[Environmental Research, Climate Change, G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment & Development, Research on Bio-sphere Reserves, Mangroves and Wetlands, Forestry Research, Centre for Forestry Research & Human Resource Development, Indian Institute of Forest Management, Indian Plywood Industries Research and Training Institute, Wildlife Research, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, National Natural Resource Management System]
The Research and Development scheme of the Ministry is a Central Plan Scheme for promotion of research in multi-disciplinary aspects of environmental protection, conservation and development. The objective of the scheme is 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 institution/ universities and non-governmental organisations all over the country.
Under the scheme, three main programmes namely:-
Environment Research Programme
Ecosystems Research Scheme, and
Action Oriented Research programme for Eastern and Western Ghats are included.
The 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.
Environment Research Programme
The 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 environmental resources conservation and management.
Eastern and Western Ghats Research Programme
The 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, 28 studies were completed and 106 ongoing projects were reviewed and monitored for their progress. The details of the sanctioned and completed projects are given in Annexure III and IV respectively.
Highlights of some of the completed projects are given below:
Project entitled "Biodiversity of Earthworms in Arid Zones of Karnataka and their Role in Soil Fertility" surveyed the composition of earthworms in different agro-ecological conditions of the region, to evaluate the conditions necessary for large scale culturing and to study the population dynamics of different species of earthworms prevailing in the area. Attempt has been made to evaluate the role of earthworms in soil fertility. The findings indicated that the earthworm population declined in soils where the water was found to be logging. The earthworm population was found to be increased during monsoon season than winter and summer. Different ecosystems influence the specific diversification, density and composition. Optimum temperature was reported to be between 25 to 30 degree centigrade. Vermi-compost and vermi-biomass production is reported to be enhanced by providing softer organic waste and accelerated by the activities of worm than without worm.
A study on Man-Wildlife Interaction in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and adjacent areas in Kerala was carried out to estimate the population and distribution of animals in relation to season, habitat, water availability and crop patterns. An attempt has been made to assess the pattern of crop damage by elephants, other wild animals and to assess the current status in different land use/vegetation types and to study the socio-economic structure of the settlement in the study area. The study showed a seasonal pattern in the distribution of elephants in different areas and habitats. Higher concentration of elephants had been observed in the bordering areas where dry deciduous forests were utilized to the maximum. Density, herd size, composition and structure of elephants and other animals were studied. Food species of different animals in the study area indicated that elephants in Wayanad were observed to feed on about 97 species of plant. About 92 plant species found to be the food of sambar deer in the area and about 93 of spotted deer. The study has brought out the details of dependence of the people on forest in Wayanad.
In recognition of need for the people to know their flora which is experiencing increasing anthropogenic pressures at an alarming rate, a study titled ‘Supplement to Illustrations on the Flora of the Palni Hills, South India’ was undertaken. Under the project, 273 illustrations of the taxa belonging to broad groups of flowering plants have been prepared and distributed over 87 families. The illustrations are meant to be used by any interested person to recognize plants around him.
A laboratory scale technology has been developed for microbial degradation of sulphate which is discharged in waste water from industries like tanneries, pulp, paper and textile. Various physico-chemical processes adopted till now by these industries are highly expensive and uneconomical. In the present study, an alternative in the form of biological treatment has been developed which is effective as well as economical. In this technology, suphate is converted to sulphide using external organic carbon source by Sulphate Reducing Bacteria (SRB) in Upflow Anaerobic Fixed Film Reactor (UAFFR) under anaerobic conditions. Sulphide is then converted to elemental sulphur by cynobacteria in a down flow fixed film reactor in the presence of light.
Light Engineering Industries, which include plating, produce a variety of solid wastes such as metal scraps and sludges from effluent treatment plants. All these metal hydroxide wastes, disposed on land get leached under various environmental conditions and seep to underground water as well as get dispersed in the soil creating disturbances in the environment and cause serious health hazards. Under the project entitled, "Detoxification of toxic metallic wastes", a technology has been developed to convert some of these metallic wastes particularly those containing Lead (Pb) and Nickel (Ni) into non-leachable form, more or less as close to the one that existed in the nature before use. The present work is based on the wastewater sludge of a plating industry containing. Ni, where the process of stabilization of the Ni component has been developed. Normally the Effluent Treatment Plant sludge of plating industry is a mixed one, containing iron. Therefore, a binary system containing nickel and sludges has been studied. A different process, thermochemical in nature, has been used to reduce the leachability of Ni component to a level that can be disposed off safely. This study gives a guideline for handling the sludge produced by effluent treatment plants.
Emission factors for various opencast mining activities viz drilling, transportation, loading, unloading operations, over-burdened dumps, stock yard etc. have been developed under the project- "Determination emission factors for various Opencast mining operations". Based on the study, a set of 12 empirical formulae have been developed for calculation of Suspended Particulate Matter emission rate from coal and iron ore mining activities separately. With the development of the empirical formulae to calculate activity-wise emission rate, the prediction of air pollution is possible even before the commencement of any mining project and effective mitigative measures can be designed at the planning stage. The results will be useful in decision making for granting permission to exploit coal and minerals with respect to air pollution.
