FIELD FORESTER V o i c e s f r o m t h e f i e l d

volume 2 ● issue 2 December 2016 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016

Patron: Dr. S.S. Negi Director General of Forests Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change Government of

Editorial Advisory Board

Chief Advisor: Member Secretary: Dr. Anil Kumar Shri R.P. Singh Additional Director General Director Forest Education of Forests (FC) Directorate of Forest Education Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change Forests & Climate Change Government of India Government of India

Advisor: Advisor: Dr. Suneesh Buxy Shri Deepak Mishra Deputy Inspector General of Additional Professor Forests (RT) Indira Gandhi National Forest Ministry of Environment, Academy Forests and Climate Change Dehradun Government of India

Members: ● Principal, Central Academy for State Forest Service, Dehradun ● Principal, Central Academy for State Forest Service, Coimbatore ● Principal, Central Academy for State Forest Service, Burnihat ● Principal, Eastern Forest Rangers College, Kurseong ● Director, Telangana State Forest Academy, Dulapally, Hyderabad, Telangana ● Director, Uttarakhand Forestry Training Academy, Haldwani, Uttarakhand ● Director, Forest Training Institute & Rangers College, Sunder Nagar, Himachal Pradesh ● Director, State Forest Academy, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu ● Director, Forest Training Institute, Gungargatti, Dharwad, ● Director, Kundal Academy of Development, Administration & Management, Kundal, Maharashtra

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Editorial Board

Chief Editor: Shri R.P. Singh, IFS Director Forest Education Directorate of Forest Education Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change Government of India

Editors:

Ms. Meera Iyer, IFS Mr. Pradeep Chandra Principal Wahule, IFS Central Academy for State Lecturer Forest Service, Dehradun Central Academy for State Forest Service, Dehradun

Ms. Sarita Kumari, IFS Dr. B. Balaji, IFS Lecturer Associate Professor Central Academy for State Indira Gandhi National Forest Service, Dehradun Forest Academy, Dehradun

Mr. Abhilash Damodaran, IFS Lecturer Central Academy for State Forest Service, Dehradun

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Contents

From the Chief Editor’s Desk...... vi

Producing quality seedlings in Mizoram...... 1 Lalthafamkima

Biodiversity conservation through 'Sanskritik Vans'...... 5 Patel SK, Verma YL

Man-crocodile conflict in Vadodara...... 20 Patel Rahulkumar Keshavlal

Forest fires and the way forward...... 26 Shivendra

Anti-poaching operations in Maharashtra's Sholapur district ...... 27 VR Shinde

Solving a panther kill case...... 29 Vishwas B Bhadale

Analysis of habitat management practices in Parambikulam Tiger Reserve...... 31 Mito Rumi

Eco-friendly tribal development in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary...... 37 Rohit Chaudhari

Imparting new life to Deoriatal...... 41 Neethulakshmi M.

Conservation of Sangai, a success story...... 46 Mahamuda Begum

Socio-economic status of Kani tribe in Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary...... 49 Mukta V. Tekale

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Living jewels of Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary...... 55 Priya R. Mhaiskar

Forestry and contemporary challenges...... 59 Rameshwari Bongale

Usage of indigenous edible fruit and plants in Mokokchung district of Nagaland...... 62 Alemwapang Imchen

Use of biotechnological tools in conservation of medicinal plants...... 69 Ganesh N Patole

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From the Chief Editor’s Desk

Forestry, in a holistic view, is an integration of various disciplines relying on scientific principles and traditional wisdom. Managing the forests not only includes management of trees and stands, but also other flora and fauna in varied ecosystems and human beings either living inside the forest ecosystem or on forest fringe areas. Thus a multi-pronged approach is inevitable in the integrated management of forest ecosystem. The December 2016 issue of Field Forester, like previous volumes, is a window that offers an excellent view of various approaches towards achieving the objectives of forest and wildlife conservation in India.

