[Environmental Research, G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Research on Biosphere Reserve, Wetlands and Mangroves, Forestry Research, IIFM, IPIRTI, Wildlife Research, NNRMS]
The objective of promotion of research in multi-disciplinary aspects of environmental protection, conservation and development is to advance the scientific understanding and to generate information required to develop strategies, technologies and methodologies for better environmental management. It also aims at attempting solutions to practical problems of resource management, conservation of natural resources and eco-regeneration of degraded areas. Further, the scheme also seeks to strengthen facilities to facilitate research and scientific man-power development. In order to achieve above objectives, research grants are provided in the identified thrust areas to various institutions/universities and non-governmental organisations all over the country.
Under the scheme of Research and Development, research projects are supported through the three programmes viz. Environment Research Programme, Ecosystems Research Scheme, and Action Oriented Research Programme for Eastern and Western Ghats. The Eco-systems Research Scheme emphasizes ecological approach for studying inter-relationship between man and environment. It seeks to provide scientific basis to attempt solutions concerning problems of environmental management Under this programme, research projects are sponsored in multidisciplinary aspects of environmental conservation with emphasis on ecosystem approach particularly on aspects of inter-relationship between man and his environment, consistent with the identified areas. The projects supported under the Ecosystems Research Scheme fall under the broad areas of conservation, management, ecological effects and impacts of human activities on biosphere, climate change and inter-relationship between man and biological resources. The Environment Research Programme covers chemical, biochemical and engineering investigations, technology development for waste minimization, waste recycling, resource recovery, effluent treatment and other environmental studies related to pollution control, monitoring and trend analysis as well as environment resources conservation and management. The Eastern and Western Ghats Research Programme addresses itself to location specific problems of resource management in the Eastern and Western Ghat regions of the country. Under the programme, studies relating to Biodiversity, land use, impact of developmental activities etc are taken up.
During the year, under the Research and Development Scheme, 21 new research projects were initiated, 30 studies were completed and 59 on going projects were reviewed and monitored for their progress. The details of the sanctioned and completed projects are given in Annexures III and IV respectively.
Highlights of some of the completed projects
Under the project on the "Ecology, Status and Conservation Perspectives of Certain Rare Endemic Avifauna of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands" the list of avifauna of the islands with indication of abundance, and exact location of most of them has been updated. Ecological requirement and the various threats to their survival of the three major threatened species, namely Narcondam Hornbill, Andaman Teal and Nicobar Megapode have been documented. Conservation issues relating to the rare and endemic species of birds in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands have been discussed and suggestions have been made for the management and conservation of the rich and unique avifauna of these islands which would help conserve other biodiversity of the region.
Project entitled " Impact of a Man-made Forest in Environmental Conservation and Reclamation of Sodic Soils" was carried out to study the plant community structure, species diversity, population distribution, assessment of productivity, carbon sequestration, energy conservation and the role of organic detritus in soil reclamation . Community structure, diversity, distribution and performance of the species analysed demonstrated that a derelict land can be rehabilitated well under a functional forest ecosystem. Biomass production, carbon sequestration and energy conservation nutrient have been reported to be even better than the dry tropical deciduous forest of the U.P state, however, nitrogen cycling was relatively less efficient. Bio reclamation of sodic soils along with a high diversity of species appears to be more stable and resilient in comparison to chemical treatment of such soils in order to repair the impaired ecosystems.
Under the project entitled "An in-depth study of endemic plants of Kerala – Evaluation of their Status and ex-situ conservation and preservation" an inventory and status report of endemic flowering plants of Kerala has been prepared. Some important findings are:
Two new species of Dimeria R.Br. viz. D. copei and D. kalavoorensis were identified;
Poeciloneuron pauciflorum Bedd., has been rediscovered 70 years after its earlier collection. Detailed description with illustration is provided.
Nathopegia aureo-fulva Bedd. ex Hook. f. has been rediscovered over 100 years after its earlier only collection. The present collection also forms an addition of this species to the flora of Kerala state. Detailed description with illustration is provided.
In the project entitled "Study on Population, Habitat Preference, Feeding and Survival of Blackbuck (Antilope cervicarpa) Balipadar-Bhetnoi Wildlife Reserve of Ganjam District, Orissa" the objective was to study ecology and biology of black buck and to formulate a scientific management plan for conservation of these animals in the unique Balipadar – Bhetnoi Wildlife Researve in the Orissa state. The project findings embody details on distribution, current status, census method, hard structure and social grouping, foraging, resting, territorial and alarm behaviour as well as natality, mortality and movement patterns.
The project entitled "Botanical Insecticides used by the Tribals from Palney Hills, Western Ghats" was undertaken with an aim to evaluate insecticidal properties of plants collected from Palney Hills, Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu. The plant species selected were based on information provided by the local tribal living in the area- the Paliyars and the Pulaiyars. The investigations revealed that Nitex negundo, Zanthoxyllum limnonella, Cassia fistula, Murrya koengii, Trogia involucrata, Andrographis lineata, Sida acuta, Phyllanthus deblis and Plumbago zeylanica species were found to show promise as bio-control agents.
A research project was undertaken to develop a suitable technology for recovery of chromium value from the solid residue generated by chromate plants since the manufacturing units for the production of chromates and the user industries release vast amounts of liquid and solid effluents that affects the environment and cause health hazards to human being. The extent of damage to the soil and water due to the improper ways of solid residue disposal over the years is so large that there is urgent need for the remediation efforts.
Efficiencies in range of 55- 60% for the chromium recovery were obtained at optimised conditions. Because of the disadvantages in the design and operation of the in situ process and ex-situ method was experimented. The findings were;
Scaling up the process upto 10 kg per batch indicated that 45-50% chromium could be recovered and the process was economically viable.