A project entitled "Study of the structure, function and dynamics of the sacred groves of Kerala and their conservation" aimed at studying floristic composition, vegetation dynamics, ecology as well as cultural rituals prevalent in 173 sacred groves from 13 districts of Kerala has been completed. Sacred groves of Kerala in combination of ponds/water bodies constitute a unique network of ecological system. A general survey in 173 sacred groves showed a floristic composition of 411 species of angiosperms belonging to 276 genera and 92 families. Out of the 411 species, 57 species were found to be endemic to Kerala/W.Ghats. Also five endangered species viz. Vateria macrocarpa, Pheanthus malabaricus, Rauwolfia micrantha, Rauwolfia serpentina and Taprobanea spathulata were identified in the sacred groves. The largest family of flowering plant represented in the sacred groves of Kerala was found to be Rubiaceae and other abundant and widely distributed families are Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Annonaceae, Apocyanaceae and Poaceae. Additionally, the sacred groves were found to harbour a large number of gymnosperms, pteridophytes, bryophytes and several mushrooms. The rituals and rites performed in the sacred groves varies with region, caste and patron deity of the groves. "Theyyam"- a form of dance and associated poojas are typically performed in the sacred groves of northern Kerala. The religious and cultural beliefs directly or indirectly promoted sustainable utilization of these natural resources. The project recommended promotion of research and awareness about the roles of sacred groves, called for government support for checking their destruction through possible legislation and proclaiming them as ‘heritage spots’ of the country.
The aim of the Project entitled "Studies for Augmenting Natural and Artificial Regeneration in Sandal (Santalum album L)" was to identify plus trees, study allelopathic properties of host trees on sandal, analyse the sandal’s rhizosphere and to micropropagate plus trees already identified for planting in sandal areas. The sandal tree is indigenous to peninsular India and is highly prized for its globally acclaimed fragrant heartwood and sandal wood oil. The tree is facing extinction owing to wanton felling and poor natural regeneration. In this project, various silvicultural approaches to encourage regeneration of sandal and its subsequent establishment were studied. Early germination was achieved after treating the seeds with Gibberellic Acid (GA-0.05%). Among the various host species tried during the study, Albizia saman improved the growth and development of the sandal seedlings the best. Tending-plot technique and soil-working also increased the germination capacity of self-sown seeds and their growth and development. Nodal segments and flower buds were found to be the ideal explants for tissue culture studies on sandal. Identification of Albizia saman as the ideal host for sandal under this project will be of use to the forest department and farmers who are interested in rehabilitation of sandal growing areas. Presence of alleochemicals in sandal especially phenolics might be a root selective process to inhibit other annuals at initial stages till it could decide a host plant.
Investigations were undertaken in the project entitled "Biological Diversity in relation to Community Ecology of Fishes in River Chittar Western Ghats of Peninsular India" on the river Chittar, an east flowing river. The river has experienced heavy use of detergents and litter contamination. Fish communities in different streams of Chittar river have been studied for food and habitat usage and interaction between co-occurring species. Fish community in Chittar river was found to be represented by 27 species belonging to 17 genera, 10 families and 6 orders. Streams with big water falls recorded low diversity and density of fish species. Among the twenty-seven species, cyprinids were the most dominant group in assemblages. Specialized forms such a Bhavanica australis, Nemacebeilus triangularis were represented in streams with water falls. The study has recommended regulation of pilgrim inflow who use river for bathing/washing purposes which entail harm to aquatic system and the aquatic terrestrial interface.
Arisaemas are popularly known as ‘cobra-lilies’, dragon arums of snail flowers. The genus Arisaema has 15 species endemic to Western Ghats. Under a study on the "Conservation biology of endemic, rare and endangered species of Arisaema in the Southern Western Ghats" , extensive and intensive explorations were carried out in various location of Anamudi High Ranges and Silent Valley National Park. These investigations have helped in locating and identifying eight endemic species viz. Arisaarma attenuatum, A. barnesii, A. peltatum, A. psittacus, A. nilamburense, A. sarracenioides, A. tuberculatum and A. tylophorum. Another significant finding of this study was the rediscovery of four species in the Anamudi High Ranges, which were reported to be extinct in the wild by earlier workers. The species are A. attenuatum, A. peltatum, A. psittacus and A. sarracenioides, An ex situ collection of nine endemic species of Arisaema from the S.W. Ghats has been established at TBGRI. The collection includes about 60 accessions comprising corms, young and adult plants. The project has contributed to filling up the information gaps on taxonomy, range of distribution & conservation status of genus Arisaema in the Western Ghats.
Environment Management Capacity Building Technical Assistance Project -Research Component
The main objective is to enhance competence of the research staff engaged in promotion of environmental research and improve infrastructure facilities with an ultimate aim at providing scientific basis for environment management and economic development.
Important activities under the project are:-
Review of the existing schemes, priorities, procedure for funding, dissemination of the results of research, monitoring etc.
Prepare Environmental Research Management Plan (ERMP) based on the review as mentioned above.
Provision of Hardware and Software for management of information on environmental research.
Training in Research Management and Methodology.
Strengthening of Reference Centres in environmental research.
