey, Yashpal Singh 2005. Comparative studies on species richness, diversity and composition of oak forests in Nainital district, Uttaranchal. Current Science, 89(4): 668-672. Department of Botany, Kumaun University, Nainital 263 002, India. [COMPOSITION; DIVERSITY; OAK FOREST; SPECIES RICHNESS]

            Species richness, diversity and composition of herb species in oak forests, viz. Banj oak (Quercus leucotrichophora) A. Camus, Tilonj oak (Quercus floribunda) Rehder and Kharsu oak (Quercus semecarpifolia) Smith were evaluated. The total number of species, genera and families observed for Kharsu oak forest was higher than Banj and Tilonj oak forests. Only a few species were dominant in all study sites. Asteraceae and Lamiaceae were found to be the dominant families in all the forest types. Regarding ecological structure and composition, the study revealed that Banj and Tilonj oak forests were less complex in comparison to Kharsu oak forest.

Khumbongmayum, Ashalata Devi¹; Khan, M.L.¹ and Tripathi, R.S². 2005. Survival and growth of seedling of a few tree species in the four sacred groves of Manipur, Northeast India. Current Science, 88(11): 1781-1788. ¹Department of Forestry, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology, Nirjuli 791 109, India; ²Department of Botany, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793 022, India. [ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION; MICRO-CLIMATIC CONDITION; SACRED GROVE; SEEDLING; SOIL MOISTURE]

            Vegetation in the sacred groves is protected and conserved because of religious beliefs and cultural practices of local people. Regeneration of species in the groves is largely influenced by micro-climatic conditions. Differences in growth response of nine tree species in terms of relative growth rate for height (RGRH) and relative total leaf area (RGRA) were studied in the gaps and understorey of the four selected sacred groves of Manipur, Northeast India. Seedling survival, RGRH and RGRA were higher in the gaps than in the understorey. This clearly indicates that tree species differ in their response to light environment and the growth of seedlings was influenced by canopy openness. Seedling mortality was greater during February and lower during June, which is a wet month in Manipur. RGRH and RGRA revealed interaction of season and attained the higher relative growth rates during the wet and moist season (summer season) and lower rates during the cool and dry period (winter season), while temporal changes are caused by physiological parameters. Progressive increase in growth rates during the wet season may by attributed to the increased availability of nutrients due to rapid decomposition of litter on the forest floor and also to higher moisture content of the soil during the summer season experiencing rainfall. Peak seedling growth during the rainy season in all the species could be attributed of favourable temperature and soil moisture conditions. Results of the study indicate better growth and survival of species in the gaps than the understorey. Variation in height growth and leaf area of the seedlings of different species may be partly responsible for the differences in growth behaviour and species-specific attributes for efficient utilization of resources under a given set of environmental conditions.

Khumbongmayum, Ashalata Devi¹; Khan, M.L.¹ and Tripathi, R.S². 2005. Ethnomedicinal plants in the sacred groves of Manipur. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 21-32. ¹Department of Forestry, North-Eastern Regional Institute of Science & Technology, Nirjuli 791 109, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh; ²Department of Botany, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793 022, Meghalaya. [CONSERVATION; ETHNOBOTANY; ETHNOMEDICINE; MEDICINAL PLANTS; SACRED GROVE]

            Ethnobotanical studies carried out in the four sacred groves of Manipur revealed therapeutic applications of 120 plant species representing 106 genera and 57 families. Tree species contributed the maximum having 42% while herbs recorded 33% of the total medicinal plants. These plants are used for a wide range of common ailments like skin disorders, ulcer, rheumation, bronchitis, etc. Majority of the preparations are taken orally in the form of juice extracted from the freshly collected plant parts. Leaves are the major plant parts used for the preparation of medicine by the medicine-men (Maibas). Most of the plant parts are harvested from the wild. It has been observed that the species that are scarce locally in the forest due to various development activities, deforestation, over-exploitation, etc. are abundant in the `sacred groves'. Information on medicinal claims was collected from the elderly people residing in the vicinity of sacred groves and also from the traditional healers called `Maibas'. The study describes details of botanical identity, family, local name, parts of the plant used, therapeutic uses, and mode of application of the drug.

Kulkarni, Anil V.¹; Rathore, B.P.¹; Mahajan, Suresh² and Mathur, P³. 2005. Alarming retreat of Parbati glacier, Beas basin, Himachal Pradesh. Current Science, 88(11): 1844-1850. ¹Marine and Water Resources Group, Space Application Centre (ISRO), Ahmedabad 380 015; ²Central Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, Tribhuvan University, Keerthipur, Kathmandu, Nepal; ³Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment, Him Parisar, Sector 37-A, Chandigarh 160 030, India. [CLIMATIC VARIATION; GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM; SATELLITE DATA; SATELLITE IMAGES]

            The Himalayas has one of the largest concentrations of glaciers outside the Polar regions. Various reports suggest that a significant number of mountain glaciers are shrinking due to climatic variations. In this communication, unusual retreat of the Parbati glacier in the Parbati river basin, Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh is reported. This is one of the largest glaciers in the valley. Satellite data of 1990, 1998, 2000 and 2001 are used in the investigation. The study has shown that the glacier had retreated 578 m between 1990 and 2001, almost 52 m per year. This rate of retreat was confirmed by field observations of glacier terminus in October 2003. Position of glacier snout was estimated by comparing its relative position with other features in field and in satellite images. In addition, position of the snout was also estimated using Global Positioning System. Compared to other glaciers in the Himalayas, this glacier is retreating at a high rate. This is possibly because the glacier is located in the lower altitude range. About 90% of the glacier is located in the altitude range lower than 5200 m; this is almost equal to the average altitude of the snow line at the end of the ablation season. The specific mass balance of the glacier is estimated using Accumulation Area Ratio method for a year 2001 as - 86 cm. The amount of retreat along with maximum length was predicted as 1461 m between 2001 and 2022, more then the present rate of retreat. This suggests that the Parbati glacier will continue to retreat at an unusual rate and it will profoundly affect the availability of water in the basin.

