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Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology
CON S E R V E
SUSTA IN
USE
2013-14
Contents
GENESIS
To set up an institute for research in arid and semi-arid regions of Gujarat, the Gujarat
Ecology Commission (GEC) signed a MoU with Jacob Blaustein Institute of Desert
Research, Israel in September 1993. Prof. Uriel Safriel, Head- Mitrani Centre for Desert
Ecology, Israel visited Kachchh in May 1994. Based on his expert advice, Gujarat Institute
of Desert Ecology (GUIDE) was established in May 1995 and registered as a public trust
and a society.
MISSION
GUIDE will catalyse the process of ameliorating hardships to
human beings in desert ecosystems of Gujarat, following
sound ecological principles and carefully using scientific
knowledge, imaginative technology and capital.
MANDATE
Focus on desert and arid ecosystems of Gujarat, with special emphasis on Kachchh;
Develop benchmark database for ecosystems of Kachchh and thereafter undertake
continuous monitoring and trend-analysis through specific research activities;
Identify problem areas and evolve appropriate solutions and management
strategies, with the help of applied research;
Formulate and implement relevant projects that would provide models for
emulation;
Disseminate ecological information and communicate action plans to suit local
conditions, through extension and other programs; and
Provide consultancy and training to NGOs, Government officials, corporate sectors
and other natural resource managers, in the principles of ecology, integrated
management and sustainable development.
Director’s Note 1
Infrastructure & Facilities 7
Thrust Areas 11
Projects 12
Collaborations 33
CoHaB – ESR at GUIDE 35
Publications 38
Board of Governors 43
The GUIDE Human Resource 44
List of Dissertation Students 45
1
Director’s Note
Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE),
stepping into its 19th year, continues to
function as a pioneering dryland research
institute striving to address the needs of
community through its research agenda. In
order to fulfill its avowed mandate to
achieve a synergy of science and community
in the field of ecology and environment,
GUIDE has made added progress. The stewardship and unflinching effort rendered by our
Chairman Shri S. G. Mankad, IAS (Retd.) and the Board of Governors of GUIDE are enabling
us to function with vigor and quality over the previous years.
In yet another attempt to acquire global
eminence and to draw worldwide attention
towards Kachchh dryland issues, GUIDE had
signed a MoU with Greenwich University,
UK and initiated a collaborative research
programme on “Ecosystem Assessment of
the Habitats in the Kachchh District -
Planning for Biodiversity and Livelihoods
into the Future” under the UK India
Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI).
Dr. Debbie Bartlett from Greenwich
University and Dr. V. Vijay Kumar from
GUIDE are the Principal Investigators of the project. In this connection, Dr. Debbie Bartlett
from Greenwich University visited GUIDE during the period between 8th and 20th June, 2013.
As part of the collaborative project on “Climate Change and Its Uncertainty” with STEPS
Centre of the University of Sussex, UK, a workshop was organized at GUIDE, Bhuj during the
period between 22nd and 26th October,
2013. Dr. Lyla Mehta and the project
partners; Mrs. Upasona Ghosh, Ms.
Rithika, Shri Shibaji Bose, IMHR,
Kolkata; and Dr. Alankar, SARAI/CSDS,
New Delhi had attended the workshop.
The Scientists from GUIDE also actively
participated in the workshop.
2
Further, ESRC STEPS Centre, University of Sussex, UK in collaboration with CSSP, JNU, New
Delhi organized an International Symposium on “Exploring Pathways to Sustainability”
during the period between 10th and 11th February 2014 at New Delhi.
In this Symposium, a special two hours panel on “Uncertainty From Below” was dedicated to
the collaborative research project on “Climate Change and Its Uncertainty – Below and
Above”. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar attended the Symposium and delivered a talk on “Climate
Change and Uncertainty – Dryland Scenario”.
In yet another event, Sh. R. V. Asari, Director was invited as a resource person in workshops
organised at Gandhinagar by the Regional Centre, NAEB - MoEF, GoI, Mumbai. He delivered
talks on “Framing of Communication Process for Sustainable JFM/FDA” and “Convergence of
NAP & Other Schemes for JFMC and Field Level Staff” respectively on 5th and 7th March
2014.
As a part of the collaboration with CASII, the CoHaB project Early Stage Researchers (Ms.
Iulia Nicoleta Rascanu - Romania, Mrs. Melanie Robin Wattenbarger -USA, Ms. Ruby Rana
and Ms. Holly Jennifer Morgan – Canada) had visited GUIDE during the period between 3rd
November and 1st December 2013.
The researches gained experience
on Diaspora and its linkages with
environment through expert (Dr.
Heena K. Gangar, Dr. Vimmi
Sardarngani, Dr. Lalitha Narayan,
Ms. Judy Frater, Dr. V. Vijay Kumar,
Dr. G. A. Thivakaran, Dr. A.K.R.
Mahato, Mr. M. Laxman and Mrs.
Vidhisha Kannan) lectures and field
explorations to various parts of
Kachchh including Dholavira,
Narayansarovar, Mandvi, Banni and
Rann of Kachchh.
3
In order to strengthen its scientific manpower and to enhance its accomplishment, GUIDE
has recruited a team of qualified and experienced scientists and researchers (Dr. Jayesh
Bhatt, Dr. K. Prabhu, Mr. Sudhanshu C. Mohapatra, Mr. Anil Raghvajibhai, Mr. Ajay Gohil
and Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Ms. Trupti Vaghela, Mr. Ajitsinh B. Gohil, ,
Sh. Ratansi Chaudhury, Mr. Nitul Lal and Sh. Midhun Gopi) with multi-disciplinary
background who would work on different aspects of diverse ecosystems, biodiversity and
livelihood opportunities in Kachchh and other places of Gujarat.
Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj, ever since its establishment in May1995,
has been working steadfastly to address different ecological issues pertaining to arid and
semi-arid regions of Gujarat in general and Kachchh in particular. In continuation of this,
GUIDE has undertaken many new research projects in areas of ecology, environment and
biodiversity. A new collaborative project on “Ecological perspective of Rann of Kachchh:
Studies on physico-chemical and microbial community structure of soil” was submitted to
DBT, New Delhi in collaboration with S. P. University, Anand.
In an effort to fortify the research endeavor of the institute, few research proposals have
also been framed, including the international research proposal in collaboration with STEPS
Centre of University of Sussex, UK.
As a part of its recognition by K.S.K.V. Kachchh University, Bhuj,
GUIDE has jointly undertaken teaching programme of M. Sc.
(Environmental Science) course and the fourth batch of students
passed out in May 2013. A plan to commence integrated master’s
programme with the Kachchh University is also on the avail. A
proposal for Integrated Environmental Biology course was
submitted to the K.S.K.V. Kachchh University for further
processing at Education Department, Gandhinagar. Apart from
teaching, in the areas of research, GUIDE’s scientists have guided
students from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu; Shri
Sarvajanik College, Mehsana and K.S.K.V. Kachchh University,
Bhuj.
GUIDE has been awarded “National Education
Leadership Award” by the Dainik Bhaskar, Mumbai in a
function jointly organized by Dainik Bhaskar group and
Stars of the Industry group at Taj Lands End Hotel,
Bandra, Mumbai on 23rd October, 2013. On behalf of
GUIDE, Dr. G. A. Thivakaran had attended the function
and received the prestigious award.
4
Another significant milestone is guiding of doctoral students by the faculties
of GUIDE. Sh. Nikunj B. Gajera, Project Scientist, has been awarded Doctor of
Philosophy for his thesis “A study on the Avian diversity in drylands of
Kachchh with special reference to their conservation and management” under
the guidance of Dr. V. Vijay Kumar.
The Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat, Ahmedabad has organized one day Round Table
Seminar on “Quality Improvement in Higher Education” on 11th September 2013 at
Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar. The seminar was graced by the Honorable Chief Minister of
Gujarat, Lord Bhikhu Parekh (Chief Guest of Honour), Education Ministers, Industrial
Minister, Chief Secretary of Gujarat, Sh. Hasmukh Shah (Founder Chairman of GUIDE),
Principal Secretary and Commissioner of Higher Education and Vice Chancellors of the
Universities of Gujarat. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar from Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology was
invited for the seminar and he attended the seminar.
Total participants of the seminar were around 35 and they discussed the importance of Pre
University and University education and ways and means to improve the education
standards of the Gujarat State.
Demonstrating their presentation capability, GUIDE scientists and researchers have
attended several national and international seminars and symposia and presented research
papers. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar attended the International conference on “Diasporic Indian
Cinemas and Bollywood on the Diaspora” jointly organized by the Osmania University and
Center for Advanced Studies in India during the period between 22nd and 24th January, 2014
at Hyderabad. Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato participated the International Conference on
Conserving Biodiversity for Sustainable Development and presented a paper titled “Linkage
between Culture and Biodiversity: A Case Study in Chhotanagpur Plateau, Jharkhand” held
at National Institute of Technology, Rourkela on 16-18th August, 2013. Ms. Druma Vaida, JRF
(DST Project) attended a national conference on “Advances in Environmental Science and
Technology” conducted by Central University, Gandhinagar during 25th & 26th Feb. 2014. She
had presented a paper on “Preliminary investigations on biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles
by halo-tolerant bacterial strains from Banni”. She was awarded the Third Prize oral paper
presentation.
5
The 17th Annual General Meeting of the GUIDE Society was held on 24th August 2013 at
12.00 hrs at GUIDE, Bhuj-Kachchh under the Chairmanship of Sh. S. G. Mankad, IAS (Retd.).