An Advisory Committee has been constituted to guide and monitor the activities of the sub-components. Administrative Staff College of India, Hyderabad has been appointed as a consultant to prepare Environment Research Management Plan (ERMP). Mid-term review of the progress has been made by the Consultants. The Interim Report of ERMP has been discussed by the Ministry and accepted. The final report of ERMP will be ready soon. The hardware has been tentatively identified and will be purchased after the ERMP is examined.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
India is a party to the UNFCCC. The objective of this multilateral treaty is stabilisation of the greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at levels that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. The convention enjoins upon the parties to implement commitments contained in the various provisions of the convention. As per the existing commitments, India is not required to adopt any reduction and limitation of greenhouse gas emissions. The Kyoto Protocol to the UNFCCC, which is yet to enter into force, enjoins upon the developed country parties to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by a global average of 5.2% below the 1990 levels. The various issues relating to implementation of the obligations under the UNFCCC and development of the modalities, principles, rules and guidelines in respect of Kyoto Protocol Mechanisms were the main focus of discussions and negotiations during the year 1999-2000.
The meetings of the subsidiary Bodies of the Convention viz. Subsidiary Body on Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body on Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) were held during May 31-June 11, 1999. The meetings were attended by the officials of the Ministry of Environment and Forests and External Affairs.
Orchis latifolia, an Indian Hill Glory
The Fifth Conference of Parties to the Framework Convention on Climate Change was held in Bonn, Germany during October 25- November 5,1999. A delegation to the Conference was led by Minister of Environment and Forests, Secretary (Environment and Forests), officials of the Ministry of Environment and Forest and Ministry of External Affairs.
The Conference considered various issues relating to implementation of the commitments by the Parties under the UNFCCC and issues relating to the Kyoto Protocol mechanisms. Among the salient issues discussed under the FCCC were guidelines for preparation of national communications with reference to reporting guidelines, guidelines for technical review of greenhouse gas inventories by Parties included in Annex I to the Convention, compilation and synthesis of initial communications from Parties not included in Annex I to the Convention, development and transfer of technologies, capacity building in developing countries, Activities Implemented Jointly (AIJ) under its pilot phase and land-use, land use change and forestry. The other important issues for discussion included implementation of Buenos Aires Action Plan, cooperation with Inter Governmental Panel on Climate Change.
The main agenda which dominated the proceedings of the Conference was on the Kyoto Protocol Mechanisms inter alia. Clean Development Mechanism (Article 12), Article 6 Projects and Emission Trading (Article 17). Intense negotiations took place on principles, modalities, rules and guidelines relating to above mechanisms. The developing countries emphasised that priority be given to the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) in conformity with the decision at Buenos Aires. The difference in the nature and scope, purpose and participation of the three mechanisms should be kept in constant view, With regard to the CDM it was stated that the host governments can decide whether a particular project conforms to their national sustainable development priorities. They would also be best placed to decide on the choice of areas and technologies for developing the CDM projects. It was further reiterated that the developed countries had fallen far short of fulfilling their commitments under the Convention including insignificant progress towards transfer of technologies and provision of financial resources to the developing countries. The Sixth Conference of Parties, slated in the year 2000, is to take decisions relating to the Kyoto Protocol Mechanisms.
Constitution of Advisory Group and Expert Groups
Constitution of Advisory Group and Expert Groups
With a view to enhance interaction with the Ministries, departments, experts and non-governmental organisations on various issues relating to Climate Change Convention, an Advisory Group on Climate Change under the Chairmanship of Minister for Environment and Forests has been constituted.
In addition, five Expert Groups on specific issues have also been constituted:-
Expert Group on greenhouse gas inventories and scenarios
Expert Group on impacts of climate change
Expert Group on Kyoto Protocol mechanism
Expert Group on transfer of technology
Expert Group on land-use and forestry
'Brahmakamal' Saussure Obvallata (DC) Edgew: a glass house plant of alpine Himalaya
Two meetings of the Working Group on UNFCCC constituted by the Ministry were held on 24th May, 1999 and 14th October, 1999 respectively to discuss the various climate change related issues and issue under UNFCCC. At these meetings issues before the Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC and areas of work requiring further work inter alia Clean Development Mechanism, Emission Trading and Article 6 projects under the Kyoto Protocol to UNFCCC were discussed.
Selected Options for Stabilizing Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Sustainable Development
The ministry initiated a two year study on ‘Selected options for stabilizing greenhouse gas emissions for sustainable development’. The project has been undertaken under the aegis of the United Nations Development Programme and has been funded by the Global Environment Facility. The purpose of the project is to assist India in identifying and assessing investment projects and related institutional and policy options for stabilizing greenhouse gas emissions and is intended to lead to increased transfer of advanced technologies and investment funds by identifying sector specific project initiatives.
A National Steering Committee (NSC) under the Chairmanship of the Member (Environment), Planning Commission with representative from Ministries of Finance, Environment, Power, Coal, Science & Technology, Non Conventional Energy Sources and UNDP oversees the implementation of the project. The first meeting of the NSC was held on August 17th, 1999 and discussed the plan of implementation and other issues in the sectors such as Coal, Power and renewable energy with reference to options for stabilisation of greenhouse gases.
A cross sectoral workshop for developing project options for stabilising greenhouse gas emission for sustainable development was organised during November 10-11, 1999 in New Delhi with a view to apprise the participants of the various aspects, issues and requirements for implementing the project.
G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development
In the year 1988, the Ministry set up the G.B.Pant Institute of Environment and Development 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 efforts to strengthen infrastructure facilities at the Head Quarters and at the Institute Units, presently numbering four and located at Srinagar (Garhwal Unit), Mohal-Kallu (Himanchal Unit), Tadong-Gangtok (Sikkim Unit) and Itanagar (North East Unit), so as to promote S&T initiatives for overall development of the IHR and its inhabitants. Realizing the importance of documenting and building up the existing indigenous knowledge base of the region, the Institute has initiated a new Core Programme - Indigenous Knowledge System (IKS).