The cost estimate of the process showed that the treatment process using hypochlorite is not likely to cause any loss to the chromate producing industry, as the existing industrial units need to set up simple equipment like hypochlorite generator and reactor, which are rather cheap.
The process has been patented and before transferring to industry, further scaling up 100- 500 kg. per batch may be necessary.
Efforts were made under the project "Studies on eco-friendly termite control management for buildings" at Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee to find out environmentally safe and ecologically compatible termite control methodology in buildings. Various relatively safer pesticides were evaluated for this purpose. It was observed that the:
Alphacypermethrin, Endosulfan, Deltamethrin and Chlorpyrifos were quite effective for soil treatment to control termites.
Two termite-resistant herbal based surface coatings were developed and Indian patents were filed.
A study on "Pesticidal Toxicity to Honeybees and Residues in Honey" was taken up at Haryana Agricultural University, Hissar to devise method of safety for honeybees against the use of pesticides. Eight commonly used pesticides, viz Endosulfan, Monocrotophos, Dimethoate, Oxydemeton-methyl, Phosphamidon, Cypermethrin, Deltamethrin and Fenvalerate were tested for their acute, oral and residual toxicities for two species of honeybees viz. European honeybee (Apis mellifera) and wild honeybee (Apis dorsata). The main findings are given below:
Safety index suggested that endosulfan should be regarded the safest among the pesticides tested under the field conditions for A. mellifera as well as for A. dorsata followed by Deltamethrin and Cypermethrin in decreasing order of safety.
Dimethoate was the most toxic under the field conditions to both the species of bees.
Application of insecticides to the crop in the evening was found to be safer than the morning application.
All 27 samples of honey collected from three different locations in Haryana from 1993 to 1995 showed presence of one or the other insecticides including ogranohophate insecticides (which are considered to be fast degrading).
Persistent studies on flowers of raya (Brassica juncea) indicated that residues of these insecticides were hazardous to bees for at least 20 hours when sprayed on the crop. In the light of this, it is suggested that pesticides should be sprayed on the flowering crop in the evening only and, if possible, after the bees have stopped foraging.
The results of the investigation under the project "Development of electrodialytic water dissociation process to recover acid and alkali from industrial effluent salt solution" revealed that it is possible to develop a bipolar membrane and electrodialytic water dissociation process which have the potential to recover acid and alkali from industrial effluent salt solution like sodium sulphate, acetate, formate and sodium citrate. From the tentative cost calculation, it was inferred that this process has technical feasibility of converting sodium salts present in industrial effluent to obtain the useful acids and sodium hydroxide as byproduct which enable their recovery in the process of waste treatment, the value of which will offset the treatment cost.
The electrodialytic water dissociation process using bipolar membranes has significant potential in a wide range of application areas such as metal recovery, organic acid recovery form fermentation processes and on-site acid/base recycling thus preventing pollution caused by these effluents. It was thus decided to develop a suitable bipolar membrane for eletrodialytic water dissociation process to tackle the industrial effluent problem in most viable and cost effective way.
The Thrust Areas of research were prepared with due consultation with experts, scientists, researchers and the various divisions of the Ministry. An outline of the 21 thrust areas identified are as follows:
Development of biological and other interventions for pollution prevention and control including waste recycling
Development for strategies/technologies for prevention and / or control of pollution
Clean technologies for sustainable production patterns
Restoration of degraded ecosystems
Conservation and enhancement of biological diversity
Development of National Natural Resource Management System for accurate inventory of land water, forests, mineral resources etc. and for monitoring changes in ecological systems
Instrumentation development
Climate change
Development of biodegradable plastic/eco-friendly alternatives
Health and toxicology
Research on Land use and land use changes
Mining
Impact of tourism, religious pilgrimage and development of eco-tourism
Impact of development activities on drinking water resources
Habitat fragmentation, human nature interaction and management of wildlife with special attention to large mammals as well as rural and urban issues related to wildlife
Monitoring and management of hazardous substances
River conservation and aiming to maintain their pristine state
Conservation, enhancement and utilisation of forests and their resources ( excluding the mandate given to ICFRE and GBPHIED)
Research on mountain ecosystems (excluding the mandate given to GBPHIED)
Research on Islands and Coastal Zones
Research on Environmental Legislation/Socio-economic issues
Dissemination of research results
With a view to disseminate the salient findings of the completed research projects, a separate location under the website of the Ministry under the title ‘Research and Development Notes’ has made. The notes under each project provide the salient results of the investigation.
G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development
G.B. Pant Institute Environment and Development was set up at Kosi-Katamal, Almora in the year 1988 by the Ministry as an autonomous institute, to advance scientific knowledge , to evolve integrated management strategies, demonstrate their efficacy for conservation of natural resources and to ensure environmentally sound development in the entire Indian Himalayan Region (IHR). The Institute has made considerable progress in strengthening infrastructures facilities both at the Headquarters and other units of the presently numbering four and located at Srinagar (Garhwal Unit), Mohal – Kullu (Himachal Unit), Todong-Gangtok (Sikkim Unit) and Itanagar (NE Units), so as to promote S&T initiatives for overall development in the IHR. The broad areas of concern include various core programmes, namely Land and Water Resource Management, Sustainable Development of Rural Ecosystems, Conservation of Biological Diversity, Ecological Economics and Environment Impact Assessment, Institutional Networking and Human Resource Development, Environmental Physiology and Biotechnology, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems. Realising the importance of defining the role of S&T in the integrated development in the newly set up state Uttaranchal, the Institute under the initiative of the Department of Science and Technology, New Delhi hosted a workshop wherein deliberations took place under four working groups namely Geo-resources, Bio-resources, Technology and Infrastructures Innovations, and Socio-economic concerns, and the recommendations finalized for implementation.