Kumar, Rajneesh; Sharma, Kulwant Rai and Gupta, Lalit Mohan 2005. Variation in physico-chemical characteristics of wood of candidate plus trees of Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo Roxb.). The Indian Forester, 131(8): 1012-1023. Department of Forest Products and Utilization, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni-Solan, Himachal Pradesh. [DALBERGIA SISSOO; DIAMETER; DIVERSITY]

            The present studies were conducted on variation in physico-chemical characteristics of wood of candidate plus trees (CPTs) of Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo). Among different CPTs of Dalbergia sissoo, significant differences were noticed for all the characters except for holocellulose contents. The maximum height and diameter were recorded in Khajjian-1 whereas, the minimum height was observed in Dhaulakuan-1 and diameter in Dhartatoh-3. The maximum bark percentage was noticed in Dhartatoh-1 and minimum in Raja ka Bagh-1. The maximum sapwood percentage and minimum heartwood percentage was found in Dhaulakuan-1, while the maximum heartwood percentage was noticed in Khajjian-1. Physico-chemical properties of sapwood viz., specific gravity, fibre length, cold water solubility, hot water solubility, alcohol-benzene solubility, lignin content and holocellulose content ranged between 0.5138-0.6306, 0.93-1.22 mm, 2.25% (1.50) - 6.75% (2.60), 3.50% (1.87) - 9.15% (3.02), 1.01% (1.00) - 7.56% (2.75), 23.90 - 30.50% and 66.00 - 76.55%, respectively. Physico-chemical properties of heartwood of Dalbergia sissoo CPTs viz., specific gravity, cold water solubility, hot water solubility, alcohol-benzene solubility, lignin content and holocellulose content ranged between 0.5275 - 0.6905, 5.25% (2.29) -10.15% (3.19), 9.15% (3.02) - 11.55% (3.40), 6.82% (2.61) - 10.82% (3.29), 30.50 - 39.70% and 62.00 - 70.00%, respectively.

Kuniyal, C.P.; Rawat, Y.S.; Oinam, S.S.; Kuniyal, J.C. and Vishvakarma, Subhash C.R. 2005. Kuth (Saussurea lappa) cultivation in the cold desert environment of the Lahaul valley, northwestern Himalaya, India: arising threats and need to revive socio-economic values. Biodiversity and Conservation, 14(5): 1035-1045. G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Himachal Unit, Mohal-Kullu 175126, Himachal Pradesh. [COLD DESERT; ENDANGERED MEDICINAL PLANT; INTEGRATED APPROACH; SAUSSUREA LAPPA]

            Surveys were conducted in the cold desert environment of the Lahaul valley in the northwestern Himalaya for assessing the past and present status of Kuth (Sausurea lappa) cultivation. The findings reveal that this age-old practice now is in bottleneck. Main factors responsible for this setback to the species were the lengthy cultivation cycle, small land holdings, and even fluctuating and relatively low market prices. owing to these constraints farmers have now started replacing cultivation of this threatened herb with pea (Pisum sativum L.), potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) and hop (Humulus lupulus L.). These crops obtained popularity due to comparatively more economic returns as well as their easy adaptability to the short growth season of the cold desert environment. Kuth cultivation in this region is among the interesting examples of domesticating wild medicinal herb by some innovative farmers during the 1920s. However, in the recent past farmers have been less interested to continue this practice due to its larger cultivation cycle, more profits with cash crops like pea and potato, and permit formalities at the time of export from the valley. In addition to being the oldest cash crop in the cold desert environment. Kuth is an endangered medicinal herb that has to be conserved on a priority basis. This study attempts to find out potential measures such as regular revision of market rates, development of existing uncultivable land under medicinal plant cultivation and strengthening the marketing network through establishment of federations of farmers at village level to revive cultivation of this important species.

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Lal, H.; Saroj, P.L.; Sharma, N.K.; Dadhwal, K.S.; Shrimali, S.S. and Arora, Y.K. 2005. Mango based agri-horti system on degraded lands in Doon Valley. Indian J. Soil Cons.,, 33(1): 67-72. Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute, Dehradun 248195, Uttaranchal, India. [AGRI-HORTI SYSTEM; DEGRADED LANDS; ECONOMICS; MANGO; NUTRIENTS SUPPLEMENTATION]

            A field experiment was conducted for seven years (1995-2001) to study the performance of mango cv. Mallika based Agri-Horti systems on degraded gravelly riverbed lands in Doon Valley. Okra-toria cropping system gave maximum gross income of Rs. 26015 ha^-1 year^-1 and superseded by 298.5, 142.9,73.1, 66.9, 26.6 and 24.3 per cent more over without intercrop, clusterbean-toria, pigeonpea, sesame-toria, blackgram-toria and cowpea-toria cropping systems, respectively. Okra-toria cropping system proved more beneficial with highest net profit of Rs. 7423 ha^-1 year^-1 and maximum bebefit: cost ratio of 1.40 followed by cowpea-toria (Rs. 4285 ha^-1 year^-1 with B:C ratio of 1.26), blackgram-toria (Rs.4086 ha^-1 year^-1 with B:C ratio of 1.25), pigeonpea (Rs. 1803 ha^-1 year^-1 with B:C ratio of 1.14), sesame-toria (Rs. 1222 ha^-1 year^-1 with B:C ratio of 1.09), and without intercrop (Rs.-764 ha^-1 year^-1 wit B:C ratio of 0.90). Pigeonpea supplemented highest amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium through their residue followed by cowpea, okra, blackgram, sesame and toria. The plant growth characters, fruit yield and quality parameters of mango not influenced were adversely due to presence of any intercrop.

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Nath, P.C.; Arunachalam, A.; Khan, M.L.; Arunachalam, K. and Barbhuiya, A.R. 2005. Vegetation analysis and tree population structure of tropical wet evergreen forests in and around Namdapha National Park, northeast India. Biodiversity and Conservation, 14(9): 2109-2136. Restoration Ecology Laboratory, Department of Forestry, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology, Nirjuli 791109, Arunachal Pradesh. [NAMDAPHA NATIONAL PARK; NORTH EAST INDIA; SPECIES RICHNESS; TREE POPULATION STRUCTURE; TROPICAL WET EVERGREEN FOREST]

            Species composition, diversity and tree population structure were studied in three stands of the tropical wet evergreen forest in and around Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh, India. Three study stands exposed to different intensities of disturbances were identified, viz., undisturbed (2.4 ha) in the core zone of the park, moderately disturbed (2.1 ha) in the periphery of the park and highly disturbed (2.7 ha) outside the park area. In total 200 plant species belonging to 73 families were recorded in three stands. Tree density and basal area showed a declining trend with the increase in disturbance intensity. The densities of tree saplings and seedlings were lower in the disturbed stands than in the undisturbed stand. Species like Altingia excelsa, Olea dioica, Terminalia chebula, Mesua ferrea and Shorea assamica in the undisturbed stand and Albizia procera alone in the moderately disturbed stand contributed more than 50% of the total tree density in respective stands. The undisturbed stand contained young tree population. In the highly disturbed stand, the tree density was scarce, but had uncut trees of higher girth class (>210 cm GBH). Low shrub density was recorded in both disturbed stand due to frequent human disturbances; the broken canopy and direct sunlight enhanced the abundance of herbs in these stands. With a species rarity (species having <2 individuals) of ca. 50%, the tropical wet evergreen forests of the Namdapha National Park and its adjacent areas warrant more protection from human intervention and also eco-development to meet the livelihood requirements of the local inhabitants in the peripheral areas of the Namdapha National Park in order to reduce the anthropogenic pressure on the natural resources of the park.