Rheum nobile Hook f. & Thomson - a glass house plant used as vegetable in alpine Sikkim
The Institute made integrated efforts for strengthening the watershed management initiatives in the Himalaya Phase II of the programme in Sikkim Himalaya has identified cardamom based agroforestry system as most efficient for checking the surface runoff. In Garhwal Himalaya hydro-meterological monitoring of two watersheds has been completed. Impact assessment studies suggested that tangible and intangible benefits accrued from the project implementation and encouraged the local population for active participation in the programme. The Institute also provided technical support for the formulation of Shiwalik Watershed Development Strategy, Uttar Pradesh.
Extension of appropriate soil conserving farming technology package to Arunchal Pradesh, monitoring of ecological and economic efficiency of rehabilitation models in Garhwal Himalaya and investigations on natural resources utilization patterns in selected areas of Kumaun and Himachal Pradesh have addressed the issues related to local development and dissemination of technology packages to rural populace in the region.
Inventory of bamboo and cane species used by the Apatani tribes of Aruranchal Pradesh, medicinal plants of Kanawar Wildlife Sanctuary (HP), and family Apiaceae in the Himalaya, further enriched the database on Bioresource Inventory of the Himalaya.
Systematic investigations on conventional and in vitro propagation of selected multipurpose, medicinal or otherwise important Himalayan plants have resulted in development of propagation packages for mass multiplication and eventual dissemination of technology. Involvement of students and teachers in ongoing programme on "People’s participation in Biodiversity Conservation" has been further improved, and the initiative has generated enthusiastic response. Likewise, farmers training programme on medicinal plant cultivation in the buffer zone villages of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve was conducted to mobilise public involvement at the grassroots level. The ongoing initiative on Badrivan restoration programme was further strengthened and extended in surrounding areas. The Institute also completed an empirical study of development of tribal communities, particularly with reference to Rajis (Van Rawats).
In order to address the issues related in increasing productivity in tea and several agricultural crops of the region, microbial inoculants have been selected. Also, efficacy of nitrogen fixing species (Alnus nepalensis) for improving the productivity of large cardamom (a cash crop) in agroforestry system has been tested. Methodology for estimating canopy structure and removal of Taxus baccata (Himalayan yew), a high value medicinal plant has been developed. Using plant growth substances and other chemical interventions improvement in seed germination of a number of alpine medicinal plants, e.g., aconites kutki and bankakri, etc was obtained Demonstration on simple technological innovations/improvements e.g., polypit, polyhouse, biocomposting, biofencing, protected cultivation, etc, were conducted for betterment of rural people.
'Pitcher plant' Nepenthes khasiana Hook.f. - an endemic plant from Meghalaya
Considering Solid Waste management as an important environmental issue in the region, the Institute has conducted assessment and impact studies on solid waste accumulation due to tourism inflow. An environmental assessment of tourism in Kullu Valley has also been carried out. Based upon the results of environmental impact assessment studies of landslides along Namchi-Vok road allignment, the Institute initiated integrated landslide/gully erosion control interventions in Mamlay Watershed, Sikkim.
The Project Evaluation Committee in its meeting convened at the Institute Head Quarters approved 29 pending project proposals under Integrated Eco-development Research Programme s(IERP) for Himalaya during the year. The Institute also organized various seminars/meetings/workshops in order to disseminate information on research finding to all concerned. Besides, the Institute also hosted various symposia and workshop on specific topics like Role of Plant Tissue Culture in Biodiversity Conservation and Economic Development during the year.
Under capacity building measures the Institute in collaboration with ICIMOD, Nepal, conducted a month long GIS/GPS/RS technology application training for the identified personnel of various Universities and R&D institutions of the region. In addition several on-site training programmes on nursery development plantation techniques and farm based techniques were conducted.
The Institute has prepared guidelines in three important areas concerning the IHR which include guidelines for Road Sector in the IHR (Green Roads Concept) rain water Harvesting for Irrigation and Domestic use, and Location Planning and Site Selection for Residential Buildings, Tourist/Commercial Complexes in Hill Towns. The Institute also hosted the expert committee workshop for the finalization of the Hindi equivalents of technical words related to Environmental Sciences on the request of the Commission for Scientific & Technical Terminology, HRD Ministry, GOI.
During the year, one of the Institute scientists received INSA Young Scientist Award and three others were honoured with Vishist Vaigyanik Puruskar of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. The Scientists of the Institute presented findings of their research in various national and international symposia/conferences. The Institute has also been identified as a lead institution for Himalaya under the Biosphere Reserve Programme of the Ministry.
Bleaching of Porites sp. at Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve
Research on Biosphere Reserves, Wetlands and Mangroves
Research activities under these programmes are overseen by a Specific Advisory Committee. During the year, several research projects have been sanctioned under the scheme. The list of such sanctioned and completed research projects are given in Annexure III and IV respectively.
Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Dehradun
The ICFRE has been created with the following objectives:
to undertake, aid, promote and co-ordinate forestry education, research and its application,
to develop and maintain a National Library and Information Centre 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 service in the field of forestry research, education and training and in allied sciences and
to carry out other related activities to attain the objectives.