Also during the year, three BoG meetings and several Management Committee meetings
were held for the smooth functioning of GUIDE.
Another significant milestone is the
publication initiatives of a book on
“Forest and Wildlife of Kachchh- A
Natural Heritage”. This was
published in collaboration with
Gujarat State Forest Department
and the book was released by the
Honorable Chief Minister of Gujarat
State on 14th August 2013.
A quarterly E-Newsletter of GUIDE titled, “GUIDE.net”, is regularly released to a larger
scientific community. In addition to these, several scientific papers were published in
national (5 Nos.) and international journals (16 Nos.).
The GUIDE laboratory has been recognized as “State Air & State Water Laboratory” by the
GPCB, Gandhinagar on 3rd September 2010 and the recognition is extended up to 2nd
September 2015. The laboratory and infrastructure facilities developed during the previous
year have further been strengthened by adding equipments like Rotary vacuum Flash
Evaporator, Miskin Water Sampler and Soxhlet apparatus from the project grant of DST,
New Delhi. A team of well-trained analysts is working full time and the laboratory is now
poised to undertake a broad range of advanced ecological research envisaging the lab-to-
field approach. Laboratory facilities, besides serving different project requirements also
meet analytical requirements of GPCB, industries, farmers and other NGOs.
Another important recognition to GUIDE is the accreditation by the NABET. Dr. V. Vijay
Kumar (Mining of Minerals – Opencast and Irrigation Projects) and Dr. G. A. Thivakaran
(Ports, harbours, jetties, marine terminals, break waters and dredging) were selected as
Coordinators. Dr. K. Karthikeyan, Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Dr. Rohitkumar Patel, Sh.
Mukesh Koladiya, Dr. Jagruti Sanghvi, Sh. Sudhanshu Charan Mohapatra, and Sh. Dayesh
Parmar were selected as Functional Area Experts in Water Pollution (WP), Ecology and
Biodiversity, Air Pollution and Landuse areas respectively. Further, the accreditation of NABL
is in process.
6
Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Joint Director is promoted to Additional Director.
Dr. G. A. Thivakaran, Senior Principal Scientist is promoted to Chief
Principal Scientist.
A research proposal of Ms. V. Devi on “Assessment of Chemicals and Bacterial
Contaminations in the Ground Waters of Selected Talukas of Kachchh District, Gujarat”
under the Women Scientist Scheme of DST, New Delhi under the Mentorship of Dr. K.
Karthikeyan has been submitted.
Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato was invited as a Resource Person in UGC Sponsored Refresher
Course on “Tribal Studies” organized by Academic Staff College, Ranchi on 24th August
2013.
Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Scientist has attended the training programme on “Traditional
and Modern Approaches in Animal Taxonomy” organized by University of Agricultural
Sciences, Bangalore; between 15th and 29th April, 2013.
GUIDE
7
INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES
C A M P U S
The Institute is spread over four acres of land
acquired from Government of Gujarat, where its
own complex comprising well-furnished blocks for
administration, research, laboratory, academics,
library, meeting hall and a hostel for research
scholars is located. In addition, residential blocks
for scientists have also been constructed within
the premises of the institute which make it
possible to devote more time to their research
activities.
H O S T E L A C C O M M O D A T I O N
The hostel complex has eight rooms of double
occupancy and special double occupancy rooms
to accommodate important visitors. All the
scholars of GUIDE are accommodated in the
hostel. Dining and recreational facilities are
provided in the hostel, which include television,
table tennis and provision for outdoor games such
as volley ball, badminton and cricket.
C O M P U T E R F A C I L I T I E S
Since, computers and relevant software are
essential and integral part for quality research, it
is constantly endeavored to procure new
software and keep the systems updated. The
institute is equipped with ample computer
facilities for storage and processing of research
data including an ecological data base.
8
T E A C H I N G A N D R E S E A R C H
Research activities in different disciplines are in progress since the inception of institute
through its multi-disciplinary team of scientists and research scholars. Apart from the
routine research, GUIDE has also undertaken initiatives in creating ecological models in
grassland restoration, community based mangrove restoration and saline land reclamation.
Further, the Institute has been recognized as Research and Education Centre by K.S.K.V.
Kachchh University, Bhuj and is involved in conducting M.Sc. Environmental Sciences
programme with the university. The institute has modern teaching aids and field research
equipments with appropriate accessories to operate in-house and field programmes.
A N A L Y T I C A L L A B O R A T O R Y
The laboratory facilities at GUIDE meet all the
requirements of Environmental Impact Assessment
(EIA) of terrestrial and coastal areas. Regular analysis
of environmental samples is being carried out for
industrial sectors, local agriculturists and NGOs.
Analysis of all the types of environmental samples
i.e. soil, water (Inland and Coastal), waste water,
sludge are being carried out in GUIDE. In addition,
the analysis of on-site air quality is also done using
sophisticated air samplers.
All the analysis in this laboratory are carried out through
standard methods using equipment such as Atomic
Absorption Spectrophotometer, UV-vis Spectrophotometer,
Flame-photometer, etc., several sophisticated instruments
such as; Repairable Dust Samplers, Stack Monitoring Kit,
Fine Particulate Sampler, Spectro-fluorometer and Ion
Chromatography have also been added recently. With
eminent scientific supervision and skilled technical staff, the
laboratory is running as a self-sustained unit and is
recognised as State Air & State Water Laboratory (First of
its kind in Gujarat) by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board,
GoG, Gandhinagar.
9
H E R B A R I U M & M U S E U M
The institute possesses excellent collection of plant and
animal specimens (especially marine fauna) of Kachchh in
particular and Gujarat in general. In total around 850 floral
specimens were collected and catalogued with phyto-
geographical information. The development of digital
herbarium is in process which will function as a reference
centre for students and researchers.
Extensive specimens of intertidal molluscan shells from Kachchh and Jamnagar coastal habitats are preserved and kept as ready reference materials in the marine laboratory which could be used by different school and college students. Specimen of terrestrial animals from Gujarat is also planned to be preserved and exhibited in the museum, which will cater the purpose of reference materials.
L I B R A R Y & D O C U M E N T A T I O N
A library with a wide range of multi-disciplinary collection of books, reports, and reprints on
arid and semi-arid ecology, different ecosystems, plant and animal ecology, biodiversity,
management techniques, environmental economics, interpretation and education are
available. In addition to reference works and text books on these subjects, a massive stock
of monographs and reprints on ecology, ecosystems etc. is also available. The JSTOR
subscription for a period of five years helps in accessing over 370 international journals in
the fields of Botany, Environment, Agriculture, Ecology, Biodiversity etc. Currently the
reference collection comprises of
over 1,600 books, monographs,
reports, etc., that are now being
computerized for easy review and
retrieval. An important part of the
library services is also envisaged
through computerized database
and literature search facilities,
enabling rapid survey of existing
information on a particular topic.
An amount of Rs. 2–2.50 Lakhs is
spent every year on journals and
books for the library.
10
G I S & R E M O T E S E N S I N G C E L L
GIS & RS facilitate research activities related to biodiversity, land use, soil, and geo-
hydrological regime, Natural Resource Mapping (NRM) and Participatory Resource Mapping
(PRM). The cell is well equipped with GIS software Arc GIS 9.3.1, Cartalinx and Image
processing software ERDAS Imagine 9.3. We are also focusing on Open Source GIS software
like QGIS, GRASS, MapWindow and Multispec. The cell also has database of LANDSAT and
IRS Satellite imageries. The cell has mapped thematic layers of landscape features of Gujarat
in general and Kachchh in particular.
T E C H N I C A L S E R V I C E S
Institute provides various kinds of technical and analytical facilities on soil, water and air to
the academic and research institutes, industries and NGOs. The various services include:
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Marine Environmental Monitoring(MEM)
Environmental Managment and Planning (EMP)
Training programmes on Natural Resource Development and Management,
Biodiversity, etc.
A R E A O F R E S E A R C H
GUIDE’s research activities are linked to the goal of developing it as a centre of excellence in
the study of understanding and addressing ecological, environmental and social problems
and/or issues and promoting sustainable development in arid and semi-arid regions of the
state.
Kachchh LISS- III Satellite Imagery
11
Thrust Areas
RESEARCH & STUDIES
Biodiversity Assessment and Conservation Studies
Desertification and Land Degradation Process
Regional Environmental Assessment and Planning
Socio-Economic Studies for Development Options
Natural Resources Management in Arid and Semi-Arid Zone (Rangeland Ecology,
Agro-Ecology)
Impact of Invasion by Exotic and Introduced Species
Remote Sensing & GIS Applications for Biodiversity Conservation & Environmental
Planning
Coastal Biodiversity and Coastal Monitoring
TEACHING
M. Sc. in Environmental Science (In collaboration with K. S. K. V. Kachchh University,
Bhuj)
B. Sc. in Marine Science (In collaboration with Government Science College, Mandvi).
NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Development and Conservation Options in Rann of Kachchh
Watershed Development and Management
Restoration of Degraded Ecosystems including Grassland, Mangroves, Forests,
Wetlands, etc.
Development Options for Pastoral Communities
Improving the Management of Protected Area Networks
Ecological Restoration of Mining and Industrial Areas
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Environmental Management and Planning (EMP)
TECHNICAL SUPPORT TO ACTION PROGRAMMES
Demonstration of Ecological Restoration Programmes
Technical Support to Non-governmental Organizations and Governmental
Agencies/Departments
12
Terrestrial Ecology Division Projects
Ecological Evaluation of Biota and Provide Conservation and Monitoring Strategies for 1
km Peripheral Area of 1840ha allotted for Infrastructure Development-Adani Ports & SEZ
Limited, Mundra, Kachchh.