Negi, Chandra Singh 2005. Socio-cultural and ethnobotanical value of a sacred forest, Thal Ke Dhar, central Himalaya. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(2): 190-198. Department of Zoology, Government Postgraduate College, Pithoragarh 262502, Uttaranchal. [CONSERVATION; ETHNOBOTANY; ETHNOMEDICINE; SACRED FOREST; SACRED GROVE; SACRED PLANTS; TABOOS]

            The sacred groves/forests have in the recent years drawn the attention of the environmentalists due to their undisturbed conditions, which enable them to be repository of gene pools. Apart from environmental significance the sacred groves are also indicative of the phenomenon of ethnoenvironmental management. It is a social institution which permits management of biotic resources through people's participation. Unfortunately the social significance of the sacred groves has not been studied in depth and the environmental aspects are inevitably over emphasized. The present study deals with the traditional beliefs and social institutions surrounding the sacred forest - Thal Ke Dhar and makes an attempt to bring out the inherent environmental principles behind the conservation practices. In addition, the forest was assessed for its ethnobotanical value to the local herbalists and traditional folk medicine practitioners. Pragmatic approaches combining conservation and sustainable uses are considered as are traditional values that have preserved the sacred groves in the past. Integration of traditional values and protection mechanisms into the newly emerging cultural and religious contexts has been emphasized.

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Pant, R.K.^1,4; Phadtare, N.R.¹; Chamyal, L.S.² and Juyal, Navin³ 2005. Quaternary deposits in Ladakh and Karakoram Himalaya: A treasure trove of the palaeoclimatic records. Current Science, 88(11): 1789-1798. ¹Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, 33 General Mahadeo Singh Road, Dehradun 248 001, India; ²Department of Geology, MS University of Baroda, Vadodara 390 002; ³Physical Research Laboratory, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380 009, India; ⁴Present Address: G-1001,Sarjan Towers, Gurulul Road, Memnagar, Ahmedabad 380 052, India. [CLIMATE CHANGE; FLUVIO-LACUSTRINE ENVIRONMENTS; GEOMORPHIC FEATURE; LADAKH; SEISMICITY]

            Preliminary observations on the Quaternary deposits of Ladakh and Karakoram Himalaya and their palaeoclimatic significance  are highlighted in this article. Based on the geomorphology and sedimentary field evidences, a tentative scenario of landscape evolution and climate is proposed. Our observations suggest that the Quarternary landscape was evolved due to the interation of climate and seismicity. The earliest event was dominated by regional glacial activity that was followed by humid fluvio-lacustrine environments. This phase was succeeded by a renewed phase of glacial activity, though restricted to higher altitudes due to moisture-starved condition. Following this the region experienced marginal improvement in aridity that continued till Present. The landform diversity and Quaternary deposits provide an opportunity to undertake a multidisciplinary approach for reconstructing the history of Quaternary climate and seismicity in the region.

Paul, Ashish; Khan, M.L.; Arunachalam, A. and Arunachalam, K. 2005. Biodiversity and conservation of rhododendrons in Arunachal Pradesh in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. Current Science, 89(4): 623-634. Department of Forestry, North-Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology, Nirjuli 791109, India. [ANTHROPOGENIC THREATS; ARUNACHAL PRADESH; BIODIVERSITY; CONSERVATION; RHODODENDRON]

            India is one of the 12 mega diversity countries in the world having two hotspots- the Western Ghats and the Eastern Himalayas, based on species rarity and endemism. Arunachal Pradesh in the Eastern Himalaya is among the 200 globally important ecoregions. The state harbours nearly 50% of the total flowering plant species in India. Rhododendrons form the dominating species all along the cool temperate, subalpine and alpine zones in the Arunachal Himalaya. Rhododendron is one of the largest genus of the Ericaceae family, occurring in the higher altitudes having ecological significance and economic importance in addition to its graceful flowers. About 98% of the Indian species is found in the Himalayan region, among which 85% is found in the Arunachal Himalaya. It has aesthetic, sacred, aromatic, medicinal and fuelwood values. Due to human interference the natural populations of rhododendrons in the Arunachal Himalaya are gradually diminishing. Major threats to rhododendrons in western Arunachal Pradesh are deforestation and unsustainable extraction of firewood by the local people. Rhododendrons which are classified as rare, endangered and threatened may be wiped out in near future from the biota, if proper management and conservation initiatives are not taken up. Various in situ as well as ex situ measures like establishment of arboretums, sanctuaries, parks and reserve forests, protected areas through community management, botanical gardens and in vitro research procedures are prescribed to conserve this species for posterity. Moreover, awareness and participation of and by the people is warranted for successful conservation.

Prasanthkumar, M.G.; Skornickova, J.; Sabu, M. and Jayasree, S. 2005. Conservation priority and phytogeographical significance of Rhynchanthus longiflorus Hook. f. (Zingiberaceae): A rare, endangered species from Mizo Hills, NE India. Current Science, 88(6): 977-980. Department of Botany, University of Calicut, Calicut 673 635, India. [BIO-CLIMATIC CONDITION; CONSERVATION; FRAGMENTED FORESTS; MIZO HILLS]

            A rare and endangered species of Rhynchanthus Hook. f., R. longiflorus is collected and described from Mizo hills, N.E. India. The hitherto undescribed fruit is described. Phytogeographical significance and conservation measures are also mentioned.