The council has eight research institutes and three advanced centres in various parts of the country to cater to the research need of different bio-geographical regions of the nation. These are located at Dehradun, 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, Dehradun
Species specific conservation measures were successfully carried out on about 50 species of different plant groups.
Characterised endemic centres and key areas of conservation for threatened species.
Enumerated rate and threatened ligneous elements for Himalayan and north-eastern region of India, for preparing a treatise.
FRI Herbarium concept note for worldwide web finalised.
1300 wood samples examined and identified for various Departments.
Evaluated clones of Eucalyptus for Pulping and paper making.
Technology of Katha from Gambier, was transferred to the industries through National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) on payment basis.
Methods were standardised to isolate dye from Pirius roxburghii and Populus deltoides bark, to be used to dye silk, wool and cotton with good fastness properties.
Methods development to convert the "dye extracted biomass" compost in short duration.
Trap Tree Operation was evolved to check borer population in Sal forest of U.P. and M.P. The borer epidemic was successfully managed in Thano range, where four lakh beetles of H. spinocornis were trapped and killed in collaboration with state forest department.
Established that superior clones of Paulownia fortunei multiplied 20 times faster by planting rood sprouts than by the conventional methods of planting root cutting per se in the nursery bed.
Recommended Ailanthus excelsa for pencil industry showing that it has got good dyeing whittling behaviour.
Achieved faster of drying rate keeping drying defects well within the permissible limit for Eucalyptus woods.
Patent on copper lignin complex was filed.
Showed that machining properties of densified Paulownia has better performance compared to poplar and is thus suitable for medium class furniture and joinery.
Mixed species model evolved for reclaiming the soil.
Showed that application of Fuadon, with various concentration deoiled neem cake, enhanced plant growth and reduced gall formation in Paulownia fortunei seedling.
Information was collected on socio-economic structure of farm tree growers, farm forestry species, method of sale by producers, harvesting and various marketing charges borne by the farmers, mode of transport and tree growers perception of existing tree harvesting loss etc.
New species Populus illicifolia and P. euphratica were introduced to India.
Standardised methods of germination maximum production of healthy seedlings of Quercus leucotrichophora in the nursery.
Various combinations of seed storage for Ailanthus excelsa and germination capacity.
Developed protocols for the storage of bamboo and Dalbergia sissoo seeds.
Measurement of Tree diameter and broad basel area per sq. meter through Relaskop
Institute of Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding, Coimbatore
Developed technique for finger printing of teak for the first time in India.
Established breeding population for Eucalyptus camldueernsis and Casurina equsetifoli.
Developed controlled pollination technique for teak, tamarind and equsetifolia.
Five clones of Casuarina equisetifolia were identified as promising clones with 50% fibre yield for paper manufacturing.
Six salt tolerant clones of Casuarina equisetifolia were identified for afforestation in salt affected area.
Developed plant regeneration protocol for Eucalyptus tereticornis.
Standardized seed storage condition for Syzygium cuminii and pretreatment for Terminalias strychnos
Established that the spent mushroom beds waste from mushroom industry had potential use as potting media in containerised nurseries. Ratio standardised for C. equisetifolia, Eucalyptus and Neem.
Various agroforestry systems were developed in the farmers field. Casuarina equisetifolia is found to be financialy viable and the economic returns are very high in Casuarina + Teak and Casuarina + Moringa models.
Developed biological control for defoliating beetle Myllorus viridanus through fungus Beaviveria bassiana.
Developed database for some commercially important medicinal plants.
Institute of Wood Science and Technology, Bangalore
Investigated physical properties of Grevillea robusta (silver oak) for use as door shutters, joinery and frames, furniture, turnery and light construction.
Successfully standardised chemical reactions to modify the aroma of Eucalyptus hybrid oil. Three modified oils of perfumery interest were obtained.
Scientific debarking technique developed to minimise damage to Machilus macrantha.
Developed methanol extraction process to increase the yield of Santalins and the red pigment in Pterocarpus santalins.
Technique evolved to extract two new aromatic oils from exhausted sandal wood powder.
Eighty-two timber species, tested for natural durability at Krishna Patnam Coast revealed that Xyliaxylocarpa, Adina codifolia and Garcinia indica performed better in the circumstances.
Technique evolved for commercial preservation of wood specimen by use of cashewnut shell oil.
Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur
Potting media for container nursery for A. procera, A. nilotica and D. sissoo has been standarzed.
Alleolopathic effect of Karanj and neem leaf extract alongwith nitrogen on soyabean was found to be promotary.
Parthenin, major constituent of Parthenium hysterophorous was found to be effective against teak defoliator.
Standardised effective Jatropha curcus seed toxic concentration against teak insect (Eutectona machearalis), and stored seek insect pest of Bambusa arundinacea and Albizia procera.
Oil yield assessed for Cymbropogon martinii inter cropped under Dalbergia sissoo.
Socio-economic suitability of agroforestry species assessed in the selected villages of Jobalpur.
Standardised media for mass multiplication of clonal propagation of Teak.
Formulated a single media for both shoot and root multiplication of Bambusa vulgaris and Kaempferia galanga.
Standardised method for highest multiplication of Dendrocalamus strictus.
Integrated disease management evolved to control nursery diseases.
Species suitability and Suitability Index assessed for the mine overburden area of Malajkhand.