The problem of water scarcity in the hills both for drinking and irrigation purposes is a matter of utmost concern; towards this end a Community Manual for developing Village Environment Action Plan (VEAP) has been prepared and training was provided to around seventy workers from various support organizations in Uttranchal and Bundelkhand regions under the Swajal initiative further, establishment of a Contour Hedgerow Farming Technology demonstration cum training site at Doimukh in Arunachal Pradesh, under the Appropriate Technologies for Soil Conserving Farming Systems (ATSFS) initiative, and several rounds of training held for the farmers, NGOs and govt. officials have helped to strengthen the efforts of the Institute towards awareness raising and providing a package of practices for supplementing Jhum in the NE region.
Considering the importance of Himalayan medicinal plants (MPs) for sustainable development of the region, the institute developed a practical approach for prioritization of MPs in the IHR. This provides a basis for the identification of sensitive and important MPs for taking up R & D activities. Conservation threats of six important MPs (Aconitum heterophyllum, Podophyllum hexandrum, Nardostachys jatamansi, Picrorrhiza kurrooa, Swertia chirata and Bergenia ciliata) of the Sikkim Himalaya have been assessed and strategies for participatory conservation, propagation and cultivation developed. Also to popularize the cultivation practices of economically important MPs, several farmer-to-farmer exchange-cum-training programmes were organized in the remote localities of Kumaun and Garhwal. The Institute provided technical inputs using posters and through field demonstrations for multiplication and yield enhancement. The Institute organised a National Workshop (Himalayan Biodiversity 2000- Options for Development) to reorient research priorities and the recommendations were formulated for developing innovative and interactive mechanisms to promote participation of common people. The approach paper being developed as an outcome of this workshop would be a guideline for R&D initiatives in the area of Himalayan Biodiversity.
To address the issue of high mortality during laboratory to land transfer of tissue culture raised plants, the Institute identified four bacteria (Bacillus subtiles, Bacillus sp., Pseudomonas corrugata (I) and P. corrugata (II), as microbial inoculants for hardening of tissue cultured tea plants prior to the transfer to open land. These Bacterial inoculations have resulted in enhanced survival (up to 100, 96, and 88%) as against 50, 52 and 36% survival in control plants, in rainy, winter and summer seasons respectively. These inoculations also resulted in plant growth promotion of tissue culture as well as seed raised plants of tea.
Under its initiatives to develop conventional and in vitro propagation protocols for important Himalayan plants, the Institute successfully developed a micro propagation protocol for the first time, for three economically important central Himalayan oak species, namely Quercus leucotrichophora (banj oak), Q. glauca (phaniyat oak) and Q. semecarpifolia (brown oak). Multiple shoots were induced from the intact as well as from the cotyledonary nodes of in vitro germinated seeds; propagation through stem cuttings and airlayering has also been achieved in some oaks. An efficient protocol for in vitro propagation of Thamnocalamus spathiflorus (devringal), an ever green temperate bamboo, through multiple shoot formation form zygotic embryos excised from germinating seeds, as well as from nodal explants has been developed. Further, R&D initiatives to develop micropropagation protocols for important endemic Himalayan medicinal plants are in progress. Improvement in seed germination through various interventions have been achieved in many multipurpose tree species. (e.g., Myrica esculenta, Cornus capitata). Setting up of a Rural Technology Park in the Institute Campus at Katarmal has strengthened the objective of developing, demonstrating and disseminating hill specific technology packages for rural inhabitants of the region. A compendium of useful and low cost hill specific technologies has also been compiled for the benefit of rural Himalayan population.
Realizing the critical value of availability of timely and reliable data in a suitable and easy to use form for the complex Indian Himalayan Region, the Institute has developed a demographic database for the hill districts of entire IHR. Further, under the conceptual framework of Mountain Risk Engineering, the strengths of RS/GIS are being utilized towards investigations of landslide problems along major highways of Sikkim. The continuously operating GBP-GPS reference station and the regional GPS campaigns around it have started giving desired results of tremendous value.
Guidelines for (i) Location planning and site selection for residential buildings, tourist/ commercial complex in hill towns, (ii) Rain water harvesting for irrigation and domestic use, and (iii) Road sector in the Indian Himalayan Region ( Green Roads Concept) which were prepared by the Institute, have been suitably published by the Ministry as Gazette Notifications for possible inclusion in the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 for the information and response of all those likely to be affected thereby.
Research on Biosphere Reserve, Wetlands and Mangroves
Research activities under these programmes are overseen by specific Advisory Committee. During the year, several projects have been sanctioned under the scheme. The list of such sanctioned and completed research projects are given in Annexure III & IV respectively
Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICERE), Dehra Dun
The Council is the premier forestry research organization of the country with the mandate to formulate, organize, direct, and manage forestry research; transfer the technologies developed to State and other user agencies; and impart forestry education.
The objectives of the Council are as follows:
to undertake, aid, promote and coordinate forestry education, research and its application,
to develop and maintain a National Library and Information Center for forestry and allied sciences,
to act as a clearing-house for research and general information relating to forests and wildlife,
to develop forestry extension programmes and propagate the same through mass media, audio-visual aids and extension machinery,
to provide consultancy services in the field of forestry research, education and training and in allied sciences, and
to do other things considered necessary to attain these objectives.
The council has eight research institutes and three advanced centers in various parts of the country to cater to the research needs of different bio-geographical regions of the nation. These are located at Dehra Dun, Shimla, Allahabad, Ranchi, Jorhat, Jabalpur, Chhindwara, Jodhpur, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Coimbatore.
Highlights of the activities undertaken and research findings made by the Council and its Institutes during the year are as follows:
Forest Research Institute, Dehra Dun
A substitute of pectin from Cassia tora seed gum used in food industry was identified. A process of making this substitute was standardized and patent of the some was filed.
Adhesives to be used in plywood industry were prepared from tannins of Uncaria gambier and Acacia catechu.