Purohit, V.K.; Palni, L.M.S.^*; Rikhari, H.C. and Nandi, S.K. 2005. Rooting of air layered shoots of Quercus glauca Thunb. and subsequent performance of such plants and seedlings under different microclimatic conditions. The Indian Forester, 131(6): 786-796. G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, Uttaranchal; ^*Presently at : State Biotechnology Programme, Govt. of Uttaranchal, P.O. Haldi, Pantnagar (U.S. Nagar). [MICRO-CLIMATIC CONDITION; SEED GERMINATION; STEM CUTTING]

            The rooting ability of air layered shoots of Quercus glauca, a difficult to root species, and subsequent performance of well rooted shoots under different microclimatic conditions have been examined. Different concentrations of auxins (IBA, NAA and IAA), Shuttedex and Bavistin (Carbendazim 50%) were used to induce rooting in shoots during rainy season. A relatively lower concentration of IBA (100 ppm) resulted in maximum (73.3%) rooting of air layered shoots, whereas highest number of roots per air layered shoot were formed when the same concentration of NAA was used. The survival of rooted shoots (plants) thus obtained was 100% inside a mist chamber, following transfer to soil. The increment in height and leaf number after one year was found to be maximum for plants kept inside a polyhouse, followed by those kept in a polypit. However, the lowest values for these two parameters were observed for plant kept in the open and under a chhappar (thatch), respectively. On the other hand maximum and minimum height increment for seed raised plants was observed when the seedling were grown inside a polypit and in the open, respectively. Although the relative growth rate of both seedlings and air-layered plants was found to significantly differ under different microclimatic conditions, the same was not statistically different for the plants raised by these two methods, indicating that the performance of air layered plants and seedlings in comparable.

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Rai, S.C. 2005. Apatani paddy-cum-fish cultivation: An indigenous hill farming system of North East India. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 65-71. G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, North East Unit, Vivek Vihar, Itanagar 791 113, Arunachal Pradesh. [AGROECOSYSTEM; INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE; JHUM CULTIVATION; LAND MANAGEMENT; WET-RICE CULTIVATION]

            The tribal communities of North East India have paddy-cum-fish farming along with shifting cultivation (Jhum). Paddy-cum-fish cultivation is practiced mainly by Apatani, a progressive agricultural community of Arunachal Pradesh. The Apatani version of paddy cultivation is one of the most advanced cultivation practices. The main advantage from the practice is that, the land gives sustained yield year after year, unlike the Jhum system, that is under cropping only once in a few years of fallow interval, depending upon the Jhum cycle. The economic and energy efficiency of this agro-ecosystem is exceptionally high and rice is exported after meeting local needs. Rain fed cultivation of millet and mixed cropping contributes toward meeting the diverse needs of the people. Mithun, Swine and poultry husbandry are an important link with agro-ecosystems. Therefore, an understanding of this agro-ecosystem function becomes significant and it offers opportunities for redevelopment with additional scientific inputs.

Rashid, Shaik A. 2005. The geochemistry of Mesoproterozoic clastic sedimentary rocks from the Rautgara Formation, Kumaun Lesser Himalaya: Implications for provenance, mineralogical control and weathering. Current Science, 88(11): 1832-1836. Department of Geology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202 002, India. [GEOCHEMICAL ANALYSES; LESSER HIMALAYA; RARE EARTH ELEMENTS; SEDIMENTARY ROCKS]

            The Mesoproterozoic clastic sedimentary rocks, comprising pelites and quartzites from the Rautgara Formation, Kumaun Lesser Himalaya, have been analysed for major and trace elements, including Rare Earth Elements (REEs) to evaluate their provenance and weathering history. The pelitic rocks are characterized by moderate SiO₂ and AI₂O₃ contents and show consistent REE patterns with LREE (light REE)-enriched and HREE (heavy REE)-depleted patterns (La_N/Yb_N=7.4-10.3). The total REE abundances of Rautgara pelites are high (up to 266 ppm) with large negative Eu-anomalies (Eu/Eu^*=0.57-0.64). Except high SiO₂ contents, the other major and trace element concentrations are significantly low in the associated quartzites. Although the quartzites contain low REE abundances (up to 41 ppm), their pattern, including negative Eu anomalies, are akin to pelites, suggesting that both the rock types be derived from similar source. The Chemical Index of Alteration and A-CN-K parameters indicate that moderate chemical weathering has taken place in the source region of the Rautgara rocks. The linear correlation co-efficients between AI₂O₃, K₂O, TiO₂ and total REE reveal that the accessory minerals (mainly Ti-bearing phases) have hosted the REEs. The striking similarities between the REE patterns of Rautgara pelites and BGC of Aravalli and Bundelkhand granitoids, which are consistent with the palaeocurrent studies of the area, indicate that the granitoid rocks from these regions have supplied detritus to the Lesser Himalayan Rautgara sedimentary basin.

Rawat, R.S. 2005. Studies on interrelationship of woody vegetation density and soil characteristics along an altitudinal gradient in a montane forest of Garhwal Himalayas. The Indian Forester, 131(8): 990-994. Department of Botany, H.N.B. Garhwal University, Srinagar, Uttaranchal; Present Address: Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Conifer Campus, Shimla, H.P. [BROAD-LEAVED FOREST; COLLAR DIAMETER; GARHWAL HIMALAYA]

            In the present study density of woody vegetation and soil characteristics were studied along an altitudinal gradient from 1,700 to 2,100 m above msl in a mountain flank of Garhwal Himalaya. Maximum total tree density (density of tree, sapling and seedling) was recorded for the upper slope followed by middle and lower slopes respectively; whereas in case of shrub maximum density was recorded for lower slope followed by middle and upper slope respectively. Results of soil pH, organic carbon and potassium were found to be statistically significant at 5 per cent level of significance; where organic carbon and potassium were positively correlated and soil pH showed negative correlation with the altitudinal gradient. However, phosphorus content showed non-significant correlation.

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Sahoo, K.N.; Datta, G.K.; Pandit, S.K.; Biswas, T.K. and Debnath, P.K. 2005. A life saving medicine made by a vanishing species. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(2): 132-138. J.B. Roy State Ayurvedic Medical College & Hospital, Kolkata 700 004, West Bengal, India. [ANTISNAKE VENOM; APHRODISIAC ACTIVITY; AYURVEDA; IMMUNOMODULATOR; KASTURI; MUSK; RASAYANA DRUG; SEX STIMULANT]

            Kasturi (musk) obtained from Kasturi mriga (musk deer), was chiefly used as a Rasayana (immunomodulator) as well as Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) by the ancient physicians of Ayurveda. It was once considered as last resort of emergency medicine. Some experimental studies on its stimulant and antisnake venom properties are reported to be promising. Detailed discussion on Kasturi has been made in the review.

