Abundand rivers, streams, rivulets, and lakes are found in the Indian mountain region; ultimately, they flow down to meet the water needs of the population residing in the plains. Adequate efforts have not been made to harness the water resources that originate in the Himalayan region in order to address the increased need for small-scale energy for local use and sustainable livelihoods among the population living in remote and inaccessible mountain areas. Most of these areas are still without electricity, which plays a vital role in the development of any society. There is a need to ensure that local communities can benefit from energy just like people in the plains: they need to be empowered to tap and make the best use of local water resources, based on traditional knowledge of techniques to do this and improvement of time-tested technologies for better efficiency. This will allow them to produce added value and enhance their livelihood options.

Farmers in Ladakh (North eastern part of J&K State) are still following the agronomic practices of crop production based on astrological facts of Lotho (Tibetan almanac), yet there is no systematic study or very few ever attempted to see the rationality of the ancient knowledge system. Like Indian Panchang (the religious calendar), the Tibetan Lotho also has a mathematical base for predicting the meteorological occurrences. An attempt has been made through this study to check the rationality of rainfall predictions made in lotho. The findings were quite encouraging and the rainfall predictions made in lotho were found to be going hand-in-hand with the predictions made by Government meteorological departments through modern techniques and procedures.

Angchok, Dorjey and Singh, Premlata 2006. Traditional irrigation and water distribution system in Ladakh. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 5(3): 397-402. Division of Agricultural Extension, Field Research Laboratory, DRDO, C/o 56 APO; Division of Agricultural Extension, Indian Agriculture Research Institute, New Delhi. [FOLK TRADITION; LADAKH; TRADITIONAL IRRIGATION; WATER MANAGEMENT]

An attempt has been made to discuss the importance of water to Ladakh farmers, its use pattern, traditional irrigation and water distribution methods, prevalent management institutions and how these phenomena are codified through expression in folk tradition and local beliefs.

Softwood nodal cuttings of 32 months old were rooted under mist to investigate the influence of location of cuttings on rooting ability in different clones of Dalbergia sissoo. As compared to 0-15 cm height of stump, 15-30 cm of stump height produced maximum shoots, shoot length and number of cuttings with maximum propagule production. Overall, rooting and sprouting percentage, root number, root length, sprout number, sprout length, leaf number, fresh and dry weight of sprouts were better at 15-30 cm height, while fresh and dry weights of root were better at 0-15 cm. Location of cuttings within shoot influenced rooting and growth. Cuttings from central position of shoot were better while sprout length, fresh and dry weight of sprouts were better in terminal cuttings. Marked interclonal variations were observed regarding rooting and subsequent growth.

From its decade-long pioneering work dedicated to the economic development and environmental regeneration of the high-altitude region of the Indian Himalayas, Pragya-an NGO based in Gurgaon, India, focusing on appropriate development of vulnerable communities and sensitive ecosystems-devised the MVPower (Mountain village Power) model. This comprises in essence the development of decentralized energy facilities for use in (a) improving rural welfare facilities, (b) creating sustainable, niche-sector enterprise clusters, and (c) providing alternatives to overuse of natural resources. A pilot project is being implemented in the district of Lahaul and Spiti in the Western Indian Himalayas. Discussion of the initial results of the project constitutes the core of this paper.

Laboratory experiments involving calcium carbonate precipitation by bacteria isolated from stalactites sampled from three caves in Sahastradhara, Dehradun, India were were conducted to determine whether geomicrobiological processes might be involved in stalactite formation. Dominant bacteria inhabiting the Sahastradhara caves, confirmed by PCR amplification of 16S rRNA genes (16S rDNA), were Baciilus thuringiensis and Bacillus pumilis. Culture experiments confirmed their role in mineral precipitation. The ability of these bacteria to form CaCO₃ crystals at different incubation temperatures (5,15,25,32^oC) indicated that 25^oC was optimum for calcite precipitation. The microbial community detected by DAPI staining showed a significant number of cells (9x10⁵ cells, g sed^-1). Application of fluorescence in situ hybridization techniques, based on the presence of rRNA, shows 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 were also present. Thin section petrography reveals that the stalactites consists of microcrystalline calcite, which occurs in chains probably attributed to bacterial precipitation. Thus, microbial activity and optimum temperature appear to be key factors promoting calcite precipitation and ultimately stalactite formation.

Rhododendron arboreum Smith. is a most beautiful species among the Rhododendron genus and used in multifarious purposes. Over exploitation of this species has caused a serious threat. Observing this a study on seed germination and propagation was laid out to evaluate the possibilities of large-scale cultivation in the Himalayas. Germination per cent of this species was (Mean) 69.25 ± 4.871%. It attained a mean height of 247.00 ± 36.0 mm in 2 years 9 months after germination and can be transplanted in the field.

Fuhadaha, the traditional dry fodder storage structure being used in the Jammu region has its origin from Dogri language, the local dialect. It is a low cost and durable dry fodder storage structure constructed since the time immemorial using the locally available material. It holds wide potential to store dry fodder for many years. Slight modifications have occurred from time to time in the construction technology. But now days, there is a serious threat to the further transfer of this structure to the succeeding generations. This documentation of construction technology of Fuhadaha will surely help to preserve the fast disappearing constituent component of livestock raising in Jammu and Kashmir. This technology can be slightly modified and adapted to various situations. Here, cost-effectiveness of Fuhadaha has also been discussed.

Bhan, Neeru; Kalia, Shamila and Ahmad, Mukhtar 2005. The consumption and utilisation of Shisham leaves by the larvae of Plecoptera reflexa guenee (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Indian Journal of Forestry, 28(4): 377-380. Forest Entomology Division, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun 248006, Uttaranchal. [BIOMASS; DALBERGIA SISSOO; LARVAL INSTARS]

A sample of 10 children in the age group of 9-12 years was selected from an institution working for physically challenged children in Jammu with the purpose to assess their views about their relationships with their peer and their views about heterosexual relationships. The tools used were sociometery, interview schedule and incomplete sentence test. The major findings of the study were that all the children had good social relationships with their peer but there were few who needed guidance in this direction. All the children had a positive attitude towards heterosexual relationships. Sex stereotyped behavior was also shown by children.

An attempt has been made to evaluate plants used for medicare by the tribal people of the Jaunsar area of Garhwal Himalayas. The study reveals the indigenous medicinal uses of 66 plant species belonging to 52 genera and 41 families by the tribal people of Jaunsar. Ethnomedicinal uses of 17 species recorded in the paper are the first report from the region. Documentation of traditional knowledge on the ethnomedicinal uses of these plants is essential for conservation efforts for the plant resources and new drug development.

The peasants have evolved ecological and economic sustainability in an agro-forest livestock management system centred on Grewia over centuries in central Himalaya. The report focuses on the communities residing in Kature valley in Central Himalaya, who have learnt to utilize the Grewia for a number of domestic uses. The system's sustainability has been achieved through knowledge of local ecological processes derived through traditional means. In the past, these models of resource utilization were sustainable on account of low biotic pressure, but now with the increase in population, these age-old practices, which were providing both economic and ecological sustenance, have started showing signs of redundancy being less economical.