Methods were standardized to isolate dyes form Shorea robusta (bark), Lantana (leaves) and other species.
Three pure compounds namely ginkgetin, sequoiaflavone and apigenin neohesperidoside (a new compound) were isolated and characterized from the medicinally important Cephalotaxus harringtonii var. harringtonia leaves.
Physical and mechanical properties of timber species, viz., Ailanthus excelsa, Salix alba and Paulownia fortunei have been evaluated and classified for different end uses on the basis of their strength properties..
More than 150 nitrogen fixing species distributed at various altitudes in Himalaya were identified on the basis of the presence of nodules and nitrogenase activity. These species can be used for afforestation/reforestation of degraded sites.
A method for obtaining high yield pulp form E. tereticornis was developed which is more environmental friendly than the conventional ones.
A method was standardised to isolate the bioactive compound 10-deacetyl baccatin-III (.01-.02%) from Taxus baccata needles.
A cheaper adhesive for use in plywood industry was developed from naturally material like CNSL oil.
An efficient and versatile stalk puller was developed to eradicate Lantana weed.
Two implements viz. Knife and aggressive tooth pattern type weed-clearing tool have been developed with improved steel and design.
About 2100 wood samples were examined and identified as received from various Govt. Deptt., public undertakings, CBI/police Deptts.
Short Term Training Courses on more than 10 subjects relating to forestry were oganised during the year in which officials of the Govt. of India, the state forest departments, public sector undertakings as well as representatives from various industries participated.
Transfer of Technology on wood bending though NRDC, New Delhi was effected.
Training courses on ‘Trap Tree Operation’ for control of Sal borer for State Forest Department officials, (short term course) were organised and attended by 300 officers.
The technology of production of katha fom Uncaria gambier was sold to the following industries:
M/s Mantu Khair Industries Rangia, Assam – 10.00 lakh.
M/s Shiv Shakti Industries, Hanuman Garh, ( Rajasthan) – 10.00 lakh.
M/s TVL Hi-Tech polymers Pvt. Ltd., Dehra Dun – 10.00 lakh
M/s T.K Products Ltd. Ltd., Tilak Bazar, New Delhi – 05.00 lakh
A technology to prepare alpha-cellulose ( purity 99.5%, brightness> 80%) of different degree of polymerisation ( 800-3000) was developed for Gujrat Alkali & Chemicals Ltd., Vadodara.
Institute of Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding, Coimbatore
The protocol for micro-propagation of Oxytenanthera stocksii a bench scale production using macro- proliferation methods has been developed and sent to NRDC for patent assistance.
The putative hybrids of E. citriodora and E. torelliana have been successfully micropropagated using axillary buds.
Regeneration protocol was developed for E. tereticornis through somatic embryo- genesis and organogenesis from seedling explants.
In Casuarina equisetifolia, caulo-genosis was obtained from mature needles and various seedling explant sources like hypocotyl tissue, cotyledonary leaves and epicotyl tissue.
Micropropagation techniques were adoped for production of quality planting stock in teak using seeds from clonal seed orchards (CSO).
Seed collection, processing, storage, pretreatment requirement, germination methods were standardized for Aegle marmelos, Syzygium cumini, Feronia elephanta and Strychnos nux-vomica.
Various agroforesty models like agri-silvicullture, silvi-horticulture, and silvi-pasture were demonstrated in farmers’ field. The most productive combination of species was Teak-Casuarina, and Casuarina- Moringa.
Information on 17 endangered and endemic plant taxa of Western ghats has been collected as a part of creating a database on bio-diversity.
A technology to prepare alpha-cellulose (purity 99.5%, brightness>80%) of different degree has been developed.
Institute of Wood Science and Technology, Bangalore
Operation of solar drying kilns for longer hours was improved by use of blackened concrete brick, when used as heat sink within the kiln.
Timber pre-treated by simple brush coat of inorganic salt solution on wood was used to improve performance of synthetic enamel paint and polyurethane paint under outdoor exposure.
Reaction parameters were standardized for imparting thermoplasticity to wood.
Wood fibres grafted with maleic anhydride modified poly propylene was used to increase compatibility within polypropylene matrix.
Modification of aroma by simple chemical reactions was taken up for value addition and better utilization of Eucalyptus hybrid oil, which has very limited industrial use. Preliminary screening of four modified products prepared from Eucalyptus hybrid oil in perfumery industry indicated that the products of epoxidation and oxidation are of perfumery value.
Scientific debarking was devised on Jigat leaving one or two strips of bark intact along the trunk of the tree and spraying the tree with insecticide/fungicide. Regeneration of bark (Jigat) was also found to be satisfactory (90%) with least damage to standing trees.
Eight identified provenances of Santalum album are being maintained for in situ conservation in collaboration with respective State Forest Departments.
A method to prevent leaching of colouring matter form Pterocarpus marsupium wood by chemical treatment with either i) CuSO4+K2Cr2 or ii) ZnCl2 + CuCl2 + K2Cr2O7 or iii) CrO3 was devised.
The host range of the cerambycid beetle Batoceta rufomaculata was documented. Ceiba pentandra has been found as a favourable host of this pest.
Standardized physico- chemical conditions for high frequency multiple shoot induction and further multiplication of in vitro differentiated shoots from mature and selected clones.
Ideal size and type of stem cutting, mediam auxin, age of cutting for high frequency root induction for vegetative propagation of Teak was established.
In Eucalyptus tereticornis, macropropagation technique was perfected by using soft leafy stem cuttings, obtained from the stump sprouts of Vegetative Multiplication Gardens (VMG) of eucalyptus.
Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur
Cost effective tissue culture protocol has been developed for Dendrocalamus strictus which is very difficult to root by conventional method of vegetative propagation.