Sankhyan, H.P.; Sehgal, R.N. and Bhrot, N.P. 2005. Standardization of presowing treatments for different Seabuckthorn species in cold deserts of Himachal Pradesh. The Indian Forester, 131(7): 931-938. Department of Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources, College of Forestry, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh. [COLD DESERT; COLLAR DIAMETER; SEABUCKTHORN; SEED GERMINATION]

            Seabuckthorn is a wonderful plant for the afforestation and ecological rejuvenation of the cold desert areas of Himalayas where plantations of poplars, willows and robinia have not given very encouraging results. It has the potential to economically transform these harsh and marginal areas plagued by low productivity. Keeping in view, almost complete lack of information in India on regeneration through seed the present investigation was carried out to standardize various presowing treatments in two species of Seabuckthorn in the cold desert of Himachal Pradesh. Different presowing treatments were hot water (80^oC for 10 minutes), conc. H₂SO₄ (20 minutes), cold water for 2,4 and 6 days, cow dung heap for 2 days and control. In case of Hippophae rhamnoides, the best presowing treatment was found to be cold water soaking for 6 days which resulted in the highest germination per cent (93.33), per cent survival (73.33), growth index (69.78) and SVI (8502.36). However, for H. salicifolia soaking treatment in hot water at 80^oC for 10 minutes was found to be the best and resulted in the highest germination per cent (76.66), per cent survival (60.00) shoot length (45.6 cm), root length (70.9 cm), growth index (39.90) and SVI (8930.89) and ranked first.

Sekar, K. Chandra and Srivastava, S.K. 2005. Traditional uses of plants in curing jaundice in Pin Valley National Park, Himachal Pradesh. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(3): 314-316. Botanical Survey of India (NC), 192 Kaulagarh Road, Dehradun 248195, Uttaranchal. [JAUNDICE; PIN VALLEY NATIONAL PARK; TRADITIONAL USES]

            The paper provides traditional uses of few plant species in curring jaundice by the local community residing in and around Pin Valley National Park, Lahaul & Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. Their uses along with the dosages and combination with other plants are provided.

Seth, M.K.; Thakur, Madhu and Kapoor, Ira 2005. Circumferential and radial variation in ring width in west Himalayan fir (Abies pindrow Royle). The Indian Forester, 131(8): 1091-1100. Department of Bio-Sciences, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, H.P. [HIMALAYAN FIR; RADIAL PATTERN; RING WIDTH]

            In west Himalayan fir (Abies pindrow Royle) ring width does not differ significantly among eight cardinal directions. It is negatively and significantly correlated with age. Mean ring width value of juvenile wood is significantly and positively correlated with the mean ring width value of intermediate as well as mature wood. The ring width of individual juvenile wood rings (1-10 from pith) is not correlated with the mean ring width value of mature wood. Based on the results of present investigations it is suggested that any random raidal direction can be used to compare ring width values among straight tree of West Himalayan Fir. A random sample of five juvenile wood rings and four mature wood rings are required to compare the ring width values amongst trees for juvenile wood and mature wood respectively in Abies pindrow Royle.

Sharma, A.R.; Singh, Ratan and Dhyani, S.K. 2005. Conservation tillage and mulching for optimizing productivity in maize- wheat cropping system in the outer western Himalayan region - a review. Indian J. Soil Cons.,, 33(1): 35-43. Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute, Dehradun 248 195, Uttaranchal, India. [ALLEY CROPPING; EROSION LOSSES; LIVE MULCHING; PRODUCTIVITY; RESIDUAL MOISTURE; TILLAGE]

            Maize and wheat are the most important crops grown in sequence largely under rainfed conditions, with low inputs and traditional practices in the outer western Himalayan region. Deficiency of moisture and nutrients is primarily responsible for low productivity of these crops. The conventional practices for alleviating these stresses such as summer ploughing, use of organics, intercropping with legumes, mulching, haloding (interculturing), earthing-up and ploughing immediately after harvesting of maize are gradually being discontinued by the farmers due to various emerging problems. This article reviews the effects of tillage and mulching on moisture conservation and nutrient use in the maize-wheat cropping system. Field studies at different locations of this region have shown the beneficial effects of resource conserving technologies for improving productivity of maize and following wheat. The results have suggested that the conventional repetitive tillage operations including deep ploughing can be dispensed with, and equally good or even higher yield can be obtained with minimum or zero tillage along with mulching or residue management practices over a period due to improved soil environment. Live mulching with weeds, annual legumes or pruned biomass of perennial legumes in alley cropping systems are beneficial for efficient conservation of soil, moisture and nutrients for higher productivity in maize-wheat cropping system. There is a need for adopting diversified farming systems approach for improving productivity of crops as well as other enterprises for greater livelihood security of the farming community in this region.

Sharma, Ajay 2005. Management of Locastra muscosalis walker (Lepidoptera : Pyralidae) using certain synthetic insecticides and physical methods. The Indian Forester, 131(7): 939-942. Department of Entomology and Apiculture, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, H.P. [EGG MASSES; INSECTICIDES; LARVAL POPULATION]

            The efficacy of three synthetic insecticides and three neem products was evaluated in the field for the control of Locastra muscosalis Walker (Lepidoptera : Pyralidae) affecting Pistacia integerrima Stew ex. Brandis trees growing in the campus of Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry Nauni, Solan (H.P.). Along with these insecticides, a physical practice of removing the egg masses was also evaluated as a control method. Removal of egg masses was found to be the most successful method in controlling this pest. Amont the various chemicals used Endosulfan 35EC (1.5ml/lt) was found to be the most effective followed by Monocrotophos 36SL (2.5ml/lt) and Chlorpyriphos 20EC (2.5ml/lt). The neem products used to control the pest were found to show negligible effect in controlling the pest population when compared with the synthetic insecticides.

Sharma, Bindia and Maheshwari, Snehlata 2005. Traditional medical practices of Gaddi tribes in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(2): 169-172. Department of Home Science Extension Education, College of Home Science, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan, India. [DIARRHOEA; ETHNOMEDICINE; GADDI TRIBES; KANGRA TRADITIONAL MEDICAL PRACTICES; PINWORM]

            The tribal people of Himachal Pradesh living close to forests and facing unfavourable climatic conditions have rich traditional knowledge, which was documented and tested on scientific scale and mostly recommended for further research. Traditional practices followed by the Gaddi tribes in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh to cure pinworm and diarohoeal problems among infants have been discussed.

Sharma, H. Manoranjan¹; Devi, A. Radhapyari¹ and Sharma, B. Manihar² 2005. Vegetable dyes used by the Meitei community of Manipur. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 39-46. ¹Department of Botany, Thoubal College, Thoubal 795 138, Manipur; ²Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, Manipur University, Canchipur 795 003, Manipur, India. [ETHNOBOTANY; MANIPUR; MEITEI COMMUNITY; VEGETABLE DYES]

            The paper describes 34 plant species, belonging to 30 families, used in the extraction of dyes by the Meitei community of Manipur. The plant parts used in the extraction of dyes along with the method of extraction and their uses have also been described in detail. Besides these dye-yielding plants, another 19 plant species belonging to 14 families, used as dye mordants have also been included. The people of the state still use these dyes for dyeing of their handloom products, which are famous all over the world.