In the present study, the growth rate and colonization delay of yellow Rhizocarpon geographicum species of lichen are recorded to date recent geological activities at four different localities in Himachal Pradesh. The study involved the measurement of the largest sized specimen growing on the well-dated monuments. Correlation of size with age, by plotting the measurements on a graph and finding the best fit line, gives the rate of growth of lichens (per year) and colonization delay, the time taken by the lichen to grow on a surface after its exposure to the atmosphere. It has been found that colonization delay and growth rate in the four localities namely Sanjoli, Kanlog (both in Shimla), Dharamshala and Dalhousie are 24,68,50,86 yrs and 0.73, 0.79, 0.56, and 0.54 mm/yr respectively. Colonization period was also confirmed by the absence of lichens on the recent monuments prior to the calculated dates. The database will be useful to date the recent geological activities in the region.

Chhetri, R.B. 2006. Trends in ethnodomestication of some wild plants in Meghalaya, Northeast India. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 5(3): 342-347. Department of Biological Sciences and Environmental Science, P.B. No 6250, KTM Dhulikhel, Kavre, Kathmandu University, Nepal. [ETHNODOMESTICATION; ETHNOMEDICINE; FOLK MEDICINE; KHASI TRIBE; MEDICINAL PLANT]

Das, A.K. and Tag, Hui 2006. Ethnomedicinal studies of the Khamti tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 5(3): 317-322. Department of Botany, Arunachal University, Rono Hills, Itanagar 791112; Centre for Biodiversity, Division of Plant Taxonomy & Ethnomedicine, Department of Botany, Arunachal University, Rono Hills, Itanagar 791112, Arunachal Pradesh. [ARUNACHAL PRADESH; ETHNOMEDICINE; FOLK MEDICINE; HERBAL REMEDIES; KHAMTI TRIBE; MEDICINAL PLANTS; TRIBALS]

The present study examines the heretability of finger and palmar quantitative dermatoglyphic traits by calculating Karl Pearson's coefficient of correlationship ‘r’ and regression equation between the actual parents and children and unrelated pairings. The sample is made up of 50 couples and their 135 children (66 sons and 69 daughters) belonging to the Khurkhul community of Manipur. The traits included in the study are: total finger ridge count, absolute finger ridge count, pattern intensity index, palmar main line index, atd-angle and palmar a-b, b-c, c-d ridge counts. Highly significant  correlation values higher than the theoretical value of 0.5 of parent-child were observed in the studied quantitative feature, except palmar b-c and c-d ridge counts. The estimated values of correlation coefficient ‘r’ found in parent (x)-child (y) correlationship for total finger ridge count (TFRC), absolute finger ridge count (AFRC) and finger pattern intensity index (PH) agree with the theoretical value of coefficient of correlation between mid-parent and the child i.e. 1/Ö2 or 0.71. In all the studied quantitative dermatoglyphic features, randomly paired unrelated ones show very low correlation values when compared with those of the related parents and children's correlation values, except father-child correlation value of palmar b-c ridge count. Higher correlation coefficient values of ‘r’ were observed in finger than in palmar. This indicates that environmental factors exert greater effect on the palmar region in early prenatal life than do on the finger.

Dhawan, Seema; Bhandari, R.S. and Singh, R.B. 2005. Behavioural studies of alates and colony foundation under laboratory conditions in Odontotermes distans Holmgren & Holmgren (Isoptera : Macrotermitinae). Indian Journal of Forestry, 28(2): 195-199. Forest Entomology Division, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun 248006, Uttaranchal. [CALLING ATTITUDE; SEXUAL DIMORPHISM]

Each colony of the termite has its own peculiar odour. Every member of the colony recognizes this odour and avoids entering in the nests of others colony. Experiments were made to alter the memory of colony odour of the termite Microcerotermes beesoni Snyder. The memory of colony odour cannot be easily altered, however if slightly reduced by some technique, resulted in the dullness or death of the termites. Colony odour seems to be genetic in origin and environment probably does not play any role in its development.

A study was conducted in Yamuna Forest Division of Garhwal Himalayas to determine the potassium status in the soils of different altitudes and seasons, and establish their correlation. The results showed general decrease in potassium down the soil profile with respect to altitude and seasons but increased with higher altitude. The seasonal effect showed higher values in autumn than spring. Total and available potassium showed highly significant positive correlation at all the altitudes and seasons and significant negative correlation with soil depth. In general, the soils at different altitudes are well supplied with potassium.

The study was conducted to investigate the phytosociological variations in herbage vegetation under different aged Chirpine trees at four locations, viz., Barog, Deothi, Dharampur and Tatul of Solan Forest Division, Himachal Pradesh, India. Each location had four sites representing sapling, pole and tree stage and open grassland. Herbage characteristics, viz. Basal area and LAI increased from July to August/September and declined up to November in all sites. Total basal area of different species was higher in open grasslands as compared to Chirpine sites. Monthly plant sampling in each site revealed the presence of ten grass species, two sedges, two legumes and two non-legumes in all. Among the different species, Themeda anathera; Panicum maximum; Chrysopogon montanus and Pollinia argentea were the major contributors to the basal area of herbage vegetation. LAI of herbage under Chirpine sites was less as compared to LAI of herbage in open grassland during different samplings. LAI of herbage was significantly related to the basal area of herbage vegetation.

The present study was conducted to investigate the variations in herbage production under Chirpine stands at four locations viz. Barog, Deothi, Dharampur and Tatul of Solan Forest Division, Himachal Pradesh, India during 1998. Each location had four sites three representing different ages of Chirpine stand viz. sapling, pole and tree whereas fourth one represented an open grass land. Herbage vegetation characteristics viz. biomass production and LAI increased from July to August/September and thereafter showed a continuous decrease upto November in all the sites. Among different species, Themeda anathera, Panicum maximum, Chrysopogon montanus and Pollinia argentea were found to be the major contributors to the biomass production. Values for biomass production and LAI of herbage were higher in open grasslands as compared to Chirpine inhabited sites. LAI was significantly related with the aboveground biomass.

Gauniyal, Mansi 2006. The Study of blood group A1A2BO and Rh among the Brahmins of Mussoorie, Uttaranchal. Anthropologist, 8(1): 53-54. Department of Anthropology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007. [CASTE GROUPS; CENTRAL HIMALAYA; GENETIC DIVERSITY; GENETICS MARKERS]

In the late 1990s widespread evidence of glacier expansion was found in the central Karakoram, in contrast to a worldwide decline of mountain glaciers. The expansions were almost exclusively in glacier basins from the highest parts of the range and developed quickly after decades of decline. Exceptional numbers of glacier surges were also reported. Unfortunately, there has been no on-going measurement of climatic or glaciological variables at these elevations. The present article examines possible explanations for this seemingly anomalous behavior, using evidence from short-term monitoring programs, low-altitude weather stations, and the distinctive environmental characteristics of the region. The latter involve interactions between regional air mass climatology, its seasonality, topoclimate or ‘verticality’ effects on glaciers with extreme altitudinal range, climatic sensitivities of heavy versus thin supraglacial debris, and complex temperature distribution in ice masses with ice falls throughout critical elevations. Valley climate stations indicate increases in precipitation over the past 50 years and small declines in summer temperatures, which may indicate positive trends in glacier mass balance. However, the suddenness of the expansions is problematic, as is their confinement to glaciers from the highest watersheds while others continue to retreat. Thermal shifts in ice masses with extreme altitude ranges may be even more critical, leading to an accelerated redistribution of ice mass by elevation.