Phenolic activity A. nilotica of various agricultural crops were identified and quantified.
Suitable hedgerow species recommended for alley cropping to sub-humid zones of Central India.
Standardised media for storing neem seed without significant loss of viability.
Documented ethnobotanical important species from central Madhya Pradesh.
Established low cost drum type driers for demonstration in the four selected village of M.P. and two villages in Orissa.
Institute of Rain and Moist Deciduous Forests Research, Jorhat
Control measure developed to overcome the pest colletotrichum on Dipterocarpus macrocarpus.
Field guide of forest insect pest of Northern-Eastern India is in progress.
Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur
Volume tables for irrigated plantations of E.camaldulensis and D. sissoo and above ground biomass tables for neem were developed.
Evolved effective extractive concentration of root, seed, bark and branches of Capparis decidua for aphid, Myzus persicae
Detailed studies on the bio-ecology of Rohida defoliator, Patialus tecomella a gall forming insects of Prosopis completed.
Established that Nuclear Polyhedsosis Virus (NPV) isolated from babul defoliator, Taragama (streblote) Siva, is effective against the pest.
Standardized methods, for Prosopis cineraria to increase the pod production and to minimise the mite incidence.
Developed standardized methods for establishing short culture and long terms sub-culture from mature tree of Ailanthus excelsa and Acacia nilotica.
Medium standardised for rooting of stem culling of A. nilotica and side grafting in A. excelsa.
Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Shimla
Identified new fungus Phytophthora cinnamom in Deodar (Cedrus deodara) and control measure is in progress.
Established seven ha. of Seedling Seed Orchards of Shisham.
Site established for Vegetative Multiple Garden for Shisham.
Institute of Forest Productivity, Ranchi
Developed technologies for improved cultivation of lac.
Developed propagation technology for Bambusa vulgaris, B. balcooa, B. tulda and B. arundinacea.
Standardised nursery techniques for Paulownia and Poplar.
Updated the data on lac cultivation, production and market prices lac in the country.
Centre for Forestry Research and Human Resource Development, Chhindwara
Conducted three Junior Certificate Courses on Nursery and Plantation Technology and 36 trainees were trained.
Conducted Senior Certificate Course on Nursery Plantation Technology and Nine trainees were trained.
Native forest wild medicinal plants used by the tribal of Chhindwara were collected and identified as a source of natural plant products.
Extracted essential oils from Eucalyptus species, Ocimum spp. and Curcuma cassia.
Standardised effective concentration of plant pesticide against bahera seed borer / Weevil Mecobaris terminalae.
Established locally fabricated low cost mist unit.
Evolved micro-plan for Village Forest Committee for State Forest Department.
Externally Aided Projects of ICFRE
UNDP-ICFRE Project - Strengthening and Development of ICFRE
UNDP-ICFRE Project for strengthening and developing of Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education launched with UNDP assistance and aiming at poverty alleviation through enhancement of the contribution of forestry to rural development in India has been completed.
The major achievements are:-
1000 ha of seed production area identified for main spp. like D. sissoo, T. grandis, A. nilotica, C. deodara, G. arborea, Pinus spp., A. indica, Eucalyptus spp., Casuarina, D. macrocarpus, Sandal, Bomboo, Fir spruce, khair, etc.
More than 50,000 candidate plus trees of D. sissoo, G. arboria, T. grandis, S. assamica, P. goalparents, D. ceiba, Acacia spp., A. indica, E grandis, E. tereticornis, Sandal, A. lebbeck have been identified.
198 ha. of clonal seed orchard for important species identified.
More than 22.5 lakhs seedlings inoculated with VAM Fungi and Rhizobia were distributed.
126 villages identified, socio-economic survey conducted and agroforestry plantation raised in these villages based on the preference of the farmers. A video film has been prepared in this regard for extension activity.
Various personnel were trained in the field of advance research in forestry.
Various forest personnels, NGOs, technocrats, etc. were trained in identification and inoculation with VAM fungi and rhizobia.
17,522 farmers, 687 NGO’s, 5700 foresters, 693 students, 486 teachers, 53 fisherman, 674 women, 204 rural unemployed youth have been trained in seed technology and plantation management.
Workshop on Research Methodology and Forestry Research in Conservation of Natural Forests Organised at ICFRE.
ICFRE-IDRC Research Project on Himalaya Ecorehabilitation
Geo-spatial database created for Socio-economic management of mine affected villages of Dehradun, Mussoorie area (Garhwal Himalaya) using GIS technology. Soil resource map pertaining to 501 Top sheet 53 J/3 prepared. A trial fast growing agroforestry tree species of Populus eumaricana conducted in Bhrtarli watershed. Rehabilitation of mine land in Himachal is in progress. Identification and testing of appropriate intervention done in shifting cultivation area in North-Eastern States.
Survey for natural distribution of Taxus baccata, Nardostachys jatamansi and Picrorrhiza Kuroa in U.P. hills completed.
Germplasm of rare and endangered medicinal and aromatic plants maintained and multiplied at Chakrata nursery.
Video films on Non-wood forest produce, Medicinal plant, Food from forest, Oil seeds from forests have been produced.
An exhibition on Medicinal Wealth of Uttrakhand was organised at Dehradun.
A popular pamphlet "Uttarakhand Ki Aushidhya Sampada" was brought out.