Tissue culture protocols have been developed for Bambusa vulgaris and medicinal plant - Kaempferia galanga.
While analysing quantitative genetic characters in teak, three parents viz., ORPUB-1, ORPUB-4 and ORPUB-5 elite clones were found to be the best general combiners for use in controlled breeding programme.
The first ever progeny trial was established in Albizia procera at Amgagon, Maharashtra comprising 30 families with five replications and ten individuals within families for future breeding population with selected segregates.
By utilizing the idle space in paddy crop and teak plantations, cultivation techniques of paddy- bach and Teak-safed musli have been standardized and extended. These models generate sustainable additional income to the growers without affecting the yields of main crops.
Technological packages for the rehabilitation of coal and iron mine overburdens have been developed and extended.
The time required for the natural eco-restoration of coal, iron manganese and lime stone mined areas has been worked out on the basis of physical, chemical, nutritional and biological characteristics.
For developing effective sink area and green belt in industrially polluted areas, species have been identified, graded and indexed.
Lime kiln pollution tolerant tree species have been screened on the basis of bio-chemical indicators.
Phyto-chemical formulations prepared using different additives and toxic constituents of Jatropha curcas, Parthenium were proved to be effective antifeedant and insecticides against bamboo leaf roller and teak defoliator.
Chemical and bio-chemical characters imparting resistance to teak, bamboo and Albizia procera against their key defoliators have been identified and thereby resistance clones of these species have been selected.
Nursery techniques of Albizia procera, D. sissoo and A. nilotica have been standardised with respect to root trainers, potting mixture, biofertilizers, optimum time of sowing etc.
Integrated management packages for diseases of seeds and nursery have been developed with respect to Tectona gradis, G. arborea and Azadirachta indica.
Vitex nigundo and Cuscuta reflexa extracts have been found to control damping off and wilt of Albizia lebbek and Moringa pterygosporma. Leaf extracts of Marigold has been used to check the growth of decay fungi in wood.
Defoliator and leaf skeletonizer resistant clones of teak, foliage feeder and leaf roller resistant provenances of Albizia and bamboo respectively have been screened and their chemical control methods have also been developed.
Methodology for identifying indicators for selection of potential JFM sites has been developed.
Institute of Rain and Moist Deciduous Forests Research, Jorhat
Documentation of pests associated with forest trees in nurseries, plantations and natural forests of North-east has been completed. It contains various information on the distinguishing characters, distribution, host plants, nature of damage, damage potential, life cycle and control measures of the insect pest.
Works on the control of Calopepla leayana using pathogens, parasites, and predators has been completed.
Studies on the micro-faunal component of litter eco-system and their changes in relation to shifting cultivation has been completed.
A total of 60 phyto-pathogenic fungi have been recorded in different forest nurseries, plantation and natural forest of North-east India. Nine comprise new fungi-host combinations from North-east India and the Scaphidium sp. is a new host in Bambusa balcooa. This record is also a new addition to fungal flora of India.
Various fungicides were tried for the control of leaf blight of D. retusus and A. mangium. Bavistin and extract of Sterostiphnos unitus were found to be effective against leaf blight of D. retusus. Indofil M-45 an extract of Ocimum sanctum were found to be the most effective against leaf blight of A. mangium.
Vegetative propagation of Gmelina arborea through grafting has been standardised through rooting of single nodal cuttings.
Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur
In the agroforestry experiments, 277 stand density per hectare was found optimum for P. cineraria and Tecomella undulata. In another experiment on fodder and fruits species viz. E. officinalis, C. mopane and H. Binata. C. mopane was found to be the best species for fodder and fuel production.
On semi stabilized dune, A. tortilis and Calligonnm polygonoides were found to perform best. Performance of Prosopis juliflora was best only on bare dune.
Quantity of water per irrigation was found to be more important than f frequency of irrigation. Spot method of irrigation with 45 mm of water resulted in 6-9- fold increase in biomass production in E. camaldulensis, A. nilotica and D. sissoo.
Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrizal (VAM) inoculation with the combination of Rhizobium in the nursery was found to be very effective on Acacia nilotica, Albizia lebbek and P.cineraria growth.
Capparis decidua has been investigated for its various biocidal activities and its antifeedant and aphicidal efficacious have been established.
It was found that a farmer can earn Rs. 55,000 or more the fifth year onwords by planting 100 trees per ha of Punica granatum, Zizyphus mauritiana, Carissa carrandus, Cordia myxa and Embilica officinalis (20 each) on his farm land in arid regions.
175 ha of Seed Production Areas (SPA), 55 ha of SSO, 5ha of VMG and 29 of CSO of different tree species have been established in Rajasthan an Gujarat.
In vitro protocol for Ailanthus excelsa and Acacia nilotica completed.
Detailed studies on the bionomics and management of Rohida defoliator, Patialus tecomella have been completed. It was ascertained that the pest belongs to a new species Tecomella under a new genus Patialus and sub-family Cioninae of the family Curculionidae. A checklist containing 64 insect pest species on Rohida, Tecomella undulata including 24 new pest records has been prepared.
Detailed studies on the bio-ecology of insect pests of Prosopis spp. with special emphasis on the management of gall forming insect have been completed. It was ascertained that in lopped trees higher production of pods and lesser formation of galls take place.
Oxyrochis tarandus – a sapsucker was recorded damaging green pods of Prosopis cineraria and P. juliflora in the field conditions for the first time in India.
Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Shimla
Identification of insect- pests responsible for large scale mortality in Chir Pine (Pinus roxburghii) was done and assessment of causes leading to its proliferation was completed.
A planting stock of about 8,000 Entire Tall Plants (ETPs) of Poplars was raised in Paonta Valley under UNDP Programme and distributed amongst the farmers. Under Environmental Awareness Programme, 200 students of 11 different school of Distt. Shimla were taken to the field and apprised of the forestry conservation and related practices.