Funding Agency: Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd., Mundra Budget: Rs.5, 06,000/- Duration: 1 Year Status: Completed
Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Nikunj Gajera, Mr. Nainesh Patel, Mr. Raushan Raman
Gujarat State Forest Department has allotted 1,840 hectare land to Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd
(APSEZL), near a forest area known as Bharadimata. Due to high ecological sensitivity of the
area, APSEZL approached GUIDE to evaluate the
baseline data and status of 1 km peripheral area of
the Bharadimata and suggest suitable
management and conservation measures for the
area. Based on ecological characteristics, the study
area was divided into three parts namely; natural
vegetation including forest, mudflats and
mangroves. Three intensive field surveys were
conducted for ecological evaluation of the study
area.
A total of 150 plant species including threatened plants like Ephedra foliata and
Commiphora wightii were recorded from the area. Along with plants, 15 species of mammal,
11 species of herpetofauna and 72 species of birds were also recorded from the study area.
The final study report has been submitted.
13
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Third party evaluation on impact of CSR activities done by Surkha (N) Project, GMDC,
Bhavnagar
Funding Agency: Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd., Ahmedabad Budget: Rs. 5, 00,000.00 Duration: 6 months Status: Completed
Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Dr. Nikunj Gajera, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Ajaykumar Gohel, Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Nainesh Patel, Mr. Raushan Raman
Corporate Social Responsibility has become a
worldwide concept whereby organizations
consider the interests of society by taking
responsibility for the impact of their activities
on customers, employees, shareholders,
communities and the environment in all
aspects of their operations. Gujarat Mineral
Development Corporation (GMDC) is engaged
in tapping major mineral resources in many parts of Gujarat. As a part of the CSR activities,
GMDC has carried out various infrastructure development, water conservation, educational
development, employment generation and awareness programs to fulfill the basic needs of
local communities.
GMDC has one lignite mine in operation at Surkha
(N), Bhavnagar. This mine site encompasses an
area of 4690 Ha between Latitude (N) 21° 26’ 43’’
to 21° 43’ 00’’ and Longitude (E) 72° 07’ 30’’ to 72°
16’ 30’’. The capacity of this mine is about 500 tons
lignite/day. From the date of inception, GMDC,
Surkha (N) Project has been carrying out many CSR
activities around the project site, covering 6
villages during the 1st phase.
The task of carrying out 3rd party evaluation of the impact of CSR activities done by GMDC,
Bhavnagar was allotted to GUIDE. A team of scientists and researchers from GUIDE surveyed
the project area to evaluate the impact of CSR activities made by GMDC. The final report of
the project is submitted to GMDC.
14
Preparation of book for Forest & Wildlife of Kachchh district, Gujarat
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Funding Agency: Gujarat State Forest Department, Kachchh Budget: Rs.5, 00,000/- Duration: April 2013-June 2013 Status: Completed
Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Dr. Nikunj Gajera, Dr. Rohitkumar Patel, Mr. Raushan Kumar Raman, Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya
Kachchh is the largest district (in area) of India and falls under Desert Bio-geographic zone of
the country. The district is characterized by scrub and mixed thorn forest with interspersed
grassland with few unique landscapes like saline marshy desert- Ranns, coast, gulf,
mangroves etc. In addition, Kachchh encompasses distinctive geographical, geological,
archeological and cultural diversity.
There are many important wildlife sanctuaries including Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kachchh Bustard Sanctuary, Kachchh Desert Wildlife Sanctuary and Asiatic Wild Ass Sanctuary. Apart from this, the district possesses nation’s 13th Biosphere Reserve known as Kachchh Biosphere Reserve, covering an area of 12,754 Km2. Keeping the importance of forest and its wildlife, and to have a wider publicity, the Kachchh Forest Circle, GSFD assigned a task to bring out a publication on forest and wildlife of Kachchh. The book was jointly published by GSFD, Kachchh circle and Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology, Bhuj.
15
Terrestrial Ecology Division
People’s Biodiversity Register of 10 selected Gram Panchayats of Kachchh district,
Gujarat.
Funding Agency: Gujarat Biodiversity Board, Gandhinagar Budget: Rs. 4, 37,000/- Duration: One Year Status: Completed
Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Nainesh Patel, Dr. Nikunj Gajera, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Ajay Gohel, Mr. Raushan Raman, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Dr. Jayesh Bhatt, Ms. Trupti Vaghela
Biological entities are vital to the human well being and socio-economic development. In view of the importance of biodiversity, Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was initiated, and as a follow up Government of India enacted “Biological Diversity Act, 2002” followed by “Biological Diversity Rule, 2004” to conserve the biodiversity and associated traditional knowledge. As per the Act, every Panchayat, Taluka and District shall have a Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) and People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) aimed at documenting, conserving and managing the local biodiversity and equitable sharing of benefits. Based on the above background, Gujarat Biodiversity Board has sanctioned a project covering 10 Panchayats under 5 Talukas of Kachchh district to GUIDE in September 2012. The main objectives of the project include constitution of Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) and preparation of People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR). The BMCs were constituted and the PBRs were prepared and submitted (English and Gujarati language) to Gujarat Biodiversity Board, Gandhinagar.
16
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Preparatory Phase Evaluation of Watersheds in Gujarat State ( Batch -II & III, IWMP
Programs).
Funding Agency: Gujarat State
Watershed Management Agency
(GSWMA), Gandhinagar.
Budget: Rs 11, 07,000 + Rs. 10, 14,000
Duration: 5 + 5 months
Status: Batch –II Completed,
Batch – III Ongoing
Team: Mr. Prakash Patel (PI), Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Dr. Rohit Patel, Dr. Nikunj Gajera, Mr. Kishan Pandya, Mr. Chaten Senaria, Mr. Sahadev Gadesia, Mr. Ramesh Ahir, Ms. Geeta Goswami, Mr. Raushan Raman, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Ajaykumar Gohel
Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) is a modified programme of erstwhile Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP), Desert Development Programme (DDP) and Integrated Wastelands Development Programme (IWDP) of the Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, New Delhi. The main objectives of the IWMP are to restore the ecological balance by harnessing, conserving and developing degraded natural resources such as soil and vegetative cover. Gujarat State Watershed Management Agency (GSWMA) under the Commissionorate of Rural Development has sanctioned two independent watershed monitoring programs to GUIDE in Gujarat. This is mainly to assess the entire watershed activities in line with DPR and rules and regulation of GSWMA. The Batch – II covered 30 watershed projects implemented in five districts (Patan, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Junagadh and Porbandar) of Gujarat State. The Batch – III covered 26 watershed projects in 4 districts (Porbandar, Jamnagar, Patan and Banaskantha) of Gujarat State. The studies have been completed and final reports are under progress.
17
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Status, Conservation and Management of Tree groves of forest areas of Kachchh district,
Gujarat.
Funding Agency: Training and Research Circle, GSFD, Gandhinagar Budget Rs. 13, 38,000/- Duration: One Year Status: Ongoing
Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Dr. Jayesh Bhatt (Co-PI), Mr. Raushan Raman, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Ajaykumar Gohel, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Dr. Nikunj Gajera , Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya
Tree groves are the patches of forests or natural
vegetation protected by indigenous people
through religious and cultural practices from time
immemorial. Culturally protected forest patches,
the tree groves or sacred groves have been the
integral part of many traditional societies. Studies
highlight that, groves support a good number of
rare and endemic species, persist only in favorable
niches, and the groves are ideal places for them.
The groves can have a greater role especially in conservation of the threatened endemic
biota if restored and appropriately managed. There is a paucity of documentation of the
biodiversity of groves and its conservation and management aspects are lacking in Kachchh
in particular and Gujarat in general. Therefore, it is imperative to study the groves to create
awareness and its protection.
The present study aims to document the tree groves in
Kachchh district; which includes assessment of floral and
faunal composition, spatial distribution of rare, threatened
and endemic species and cultural associations of local
community with the groves. Based on the above, strategies
for conservation and management of tree groves will be
proposed.
The field surveys were completed in Rapar, Bhachau, Anjar, Lakhpat, Abdasa and
Nakhatarna talukas of Kachchh district. A total of more than 200 tree groves were recorded
from the above talukas. Data analysis and final report is under progress.
18
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Biodiversity Action Plan for Mining Areas of Ambuja Cement Limited, Ambujanagar,
Kodinar, Gujarat
Funding Agency: Ambuja Cement Ltd., Ambujanagar, Kodinar, Gujarat Budget: Rs. 24, 50, 000/- Duration: 5 months Status: Ongoing
Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Dr. G. Thirumaran (Co-PI), Dr. Jayesh Bhatt, Dr. Nikunj Gajera, Dr. K. Prabhu, Mr. Raushan Raman, Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Ajaykumar Gohel, Mr. Ajit Gohil, Mr. Nithul Lal
Biodiversity is being increasingly threatened
globally, nationally and locally due to various
natural and anthropogenic factors. Human
activities are placing severe pressure on biological
resources that leads to fragmentation and
degradation of habitats, and resultant loss of
biodiversity.
The commitment towards conserving and managing the biodiversity in and around Ambuja
Limestone mines, an integrated approach on preparation of Biodiversity Action Plan for the
area was initiated by the Ambuja Cement Ltd., Ambujanagar, Kodinar through GUIDE, Bhuj.
The primary aim of BAP is to facilitate enhanced
conservation of biodiversity in and around Ambuja
limestone mining areas and thereby contributing
towards the maintenance of national and global
biodiversity. The BAP provides guidelines for
required actions for conservation of existing
habitats and its species, improvement of habitats
for the species, and appropriate planning and
delivery mechanisms.