With the fast increasing population, the land-man ratio is decreasing fast in Himachal Pradesh. Undoubtedly, land is the most prominent resource endowment in the agricutural economy of the tribal areas in the state. Bharmaur being a hilly region has lesser proportion of area available for cultivation. The present study is based on secondary data of sample villages spread across four Valley of Bharmaur region. An attempt has been made to analyse the changes in cropping patter of Bharmaur tribal area over the period 1947-77 to 1998-01. The study reveals that Gaddis have changed their traditional cropping pattern from cultivating local cultivars to the more remunerative crops. This change is more discemible in case of cereals and plantation crops. The apple (Pyrus mallus) cultivation has diffused along valley slopes during the recent study period. The area under this fruit in sample villages was merely 0.32 per cent of total cropped area in 1974-77 which increased to 4.29 per cent during 1998-01. Some of the traditional kharif crops namely kodra (Paspalum scrobiculatum), chinae (Panicum miliaceum) and bhrace (Fagopyrum esculentum) grown during mid 1970s have now been replaced by cash crops namely-rajmah (Phaseolus vulgaris) and urd (Phaseolus radiatus). In case of rabi crops, wheat (Triticum aestivum) is the staple food crop. But the cultivation of barley (Hordeum vulgare) has recorded a decline. The study shows that there are significant spatial variations in cropping pattern during both the periods under discussion.

The present study was conducted in a 12 km² sacred Khecheopalri Lake Watershed in the Sikkim Himalaya. The Lake is known for its sanctity, pristine condition, multi ethnicity and also as famous tourist destinations of Sikkim. The influx of tourists is high with visible impact of disturbance on the Lake and its watershed. The anthropogenic pressure has led to land use/cover change of the watershed in the past decade with increase of agricultural land at the expense of forests. The forested vegetation composition in the lake watershed forest has density of 248 trees/ha with sub-canopy species being dominated in the lower diameter class. The local people remove about 28% wood from annual biomass increment and the canopy species have reduced considerably because of fuelwood and timber collection resulting in invasion of some opportunistic species in the regeneration stage. The pressure of grazing is also high resulting in removal of 47% of annual primary production of floor phytomass during 1998. Therefore, the anthropogenic pressure on the watershed forest needs to be minimized for minimizing the soil erosion processes and thus maintaining the health of the Lake.

The paper deals with traditional farming systems practiced by indigenous communities of Meghalaya. Majority of tribal people (ca.83 per cent) in the state is engaged in agriculture. The shifting cultivation and terrace (bun) agriculture are two major farming systems, prevalent in Meghalaya. Tree based farming practices are also prevalent in the state. The crops are grown in association with tree species like alder, Aquilaria, areca nut, coconut, bamboo, Khasi pine, etc. Due to undulating topography and hilly terrain, the farmers predominantly use bamboo drip irrigation practice. The harvesting of crops adds a new dimension towards improvement of soil fertility. The farmers pick up ear heads of crops only, other parts of plant are left on cultivated land. The farmers store grains in structures, made of soil and plant materials. The seed storage structures are traditional and resistant to insects.

The central gap region of the Himalaya, which lies in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, is exposed to a great seismic hazard. Due to paucity of existing seismic instrumentation we have less digital data of past earthquakes in this region. With isoseismal data we have used damped least square inversion scheme to get three-dimensional attenuation structure of the region based on Q value. The obtained Q structure explains the aerial distribution of isoseismals of major earthquakes in the recent past. The studied area covers the Tehri town, which is the locale of one of the biggest earth-fill dams of height 260 m. The surface distribution of Q value suggests that the region around Tehri is surrounded by comparatively less attenuating medium and hence is a region of potential seismic hazard. The obtained Q structure explains the surface distribution of isoseismals of major earthquakes and provides important inputs for the purpose of seismic hazard zonation.

The inhabitants of rain fed zone of Indian Central Himalayas have survived on their traditional management practices for their daily needs. A survey of 5 villages of the Garurganga-Bhetagad watershed, Indian Central Himalayas was made through personal interview schedules of farming community. By the documentation and assessment of the different land resources in the watershed area it was noticed that the rain fed agriculture is one of the sensitive and risky land uses for crop cultivation. These rain fed agriculture lands have been categorized by farming community according to variation in soil behaviour as per agriculture land. Such land categorization of the rain fed agriculture is more relevant to scientific knowledge (in terms of land capability). Furthermore the forest and grassland of the study area are also used and managed by these farming people in view of maximum utilization. Thus, the traditional land management practices are closely related with modern scientific tools and techniques i.e. soil depth, physiography, climatic conditions, accessibility, approaches, etc.

Application of high inputs in agriculture, in terms of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has endangered the sustainability of production system. Indigenous knowledge of agriculture, is the result of farmers' thousands years of experience with nature. Indigenous practices are known to the farmers and are helpful in maintaining and enhancing the quality of the environment. With the dissemination of modern practices the indigenous practices have started to loose their ground and have been eroded to a large extent. In the hills of the Uttaranchal, farmers still practice farming by following indigenous practices. The study identifies indigenous agricultural knowledge (IAK) of the farmers regarding various aspects of crop production.

The Ao tribe of Nagaland mostly use vertebrate derived medicine for a whole range of affictions like body pain, rheumatism, asthma, liver disease, leucoderma, eczema, tuberculosis, paralysis, antidote against poison, skin disease, stomach disorder, jaundice, night blindness, bone fracture, malaria, dysentery, kidney problems, breathing problems, earache, burn injuries, stammering, piles, general weakness etc. Detailed information has been obtained on the traditional therapeutic use of twenty five different vertebrate species, of which, some have become rare. It is suggested that establishment of socio-ecological system through sustainable management and conservation of biodiversity may contribute tremendously to understand this indigenous system as a reliable source of medicine, food, income and other benefits.

Kala, Richa and Kala, C.P. 2006. Indigenous water conservation technology of Sumari village, Uttaranchal. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 5(3): 394-396. Environment and Mountain Development Institute, Village & PO Sumari, Pauri Garhwal 246174, Uttaranchal; 36, Chandralok Building, Janpath, New Delhi 110001. [CHAUNREE SYSTEM; INDIGENOUS WATER CONSERVATION TECHNOLOGY; NAWN SYSTEM; SUMARI]

Pinus gerardiana Wall. (Chilgoza pine) is a very important conifer species distributed very sparsely and endangered due to reckless cone extraction leading to complete lack of natural regeneration. The present studies were carried out to assess genetic variation in the species and to find out genetic relationship between various characteristics. A wide range of variation was exhibited in most of characters. High heritability along with high genetic gain was recorded for some characters which indicate that these characters can be improved by selection. Correlation and path coefficient analysis indicated that needle length, clear bole height, crown width and height can be used for indirect selection for improvement of economically important cone and nut characters.

The traditional knowledge of a community in a particular region is derived from the local people's farming experience and is handed down from previous generations to present generations. It entails many insights, perceptions, and intuitions, relating to agricultural practices, health, local environment, etc. It is often stressed that traditional storage methods are the product of decades, if not centuries of development, perhaps by trial and error, but certainly as a result of experience of the users and their ancestors. Traditional storage methods based on local resources, at producer level are usually well adapted to all the types of grain and the environment in which they are employed. Consequently, storage losses are often already minimal. In this paper, traditional method of grain storing practices at producer level prevalent in Himachal Pradesh is briefly discussed.