Conservation of Indigenous Poplar in India
Extensive survey for occurrence on P. ciliata and P. gamelei in Arunchal Pradesh, Uttarkashi, Gangotri, Harzil, Bhagirathi, Dharli, Almora, Pithoragarh and Nainital, U.P. hill areas was completed.
The project proposal were discussed before the project appraisal committee.
National Oil Seeds and Vegetable Oils Development Board, Ministry of Agriculture, has accorded the approval under National Network on Integrated Development of Neem with an outlay of Rs. 181.75 lakhs.
ICFRE Ford Foundation - Productivity Enhancement Management for Peoples Participation
Socio-economic studies completed in selected sites of Madhya Pradesh.
Stylosanthes hamata and Pennesetium pedicillatum, the preferred species were grown in the identified patches.
Aquaculture initiated in the existing ponds with breeding and rearing inputs.
Marketing established with Forest Protection Committee for better/safe economic return.
Mushroom cultivation extended to many other village.
The Forest Protection Committee were appraised with prevailing market rates to enable them to get better return for their produce.
Workshop conducted to develop the skills of local villagers for sustainable collection of medicinal plant products.
Productivity yield for Mahua flower, seeds and char were prepared to enable the out put and to fix the tentative market rates for the villagers well in advance, for better economic return.
The lac cultivation technique extended to many more farmers.
Distributed vegetable seeds to generated income through vegetable garden.
Various MPT’s were distributed to villagers to plant in farm bunds and homesteads.
Medicinal plant survey of commercially important species was carried out.
Commercially important medicinal species Ashwangandha and Senoy distributed to villagers.
The project is being implemented by ICFRE since September 1995 under the auspices of the National Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and is expected to be completed by September 2000. The objective is to identify and develop different agroforestry model taking a micro-watershed approach and ensure self sustainability of eco-system. The project is progressing in the following four Institutes of ICFRE for different 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.
Hot arid-desert and saline soil - Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur.
The achievements of the project are:
Both primary and secondary level surveys have been completed.
Nurseries at the project sites have been established.
Seeds have been collected from candidate Plus tree. Good quality of seeds of 152.86 kg has been sown to get genetically improved planting material.
Mechanical and biological interventions through construction of check dam/engineering structure, contour trenches, vegetative hedges and other bunds have been resorted for conservation of soil and moisture.
World Bank Assisted Forestry Research, Education and Extension Project (FREEP)
The major achievements made under the project are:
Draft on Human Resource Development (HRD) Plan prepared.
1290 ha. suitable area of Seed Production Area (SPA’s) surveyed. Culling operation in 564.38 ha area completed.
136.40 ha of Clonal Seed Orchard was established.
298.65 ha Seedling Seed Orchard established.
36.07 ha Vegetative Multiplication Gardens (VMG) identified and in 21.86 ha VMG established.
ICFRE has launched website and could be browsed at the URL: http://www.icfre.up.nic.in.
Work on collection and documentation of grey literature has started. State consultant in 18 states have been appointed beside the Chief Consultant at Dehra Dun.
Forest Statistic India, 1996 completed.
Biometrical Support provided to 87 research projects under different Institutes of ICFRE.
ICFRE has identified 33 tested technologies out of which 17 tested technologies have been prioritized on the basis of clients demand for extension.
Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal
IIFM, Bhopal was established in 1982 and is an autonomous organisation under this Ministry. The activities of the Institute pertain to
Education
Training
Research
Consultancy
During the year, the institute continued 21 research projects funded by International and National Agencies. The institute has also completed two case studies taken earlier during the year.
(More details of IIFM for education and training programmes are given on Chapter 8)
Indian Plywood Industries Research and Training Institute (IPIRTI), Bangalore
Indian Plywood Industries Research and Training Institute (IPIRTI), an autonomous Research and Development Organisation of Ministry is a premier Institution engaged in pursuing R&D, on plywood and training activities on Mechanical Wood Industries Technology. The Institute has excellent facilities for carrying out research as well as imparting training to the aspirants in mechanical wood industries, thereby generating human resource for wood based panel industry. IPIRTI is effectively transforming results to the industry in maximising productivity and quality and keeping the industry informed about latest developments.
The R and D activities carried out by the Institute are as follows:
Bamboo Mat Board House
The Institute continued its research activities in developing better technologies for manufacturing quality products from plantation grown timbers. In this direction the Institute is actively pursuing research on partial replacement of phenol and formaldehyde which are main ingredients in PF resin, by natural materials like coconut shell flour, ground nut shell liquid. To enhance the dimensional stability of panels made from plantation timbers and veneer tenderising equipment has been developed and a prototype is being fabricated.
The Institute is currently actively associated with development of products from bamboo which is grown in several states of the country and has successfully developed technology for manufacture of Bamboo Mat Board (BMB), Bamboo Mat Vener Composite (BMVC), Bamboo Mat Corrugated Sheet (BMCS). Efforts are on to enhance labour productivity and quality of bamboo mat composites through some mechanised processing of bamboo in making silvers for weaving bamboo mats which is the main raw material for these composites.
The technology developed by the Institute for BMB has been adjudged to be an exemplary demonstration of implementing of Agenda 21 by an International Selection Panel of World Expo 2000 and the BMB has been registered as World Project for the Expo 2000.