Institute of Forest Productivity, Ranchi
Established a modern nursery at Mandar near Ranchi.
Technical supports are being provided to the State Forest Departments.
Monthly Lac Newsletter and Annual Lac Bulletins were published.
Centre for Forestry Research and Human Resource Development, Chhindwara
Essential oils were extracted from the medicinal plants e.g. Ocimum, Cymbopogon, Mentha, and fractionated by using different solvent systems.
Locally fabricated low cost mist unit has been developed.
Prophylactic application of phorate 10G @ 50 gm followed by Dimethoate 30 E.C. 0.03% was prepared and found to be highly effective in reducing pest/weevil infestation and enhancing the quality and quantity of Terminalia belirica seeds.
Centre for Social Forestry and Eco-Rehabilitation, Allahabad
For afforestation of waterlogged sodic site, suitable planting technique has been developed.
Efficiency of biofertilizers has been studied on important forestry species (Dalbergia sissoo, Acacia nilotica and Casuarina equisetifolia) at nursery level.
Externally Aided Projects of ICFRE
UNDP-ICFRE Project- Strengthening and Developing of ICFRE
Major emphasis given during the extended UNDP-ICFRE Project was on imparting training and development activities related to women and unemployed youths. The salient features were:
The project covered 126 adopted villages scattered in 22 districts of different agro-ecological zones of the country in 14 States.
The project has increased capacity for adoptive research.
The adopted villages are now greener and tree planting has become an integral part of the farmer’s activity.
ICFRE-IDRC Research Project on Himalayan Eco-rehabilitation
The project was implemented in selected field sites of the north eastern states and western Himalayan region of India and the case studies of degraded lands of different region were taken up.
The following reports have been prepared :
Technical report on Eco- rehabilitation of Himalaya
Report on Socio- economic Survey for Himalayan eco-rehabilitation.
Forest policy and legal frame work in Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and North-Eastern Region of India.
Forest Policy and Legal Framework in Nepal, Bhutan and China.
On conclusion of the project a seminar on "Regional Consultation on Eco-rehabilitation of Himalaya - Sharing of national and local experience" was also organised.
National Oil Seeds and Vegetable Oil Development Board (NOVOD) Project: Development of Neem in various agro-ecological regions of India (FRI: Punjab, Haryana , Western Uttar Pradesh; TFRI: M.P. and Orissa: AFRI: Gujarat; IFGTB: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka).
Results and achievements/progress made under the project are:
Identification of Candidate Plus Trees (CPT’s) : A survey was made by scientists of FRI in various regions in the State of Punjab, Haryana & Western Uttar Pradesh. 453 CPT’s were identified.
Seed collection: Fruits were collected from 453 CPT’s and 16 provenances. Seeds weighing 306.00 kg were obtained from fruits and used for raising nursery stock, exchange programme, chemical evaluation and storage studies etc.
Seed germination : For each CPT/provenance, studies on germination test in the nursery and seed laboratory were undertaken to determine the germination percent immediately after collection. Germination percent in respect of CPT’s varied from 0.5% - 90% during 1999.
Neem Nursery: Seeds were sown in earthen pots, enameled trays and observed for germination percentage, time taken for germination, mean germination time, survival percentage and rate of growth. The germination media used for germination test was river sand. The height growth, and collar diameter growth of Neem seedling from different provenance were recorded.
Vegetative Propagation : For mass multiplication of high oil yielding trees, vegetative propagation techniques have been standardized. Vegetative propagation techniques includes rooting of branch cuttings, rooting of soft wood cutting (nodal) and air layering. Soft wood cutting treated with I.B.A. (Indole Butyric Acid) 1000 ppm, planted in vermiculite media, and kept in Mist Chamber (35oC) gave about 50% rooting.
Pheonological Studies: Phenological studies in respect of trees selected in different agroclimatic zones were also taken up. The tentative conclusion drawn from the results indicate that leaf shedding , flowering, commencement of new flush and fruiting occurs early in drier areas like Agra, Mathura, Aligarh as compared to Hairdwar, Saharanpur, Muzzafarnagar and Meerut areas.
Training & Extension : One Trainers training attended by 33 participant was organized at FRI, Dehra Dun. One farmers training attended by 50 farmers of Gurgaon District (Haryana) was organized at Sohana ( Haryana) during the year.
ICFRE Ford Foundation – Productivity Enhancement Management for People’s Participation
Achievements made under the project are:
A national seminar on "Sustainable forestry through Joint Forest Management.
Productivity yield tables for mahua flowers seeds, and char were prepared and a correlation was established between fruit yield, and crown and tree girth.
A methodology for identifying indicators for selection of potential JFM sites has been developed.
Pisciculture was continued at Raoria alongwith mushroom cultivation at all the site villages.
The results of species trial conducted during the previous years were utilized for distribution of suitable Multipurpose trees (MPTs) to the villagers for planting along the field bunds.
Lac cultivation was continued at both Jabalpur and Sambhalpur sites. Vegetable gardens at Sambhalpur become remunerative.
Ashwagandha and Senoy plant were distributed among villagers. Study of socio-economic profiles was completed.
Studies on gender issues were conducted in all selected villages.
The project is being implemented by ICFRE since September 1995 under the auspices of the National Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development ( NABARD). The project is progressing well in the following four Institutes of ICFRE of four agro-ecological zones.
Hot Semi-arid loamy soils – Institute of Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding, Coimbatore.
Hot sub-humid red black soil - Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur.
Hot sub-humid alluvial soil - Centre for Social Forestry & Eco-rehabilitation, Allahabad (FRI, Dehra Dun).
Hot arid-desert and saline soil - Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur.
Achievements made under the project are:
12 Micro watersheds in 16 villages covering on area of 6600 ha have been selected.
A total of 2,66,360 plants were raised under different agro-forestry models under various pattern.