The present research work was carried out in six villages of Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh to study application of plants at home scale level in treating various kinds of ailments. The information was documented using questionnaire and PRA techniques with the help of village elders, key informants and local healers. In the present study, thirty-one plant species used by the villagers for the treatment of various diseases at home scale level were identified. Twenty plant species were used for curing more than one disease. Three plants, Aloe barbadensis Mill., Asparagus racemosus Roxb. and Tinospora cordifolia Willd. were used against more than five diseases. It was found that elder people had more inclination towards herbal medicines followed by middle and young people. Since the knowledge of various medicinal plants being used in herbal treatment and their method of use is confined to mostly local healers, it is of utmost importance to record this knowledge for future generations, otherwise, it will be lost forever.

Decomposition rates and nutrient dynamics of Populus deltoides litter was investigated in three year old coppiced plantation situated in the mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh using the nylon net bags. Complete loss of Populus leaf litter was achieved in 20 months. The decomposition constant (k) was worked out to 1.27. Significant and a positive correlation was observed between decomposition and climatic parameters viz., rainfall and temperature (R²= 0.61), whereas temperature did not exhibit any significant influence on the decomposition rate. Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) dynamics in decomposing litter revealed that concentration of nitrogen, phosphorus and calcium did not follow any specific trend during the decomposition process. Potassium and magnesium concentration, however, revealed a decreasing trend throughout the study period. Changes in absolute amount, on the other hand, followed a release pattern through the study period for N, K and Mg. P and Ca, however, depicted a three-phase pattern i.e. leaching, immobilization and release during the entire course of investigations.

The gregarious flowering of muli bamboos is expected to occur in the NE States of India in the next two year, after it completes its 48 year cycle. The administration, public representative, the people and all other stakeholders have initiated preemptive action to deal with this ecological phenomenon keeping in view the past experience of happenings due to gregarious flowering of bamboos in the North-East India especially in Mizoram. The State Governments in the North-East as well as Government of India have prepared a detailed Action Plan for managing this natural calamity having wider social and economic implications with utmost caution, alert and preparedness. However, the problem can be effectively managed only with proactive action by various agencies in the State Governments and the cooperation of various ministries/departments at the GoI level, civil society and the people. Adequate funding from various sources in the States and assistance from the GoI is essential to help mitigate the impact of this problem. A foolproof contingency plan is necessary for mitigating the intensity of the problem, taking preventive action in avoiding the fire hazards, outbreak of famine, providing relief to the people in the form of food grains and medical help in the event of outbreak of an epidemic. This natural calamity can be converted into an opportunity for the welfare of the people of these States by adequately utilizing the large quantity of raw material which would be available in the form of flowered bamboos. The various agencies like TIFAC, Ministry of Science and Technology, GoI; Indian Plywood Industries Research and Training Institute, Bangalore etc. are providing necessary technical know-how for value addition.

Himalayas possess one of the largest resources of snow, ice and glaciers that act as a huge freshwater reservoir. Monitoring the glaciers is important to assess the overall reservoir health of the Himalayas. Samudra Tapu is one of the largest glaciers in Chandra basin of district Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh. Based on the field investigations and the remote sensing techniques, features such as accumulation area, ablation area snowline/equilibrium line, moraine damaged lakes and permanent snowfield were mapped. The glacial terminus was identified using moraine-dammed lake, as lake is located at down streamside of the terminus. The total recession of glacier during the period of 38 years (1962-2000) is about 742 m with an average rate of 19.5 m/yr. In addition, glacial extent is reduced from 73 to 65 km² between 1962 and 2000, suggesting overall deglaciation of 11%. During field investigation, three stages of glaciation using terminal moraine were identified. These moraines were mapped by merging LISS-III and PAN data. At the peak of glaciation, the glacial terminus was extended 3.18 km downstream of terminus position in year 2000. Total area during peak of glaciation period has been observed to be 77.67 km², which is 12.67 km² higher than the present glacier extent.

In the present study, an attempt has been made to investigate the co-relation between stature and different facial measurements among the Kabuis of Imphal valley, and estimate the stature using Regression equation and Multiplication factor. The study has also further tried to determine the more reliable approach. The sample size of the present study comprises of 199 male Kabuis of the Imphal Valley belonging to the age range of 18 to 45 years. Six facial dimensions of each subject along with their stature were measured. The highest co-relation has been found between stature and Bigonial Breadth with a ‘r’ value of 0.365.

The present study was conducted to make comparative assessment of traditional farmer managed small hill irrigation systems and State managed irrigation systems in Kumaun (Central) Himalaya. Ten randomly selected canal systems in each category in Almora district were studied in terms of their operational characteristics. Different irrigation parameters (i.e. canal ratio, duty, irrigation intensity and conveyance losses, etc.) of their management systems have been compared to assess its influence on the performance of irrigation system in the region. The farmer schemes are small in size, but they are sound in terms of land and water utilization as indicated by the high irrigation intensity and conveyance efficiencies. The state managed schemes are less efficient mainly due to their static management, poor maintenance and absence of location specific technology.

The present study was carried out in remote villages of the Mandi, Bilaspur, Shimla, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts of the Himachal Pradesh to identify the important Indigenous Technology Knowledge (ITKs) in use, methods for managing the insect-pests of the different crops and to document the same. Farmers commonly use ash against chewing and sucking type of insect pests. Use of cattle litter not only enriches the soil fertility but also reduces the insect-pests of the crops significantly. The bioproducts namely aged cow urine, Vitex negundo Linn., Ferula assafoetida Linn, Aloe barbadensis Mill., Nicotiana tabacum Linn. and whey were found to be very effective against the insect pests of cabbage, wheat, peas, grams and other crops. Such an assessment was essential because these are the innovative eco-friendly sprays, which are economically viable for small farmers and have already been adopted by the farmers in some locations. The choice of indigenous bio-insecticides has been found to be effective as well as eco-friendly. This will also help in reducing the load of insecticide on the ecosystem.

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The present study was undertaken to assess the awareness level of adolescents regarding sterilization. This study has been conducted on 400 adolescent girls (200 adolescent girls were taken from rural areas and 200 adolescent girls from urban areas of Jammu). Random sample technique was used to select the sample. For data collection, Family Planning and Birth Control Attitude Scale (FPBCAS) was used which was devised by Rajamanickam. Chi-square values reveal that there is a significant difference in the awareness level of adolescent girls of urban and rural areas of Jammu, regarding sterilization. But urban adolescent girls have comparatively better knowledge regarding these issues than rural adolescent girls. So there is a need to teach adolescents about these issues since ignorance perpetuates myths and mis-belief. In societies such as ours where parents do not normally discuss such matters with their children, this could be achieved by incorporating family life education/sex education in school curricula.

In the valley of Kashmir, with temperate climatic conditions, the complete leaf fall in Mulberry occurs during November and the plants enter into dormancy. The sprouting of winter buds starts during the last week of March. Growth of Mulberry after the dormant period depends upon the food material accumulated in the stems/stumps during the previous autumn. Mulberry plants when subjected to leaf plucking during autumn exhibited a marked decline in growth and yield in following spring. When 100% leaf plucking was resorted to in autumn, sprouting of winter buds during the subsequent spring decreased by 14.29% and leaf yield per plant got reduced by 30.66% as compared to the plantation where no leaf plucking was done. The decline in yield and growth parameters may be attributed due to insufficient accumulation of food reserves in the plant by virtue of leaf plucking during autumn.