The field surveys were completed and final report is under progress.
19
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Technical support for constitution of BMCs and preparation of PBRs by the BMCs in 25
Gram Panchayats
Funding Agency: Gujarat Biodiversity Board, Gandhinagar Budget: Rs. 26, 25,000/- Duration: 1 Year Status: Ongoing
Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Dr. Jayesh Bhatt (Co-PI), Dr. Rohit Patel, Mr. Raushan Raman, Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Ajaykumar Gohel
Biological entities are vital to the human well being and socio-economic development. In view of the importance of biodiversity, Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was initiated, and as a follow up Government of India enacted “Biological Diversity Act, 2002” followed by “Biological Diversity Rule, 2004” to conserve the biodiversity and associated traditional knowledge. As per the Act, every Panchayat, Taluka and District shall have a Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) and People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) aimed at documenting, conserving and managing the local biodiversity and equitable sharing of benefits. For the present project a total of 25 Gram Panchayats located in Mandvi Taluka of Kachchh
district was selected. The project works are just being initiated.
20
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Climate change and Uncertainty from below and above
Funding Agency: STEPS Centre of Sussex University, UK Budget: 14620 GBP /- (Rs. 12, 32,628/- ) Duration: November 2012 to March 2015
Team: Dr. V. Vijay Kumar (PI), Dr. Nikunj Gajera (Co-PI), Mr. Ajay Gohel, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan
Status: Ongoing
GUIDE has initiated a collaborative research programme on “Climate Change and
Uncertainty from Below and Above” with STEPS centre of Sussex University, UK. As part of
this initiative, a workshop was organized between 25th and 28th January 2013 at Ahmedabad
for finalizing a common methodology for the study areas in India.
For the present study, three sites were selected in Kachchh district based on the major
ecosystems and also representing the regions of the district i.e. Agriculture (Kanmer village,
eastern parts of Kachchh), Grassland (Banni region, north-centre parts of Kachchh) and
Coastal (Jakhau village, western part of Kachchh).
A total of 403 households were surveyed
through a structured questionnaire. The
people’s perception revealed that the
temperature has been increasing (up to 510 C)
during the summer season and decreasing (up
to 10 C) in the winter season during the last
two decades. The average rainfall in the
district is found to have been increased
except coastal areas of the district where
rainfall is decreased. It is also found that the
rainfall of the district become very much
unpredictable and the duration between two rainfalls in a season has also been increased.
Because of the uneven and unpredictable rainfall, temperatures, development of the area
and increases in transportation facilities people have changed the cropping pattern from
traditional to cash crop varieties and changes in livestock composition from susceptible Cow
to sturdy Buffalos.
21
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Status and Distribution of Caracal (Caracal caracal) in Gujarat
Funding Agency: Gujarat Biodiversity Board, Gandhinagar Budget: Rs. 17, 19,396/- Duration: Dec 2013 to Nov 2014 Status: Ongoing
Team: Dr. Nikunj B. Gajera (PI), Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (Co-PI), Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya
The caracal, Caracal caracal (Schreber, 1776), is one among the medium-sized carnivores
distributed in arid and semiarid tracts of western part of the country. The rapid pace of
habitat destruction and ongoing anthropogenic activities in the natural areas of this animal
has caused severe impact on the population and distribution of caracal. The arid and semi-
arid tracts of Gujarat are one of the important natural habitats of this animal where its
present status is unknown, data deficient as reflected in the global status, threatened as per
IUCN Redlist and schedule- I species under Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. In Gujarat,
this animal is poorly understood about its population and distribution. So, the present study
aimed to attempt to assess the status and distribution in Gujarat.
To achieve the objectives of the proposed study, two levels of approaches were designed
which include; macro level assessment (the current scenario of the species through
literature survey, reconnaissance survey and questionnaire survey) and micro level
assessment through intensive field surveys and using camera traps.
Field surveys were carried out at 69 forest ranges located in 16 districts of the Gujarat State.
A total of 418 forest officials and 356 villagers/maldharies have been interviewed to assess
the present status and distribution of caracal. Out of 69 forest ranges, only 19 ranges have
confirmed the occurrence of caracal during the past (Before 10 years) while 7 ranges have
confirmed the sightings within last 3 years. The field survey is under progress.
22
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Monitoring of Commiphora wightii (Guggal) Plantation in Kachchh, Junagadh and
Gandhinagar Circle of Gujarat State
Funding Agency: GSFD, Gandhinagar Budget: Rs. 8, 00,000.00 Duration: 9 months Status: Ongoing
Team: Dr. Rohit M. Patel (PI), Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (Co-PI), Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Dr. Nikunj B. Gajera, Mr. Mukesh Koladiya, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Raushan Kumar Raman
Under the promotion and development of Medicinal plants in the wild, National Medicinal Plant Board (NMPB); New Delhi sponsored a project on the large scale plantation of Guggal in Kachchh, Junagadh and Gandhinagar Forest circle. During the period between 2007-08 and 2012-13 over 3500 ha has been brought under the plantation of Guggal.
GUIDE has been assigned the task of monitoring of the plantation, its survival and growth in various locations. The field survey has been completed and final report is under progress.
23
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Forest Resource Survey in the Forest areas of Kachchh District Funding Agency: Working Plan Circle, GSFD, Gandhinagar Budget: 15, 12,000.00 Duration: 18 months Status: Ongoing
Team: Dr. Rohit M. Patel (PI), Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (Co-PI), Dr. Jayesh Bhatt, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Mr. Dayesh Parmar
Plants and their communities are vital resources for the dependent biota including wild animal as well as human being. The working plan circle of GSFD sanctioned a project to GUIDE for the assessment of present status of the floral resources of the forest areas in Kachchh district. The project was initiated in April, 2013. The methodology of this project was in line with the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun. A total of 96 sampling locations were selected for the study. The primary data helps in assessing the density, abundance, diversity indices, species richness and biomass of palatable herbaceous species.
The field work for the pre-monsoon season was completed and the progress report was submitted. Data collection of the post-monsoon season will commence from July onwards.
24
Terrestrial Ecology Division
Angiosperms of Gujarat State (Kachchh, Saurashtra and North Gujarat): Digital Herbarium for Academic and Research Purpose
Funding Agency: Gujarat Biodiversity Board, Gandhinagar Budget: 18, 74,000.00 Duration: 1 Year Status: Ongoing
Team: Dr. Rohitkumar M. Patel (PI), Dr. Jayesh B. Bhatt (Co-PI), Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva
To create the digital database of the floral diversity in the Gujarat
State, the State Biodiversity Board has sanctioned a project on
the digital herbarium of the flora of Kachchh, Saurashtra and
North Gujarat Regions. The Herbarium developed under the
study is expected to serve as a reference center for various
research disciplines of life sciences. The plant specimens will be
authenticated by the Botanical Survey of India.
Over 850 plant specimens were collected from Kachchh region, in
which 250 specimens were submitted to the Botanical Survey of
India, Jodhpur for authentication. Further, 700 specimens were
also digitized. The field work for the collection of angiosperm
species in other parts of the study area is in progress.
25
Coastal and Marine Division Projects
Third Party Evaluation of Mangrove Plantation Carried out Under ICZM Project by Gujarat Ecology Commission for the Year 2010-11 & 2011-12
Funding Agency: Gujarat Ecology Commission, Gandhinagar Budget: 25.88 lakhs Duration: 6 months (Jan, 2013 to June, 2014) Status: Ongoing
Team: G. A. Thivakaran, Dr. G. Thirumaran, Mr. Dayesh Parmar, Mr. Nithul Lal, Dr. Prabhu, Mr. Ajit Gohil, Mr. Mayur Goswami.
Gujarat Ecology Commission (GEC) with the financial assistance of World Bank (WB) is implementing a long term Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (ICZMP) with the active support of Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). The aim of this project is to draw a holistic plan keeping in mind the economic, social and ecological wellbeing of the coastal communities. An integral activity of this multi-faceted plan is to restore and plant mangroves in different coastal stretches of Gujarat. In tune with these aims mangrove plantation to the tune of 15000 ha was planned to be
carried out in different coastal stretches of Kachchh, Rajkot and Jamnagar districts. This
target plantation by different agencies is being co-ordinated by GEC as the State Project
Management Unit (SPCU). Implementation of plantation was through three agencies namely
GEC, Marine National Park (MNP) and Kachchh Forest Division (West).
The major objectives of the project are as follows:-
To monitor and evaluate the Mangrove plantation in a total area of 5335 ha carried
out under ICZM Project by GEC, MNP and Kachchh Forest Division.
To come out with suggestions for mid-term correction in order to ensure better
survival and reduced mortality.
Extent and quality of involvement of coastal communities in the plantation activities
in different sites.
To support State Project Management Unit and Implementing Agencies in better
management of Mangrove plantation activities.
Assisting State Project Management Unit in proper reporting and documentation
26
Developing a practicable model through corporate-community participation for successful Mangrove restoration activities in Kachchh, Gujarat
Coastal and Marine Division
Funding Agency: International Union for Conservation of Nature- Mangroves for the Future- (IUCN-MFF) Budget: 11, 38, 000/- Duration: 18 Months- December 2013- May, 2015 Status: Ongoing
Team: G. A. Thivakaran (PI), Dr. Jayesh Bhatt (Co-PI).