Singh, H. Birkumar and Singh, Th Brojendro 2005. Plants used for making traditional rosaries in Manipur. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 15-20. Regional Research Laboratory, Substation (CSIR), Lamphelpat 795 004, Manipur, India; Oriental College, Takyelpat 795 001, Manipur. [ETHNOBOTANY; MANIPUR; MEDICINAL PLANTS; MEITEI TRIBE; ROSARY PLANTS; TRADITIONAL ROSARIES]

            The uses of rosaries made from various plant parts of the Meitei community in Manipur are the symbol of tradition and culture and are used as ornaments or related to health and/or religious practices. Out of the 20 plants, reported to be used for rosaries, 18 plants belonging to 15 families, are used to cure 29 diseases or complicacies such as fever, gout, urinary disorder, rheumatism, tuberculosis, heart diseases, liver complaint, bronchitis, etc. Some of the rosaries are also sold in the local markets and fetch good price. There is scope for promotion of traditional rosaries as cottage industry in the state.

Singh, Pratap¹; Haritashya, U.K.²; Ramasastri, K.S¹. and Kumar, Naresh¹ 2005. Prevailing weather conditions during summer seasons around Gangotri Glacier. Current Science, 88(5): 753-760. ¹National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee 247 667, India; ²Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee 247 667, India. [CRYSTALLINE ZONE; GANGOTRI GLACIER; HIGH ALTITUTE HIMALAYAN; MELTING SEASON]

            Meteorological data collected near the snout of the Gangotri Glacier suggest that the study area receives less rainfall. The average seasonal rainfall is observed to be about 260 mm. The rainfall distribution does not show any monsoon impact. Amount of seasonal rainfall is highly variable (131.4-368.8 mm) from year to year, but, in general, August had the maximum rainfall. Average daily maximum and minimum temperatures were 14.7 and 4.1^oC repectively, whereas average mean temperature was 9.4^oC. July was recorded as the warmest month. During daytime, wind speed was four times higher than that at night-time. The average daytime and night-time winds were 12.6 and 3.0 km/h respectively. Mean seasonal evaporation was 640.8 mm, which is high with respect to the high altitude. Average relative humidity and daily sunshine duration were also high throughout the melting season.

Singh, S.P.; Bargali, Kiran; Joshi, Asha and Chaudhry, Smita 2005. Nitrogen resorption in leaves of tree and shrub seedlings in response to increasing soil fertility. Current Science, 89(2): 389-396. Department of Botany, Kumaun University, Nainital 263002, Uttaranchal, India. [NITROGEN AVAILABILITY; NITROGEN RESORPTION; NUTRIENTS; SOIL FERTILITY]

            In the present study an attempt was made to examine the relationship between availability of nitrogen in soil and the resorption of nitrogen before leaf fall. For this, common tree (Quercus leucotrichophora, Pinus roxburghii, Cupressus torulosa, Alnus nepalensis and Populus ciliata) and shrub species (Desmodium elegans and Crataegus crenulata) of Central Himalayan forests varying in leaf lifespan and other characters were selected. Seedlings of these species were raised from current year seed crop and grown at various levels of nitrogen availability. The species differed with regard to nitrogen level up to which their biomass increased with increasing nitrogen availability. In each species, the proportional resorption of nitrogen decreased continuously with increasing nutrient level. The nutrient use efficiency also decreased with increasing nutrient level in each species. These results suggest that as the availability of a limiting nutrient increases, the mechanisms used by plants to conserve that nutrient may become less efficient.

Singh, Surendra Pratap; Sah, Pankaj; Tyagi, Vidit and Jina, Bhupendra Singh 2005. Species diversity contributes to productivity- Evidence from natural grassland communities of the Himalaya. Current Science, 89(3): 548-552. Department of Botany, Kumaun University, Nainital 263002, Uttaranchal, India. [BIODIVERSITY; ECOSYSTEM; GRASSLAND]

            The impact of species diversity on ecosystem functioning has generated considerable research and tremendous debate in view of the accelarated depletion of biodiversity worldwide. A number of recently conducted experiments based on synthetic assemblages of plant species indicated that ecosystem productivity declines with loss of species. The problem with acceptability of this hypothesis is that in spite of best efforts, conditions created in the experiments fall short of natural conditions. The present study, which was carried out in alpine grasslands of Himalaya, is from natural ecosystems to lend support to the above hypothesis. It emphasizes that with the depletion of biodiversity, we are going to lose some of the life-supporting ecosystem services.

Singh, V.N.¹ and Mittal, Abha² 2005. Synthetic accelerograms for two Himalayan earthquakes using convolution. Current Science, 88(8): 1289-1297. ¹Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee 247 667; ²Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee 247 667, India. [HIMALAYAN EARTHQUAKES; MAIN BOUNDARY THRUST; MAIN CENTRAL THRUST; SEISMIC ZONE]

            In the present communication, computation of synthetic accelerograms is based on convolution. The spectrum of ground motion expected at a recoding site is first computed from a knowledge of source parameters and medium properties. This spectrum is then inverse Fourier transformed to yield the desired synthetic accelerogram. This method has been successfully used by Boore, and has been further extended in the present communication. The suitability of the method is demonstrated successfully by modelling the accelerograms for two Himalayan earthquakes namely, the 1991 Uttarkashi earthquake and the 1999 Chamoli earthquake and compared with the observed accelerograms.

Singh, Virendra and Chauhan, N.S. 2005. Traditional practices of herbal medicines in the Lahaul valleys, Himachal Himalayas. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(2): 208-220. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Hill Agriculture Research and Extension Centre, Bajaura 175125, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh; Department of Forest Products, Dr Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni 173230, Solan, Himachal Pradesh. [HERBAL MEDICINE; LAHAUL VALLEY; TRADITIONAL PRACTICES]

            Observations on the traditional practices of herbal medicines were recorded in the villages of Lahaul, a semi-arid region of district Lahaul-Spiti, a dry temperate region of Himachal Himalayas. The information was recorded for the habitat, plant characteristics, plant part used of 43 plant species, belonging to 25 families and diseases treated in the Lahaul Valley.