Woody plant diversity of Doon Valley in outer Himalaya is represented by 674 taxa, 92 families and 368 genera. Total taxa include 591 trees, 35 shrubs, 12 climbers, 15 palms and 21 bamboos. Out of these, Gymnosperms are represented by 42 species and dicots by 596. Percentage-wise, Dicotyledons hold 88.42 share and Monocotyledons contribute 5.34. Gymnosperms are only 6.24 per cent of entire floristic composition. Intrestingly Doon Valley perpetuates suitable climatic condition for luxuriant growth of both tropical species (Tectona grandis, Shorea spp., Phoenix spp. etc.) and temperate species (Pinus spp.). The cosmopolitan structure of flora is created by introduction or invasion of 31.15% exotics. Significant contribution to local flora is recorded by addition of 258 species to existing literature. Present study also contributes addition of 11 species to the existing list of Forest Research Institute Arboretum plants. Conservation potential and prospects of the flora have been appraised by identification and listing of 18 species which are declared as threatened in International Union of Conservation of Nature and Natural Resource (IUCN) Red List for the year 2003. Progenitors of 17 cultivated and economic plants have been listed for conservation of genetic resource. During field investigation 13 species have been identified threatened due to habitat loss while 7 species were found threatened due to massive exploitation.

Rock-fall velocity needs to be modelled for landslide risk assessment. This has not been attempted in the Himalayas. Since the frequency of landslides blocking pilgrimage routes like those of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri increases during the rainy season causing road blockade for many days, it has become more important that rock falls are modelled. While the mechanics of transport and velocity varies from site to site and the type of landslide, factors like slope and elevation and the effect of gravity are always commonly present. The present work is relatively new for the Himalayas, where rock-fall velocity modelling has been attempted on slopes at various elevations, except the one on run-out distance.

Pande, H.C.¹; Joshi, Pragya² and Pande, P.C.² 2005. Systematics of the genus Cyrtomium Presl. (Pteridophyta-Dryopteridaceae) from Uttaranchal (North-West Himalaya). Indian Journal of Forestry, 28(4): 451-456. ¹Botanical Survey of India, Northern Circle, Dehradun 248195, Uttaranchal; ²Department of Botany, Kumaon University, S.S.J., Campus, Almora 263601, Uttaranchal, India. [GENUS CYRTOMIUM; PLANT HABIT; RHIZOME SCALE]

The Shalang basin, which is a tributary basin of the Goriganga in the higher central Himalaya, is endowed with record of late Quaternary glaciation and seismicity. Three distinct glaciation events in the form of lateral moraines have been identified and are used to reconstruct the palaeo-Equilibrium Line Altitudes (ELA). Maximum ELA depression (~ 600m) was associated with the oldest and longest Stage-I glaciation. Subsequent glacial advancements were limited in extent and remained above 3500 m. Luminescence dating of glaciogenic sediments suggests that the oldest Stage-I glacial event is equitable to Marine Isotopic Stage-4 (MIS-4), whereas stages-II and III are assigned MIS-2 and little ice age respectively. Morphology of the morains and presence of seismites in a lake sequence suggest tectonic activity along the Trans-Himadri Fault during the late Quaternary.

The present paper is the result of a study of distribution of A1A2BO and Rh(D) blood group carried out among the Rajputs of Mussoorie, Uttaranchal. The frequency of A1 is highest with a percentage frequency of 38.54% and that of Rh+ is 94.63%. It has been observed that when the allele frequency of the present population is compared, it falls close to other populations of the Himalayan region.

Dicentra scandens (D.Don) Walp. syn Dicentra thalictrifolia (Wall.) Hook. f. & Thoms, is a climbing perennial herb, belonging to the family Fumariaceae. The plant thrives well in moist sandy loam or loamy or forest soils very rich in organic matter. The plant has been used for years by Naga ethnic tribal communities living in eastern Nagaland state for treating various diseases including a number of fatal diseases like malaria, high blood pressure and diabetes. Therefore, it is warranted that step needs to be taken up for laboratory research to probe for validity test as claimed by herbalists and ultimately evolve a system for bio-prospecting and bio-partnership in bringing about cultivation.

The present study demonstrates the significance of morpho-structural analysis using remotely sensed data along with selected field investigations in delineating traces of active faults, which are oblique to the Himalayan Frontal Thrust (HFT) in the northwestern Frontal Himalaya. Topographic features indicate movement along a normal fault with upthrown southern block. This extensional behaviour of faulting is in contrast with the ongoing southward thrusting along the HFT with Siwalik sediments in the hanging wall over-riding the alluvial fans in the footwall. Various tectonic landforms and relative position of Quaternary deposits in the area corroborate that the Frontal Himalayan region has ruptured repeatedly in the recent past.

At places forests of Uttaranchal Himalaya are heavily infested with the flowering parasite, Taxillus vestitus (Wall.) Danser. We analysed infection frequency and intensity of the parasite in two oak species, viz. Q. leucotrichophora and Q. floribunda. The number of infected trees was higher in heavily disturbed sites. The trees of middle girth classes were more susceptible to the Taxillus attack. The high anthropogenic pressure in the form of lopping of branches may be one of the reasons for high infestation. Seedlings, saplings and trees of lower girth classes had little or no infestation of Taxillus vestitus. These need to be protected to manage the forest in a healthy condition.

Dehradun (Doon Valley), the capital of Uttaranchal has been experiencing tremendous changes in its climate since last many decades. The population and number of vehicles in the valley have been increasing day by day, ultimately causing changes in its weather and climate patterns. The effect of changing climate has direct impacts on its atmospheric conditions and water resources. This article deals with changes in temperature and rainfall patterns in Doon Valley during last seventy two years (1931-2002). The variability in decadal temperature has been the highest during 1991-2000, although there is no difference in average temperature during last 3 decades. Rainfall during last 72 years has shown swinging pattern till 1979, but the rainfall has been below normal (2015.9 mm) in continuous 5 years during eighties and continuous 6 years duing nineties. 1991 has received the lowest rainfall (1288.1 mm) in 72 years. The article also reports increase in population in the valley in last 60 years and vehicular concentration on Dehradun - Delhi highway.

The work relates to Pnar tribe of Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya, whose main occupation is agriculture. Even today they depend on plant species as indicators, such as Butea buteiformis (Voigt) Grier & Long, Castanopsis indica A. DC., Castanopsis tribuloides (Sm.) DC., Phoenix humilis Royle ex Becc. & Hook. f., Pinus kesiya Royle ex Gord., Quercus serrata Thunb., Schima wallichii (DC.) Korth. for systematizing steps they followed season wise for achieving the best productivity of rice and other agricultural crops. Each plant indicator is provided with vernacular name, relevant plant parts indicative of agricultural seasons and their significant role in agricultural productivity.