Mangroves are among the
most carbon-rich forests, thus
carbon credit systems may
offer the opportunity to
achieve dual goals of poverty
reduction and protection of
marine carbon sinks. Kachchh
coast in Gujarat has become a
zone for intensive industrial
development. With massive
coastal industrial development,
already reeling under recurrent
drought and poor rainfall and
land degradation underlines
the need to protect and
conserve coastal environment.
There exist many ecological and technological lacunae in mangrove restoration activities
planned in Kachchh coast. Lack of technically skilled work force available for plantation by
industries, least involvement of local community and proper guidance from mangrove field
biologist has led to failure of many projects. We recognize that communities are seeking
ways to generate cash from mangrove forest and other natural resources so, how they can
generate alternative livelihood by planting and conserving mangroves. Character of our
proposed practicable model is to involve all stakeholders including community, industries
and scientific organizations to ensure long term mangrove management and conservation.
27
Proposed model targets long term conservation and management of mangroves by training
local community, creating skilled local work force as a village level community based
organization (CBO) and developing economic opportunities in the current scenario. Model
will help in capacity building and awareness generation among locals for technically sound
plantation, post plantation care, climate change and carbon economics potential of
mangroves. The key deliverables of the project are formation of a duly registered CBO with
the government agency with elected office bearers to manage the activities of the CBO for
mangrove conservation. There will be a facilitating agreement between industry and CBO
for mangrove plantation in a specified area and its post plantation care.
A well prepared plan by CBO for mangrove plantation approved by industry will be carried
out and plantation site will be protected (with survival rate of 70 % maintained for two
years) from any sort of damage. Deliverables also include training and awareness generation
among locals for mangrove plantation, climate change, REDD, REDD+ and economic
potential of carbon sequestered by mangroves.
28
Coastal and Marine Division
Complimentary Mangrove Plantation for IFFCO, Gandhidham
Funding Agency: Indian Formers Fertilizers Company, Gandhidham Budget: Rs 63, 15,000.00 Duration: 16 Months (May, 2013-October, 2014) Status: Ongoing
Team: Dr. G. A. Thivakaran, Dr. Thirumaran, Mr. Dayesh Parmar,
Dr. Prabhu, Mr. Nithul Lal, Mr. Raushan Kumar Raman
Indian Farmers Fertilizer Co-operative Limited (IFFCO) is primarily engaged in production
and distribution of fertilizers. IFFCO plant at Kandla, Gandhidham is constructing a barge
jetty of 120 m × 20 m size with 2 MMTPA capacities. While according environmental
clearance to the proposed jetty, Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), New Delhi has
mandated IFFCO, Kandla to carry out mangrove plantation to the extent of 200 ha in any
suitable coastal stretch in Kachchh coast. IFFCO, in accordance with this ministry’s directive
assigned the task of carrying out the mangrove plantation to Gujarat Institute of Desert
Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj in view of its expertise in mangrove plantation. The task was assigned
to GUIDE during May, 2013. The time prescribed to complete the whole plantation activity
is 18 months from the date of issuance of the work order.
Plantation activity by GUIDE was
initiated during June, 2013 at Sat
Saida Bet of Kandla. To begin with, a
technical team from GUIDE carried
out reconnaissance surveys during
June, 2013 and three potential sites
in the northeast of Sat Saida Bet,
opposite to Kandla Port was
identified as technically suitable for
mangrove plantation. As the chosen
site legally belongs to Kandla Port,
due permission was obtained from
Kandla Port Trust authorities to
carry out mangrove plantation in the chosen site. Mangrove plantation activity was initiated
during the fourth week of July, 2013 at Sat Saida Bet. By the end of April, 2014 a total area
of 186 ha has been completed.
29
Coastal and Marine Division
Marine Monitoring Studies At Vadinar Oil Terminal, Vadinar, Gujarat
Funding Agency: ESSAR Oil Gujarat Limited, Jamnagar Budget: Rs. 9.6 Lakhs Duration: November 2013 – October 2014 (Yearly) Status : Ongoing
Team: Dr. K. Karthikeyan (PI), Dr. G. A. Thivakaran (Co-PI), Dr. G. Thirumaran, Ms. V. Devi, Dr. K. Prabhu, Mr. Nithul Lal, Mr. Ajitsinh Gohil.
Vadinar Oil Terminal Ltd. (VOTL), an ESSAR Group Company located on the Narara Bet on
the southern shore of Gulf of Kachchh (GoK) around 50 km west of Jamnagar has been set
up to import crude oil for the ESSAR Oil Limited and to partially evacuate the products
manufactured in the refinery. The Single Buoy Moorings (SBM) of VOTL is positioned
roughly around 7 km from its berths which enable the authorities to handle super tankers to
download crude oil through pipeline systems to the shore based storage structures.
The berths located in the Pathfinder Inlet provide all weather berthing facilities for product
tankers for loading petroleum products. In addition, the refinery draws seawater for cooling
and other uses from the Pathfinder Inlet and the effluent which is largely seawater used for
cooling and desalination is released through a marine outfall in the vicinity of the SBM.
Realizing the sensitivity of the immediate marine ecosystem and the importance to track
ecological changes to maintain the environmental health in their port area, VOTL authorities
have instituted a holistic study through GUIDE. This study monitors the marine ecological
conditions of the port which will enable them to track environmental changes, if occurring,
in the region due to port activities. As per the assignment, monthly monitoring studies are
being carried out by GUIDE since November 2011. This ecological study encompasses water
and sediment quality, biological productivity, intertidal and sub tidal fauna and plankton at
four stations namely Jetty, SBM, Jetty intertidal and Pipeline intertidal.
Aim and objectives:
a) To assess the Physico-chemical and biological characteristics of water and sediment
samples collected from the four critically identified locations in coastal area of Vadinar.
b) To assess the impact of ongoing activities of EOL/VOTL on marine ecology.
c) To suggest mitigation measures for maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem around the
project site.
30
Coastal and Marine Division
Marine Monitoring Studies at SBM and COT, Bharat Oman Refineries Limited
(BORL), Vadinar, Jamnagar, Gulf of Kachchh
Funding Agency: Bharat Oman Refineries Limited, Jamnagar Budget: Rs. 9.6 Lakh Duration: November 2013 – October 2014 (Yearly) Status: Ongoing
Team: Dr. K. Karthikeyan (PI), Dr. G. A. Thivakaran (Co-PI),
Dr. G. Thirumaran, Ms. V. Devi, Dr. K. Prabhu,
Mr. Nithul Lal
Bharat Oman Refineries Limited (BORL) is a company
promoted by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL)
with equity participation from Oman Oil Company Limited
(OOCL) to set up a 6 MMTPA grass root refinery at Bina,
District Sagar, Madhya Pradesh. BORL located on the
Southern shore of Gulf of Kachchh (GoK) around 50 km west
of Jamnagar has been set up to import crude oil. The Single
Buoy Mooring (SBM) of BORL positioned roughly around 7
km from its berths enable to handle super tankers to
download crude oil through pipeline systems to the shore
based storage structures.
Realizing the sensitivity of the immediate marine ecosystem
and the importance to track ecological changes to maintain
the environmental health in their port area, BORL
authorities has instituted a holistic study to monitor the
marine ecological conditions of the port to track
environmental changes occurring in the region. In this
connection, monitoring of Marine environment task has
been entrusted to Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj to monitor their SBM
and One intertidal zone. In this regard, monthly monitoring studies are being carried out by
GUIDE since August 2011. This ecological study encompasses water and sediment quality,
biological quality, intertidal and sub-tidal fauna and planktons.
Aim and objectives
To assess the Physico-chemical and biological characteristics of water and sediment
samples collected from the 2 critically identified locations in coastal area of Vadinar.
To assess the impact of ongoing activities of COT - BORL on marine ecology.
To suggest mitigation measures for maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem around
the project site.
31
Coastal and Marine Division
Development of Rhizobial consortia for enhancing plant growth in arid and semi-arid regions of Saline Desert, Kachchh, Gujarat
Funded Agency: Dept. of Science and Technology, New Delhi, Govt. of India Budget: Rs. 58.77 Lakhs Duration: 3 Years (2012 - 2015) Status : Ongoing
Team: Dr. K. Karthikeyan, (PI - GUIDE), Dr. Asifa Qureshi, (PI – NEERI), Ms. Druma. M. Vaidya
The microbial diversity of desert regions is
mostly unknown. Thus, the present study is
investigating the novel plant-associated micro-
biota from different arid, semi-arid and saline soil
of the Banni region. This may provide an insight in
future to rehabilitate the Banni region and other
unexplored and barren lands. The present
investigation is based on the hypothesis whether
the association of bacteria present around roots
plays a role to promote plant growth aggressively
and if it is so then whether such indigenous plant
species along with specific bacteria could be used
for afforestation in arid regions of the saline desert.
The present study will address species from arid
and semi-arid regions of the Banni region, where
the microbial flora is expected to be different
with respect to ecological interactions. In
addition, its tolerance to harsh climates and soil
salinity warrant the plant’s consideration as a
possible prime contributor to the development of
the arid regions of India. The proposal is based on
hypothesis to bio-prospect bacterial community
found in association with roots found in desert
environment, for their capability to survive under
inhospitable environment.