The Institute is collaborating with DC, Handicrafts, Agartala for establishment of Common Facility Centre in North Eastern States and in Kerala under UNDP sponsored Bamboo development project. The Institute is also collaborating with National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad for Development of bamboo laminates for furniture and other structural applications.
The institute is in the process of collaboration with TRADA technology of U.K. for using bamboo and its components in housing. It has also undertaken research and training facilities in "finger jointing" under sponsored project.
(Details of training and extension activities conducted by the Institute are given in Chapter 8)
Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun
The WII conducts research on the ecological, biological socio-economic and managerial aspects of wildlife conservation in various parts of the country. Information/data generated from such research projects is utilized for conservation and management of protected areas. The Training, Research Academic Council, set up by the Institute examines and approves the research proposals which conform to the national conservation priorities. Details of various completed and ongoing research projects conducted by the WII are as follows:
Bird Survey in selected localities of Arunchal Pradesh.
Developing area specific management guidelines for conservation of biodiversity in Satpura Conservation Area, taking into account the forestry objectives and local people’s needs.
Establishing Computerized Wildlife Database for Conservation, Monitoring and Evaluation in Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (ATR).
An ecological analysis of critical sea turtle along the Orissa coast for the development of a scientific sea turtle management strategy.
Impact of land use changes on habitat and ecology of Sarus Crane (Grus antigone) in India.
A study on Pheasant distributions in Arunchal Pradesh, Eastern Himalaya.
Developing a Scientific Model Management Plan for a Marine Protected Area (M.G. Marine National Park, Wandoor, Andamans) and Draft Guidelines for Coastal and Marine Protected Area Management.
Ecology of gaur (Bos gaurus) in Pench Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh.
Impact assessment of tourism in Corbert National Park, Uttar Pradesh.
An ecological study of sympatric Hornbills and fruiting patterns in a Tropical Forest in Arunchal Pradesh.
A study on the conservation status of High Altitude Forests in Garhwal Himalaya with special reference to Landuse Practices and Tourism.
Ecology and management of problematic sloth bears (Melursus ursinus) in North Bilaspur forest division, Madhya Pradesh.
Ecology of tiger to enable a realistic projection of the requirements needed to maintain a demographically viable population of tigers in India.
Research projects with US Fish and Wildlife Service, Phase-II
Evaluating Panna National Park with special references to the Ecology of Sloth Bear
The relationships among large herbivores, habitat and humans in Rajaji-Corbett National Parks.
Identifying potential areas for conserving biodiversity in the Indian Himalaya’s.
Impact of fragmentation on the biological diversity of rain forest small mammals and herepetofauna of the Western Ghats Mountains, South India (Collaborative project between WII, USFWS and SACON).
Development of an Indian Cooperative Wildlife Health (JWHC). Programme and Technical Assistance in WII’s Wildlife Health Research.
Establishment of a wildlife forensic capacity at the Wildlife Institute of India.
Conservation of Indian Wolf.
Planning and Development of Interpretive Facilities in Panna National Park and Corbett National Park.
Collaborative Project with USDA Forest Service
Management of forests in India for biological diversity and forest productivity - A new perspective.
Forestry Research Education and Extension Project
An ecological study of the Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve: An Eco-development Approach.
An Ecological Study for the Conservation of Biodiversity and Biotic Pressures in the Great Himalayan National Park: An Ecodevelopment Approach.
Project Funded by Ford Foundation
Project on "Building Partnership for Biodiversity conservation in Rajaji National Park".
Conservation Genetics of Olive Ridley sea turtles on the east coast of India.
Collaborative project with US Wildlife Service on Development of Interpretive facility in Panna and Corbett Tiger Reserves.
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Cell of the Wildlife Institute of India continued to provide training, consultancy and advisory services to various professional agencies including Government and Corporate organizations.
The EIA training module which was till recently a part of the Postgraduate Diploma Course in Wildlife Management is opened for the first time for the lateral entrants sponsored by State Governments and National State level institutions and universities.
WII provided professional expertise for the assessment of the environmental impact of Teesta Hydroelectric Project, Sikkim. The objective of the study was to assess the impact of the project on biohabitats and the biodiversity of the region.
Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), Coimbatore
The SACON, set up by the Ministry as a Centre of Excellence in the areas of ornithology and natural history designs and conducts research in ornithology covering all aspects of bio-diversity and disseminate knowledge on the subject.
The Centre undertook 26 research projects during the year. The important achievements include sound scientific recommendations for the conservation of the Andaman Teal, Narcondam Hombill and Nicobar Megapode. The Centre also studied biodiversity in fragmented forests and identified species facing serious conservation problems. Success of a conservation programme where local people were an integral part of the scheme were demonstrated. The Centre also studied extend of pesticide condemnation in a few water bodies affecting bird life and anthropogenic pressures in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserves and its effect on some endangered bird species.
National Natural Resources Management System (NNRMS)
The main objectives of the National Natural Resource Management System (NNRMS) Scheme is utilisation of remote sensing technology with conventional methods in monitoring of natural resources such as land, water, forests, minerats, oceans etc. for attaining sustainable development by addressing the following aspects:
Optimal utilisation 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.
During the year, the Standing Committee on Bio-resources and Environmental (SC-B) in its meeting held on 13th August, 1999 recommended 13 new projects to various organisations of the country. The progress of 28 on-going projects is being monitored periodically the committee. Lists of sanctioned, completed and on-going projects are given in Annexure III, IV and V respectively.