The Shella Formation exposed in the southern part of Jaintia Hills comprises an alternate sequence of sand-stone and limestone members. The limestones are fossiliferous with preponderance of benthic foraminifera, e.g. Nummulitids, Alveolinids, Discocyclina, etc. The foraminiferal assemblage suggests a Early Paleocene to Middle Eocene age for the Shella Formation. A rich assemblage of fossil calcareous algae (both non-geniculate and geniculate coralline red algae and halimedacean, udoteacean and dasycldalean green algae) has been recovered from the limestone. The non-geniculate corallines are represented by genera Lithothamnion, Lithophyllum, Distichoplax, Sporolithon, Lithoporella and Spongites and geniculate corallines are represented by the genera Corallina and Jania. A few green algae, viz. Ovulites (family udoteaceae), Halimeda (family Halimedaceae) and Actinoporella (family Acetabulariaceae (Dasycladales) have been recovered from the study area. The overall algal assemblage indicates a shallow marine environment of normal salinity.

Frankia, as a source of symbiotic N₂ fixation in non-leguminous actinorhizal plants has received tremendous importance in the last few decades. Studies pertaining to the determination of genetic diversity of Frankia strains in diversified groups of actinorhizal plants have been a subject of attention in recent times. We report here an attempt to isolate and identify consortia of Frankia strains from root nodules of Hippophae salicifolia D. Don collected from the eastern Himalayas of north Sikkim. A total 31 Frankia axenic cultures were isolated from 27 root nodule lobes which differed in colouration and morphological pattern. The isolates were subjected to different formulation of carbon sources and pH variations with and without additional exogenous N₂ source. Finally a total of 11 single spore isolates were identified based on morphological and physiological differences. The present study reveals that there is an existence of a great deal of heterogeneity among the Frankia strains associated with Hippophae salicifolia D. Don.

The Lisus, also known as Yobin are the dominant tribe in the South eastern periphery of Namdapha national park in Changland district of Arunachal Pradesh. They spend most of their time in the forests where they practice Jhum cultivation and hunt wild animals. The hilly terrain and inaccessibility have forced them to innovate things to save time and energy. Through time, the Lisu people have earned good knowledge of agricultural as well horticultural crop production. They also know the technique of grafting horticulture plants. Using this knowledge they get fruits they wish to grow in a short duration of time, eg. Diospyros kaki (Thaj), a fruit tree commonly grown by the Lisus. Fruiting is made only when it is grafted with a specific wild plant (Slani in Lisu), which is abundant in the Jhum fallows. Different horticultural fruits like Diospyros kaki Linn. f. (Thaj), Citrus reticulata Blanco, (orange), Ananas comosus (L.) Merr., (pineapple), Psidium guajava Linn. (Guava) etc. are also cultivated permanently in the abandoned Jhum lands for rehabilitation of fallow agricultural lands, which is generally not observed among other tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. The Lisu tribe has rich traditional as well as technical knowledge due to the numerous hardships they face, which have compelled them to innovate things and make new gadgets. Most of the households at Vijaynagar and Gandhigram have the flowing-water operated gadget used for milling rice without applying manpower. Due to difficult terrains, consisting of mountains and river they have built hanging bridges completely made of wood, bamboos and canes to connect village to village and to the agricultural fields. Thus, the indigenous knowledge system and traditional technologies help in natural resource utilization among the indigenous (Lisu) tribe. However, such eco-friendly technologies that are energy efficient should be promoted for conservation and further replications elsewhere.

Namdapha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh is one of the largest reservoirs of plant biodiversity in the North-East India. A large number of medicinal plants, rare and endemic taxa occur here in the wild. The Chakma community inhabiting the North-western periphery of the park has been utilizing  a large number of medicinal plants from the park area for their day-to-day life. This paper documents the medicinal use of 63 plant species belonging to 38 families in different ailments by the Chakma community in Arunachal Pradesh. It is suggested that the traditional ecological knowledge pertaining to the medicinal plant utilization needs further exploration and warrants recognition of an incentive based community conservation of medicinal plants.

Sekar, K.Chandra and Srivastava, S.K. 2005. Oxytropis immersa (Baker Ex Aitch.) Bunge Ex Fedtsch. (Fabaceae) - A new record for India from Pin Valley National Park, Himachal Pradesh. Indian Journal of Forestry, 28(2): 206-207. Botanical Survey of India, Northern Circle, Dehradun, Uttaranchal. [LAHAUL-SPITI; PIN VALLEY NATIONAL PARK]

Oxytropis immersa (Baker ex Aitch.) Bunge ex Fedtsch. (Fabaceae) is described as a new record for India from Pin Valley National Park, Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh.

Khirk (Celtis australis Linn.) is an important multipurpose tree species, which has a great potential in social/ agroforestry practices in the North-Western Himalaya. Since seed regeneration is a problem, rooting cutting is one of the options for carrying mass multiplication programme in this valuable species. Experiments were therefore conducted to ascertain the effects of donor stage, pre-conditioning (girdling), cutting portion and auxin treatments on rooting behaviour of Khirk. Auxin IBA in 0.2-1.0% concentration mixed with or without other chemicals (5% sucrose + 5% captan) was used for the treatment of cuttings. The cuttings taken in rainy season (July) and from tree donors performed remarkably better than those taken in spring and pole/sapling stage, respectively. The sub-apical and the girdled cuttings resulted in significantly superior rooting and root quality as compared to the apical and non girdled ones. Further, interaction effect revealed a maximum 90 per cent rooting when girdled cuttings from sub-apical portion were treated with 0.4% IBA-talc formulation in monsoon season.

The present study was undertaken to assess the growth performance of 5 year old Acacia catechu tree under resource constraints (nutrient and moisture) in mid-hill condition of Himachal Pradesh. The results revealed that tree responded positively to the application of nutrient and moisture. The application of fertilizer, irrigation and mulch in combination resulted in an increase of 123 and 162 per cent in CAI and biomass production, respectively over control. The percent increase in foliar macronutrients content- N, P, K, Ca, Mg and S with the application of all resources was recorded to the tune of 26,79,12,13,17 and 15 per cent over control. However, available nutrients content exhibited a decreasing trend. The application of all resources in combination resulted in substantial build up of available macronutrients, particularly N, P and K. The correlation studies indicated that the sub-surface soil nutrient status is an important factor governing the growth performance and nutrient content of tree species.

The present study was conducted to find the mean age at menarche in two different caste group i.e. Brahmins and Rajputs and to study the rituals, taboos, social restrictions, health problems and nutrition observed during the menstrual period. The sample for the research comprised of 50 Brahmin girls and 50 Rajput girls in the age group of 9-15 years from different rural areas of Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir State). Purposive sampling technique was used to select the sample. Status quo medhod and interview schedule was used for data collection. The results reveal that the mean age at menarche in Brahmin girls were 13.857 ± 0.0125 and the Rajput girls is 13.859 ± 0.0125. Majority of the girls belonging to both the caste group felt bad at the time of menarche and they faced painful menstrual periods. There are no restrictions in eating but they avoid sour foods. It was found that the girls of both the communities follow certain beliefs like avoid going to kitchen and temples, separate utensils, and prohibition from social intercourse. The result showed that the ‘t’ value is not significant therefore there is no difference in the mean age at menarche between the two-caste groups.