Sinha, B.L. ¹; Rastogi, R.A.; Saxena, V.K. and Kumar, D. 2005. A discrete linear rainfall-runoff model for Chaukhutia watershed. Indian J. Soil Cons.,, 33(1): 13-17. ¹ACICRP for Dry Land Agriculture, R.B.S. College, Bichpuri, Agra, U.P.; Department of Soil & Water Conservation Engineering, College of Technology, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar 263195, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttaranchal. [CHAUKHUTIA WATERSHED; HYDROGRAPHS; RAINFALL; RUNOFF]

            A discrete linear rainfall-runoff model for Chaukhutia watershed to Ramganga river was developed for estimating direct runoff hydrographs on storm basis. The parameters of the model were determined by using least square method. The model was calibrated for twenty four storm events and verified for four storm events. The computed direct runoff hydrographs by model were in close agreement with the observed direct runoff hydrographs. The average value of the integral square error and coefficient of efficiency were found to be 0.0568 and 0.9778, respectively. The regression equations were also established relating computed and observed peak runoff rates with effective rainfall.

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Tag, Hui¹; Das, A.K². and Kalita, Pallabi³ 2005. Plants used by the Hill Miri tribe of Arunachal Pradesh in ethnofisheries. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(1): 57-64. ¹Department of Botany, Arunachal Pradesh University, Itanagar 791 112, Arunachal Pradesh; ²Department of Botany, Arunachal Pradesh University, Rono Hills, Itanagar 791 112; ³Department of Zoology, Arunachal Pradesh University, Rono Hills, Itanagar 791 112, Arunachal Pradesh, India. [ETHNOBIOLOGY; ETHNOFISHERIES; ETHNOMEDICINE; FISH POISON; HILL MIRI TRIBE]

            The state of Arunachal Pradesh is known for its rich bioresources and ethnocultural diversity. Ethnobiological survey was conducted during 2001-2003 in Hill Miri dominated districts of Arunachal Pradesh, which reveals their hidden Indigenous Knowledge System. Fishing and hunting is one of the major economic activities  of this hilly tribe apart from Jhum cultivation. They derive their fish protein diet requirement directly from the wild sources. Two major rivers and number of its tributaries form ideal site for fisheries activity. A total of 21 plants significant for ethnofisheries have been listed. Twelve plants are used as ethnotoxic (Fish Poison) and rest 9 species are used in different ethnofisheries techniques and gears.

Thakur, A.K.; Sharma, Sarita and Srivastava, D.K. 2005. Plant regeneration and genetic transformation studies in petiole tissue of Himalayan poplar (Populus ciliata Wall.). Current Science, 89(4): 664-667. Department of Biochemistry, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan 173 230, India. [β-GLUCURONIDASE; DIRECT ORGANOGENESIS; GENETIC TRANSFORMATION; PLANT REGENERATION; POPULUS CILIATA]

            Plant generation and genetic transformation techniques have been developed in petiole tissue of Himalayan poplar (Populus ciliata). High frequency shoot regeneration via direct organogenesis was obtained on MS medium supplemented with 1.50 mg/1 Kn and 0.10 mg/1 IAA using petiole explant. High percentage root regeneration in in vitro developed  shoots was obtained on MS medium supplemented with 0.10 mg/1 IAA. Himalayan poplar plantlets were able to regenerate within two months. Genetic transformation studies were caried out using disarmed Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain LBA 4404 containing gus gene (β-glucuronidase) in binary vector pBI 121 along with npt-II (neomycin phosphotransferase-II) gene. After cocultivation, the transformed cells were selected on the selective medium containing 50 mg/1 kanamycin. Successful genetic transformation in the transformed calluses from petiole explant was confirmed by β-glucuronidase enzyme assay.

Tripathy, Nihar R. and Srivastava, H.B. 2005. Mesoscopie ductile shear zones from the Main Central Thrust zone of Bhagirathi Valley, Garhwal Higher Himalaya. Current Science, 88(5): 815-821. Department of Geology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221 005, India. [BHAGIRATHI VALLEY; GARHWAL HIMALAYA; MAIN CENTRAL THRUST]

            Mesoscopic ductile shear zones are well developed in the crystalline rocks of the Main Central Thurst (MCT) zone of Bhagirathi valley. Ductile and brittle-ductile shear zones are dominantly observed and exhibit both sinistral and dextral sense of sear. Detailed analysis reveals that NE-striking sinistral and NW-striking dextral shear zones form a conjugate pair. The bisectors of preferred orientations of these two sets of shear zones indicate that they developed in response to NNE-SSW horizontal compression synchronous to the translation of the MCT, which took place during the northward movement of the Indian plate. Strain analysis reveals that the mesoscopic ductile shear zones developed in response to very high strain, in a narrow zone, which even deformed the internal fabrics of the rocks. The study of quartz c-axis fabrics in mesoscopic shears zones demonstrates that a single girdle pattern of quartz developed at the shear zone boundary and became prominent in the centre of the shear zone with increase in shear strain.

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Uniyal, Bhagwati and Shiva, Vandana 2005. Traditional knowledge on medicinal plants among rural women of the Garhwal Himalaya, Uttaranchal. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 4(3): 259-266. Type IV/11 (Residential Complex) Wildlife Institute of India, Post Box No. 18, Chandrabani, Dehradun 248001; Navdanya,105 Rajpur Road, Dehradun 248001, Uttaranchal. [ETHNOMEDICINE; GARHWAL HIMALAYA; MEDICINAL PLANTS; TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE]

            The present paper deals with traditional knowledge of medicinal plants among rural women of Garhwal. Seventy women of 11 villages were interviewed on the basis of their traditional knowledge on the various uses of medicinal plants found in the adjoining forest and agricultural areas. A total of 113 medicinal plant species were recorded during the intensive surveys and discussions held with the rural women.

Uniyal, Sanjay Kumar^1,2; Awasthi, Anjali¹ and Rawat, G.S¹. 2005. Biomass availability and forage quality of Eurotia ceratoides Mey in the rangelands of Changthang, eastern Ladakh. Current Science, 89(1): 201-205. ¹Wildlife Institute of India, P.O. Box 18, Chandrabani, Dehradun 248 001, India; ²Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, P.B. No. 6, Palampur 176 061, India. [BIOMASS; ECOSYSTEM; FORAGE QUALITY; NUTRIENT QUALITY]

            Rangeland condition can be assessed based on the biomass availability and nutrient quality of major forage plants. While conducting ecological studies on the rangelands of Changthang, eastern Ladakh, we assessed the above-ground biomass and nutrient quality of Eurotia ceratoides May (Chenopodiaceae), a common shrub in the area, following standard methods. Its density, cover and biomass were highest in the lower slope and sandy plains, while it was completely absent in the marsh meadows. Nutritive quality of Eurotia was found to be significantly (P<0.005) higher compared to other dominant species. As expected, a seasonal variation in nutrients was found. Crude protein content decreased from 21% in summer to 12% in winter, whereas anti-quality factors increased during winter. Patterns and processes of Eurotia degradation and its implications for the management of rangelands are discussed.