32
Coastal and Marine Division
State Air and Water Laboratory
Funded Agency: Gujarat Pollution Control Board, Gandhinagar Duration: 2 Years (2013 - 2015) Status: Ongoing
Team: Dr. K. Karthikeyan (Laboratory In-Charge), Mr. Sudhanshu. C. Mohapatra (Senior Chemist), Mrs. Sudha Mahato (Chemist), Mr. Mayur Goswami, Ms. Anasuya Ravat (Jr. Chemist), Mr. Ratansi Chaudhary (Chemical Engineer)
GUIDE Laboratory is now capable of performing all types of analysis of air, water, waste
water, soil and sediments for research and consultancy purpose. It is also recognized as the
State soil and water laboratory by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), Government
of Gujarat. Well-qualified scientific staff, well-equipped laboratory, and dedicated
manpower are the key to the worthy status of the laboratory achieved today. The
laboratory is further divided into five different sections comprising of soil, water, marine,
microbiology and analytical chemistry. Analysis is carried out for research work as well as on
commercial basis. Each section has a set of equipment dedicated to the specific type of
sample to be analyzed.
33
COLLABORATIONS
In yet another attempt to acquire global eminence and to draw worldwide attention
towards Kachchh dryland issues, GUIDE has initiated several National and International
collaborations.
International Collaborations (MoUs)
GUIDE has initiated International collaborations with many Universities and Institutions in
areas of faculty exchange, collaborations between professionals working within the same
field, joint research and development programmes and training of faculties.
Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK.
The University of Greenwich, London, UK
Desert Research Monitoring Control Centre, Yobe State University, Nigeria.
Egerton University, Kenya (in process)
National Collaborations (MoUs)
National level collaborations have been initiated with the following Universities and
Institutions in areas of research, academic, technical, training, faculty and students
exchange programmes:
K. S. K. V. Kachchh University, Bhuj-Kachchh, Gujarat State, India.
National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur,
Maharashtra State, India.
Center for Advanced Studies in India (CASII), Bhuj, India.
Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University (PDPU), Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India.
Gujarat National Law University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India.
SANDHAN, Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India.
Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat (KCG), Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India.
Institute of Science and Technology for Advanced Study and Research (ISTAR), SP
University, VV Nagar, Gujarat.
34
National & International Memberships and Recognitions
Membership International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Switzerland.
Global Network of Dryland Research Institutes (GNDRI), Israel.
International Society of Zoological Sciences (ISZS), China
Ocean Expert, Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of
UNESCO.
Special Invitee Gujarat Biodiversity Board under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
Recognition Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIROs) by the
Department of Science and Technology (DST), Govt. of India, New
Delhi.
Education and Research Institute by the K. S. K. V. Kachchh University,
Bhuj. GUIDE is officiating partner of K. S. K. V. Kachchh University to
conduct M.Sc. course (Environmental Science Programme).
GUIDE Laboratory has been recognized as State Air & State Water
Laboratory by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB),
Government of Gujarat, Gandhinagar.
Accreditations: National Accreditation Board for Education and Training (NABET),
Quality Council of India, New Delhi.
35
CoHaB – ESR at GUIDE
The concepts of home and belonging have taken a key importance due to dramatic cultural,
social and political changes and challenges. Therefore the study of diaspora and migration
has gained much importance into a promising field of research with practical application
during the recent decades. Looking at the importance, an International Trans-disciplinary
Research Project on 'Diasporic Constructions of Home and Belonging' (CoHaB) was initiated
with the financial support from the European Union’s Marie Curie ITN under the
conglomeration of six Universities.
The Partner Universities include; Munster, Germany; University of Oxford, UK; School of
Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), London; Stockholm University, Sweden; University of
Mumbai, India and University of Northampton, UK with associated partners which include
Migration Policy Group (Brussels, Belgium), The European Immigration Lawyers Network
and Centre for Advanced Studies in India (Bhuj, India).
The CoHaB project is committed to training new generation of scholars from various
disciplinary backgrounds, which include 12 Early Stage Researchers (ESR) or Doctoral
researchers and 3 Experienced or Postdoctoral Researchers on various aspects of diaspora in
relation to home and belonging.
Professor Nilufer E. Bharucha from Mumbai University is the
Coordinator and Scientist-in-Charge of the project in India.
There are three Early Stage Researchers (ESR) with Mumbai
University namely; Ms. Iulia Nicoleta Rascanu (Romania), Ms.
Ruby Rana (Canada) and Mrs. Melanie Robin Wattenbarger
(USA).
Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj-Kachchh is the associate partner of the
Centre for Advanced Studies in India (CASII), India. Therefore, as part of the programme on
secondment, three ESRs from Mumbai University and one ESR (Ms. Holly Jennifer Morgan)
from Munster University, Germany have visited GUIDE for one month placement during the
period between 3rd November and 1st December, 2013.
The Kachchh district (largest district in India) located in the western part of the Gujarat State
in India has always attracted scientists, sociologists, archeologists, naturalists and tourists
due to the virtues of fascinating history, geography, archeology, diversity of flora and fauna,
rich cultural heritage of inhabitants, unrivalled embroidery work and other handicrafts, soul-
touching folk and Sufi music, traditional architecture and fresh water reservoirs Virda,
36
traditional knowledge of medicinal plants, animal breeding and last but never the least,
drought tolerant highly productive livestock.
Kachchh is also an importance place for Diaspora studies, since it has vast traditional history
of people migrated from other parts of the world like Iran, Sind, and Rajasthan in India. The
migration has many environmental and anthropological linkages. Likewise, people from
Kachchh have migrated to Africa, USA, UK and many more countries since time immemorial.
This has provided a base for the ESR to explore the Kachchh district.
Apart from taking part in Deepawali events in GUIDE,
Bhuj on 3rd November, 2013; the ESRs have undergone
field explorations to ecologically important
ecosystems/ habitats like dry scrub forests (Narayan
Sarovar), Dinodhar hills, Kala Dungar (Black hills of
Kachchh-Highest point in Kachchh and its unique
migrated Muslim community), Banni (traditional
livestock, handicrafts, migrant maldhari community),
Chaduva Rakhal (traditional water management system
and its isolated crocodile population) sandy and muddy
coastal habitats, mangroves, Dholavira in Greater Rann
of Kachchh (Harappan Civilization, archeology, Rabari
Community and Culture), Mandvi (traditional ship
building and age old maritime Diaspora). The team had
interacted with Banni Maldharis, Pachchham
Communities, Rabari Communities of Rapar and
Bhachau, Maritime
and Fishermen Community of Mandvi to investigate the
connection between Diaspora and its linkages with the
environment. It was highlighted by Ms. Iulia Rascanu
that there are linkages between Banni and Rabari
communities with the Romas of Romania and she has
stated that it requires a long-term study to bring out
the facts.
The team also visited Sindology Department and interacted with the Sindhi Communities at
Gandhidham and communities at Kera, Madhapur and Badadiya to study Africa, US and UK
Diaspora.
37
Apart from these, class room lectures
were also conducted through various
experts like Dr. Heena K. Gangar, Dr.
Vimmi Sardarngani, Dr. Lalitha Narayan,
Ms. Judy Frater, Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Dr.
G. A. Thivakaran, Dr. A.K.R. Mahato, Mr.
M. Laxman and Mrs. Vidhisha Kannan
who delivered lectures on Kachchh
History, People and Culture; Banni
Grassland and Maldhari Community;
Greater Rann of Kachchh and Its Unique
Population; Coastal Fishermen Community, Traditional Ship Building and Coastal Ecology;
Refugee Diaspora; Sindhi Diaspora; IPR & African Diaspora; Frugal Techno-innovative of
Diaspora and Peoples and Environment of Kachchh; Application of GIS & RS in Diaspora
Research; Climate Change and Livelihood of Banni Maldharis and People, Culture and
Traditional Handicrafts of Kachchh.
38
Book
Sharma D. K. , Asari R. V. and V. Vijay Kumar, (2013). Forest and wildlife of Kachchh - A
Natural Heritage. Publ. Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology and Kachchh Forest
Circle, Gujarat, Pp.80.
Suresh Chovatiya, Gajera Nikunj and Soni V.C. (2013). Breeding ecology of mosquito: Special
reference to Genus Anopheles. Publication by LAP LAMBERT Academic publishing.
Germany – ISBN 978-3-659-37974-1, 97 Pages.
Book chapter
Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and V. Vijay Kumar (2013). Status of Biodiversity in
Man-made Wetlands along Coastal areas of Kachchh district, Gujarat, India, 86-117.
In “Biodiversity of Aquatic Ecosystem-Significance threats and Conservation” (Eds.
Bharti, P.K. and Kaoud, H.A.), Discovery Publishing House Ltd, New Delhi, ISBN No.:
978-93-5056-297-0.
Nanthakumar, K., Karthikeyan, K., Suriyanarayanan, S. and Lakshmanaperumalsamy, P.
(2013). Application of Plackett - Burman Design to Optimize Bioprocess Variables for
Decolorization of Reactive Red 195 by a Termite Associated Bacterial Consortium
BUTC7. In: Microbiological Research in Agroecosystem Management. R. K. Velu (ed.)
Springer India. 23-34. DOI: 10.1007/978-81-322-1087-0_3.
Paper in Scientific Journal
International
Koladiya, M. H., Mahato, A. K. Roy, Gajera, N. B. and Patel, Y. S. (2014) Distribution pattern
of birds in Banni Grassland of Kachchh district, Gujarat, India. Journal of Research in
Biology 4(1):1228-1239
Patel, Y. S., Patel, R. M., Mahato, A. K. Roy and Joshi, P. N. (2013). Status and diversity of
Ethno-medicinal plants of Dhinodhar hill, Kachchh district, Gujarat. International
Journal of Plant, animal and Environmental sciences, 3(1): 265-273.