Sharma, Praveen Kumar¹; Sethi, G.S.²; Sharma, S.K². and Sharma, T.K². 2006. Ethnomedicinal observations among the inhabitants of cold desert area of Himachal Pradesh. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 5(3): 358-361. ¹Department of Agroforestry and Environmental Sciences, CSK HPKV, Palampur 176061, Himachal Pradesh; ²Advanced Centre for Hill Bioresources and Biotechnology, COA, CSK HPKV, Palampur 176062, Himachal Pradesh. [COLD DESERT; ETHNOMEDICINE; MEDICINAL PLANT; TRADITIONAL MEDICINE]

Seed germination/dormancy status of seven plant species of reasonably high medicinal value from the cold desert region of Lahaul and Spiti (Himachal Pradesh, India), namely Podophyllum hexandrum, Hyoscyamus niger, Indula racemosa, Bunium persicum, Carum carvi, Saussurea costus and Rheum australe was determined. These species are under pressure due to overexploitation from their natural habitats. Seeds of P. hexandrum, H. niger, I. racemosa and B. persicum were completely dormant at harvest. The efficacy of chilling, acid scarification, KNO₃ and GA₃ treatments for germination improvement was tested. The most effective treatments in different species were - P. hexandrum: H₂SO₄/10^-3M GA₃; H. niger: 10^-3M GA₃; I. racemosa: chilling; B. persicum: chilling; C. carvi: chilling; S. costus: chilling; R. australe: 10^-3 M GA₃. The presence of chemical inhibitors in dormant seeds, assessed as the degree of inhibition of seed germination of Triticum aestivum and Brassica juncea was indicated in B. persicum and C. carvi. The seedlings derived from seeds exposed to the various treatments performed well when grown in a glasshouse. The data have implications for conservation and cultivation of the species studies.

Sulphur isotopic study on barite (BaSO₄) mineralization, located about 65 km NW of Dehradun in the Tons valley, Lesser Himalaya, has shown that ä³⁴S values of barite vary from +26.5 to +29.5%. The data, coupled with earlier published abnormally high value of ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr in barite (0.720448 to 0.728637), have demonstrated that sulphur was derived from Proterozoic sea water and Ba was obtained from the radiogenic crustal source. These isotopic signatures suggest mixing of sea water sulphate with Ba-carrying crustal fluid for barite formation, with its initial, deposition linked to diagenesis of the host rocks.

Seeds of Celtis australis were collected from 13 different sources, ranging from 550 to 1980 masl, in Central Himalaya, India. Significant (p = 0.05) variations were observed for seed traits among provenances. However, among various characters, seed weight exhibited maximum variation between seed populations compared to other morphological characters. Between provenances, seed weight ranged from 47.8 to 83.1 g/1000 seed, with mean value of 66.9 ± 10.7 g/1000 seed. Significant (p = 0.01) positive correlation was found between morphological characters of seeds including seed weight and elevational range of seed source. For one year old seedlings, average shoot and root growth was 61.1 ± 13.3 and 30.5 ± 5.4 cm, respectively, irrespective of provenance variation. Inter-comparing biomass yield of the seedlings with altitude, average biomass production was 8.4 ± 2.5, 9.4 ± 3.3 and 12.7 ± 1.7 g/plant, respectively, for low (550-1000 masl), middle (1050-1250 masl) and high (1350-1980 masl) altitudinal populations. Significant (p = 0.01) positive correlation between growth performance of seedlings and altitude of the seed source was recorded. Across the provenances, shoots had the highest proportion of total biomass (42.3%), followed by leaves (32.6%) and roots (24.6%). Among various provenances, Badiyargaon, Agroda, Guptakashi, Jakholi, Gajeli, Srinagar and Palampur populations produced heavier seedlings and grew faster compared to seedlings of other sources.

The Indian Himalayan region occupies a special place in the mountain ecosystems of the world. These geodynamically young mountains are not only important from the standpoint of climate and as a provider of life, giving water to a large part of the Indian subcontinent, but they also harbour a rich variety of flora, fauna, human communities and cultural diversity. Despite the abundance of natural resources, most of its people are marginalized and still live on subsistence level. The unscientific exploitation of natural resources is leading to increasing environmental degradation and aggravating the impact of natural hazards. There is a need to evolve new paradigm to restore balance between economic interest and ecological imperatives with due regards to socio-cultural principles.

Singh, M. Romeo and Gupta, Asha 2006. Cultivation and conservation practices of Euryale ferox Salisb. in Manipur. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 5(1): 143-144. Department of Life Sciences, Manipur University, Canchipur 795003, Imphal. [AQUATIC HERB; CONSERVATION PRACTICES; LOCAL DELICACY; MANIPUR]

Clonal variation in rooting ability of branch cuttings of Dalbergia sissoo was studied. Significant variation in rooting percentage, root length and number of adventitious roots was observed in 41 clones of the species. The rooting ability should be included as one of the traits in plus tree selection of the species, which ease the commercial production of superior planting stock of Dalbergia sissoo.

From time immemorial the people of Manipur use Yu for medicine, relaxant and offerings. It is a distilled product of the fermented local rice. The technology of the preparation of Yu is a traditional one and the product is a source of income generation to the poorer sections of people. The technology is amenable for upgradation in a scientific way. Yu is a strong solvent for many important active constituents of medicinal plants, whose actions play a potent role in the traditional medicine. The paper deals with the uses of 12 plant species belonging to 12 families, their mode of action and applications collected from traditional healers.

Deterioration in the fatty acid level of Prunus amygdalus and Pinus gerardiana during infestation with toxigenic strain of Aspergillus flavus was studied. The methyl esters of mixed fatty acids were subjected to Gas Liquid Chromatography (GLC). The number and concentration of fatty acids reduced in the oil of infested sample and some of the peaks disappeared while one new peak i.e. gadoleic acid appeared in the infested sample. This might be due to the microbial conversion of fatty acids. Depletion in fatty acid content under infestation may be attributed to their utilization or degradation into simpler forms. Increase in the conc. of capric acid in P. gerardiana and palmitic acid in P. amygdalus might be due to accumulation of fatty acids produced by the fungal mycelium.

To explore the influence of substrate type on water absorption and leaching loss, leaf litter of a deciduous broad-leaf species frequenting agricultural terraces - Bhimtal (Grewia optiva Dumm. ex Burret.), evergreen broad-leaf-oak (Quercus incana L.), conifers - Deodar (Cedrus deodara Roxb.) and Pine (Pinus roxburghii Sarg.) were compared in a laboratory study. Fresh leaf litter of these species was immersed for 16 days in deionized water at room temperature (~ 23^oC). Samples were taken at 2, 5, 18, 24, 48, 72, 96, 192 and 384 hours. Depending on the species, the litter lost between 10.9 to 39% of initial dry mass, while water absorption value were between 157 to 307% of dry mass. Water soluble substances including minerals (ash) contributed maximum to the mass losses. Bhimtal litter was distinguished by its high water absorption and high mass losses during leaching. In general the conifers (Pine and Deodar) and broad leaved (Oak) trees from natural vegetation had low water soluble substances and exhibited mass losses in comparison to the Bhimtal that grows only on agricultural fields.

Animals are reared under two systems, viz. the sedentary and the migratory/transhumant in Chamba district. The fodder needs of the animals are met through traditional feed resources, but the migratory system of animal rearing is totally dependent on grazing in natural grasslands. The grasslands have been infested with numerous poisonous plants, causing poisoning to animals due to heavy grazing. Some of these poisonous plants are quite fatal and are major causes of livestock mortality and morbidity as veterinary services are not adequately available to provide health cover to all the animals. The farmers have to travel long distances to get their animals treated in the veterinary dispensaries. The farmers have devised their own traditional methods of treating the animals. They possess some knowledge based ethnoveterinary practices and able to distinguish the poisonous and medicinal plants to cure diseases. The communication aims at presenting the traditional animal health management practices used by the farmers with special reference to goat health in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh.