A total of 22,862 plants have been planted as causality replacement.
World Bank Assisted Forestry Research, Education and Extension (FREEP) Project
Forestry Research, Education and Extension Project Project was launched on 30th September, 1994 with the assistance of the World Bank. Executing agencies are the Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education (ICFRE), the Ministry of Environment & Forest (MOEF), and the States of Himachal Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The progress of important project programmes implemented by ICFRE is as follows:
There are two major sub-components under Research Management
Indian Forestry Research Information System (IFRIS) is being developed. The technical review of all ongoing projects under FREE was carried out by World Bank Supervision Mission. Workshops for Research Priority setting and research advisory group were held at ICFRE institutes, in which current research programmes; research needs of SFDs, ICFRE, collaboration with SFDs, Universities; and research priorities of all the State were discussed. The follow up action on National Forestry Research Plan (NFRP) has been initiated.
Twenty three extension proposals worth Rs. 17.2 million have been sanctioned, and funds worth Rs. 14.40 million have been released so far. Altogether 51 brochures, 13 Newsletters, 20 Bulletins, 24 pamphlets, 8 reports and 26 books have been published.
"The Forestry Research Extension Strategy – ICFRE" has been prepared. A detailed extension programme has been formulated and steps are being taken to implement it.
ICFRE has identified 33 tested technologies out of which 17 tested technologies have been prioritized on the basis of clients demand for extension. A report on technologies developed is being published.
Apart from culling 910 ha area of Seed Production Areas (SPAs), 156 ha of CSO, 340 ha of Seedlings Seed Orchards (SSO) and 52 ha of VMG were established.
One hundred fifty eight Research Programme were Sanctioned to various SFDs, universities and other private sector orgranisation.
A National Forest library and information system at Dehradun and a network involving libraries under ICFRE and related institutes have been developed.
Forestry Statistics India – 2000 was published.
Bio- metrical support was provided to 92 research projects under different institutes of ICFRE.
Indian Plywood Industries Research and Training Institute (IPIRTI), Bangalore
Indian Plywood Industries Research & Training Institute (IPIRTI), an autonomous body of the Ministry is a premier institution engaged in research and training activities on Mechanical Wood Industries Technology. The Institute, over the years has built up excellent facilities for carrying out research in wood based panel materials as well as imparting training to the aspirants in mechanical wood industries to meet the ever increasing Human Research Development (HRD) requirements of wood based panel industry. The results of R&D are being transferred to industry because of its strong linkages with the industry. During the year, 55 industries, including 6 from large/medium scale category, were members of the IPIRTI Society.
During the year the Institute continued to work on the following thrust areas of Research & Development:
Plywood from plantation species with emphasis on developing durable plywood
Non wood composites using bamboo and natural fibres.
Development of sawing techniques and solid wood products from plantation species. Findings of some of the specific research projects are as follows:
Findings of some of the specific research projects are as follows:
Investigations were carried out for assessing suitability of the plantation species Melia dubia, known locally as Malbar neem for making plywood. The species was found suitable for (BWR) grade plywood.
With a view to enhance durability of plywood from plantation species specially formulated phenolic resin adhesives was developed for bonding preservative treated veneers with fixed type preservatives like. Acid Copper Chrome (ACC) and Copper chrome Boric Acid (CCB).
Emission of formaldehyde is considered to be a major/serious environmental hazard and most of the developed countries are very stringent in limiting levels of formaldehyde emission. Institute has made a beginning in establishing testing facilities for quantifications of formaldehyde emission and in touch with BIS for bringing out specifications for formaldehyde emission.
As a continued effort to serve plywood industries the Institute has undertaken studies on extenders suitable for synthetic resins to reduce the cost of resins and also to bring down dependence on petroleum products. Institute has also developed light coloured phenolic resin suitable for decorative and higher grade plywood under a project.
To improve the quality of plywood from plantation species especially to reduce the warping tendency, Institute has developed a prototype veneer tenderizing system to tenderize veneers that can reduce warping of in plywood.
A work on development of solid wood high performance composites like finger jointed and glued laminated wood from plantation species with a view to reduce dependence on mature well known hardwood species is being initiated. In collaboration with Building Materials, Technology Development Council (BMTDC) Institute has established finger jointing facilities for production of finger jointed wooden composites. Eco-friendly preservatives have been developed for protection of wood and wood based composites. On the recommendations of IPIRTI, Terachrome phenol has replaced Pentachloro phenol PCP a banned chemical and appropriate change has been made in the present Indian Standards.
In order to "develop bamboo composite panel material" IPIRTI has developed technologies for layered bamboo mat composites like Bamboo Mat Board (BMB) and Bamboo Mat Veneer Composites (BMVC). This work was registered as one of the Projects around the World at the EXPO 2000 at Hammover as a practical demonstration of implementation of Agenda 21. BMB technology has already been transferred to several entrepreneurs in the country and more recently Institute has entered into MOU with M/s. Super Natural Ply for establishing a production unit for BMB in Maharastra. BMB technology has already been identified by INBAR which has developed Institute Technology transfer for BMB (TOTEMS) in partnership with the Institute.
The Institute has also developed Bamboo Mat Corrugated Sheets (BMCS) suitable for roofing and an eco-friendly alternative to ACC roofing sheet which is at present considered as potential health hazard in developed countries. In collaboration with BMTPC, New Delhi, Institute has developed technology for BMCS. The technology has reached a stage where with slight refinement it can be transferred to entrepreneurs specially engaged in production of BMB. Recognizing the work on BMCS., The Ministry has sponsored a major project for demonstration of technologies of BMCS, and housing of North Eastern regions.
In collaboration with TRADA Tech., UK, the Institute has developed technologies for low cost affordable housing using Bamboo and Bamboo composites in combination with cement. The technology has created lot of interest among agencies involved in housing, and Nirmithi kendras (Building Centres).