Patel, R. M., Mahato, A. K. Roy, Vijay Kumar, V. and Asari, R. V. (2013). Status of the
medicinal plants in Tharawada-Gandher Reserve Forest of Kachchh, Gujarat and the
ethno medicinal practices of local community. Journal of medicinal plant studies, 1
(4): 1-10
Patel, R. M., Patel, Y. S., Mahato, A. K. Roy and Vijay Kumar, V. (2014). Some observation on
the distribution and new host plant for Corallocarpus conocarpus in Gujarat, India.
International Journal of Plant, animal and Environmental sciences, 4(1): 134-135
Patel, R. M., Mahato, A. K. Roy, Dabgar, Y. B and Vijay Kumar, V (2013). Note on the
Distribution of Commiphora stocksiana Engl. In Kachchh: A Rare Medicinal Plant of
India Need Conservation. Annals of Plant Science, 3(2): 614-616.
PUBLICATIONS (2013-2014)
39
Sharma, S.B., R.Z., Sayyed, M.H., Trivedi and Thivakaran, G.A. (2013). Phosphate solubilizing
microbes: sustainable approach for managing phosphorus deficiency in agricultural
soils. Springer (Open Journal) www.springerplus.com/content/2/1/587.
Nanthakumar, K., Karthikeyan, K., Suriyanarayanan, S. and Lakshmanaperumalsamy, P.
(2013). Decolorization of structurally dissimilar dyes by a termite derived bacterial
consortium BUTC17 in a cost effective nutrient medium. Adv. Appl. Sci. Res., 4 (2):
276-285.
Gajera Nikunj, Patel Darshana and Nishith Dharaiya (2013). Assessment of Wetland Status in
arid areas of Gujarat using Migratory Birds as a key indicator. In Proceeding:
International Wetland Symposium (IWS)" 7th to 9th November-2012, Pokhara, Nepal
(Prepared and Published by: Conservation and Sustainable Use of Wetlands in Nepal,
236pp, ISBN: 978-9937-2-5938-5) Pages: 36-41.
Mukesh H. Koladiya, Gajera Nikunj, and V. Vijay Kumar (2013). Status, Diversity and
Distribution of Avifauna in Banni Grassland of Kachchh District. International Journal
of Research in Biological Science Vol. 3(1): 43-47.
Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and V. Vijay Kumar (2013) Status, Diversity and
Conservation of Grassland Birds in Arid Region of Kachchh. International Journal of
Recent Scientific Research 4(3); 166-170.
Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and V. Vijay Kumar (2013) Status, distribution and
diversity of birds in mining environment of Kachchh, Gujarat, International Journal of
Biodiversity. Vol.2013, Article ID 471618, 11 pages, Hyper Text Transfer Protocol:
//dx.doi.org/10.1155/2013/471618
Suresh Chovatiya, Gajera Nikunj and Soni V.C. (2013). People’s Perception on Malaria: A
Case Study in Rural areas of Rajkot District, Gujarat-India. Health sciences: An Int.
Journal, 2(1): 1-5
Raushan Kumar Raman Gajera Nikunj and V. Vijay Kumar (2013).Impact of Salinity Ingression
Prevention Structures (Bandharas) on Different Landuse Categories in Abdasa Taluka
of Kachchh Region, Gujarat-India. Recent Trends in Civil Engineering & Technology,
3(2): 49-61.
Nithul Lal., K. P., Karthikeyan, K., Praveesh, V., Devi, V., Suriyanarayanan, S. and V. Vijay
Kumar, (2014). Drinking Water Quality Assessment of Ground Waters of Bhachau -
Kachchh, Gujarat, India with special reference to major anions and cations. Int. Res.
J. Env. Sci., (Accepted)
Sharma, S.B., M H Trivedi1, R Z Sayyed and Thivakaran, G A (2014). Status of Soil Phosphorus
in Context with Phosphate Solubilizing Microorganisms in Different Agricultural
Amendments in Kachchh, Gujarat, Western India. Annual Research and Review in
Biology (Accepted)
Quasin. S, Ganguly, K., Mahato, A. K. Roy, and De, J. K. (2013). Activity Patterns of Blue bull
or Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) in Captivity at Zoological Garden, Kolkata.
International Journal of Pure and Applied Zoology (Accepted).
40
National
Patel, R. M, Mahato, A. K. Roy and Patel, Y. S. (2014). Study on the floristic diversity of two
newly recorded sacred groves from Kachchh district of Gujarat, India. Indian Journal
of Plant sciences, Vol.3 (1) pp.75-81.
De, J. K., Mahato, A. K. Roy and Ghosh, M. K. (2013). Some observation on the Status and
Conservation of Swamp Deer (Cervus d. duvauceli Cuvier, 1823) in Dudhwa National
Park, India. Rec. Zool. Surv. India: 113(3): 01-9.
Koladiya, M.H., Mahato, A.K.R. and Pardeshi, M. (2014). Status of Avi-Fauna in Lakhara
Wetland, Kachchh Biosphere Reserve, Gujarat, India. CIBTech Journal of Zoology
3(1):37-41
Shah, J. J. and Thivakaran, G. A. 2014. Germination and Growth Performance of
Commiphora Wightii and Acacia Senegal under Different Salinity from Arid Coast of
Kachchh, Gujarat. ABHINAV, Journal of Research in Science & Technology, Vol.2 (7)
ISSN 2277-1174. www.abhinavjournal.Com
Shah, J.P. and Thivakaran, G. A. 2013. Status and Distribution of Halophytes in Kachchh
District: A review. Curr. Agric. Vol.36, No.1-2, pp. 29-32.
41
Papers presented in seminars /Symposium/conferences/etc:
Arun Kumar Roy Mahato & Sudha Mahato 2013. Linkage between Culture and Biodiversity:
A Case Study in Chhotanagpur Plateau, Jharkhand. Proc. International Conference
on Conserving Biodiversity for Sustainable Development, held at National Institute
of Technology, Rourkela on 16-18th August, 2013. Abs. No. BR 103, 65pp.
Nithul Lal. K. P., V. Praveesh., V. Devi., K. Karthikeyan and S. Suriyanarayanan,
2014.Evaluation of Quality of Ground water samples of Bhachau taluka, Kachchh,
Gujarat: Special reference on parameters of health importance. National Seminar on
Emerging Trends in Environmental Science and Technology (NSETEST-2014), held
on 14 & 15th March, 2014, organzied by Yogi Vemana Unveristy, Department of
Environmental Science, Vemanapuram, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Devi. V., K. Karthikeyan and G. A. Thivakaran, 2014. Chemical contamination of Drinking
water sources from Residential area near Kandla port, Gandhidham, Gujarat.
National Seminar on Advances in Environmental Sciences and technology (AEST-
2014) held during 25th – 26th February 2014, organized by Central University of
Gujarat, Gandhinagar.
Vaidya, D.M., K. Prabhu, A. Qureshi, K. Karthikeyan and V. Vijay Kumar, 2014. Preliminary
Investigations on biosynthesis of silver Nanoparticles by halotolerant bacterial
strains from Banni - A saline desert: Studies on dye decolorizing ability. National
Seminar on Advances in Environmental Sciences and technology (AEST-2014) held
during 25th – 26th February 2014, organized by Central University of Gujarat,
Gandhinagar.
Karthikeyan, K., R. Lekameera and V. Vijay Kumar, 2014. Statistical Optimization of
Bioprocess Variables For Decolorization of Alizarin Red By Bacterial Consortia Bgss07
From Banni Grasslands– A Saline Desert, Kachchh, Gujarat. Nat. Conf. On
Ecotechnologies for Wastewater Treatment: Present Challenges And Future
Horizons (EWT-2014), held on 21-22, January, 2014, organized by Dept. of Env. Sci.,
Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu.
Ojha. R., D. Vaidya., K. Karthikeyan, V. Vijay Kumar, A. Qureshi and H.J.Purohit, 2013.
Bacterial Community associated with Rhizosphere of Halotolerant Suaeda maritima
in semi-arid regions of Saline desert, Kachchh, Gujarat. 54th Ann. Conf. Assoc.
Microbioloigsts of India (AMI-2013) & Intern. Sym. on Frontier Discoveries and
Innovations in Microbiology and its Interdisciplinary relevance held on 17th – 20th
November 2013 at Maharsishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, Abs. No.
EMBD 013:374.
42
Devi, V., K. Karthikeyan and G.A.Thivakaran, 2013. Prevalence of selected Toxic Heavy
metals in the Fresh water bodies in the vicinity of Kandla Port, Kachchh, Gujarat.
National Conference on Heavy Metals in the Environment (HME-2013), held on
November 28-30 2013, organized by School of Environmental Sciences, Mahatma
Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala.
Ganatra, B.S, K. Karthikeyan and V. Vijaykumar, 2013. Preliminary Investigation on
Bioprospecting of Marine Bacteria from Gulf of Kachchh waters, Gujarat. National
Level symposium on Glimpse of Innovations in Biotechnology on 3rd October 2013,
Organized by Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Bharathiar University,
Coimbatore, Tamilnadu.
Vaidya, D. M., K. Karthikeyan and V. Vijaykumar, 2013. Isolation and Characterization of
PGPR from Soils of Banni Grasslands: A Saline Desert. National Level symposium on
Glimpse of Innovations in Biotechnology on 3rd October 2013, Organized by
Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore,
Tamilnadu.
Lekameera, R., K. Karthikeyan and V. Vijaykumar, 2013. Biosynthesis of natural pigments
from saline desert of Kachchh, Gujarat: Role of a halophilic Serrratia sp. BGK09.
National Level symposium on Glimpse of Innovations in Biotechnology on 3rd
October 2013, Organized by Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Bharathiar
University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India.