The present study was undertaken in the fishing community of Thanga village of the North-eastern state of Manipur to identify the factors that were contributing to high incidence of water borne diseases. A total of 200 families were asked to recall all the illness prevalent during the last one week prior to the day of recording the data. The results revealed that out of a total of 1254 individuals 132 were reported suffering from water-born diseases such as diarrhoea (34.84%), worminfestation (27.27%), typhoid fever (21.21%) and jaundice (16.66%). The study indicates that low literacy rate, low economic status, unavailability of potable drinking water, ignorance, poor hygienic practices and cultural practices associated with consumption of drinking water etc. were found to be the determinants of high incidence of morbid condition in the village.

The seedlings of 10 Eucalyptus species were grown in pots for about 46 weeks under variable soil moisture regimes. The average transpiration rate during November was 130 g day^-1 plant^-1, which varied significantly among different species. E. urophylla and E. grandis had the highest transpiration rate with 180 and 165 g day^-1 plant^-1, respectively. On the other hand, E. ochrophloia had the lowest value of 65 g day^-1 plant^-1. On an average, the water loss from E. urophylla and E. grandis was 2.0 to 3.0 times more as compared to E. ochrophloia. Almost the same trend was observed for transpiration rate during the month of June. However, value of transpiration rate was higher during June as compared to November. The significant effect of soil moisture on transpiration rate was also observed. In general, higher transpiration was recorded under flooding treatment and the same decreased continuously with decrease in soil moisture. Transpiration rate was closely related with total leaf surface area as noted during both the times observations.

The level of participation in any production or farming activity is considered to be linked to the diversity of economic and other farming conditions in a farming community at any given time. Many expert-designed agroforestry programs are adopted unevenly or not at all by the intended beneficiaries, especially in developing countries, because they are not built on existing experience with adoption of traditional agroforestry systems. The present study investigated the influence of economic and farming aspects on household' adoption of traditional agroforestry, to suggest strategies for further strengthening agroforestry adoption. The study was carried out in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, an Indian state located in the Western Himalaya. The main forms of traditional agroforestry in the study area are the agrosilvicultural, agrosilvihorticultural, silvopastoral, agrohortisilvicultural, hortiagricultural, and hortisilvicultural systems. The survey data were collected with a pre-structured questionnaire in personal interviews with household heads. The extent of agroforestry adoption was found to have increased sifnificantly with increasing crop diversification, agricultural production, food sufficiency, agricultural income, off-farm income, total household income, number of livestock units, restrictions on on-farm grazing, and sale of horticultural as well as forestry tree produce from the farm. The study emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to agroforestry development by integrating agroforestry programs into other economic and agricultural development programs.

Seed collected from two natural populations exhibited significant variation in their performance. Seeds from P₂ i.e. relatively drier, sunny, warm and lighted area performed well over the P₁ i.e. cool, shady, wet and less lighted area. Fresh seeds exhibited lesser germination. Maximum germination (77.83%) attained after 3 months, thereafter there was significant and considerable loss of germination capacity after 6 months of storage. Similarly viability of seed also declined (20%) after 6 months of storage, however, it was not changed significantly after 3 months. Seed showed better germination potential in light than in dark. Further, seeds of B. aristata were found to be facultatively photoblastic rather than the obligatively photoblastic. P₁ and P₂ registered maximum germination (77 and 83%) at 20^oC, however, emergence was highest at 25^oC, followed by emergence at 20^oC. Germination completed earlier i.e. in 12 days at 25^oC in comparison to 34 days at 28^oC.

Tiwari, Lalit and Pande, P.C. 2006. Indigenous veterinary practices of Darma valley of Pithoragarh district, Uttaranchal. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 5(2): 201-206. Pharmacognosy & Ethnopharmacology Division, NBRI, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow 226001, Uttar Pradesh; Department of Botany, Kumaon University, SSJ Campus, Almora, Uttaranchal. [ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; DARMA VALLEY; ETHNO-VETERINARY PRACTICES]

A significant assemblage of trace fossils is presently described from the lowermost quartzite member of Upper Tal Formation, in addition to earlier described trace fossils from Himachal Pradesh. The most common trace fossils described here are Monomorphichnus isp, Dimorphichnus isp., Dimorphichnus isp. A, Diplichnites isp. A, Planolites isp, Skolithos isp, Merostomichnites isp,? Neonereites isp, along with various scratch marks and burrows. The present assemblage could represent the middle to upper part of the Early Cambrian.

A review on the rhododendron conservation effort in the Sikkim and other parts of Indian Himalaya is presented here, with particular emphasis on ecology, baseline assessment, uses, growth studies, ex situ and in situ conservation initiatives. Identification of major gaps and constraints of forestry policy and plans and current practices of rhododendron conservation and managment have been made. The impact of land use and management on the conservation of diversity is analysed and discussed. Species richness and diversity are significantly lower in heavily utilized forest. This study emphasizes that the forest rhododendrons in the habitats are severely threatened. Deforestation is the consequence of the tourist pressure for fuelwood along with other reasons in Himalaya. The degradation of rhododendrons in Himalaya is also due to lack of appropriate policy to guide the legal, institutional and operational development for the conservation. There is a need to implement the conservation obligations by transforming them into regulations in order to make them legally binding.

We report here a 1584-year (AD 420-2003) long ring width chronology of Himalayan pencil cedar from cold arid region in Lahul, Himachal Pradesh. Ring width variations in trees at this site are found to be associated with variations in precipitation from previous growth years' September to concurrent May. Potential of this chronology in developing millennia-long hydrological records is recognized. Strong relationship between the present Himalayan pencil cedar chronology and two Himalayan cedar ring width chronologies prepared earlier from stands adjacent to the present site, demonstrates the utility of tree ring data network of these species in developing robust reconstructions needed for better insight into climate variability in longer perspective in the precipitation-deficient trans Himalayan region.

Geologic mapping and stratigraphic correlation of low-grade Precambrian Lesser Himalayan units using U- Pb detrital zircon dating reveal the existence of a Main Central Thrust (MCT) window and a prominent ductile thrust zone within the Greater Himalayan Crystallines in the Arunachal Himalaya of NE India. The newly discovered MCT window is cut and offset by several active north-trending normal faults extending from southeast Tibet, indicating the fault is no longer active. Ion-microprobe dating of monazite inclusions in garnets from the MCT zone indicates that the fault was active at 10.1 ± 1.4 Ma. Our structural data together with a synthesis of existing geologic maps suggest that the eastern Himalaya is composed of a large thrust duplex with the folded MCT as the roof fault. The total amount of crustal shortening accommodated by the duplex and the MCT south of the South Tibetan Detachment may exceed 500 km, which is probably greater than the amount of crustal shortening across the central Himalaya in Nepal and definitely greater than the amount of shortening across the western Himalaya in Pakistan. The observed systematic variation of crustal shortening suggests that Himalayan crustal thickening and uplift are uneven along strike, which may be in response to the westward decrease in convergence rate between India and Asia during the Cenozoic.