Upadhaya, K.; Pandey, H.N.; Law, P.S. and Tripathi, R.S. 2004. Diversity and population characteristics of woody species in subtropical humid forests exposed to cultural disturbances  in Meghalaya, Northeast, India. Tropical Ecology, 45(2): 303-314. Department of Botany, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793022. [NORTH EAST INDIA; SACRED GROVE; SPECIES RICHNESS; SUBTROPICAL HUMID FOREST; TREE DIVERSITY; TREE POPULATION STRUCTURE]

            The study was carried out to assess the impact of anthropogenic disturbances of mild intensity on diversity and phytosociological attributes of tree species in two subtropical forest stands, represented by Ialong and Raliang sacred groves in Jaintia hills of Meghalaya, northeast India. A total of 159 woody species (³5 cm dbh) of 107 genera was identified in the two groves spreading over an area of 2 ha. The richness of woody species in 0.5 ha study plots increased from 80-82 in the protected stands to 92-93 in the disturbed stands of the two groves. In case of Ialong sacred groves, their density decreased from 1476 stems ha^-1 in the protected stand to 1340 stems ha^-1 in the disturbed stand whereas, in the Raliang sacred grove, it increased from 938 stems ha^-1 in the protected stand to 1308 stems ha^-1 in the disturbed stand. The basal area was higher in the undisturbed stands (57 to 71 m²ha^-1) than the disturbed stands (36 to 49 m²h^-1) in both the groves. Its distribution in different dbh classes resulted in a J-shaped curve in all but one stand. On the contrary, distribution of both species richness as well as their density in different dbh classes yielded a reverse J-shaped curve. Results revealed that the disturbance of mild intensity, to which these forests were exposed, enhanced species richness without altering tree population structure of the community.

Upadhaya, K.; Pandey, H.N.; Law, P.S. and Tripathi, R.S. 2005. Plants of ethnobotanical importance in the sacred groves of Jaintia hills of Meghalaya. The Indian Forester, 131(6): 819-828. Department of Botany, North Eastern Hill University, Shillong, Meghalaya. [BIODIVERSITY; FLORISTIC DIVERSITY; JAINTIA HILLS; RESERVE FOREST; SACRED GROVE]

            Sacred groves are patches of virgin forests, protected by the indigenous people as a part of their culture and religious beliefs. The paper records 69 species of ethnobotanical importance used by the Jaintia tribe living around Ialong and Raliang sacred groves in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya.

Upadhyay, Rajeev¹; Awatar, Ram²; Kar, R.K.² and Sinha, A.K³. 2005. First record of Middle-Late Jurassic palynomorphs from the Lamayuru Complex, Indus Suture Zone, Ladakh, India. Current Science, 88(6): 980-986. ¹Department of Geology, Kumaun University, Nainital 263 002; ²Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, 53 University Road, Lucknow 226 007; ³Apartment B-602, GH-19, Sector-56, Gurgaon, India. [INDUS SUTURE ZONE; LADAKH; ROCK FORMATION]

            We report here Middle-Late Jurassic palynomorphs bearing sediments from the Lamayuru Complex, exposed along the Indus-Tsangpo Suture Zone in Ladakh. Apart from addition of new data towards understanding the geodynamics of the India-Asia collision zone, this will be helpful in understanding the formation of the slope-deep marine passive margin turbidites basin along the Indus Suture Zone, its palaeogeography and the processes of sedimentation and tectonics during subduction of the Indian plate beneath the Asian plate. The presently recorded Middle-Late Jurassic palynomorphs from the Lamayuru Complex also help to further strengthen our viewpoint that the Permian and Mesozoic palynomorphs bearing sediments were reworked from the Zanskar-Lamayuru Complex Tethyan realm and transported through the Lamayuru Complex to the Nindam basin during ongoing geodynamic processes operative within the India-Asia trench-forearc subduction complex between Cretaceous-Palaeocene time span.

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Verma, M.P. and Rastogi, R.A¹. 2005. Liner reservoir model of Chaukhutia watershed. Indian J. Soil Cons.,, 33(1): 18-21. KVK Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh; ¹C/o Sri H.P. Verma, 1099/2, D-Block, Indira Nagar, Lucknow 226016, U.P. India. [CLARK IUH; LINEAR RESERVOIR ROUTING]

            The rainfall runoff process is non-linear and hydrodynamic with spatially distributed input and outputs. The complexity of rainfall runoff process and the absence of data with which to describe in detail the character of heterogeneous watersheds and of spatially distributed inputs, simulation of the rainfall process is generally based on concept of conceptual models. Such model contains parameters that must be estimated and models vary in range of runoff situations. Due to complexity of the hydrologic process the conceptual or time area histogram model was applied on Chaukhutia watershed for the development of hydrographs through routing the series of linear reservoir model. The coefficient of efficiency of the model was found to be very high (0.8370) which shows that the model adaptable for the watershed DRH development.

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Yadav, R.P.; Aggarwal, R.K.; Bhattacharyya, P. and Bansal, R.C. 2005. Infiltration characteristics of different aspects and topographical locations of hilly watershed in Shivalik - lower Himalayan region in India. Indian J. Soil Cons.,, 33(1): 44-48. Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute, Research Center, Sector-27A, Madhya Marg, Chandigarh 160 019, India. [ASPECTS; INFILTRATION RATE; TOPOGRAPHY; WATERSHED]

            Infiltration characteristics in different aspects and topographic landscape in a 20 ha hilly watershed in Shivalik-lower Himalayan region in India were studied to investigate the long-term effect of soil and water conservation measures. Litter deposition, soil texture, organic carbon and clay content of soils were also measured to know the correlation between these soil properties with infiltration. Steady state infiltration rates gradually decreased from upper to lower reaches. Very slow to slow steady state infiltration rates (0.11 and 0.14 cm hi^-1, respectively) were observed in lower reaches of east and north facing slopes. Cumulative infiltration were also low (0.61 to 5.2cm) in east and north facing slopes than that of west and south facing slopes (2.43 to 24.68 cm). Significant negative exponential correlation was found between litter deposition and infiltration rate.

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