Arun Kumar Roy Mahato 2013. Participated Science Academies Refresher Course on
“Traditional & Modern Approaches in Animal Taxonomy” organized by Botanical
Garden, GKVK Agricultural University, Bangaluru on 15-29th April 2013.
Rohit M. Patel 2013. Participated XXIII Annual Conference of Indian Association of
Angiosperm Taxonomy and National Seminar on Recent Advances in Plant
Taxonomy Research” held Nagpur University, Nagpur (MS) 27th to 29th December,
2013.
43
BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF GUIDE
S. No. Board of Governors Designation
1. Sh. S. G. Mankad, IAS (Retd.), Former Chief Secretary of Gujarat State, India. Chairman
2. Ms. Vijaylaxmi Sheth, IPS (Retd.) Ex. Post Master General of Gujarat State, India. Vice Chairman
3. The District Development Officer, Kachchh District, Gujarat, India. Member
4. Prof. R. Parthasarathy, CEPT University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. Member
5. The Vice Chancellor, KSKV Kachchh University, Bhuj, Gujarat, India. Member
6. Prof. Geeta Padate, M. S. University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India. Member
7. Dr. Hardik Shah, Member Secretary, Gujarat Pollution Control Board, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
Member
8. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Additional Director, GUIDE, Gujarat, India. Member
9. Sh. R.V. Asari, IFS (Retd.) Director, GUIDE, Gujarat, India. Member Secretary
THE GUIDE SOCIETY
S. No. GUIDE Society Members
1. Sh. S. G. Mankad, IAS (Retd.), Former Chief Secretary of Gujarat State, India.
2. Ms. Vijaylaxmi Sheth, IPS (Retd.) Ex. Post Master General of Gujarat State, India.
3. The District Development Officer, Kachchh District, Gujarat, India.
4. Prof. Geeta Padate, The M. S University, Baroda
5. Sh. Hardik Shah, Member Secretary, GPCB, Gandhinagar
6. The Vice Chancellor, KSKV Kachchh University, Bhuj
7. Head. Regional Station, CAZRI, Kukma, Kachchh
8. Director Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi
9. The Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF), GSFD, Gandhinagar
10. Dr. B. N. Desai, Ex Director National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Mumbai
11. Prof. Mahesh Pathak, Vallabh Vidya Nagar, Anand Gujarat
12. Sh. Kantisen C. Shroff, Chairman, Shrujan, Bhujodi, Bhuj-Kachchh Gujarat
13. Sh. Asim Chakraborty, Director, Welsupn Group, Anjar, Kachchh, Gujarat
14. Sh. Dipak Bhimani, Chairman Navdeep Chemicals Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai
15. Dr. R. Parthasarathy, CEPT, University, Ahmedabad
16. Sh. A. K. Verma, IFS, Member Secretary, GEC, Gandhinagar
17. Sh. R.V. Asari, IFS (Retd.) Director, GUIDE
18. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Additional Director, GUIDE
44
The GUIDE Human Resource
Sr. No Name Designation
1 Sh. R. V. Asari, IFS (Retd) Director
2 Dr. V. Vijay Kumar Additional Director
3 Dr. G. A. Thivakaran Chief Principal Scientist
4 Dr. Nimisha Tripathy Senior Scientist (till 31st
August 2013)
5 Dr. K. Karthikeyan Scientist
6 Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato Scientist
7 Dr. Pranav Pandya Scientist (till 4th
April 2013)
8 Dr. Shalini Dhyani Project Scientist (till 7th
September 2013)
9 Dr. Deepak Dhyani Project Scientist (till 7th
September 2013)
10 Dr. Jagruti H. Sanghvi DST- Women Scientist
11 Dr. Jayesh B. Bhatt Project Scientist
12 Dr. Rohit M. Patel Project Scientist
13 Dr. Nikunj B. Gajera Project Scientist
14 Dr. G. Thirumaran Project Scientist
15 Ms. V. Devi Research Associate
16 Mr. Dayesh Parmar Project Officer (GIS &RS)
17 Mr. Prakash M. Patel Deputy Engineer
18 Mr. Manish P. Vyas Junior Administrative Officer
19 Ms. Geeta Goswami Junior Accounts Officer
20 Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya Senior Research Fellow
21 Mr. Nainesh Patel Senior Research Fellow (till 29th
June 2013)
22 Ms. Trupti B. Vaghela Senior Research Fellow (till 8th
March 2014)
23 Mr. Raushan Kumar Senior Research Fellow (GIS & RS)
24 Ms. R. Leka Meera Senior Research Fellow (till 8th
October 2013)
25 Sh. K. Prabhu Senior Research Fellow
26 Ms. Druma M. Vaidya Junior Research Fellow
27 Mr. Ajay Gohel Junior Research Fellow
28 Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan Junior Research Fellow
29 Sh. K. P. Nithul Lal Junior Research Fellow
30 Mr. Bhagirath Paradva Junior Research Fellow
31 Sh. Ajitsinh B. Gohil Junior Research Fellow
32 Mr. Sudhanshu C. Mohapatra Senior Chemist
33 Mr. Ratansi Chaudhary Chemical Engineer
34 Ms. Sudha Kumari Chemist
35 Ms. Dipa Lalwani Environmental Analyst (till 30th
November 2013)
36 Mr. G. Midhun Gopi Environmental Analyst
37 Ms. Anasuya B. Ravat Junior Chemist
38 Mr. Mayur Goswami Junior Chemist
39 Mr. Rajesh Choudhari Junior Chemist (till 15th
June 2013)
40 Ms. Bhoomi H. Bakori Junior Chemist (till 11th
July 2013)
41 Mr. Anil R. Sadariya Junior Chemist (till 7th
December 2013)
42 Mr. Mukesh Thakor Surveyor (till 6th
June 2013)
43 Mr. Sahadev Gadeshiya Agriculture
44 Mr. Chetan Sanariya Agriculture
45 Mr. Kisan Pandya Data Entry Operator
46 Mr. Amit Godesara Engineer
45
Sr. No Name Designation
47 Mr. Ramesh Kesatriya Agriculture
48 Mr. Sangeeta Vanker Social Worker
49 Sh. Harish Joshi Sociologist
50 Mr. Gani Node Peon
51 Mr. Arvind K Lakum Diver-Cum-Peon
52 Mr. Altaf A. Memon Diver-Cum-Peon
53 Mr. Hameed H. Maniyar Peon-Cum-Chowkidar
54 Mr. Dansingh Bist Cook-Cum-Care Taker
55 Sh. Ramju Node Night Watchman
56 Sh. Bhura Bhai Day Watchman
57 Mrs. Ushaben Sweeper
DISSERTATION STUDENTS AT GUIDE (April 2013 to March 2014)
Sr. No.
University/ Institute
Name of the Student & Stream
Topic
POST GRADUATE
1
Bharathiar University,
Coimbatore, Tamilnadu.
Mr. T. Dhananjayan (Environmental
Sciences)
Evaluation of Physico-chemical characteristics of Mangrove sediments of Jamnagar and Saline soils of Kachchh, Gujarat: Special reference on Carbon stock storage and Microbial biomass
2 Mr.P.Mohan (Environmental
Sciences)
Evaluation Of Physico-Chemical And Biological Characteristics Of Water And Sediments Of Selected Locations Of Vadinar Coast, Gulf Of Kachchh, West Coast Of India
3
K.S.K.V. Kachchh
University, Bhuj, Gujarat
Jaydip. J. Maheta (Chemistry)
Evaluation of selected constituents in the Kachchh marine water
4 Mayur.N.Pokar (Chemistry)
Physico-chemical characteristics of saline soils of Kutch, Gujarat: Special reference to organic matter content
5 Kamal. B.Rajgor (Chemistry)
Evalaution of carbon stock sequestered in different tree plantations in selected locations of Kutch, Gujarat
6 Neha. J. Malaviya (Chemistry)
Status of chemical constituents in the selected marine water environment of Gulf of Kachchh: Special emphasis on nutrients
7 Pratibha. A.Singh (Chemistry)
Assessment of chemical load in selected water samples of Kutch
8 Shweta Kewlani (Environmental
Sciences)
Studies on antimicrobial, antioxidant and biosorption properties of selected sea weeds of Gulf of Kachchh
9 Nitin Oza (Environmental
Sciences)
Physico-chemical and Microbiological characteristics of marine water samples from Vadinar coast, Gujarat
10
Sarvajanik MSW college
mehsana
Jignesh Babubhai Suthar
(Social Work)
Documentation of traditional knowledge of villagers on local biodiversities of Mandvi taluka & its use and conservation.
11 Vikram Bharatbhai Parmar
(Social Work)
Documentation of traditional knowledge of villagers on local biodiversities of Mandvi taluka & its use and conservation.
12 Pratik Dalpatbhai Suthar
(Social Work)
Documentation of traditional knowledge of villagers on local biodiversities of Mandvi taluka & its use and conservation.
Under Graduate
13 K.S.K.V.Kachchh University, Bhuj,
Gujarat
Mr. Naresh. M. Boda B.Sc. (Marine
Science)
Physico-chemical and Bacteriological Contamination of Marine water and Coastal ground water samples from Mandvi taluka, Kachchh, Gujarat
46
Editor: R.V. Asari,
V. Vijay Kumar,
Arun Kumar Roy Mahato
& Raushan Kumar Raman
Graphics & Design: Raushan Kumar Raman
Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology Opp. Changleshwar Temple, Mundra Road
Bhuj-370 001, Kachchh, Gujarat, India.
Ph: +91-2832 235025/28 Fax: +91-2832 235027
Email: desert_ecology@yahoo.com
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