During the year, technology for making match stick from bamboo has been developed in collaboration with INBAR. The technology is proposed to be patented jointly with INBAR.
Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal
Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal an autonomous organisation of the Ministry is engaged in the following activities:
Research
Forest Management Education
Training for capacity building
Consultancy
Extension
The Institute continued four research projects, supported by National Agencies and one project by International Agency. The Institute also continued to support seven research projects to various organisations during the year.
(Details of education and training activities undertaken by IIFM are given in chapter 8)
The WII conducts research on the ecological, biological, socio- economic and managerial aspects of wildlife conservation in various parts of the country. The research projects generate valuable scientific data, help evolve study techniques relevant to the Indian ground condition, and also create a group of trained field biologists, socio-economist and wildlife mangers. The scientific information generated is utilized for management of protected areas. Details of completed and on-going research project carried out by the WII are as follows:
An ecological study for the conservation of biodiversity in the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) – FREEP (01.07.95 to 31.05.2000).
A study on the conservation status of high altitude forests in Garhwal Himalaya with special reference to landuse practices and tourism.
Ecology of Gaur (Bos gaurus) in Pench Tiger Reserve.
Ecology of tiger : To enable a realistic projection of the requirements need to maintain a viable population in India.
Ecology and management of problematic sloth bear (Melursus ursinus) in North Bilaspur Forest Division.
An ecological study of sympatric hornbills and fruiting patterns in a tropical forest in Arunachal Pradesh.
Developing a scientific model management plan for a marine protected area (M.G. Marine National Park, Wandoor, Andamans) & draft guidelines for coastal & marine protected area management.
Impact of land use pattern charges in on habitat and ecology of Sarus Crane in the Indo-Gangetic flood plains.
Ecology an resourc utilisation of Hog deer (Axis porcinus) in relation to other sympatric species under various stochastic processes at a landscape level. (PHASE-I: Current distribution range of Hog deer (Axis porcinus) and its status in India).
Ecology of otters in Corbett Tiger Reserve: Impact of Kalagarh reservoir on the habitat use pattern.
A study on distribution, relative abundance and food habits of leopard (Panthera pardus) in Garhwal Himalayas.
Conservation of Indian Wolf.
The relationships among large herbivores, habitat, and humans in Rajaji-Corbett NPs.
Impact of fragmentation on the biological diversity of rain forest small mammals and herpetofauna of the Western Ghats mountains, south India.
Identify potential areas for conserving Biodiversity in the Indian Himalayas.
Evaluating Panna NP with special reference to the ecology of sloth bear.
Establishment of a wildlife forensic capacity at WII.
Development of an Indian Co-operative Wildlife Health Programme and Technical Assistance in WII’s wildlife health programme.
Planning and development of interpretive facilities in selected Protected Areas in India (PAs- Panna & Corbett National Parks).
Management of forests in India for biological diversity and forest productivity- A new perspective
Ecology of the Asiatic Wild dog (Cuon alpinus) in Central India.
Eight research components were conducted at the Field Research Station (FRS) of Leh to strengthen the biodiversity conservation efforts in Ladakh.
The following research projects were also approved during the year:
Impact of forest fragmentation on Hoolock gibbon (Hylobates hoolock) in Assam, India.
The ecology of the leopard in Satpura National Park and Bori Wildlife Sanctuary.
Characterization of species from bone, tusk, rhino horn and antler to deal with wildlife offence cases.
Social organization and dispersal in Asiatic lions.
Conservation genetics of marine turtles on the mainland and island coasts of India.
Developing a Spatial Conservation Protocol for Central Indian Highlands through a Biogeographical Analysis of Birds and Existing Protected Area Network: A Geographical Information Systems Approach.
Diversity and rarity in floral and avifaunal assemblages in the Western Himalaya: A study of patterns and mechanisms to devise viable biodiversity conservation strategies.
Conservation ecology of an isolated population of gaur (Bos gaurus) in Trishna WLS, Tripura.
National Natural Resource Management System (NNRMS)
The main objective of National Natural Resource Management System (NNRMS) is utilization of remote sensing technology with conventional methods of monitoring of natural resources such as land, water, forests, minerals, oceans etc. for attaining sustainable development by addressing the following aspects:
Optimal utilization of the country’s natural resources by a proper and systematic inventory of the resource availability.
Reducing regional imbalances by effective planning and in tune with the developmental efforts.
Maintain the ecological balance with a view to evolve and implement the environmental guidelines.
The Standing Committee on Bio-resources and Environment (SC-B) constituted by the Planning Commission advises on the methods of using the remote sensing technology for optimal use and management of natural resource in the country.
The SC-B had identified 49 priority areas for taking up remote sensing based studies in tune with key environmental and ecological issues of the country. They encompassed forest, grassland, plant and faunal resources, wetlands, land degradation, water and air pollution etc. information requirements for the Man and Bioshphere Reserve Programme and some typical areas like mining, coastal areas, wildlife habitats etc. Out of the above 49 priority areas 23 have been covered so far.
So far SC-B has met 17 times and sponsored 62 remote sensing application projects addressing key environmental and ecological issues such as management of forests, grassland, faunal resources wetland, coastal areas, mangroves and coral resources, land degradation impact of mining and industrialization, river pollution etc. and carried out by Department of Space, Universities, Research Institutions, States Remote Sensing Application Centres etc. 21 projects have so far been completed and remaining projects are in progress.
The potential user agencies for utilizing the outcome/information generated in the projects sanctioned by the Ministry under NNRMS programme are the Central Govt. Departments/agencies. Public Sector Undertakings, State Govt. Departments/agencies and the Ministry of Environment and Forests itself including the various organizations under its administrative control like FSI, ZSI, BSI etc.