The mission of greening India is impossible without production of planting materials of the highest quality. Article regarding methods adopted in Mizoram for quality seedling production makes a good reading and enhances the knowledge especially for those readers who are entrusted with nursery management in the field. Articles on Wildlife management include man-crocodile conflict management, anti-poaching initiatives, habitat management and success story regarding conservation of the endangered Sangai in Manipur. The smaller sized fauna also play an important role in maintaining the ecosystem processes as much as the larger wild animals. An article on the butterflies of Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary in Rajasthan has rightly named the butterflies as “Living Jewels.” An exclusive narration on reviving degraded grassland surrounding a lake called Deoriatal in Kedarnath Wildlife Division exemplifies the need to manage anthropogenic pressures to revive the sensitive high altitude lake and grassland ecosystem. In India, conservation has its roots in its culture and traditions. The article on “Sanskritik Van” reflects this unique feature of Indian culture. People and Biodiversity are inseparable from one another. Socio-economic status of the Kanikkar Tribe of Southern India - one of ethnobotanicall rich tribes - is very informative and interesting while eco-friendly approach for tribal development in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, presents innovative ideas in implementing eco-development programmes. Lesser known indigenous edible fruits and plants of Nagaland have been discussed in details in one of the articles while another article throws light on different biotechnological opportunities available for propagation and conservation of medicinal plants.

The present issue of Field Forester is a good mix of various topics encompassed by forest and biodiversity conservation as practiced across length and breadth of the country. These articles reflect practices and experiences from Western Himalayas, Eastern Himalayas, Western India and Aravallis and the . I am sure that readers will enjoy the articles in this issue of Field Forester and also think of adopting the best practices as narrated in the articles.

(R.P. Singh, IFS )

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Producing quality seedlings in Mizoram

Use of traditional techniques and benefit of staff experience has enabled the nursery in Leitan Kawnchung to successfully grow rare trees

Lalthafamkima around 40,000 seedlings. Despite being established recently, the nursery has s per satellite imaging, grown tremendously because of the Mizoram has a large forest dedication of the staff. Acover—this data includes green herb and shrubs. But, in reality, Input Management the actual tree cover is not as much. So, Water the Department of Environment and Water is taken from the nearby river Forest planned to plant trees in different with the help of an electric pump. The parts of the State. For this, nurseries water is stored in a water tank on the have been set up in different parts of top of the hill, from where water is the State. Nursery is a pre-requisite for distributed to different parts of the producing quality seedlings with lesser nursery. As there is no water sprinkler, input and nursery management is a water is given to the plants by a plastic potential tool to successfully execute pipe. For newly sown seeds, water the activity. This study is an attempt is given regularly, but for the older to narrate nursery management and its germinated seeds, it is given once every techniques which lead to their success. two days. In rainy season, rainwater is This nursery is located at Leitan collected and stored in the tank; this Kawnchung in the northern part of saves power and money. Darlawn town (5 km from main town). This Hi-tech Nursery, established Bed in 2014, is a centralised nursery in As Mizoram receives enough rainfall, public sector under NBM. Its area is all nursery beds are level beds. The bed around 2 ha. Since it is located in a is well ploughed before sowing seeds. hilly area, standard bed size could not Bricks are placed at the edge to prevent be maintained throughout. In some the beds from crumbling in dry season. places, the bed is longer than standard As mentioned earlier, the beds cannot size while in some places it is shorter. have a standard size due to topography. The size of the bed is adjusted as Before sowing, dry leaves are burnt on per the topography. There are more the bed to control weed. There is open than 300 beds in the nursery and the and shade bed according to the need approximate annual production is of the seedling. Small and lightweight

RFO Trainee 2016-17 Course, CASFOS, Burnihat, Assam

CONTENTS 1 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 seed are covered with sacks so as to is made of galvanised iron, which prevent from being wind blown. is covered by a nylon. It is used for acclimatisation of seedlings before Fertiliser planting them in the field. DAP (Di-ammonium phosphate), Neemkasto (from seed of neem plant, Sowing good source of NPK) and cow dung Sowing is mostly done in line, are the main fertilisers used in this dippling and broadcasting. The soil nursery. The fertilisers are given in is thoroughly dug and seedlings are liquid form with less concentration covered with a thin layer of soil. The at the initial stage. Raw fertilisers are sowing techniques are different from given after they are transferred to the species to species. polypot. Other than fertilisers, as the soil in Mizoram is mostly acidic in Collection of fruit/seeds nature, lime is added to the soil to make Collection is done in a season when it alkaline and neutral. fruits are available. The fruits are collected from the nearby forest area. Weeding Available fruits are collected from the Weeding is done five times a year tree; the branch is chopped off from on a largescale. But, whenever weed where fruits are difficult to collect; germinates in the bed or nearby, they and, in some areas, fruits falling on the are taken out immediately. The nursery ground are too collected. bed and surroundings are kept clean and khurpi is the tool commonly used Seed extraction for weeding. Extraction is conducted carefully to avoid damaging the seed. Only mature Fencing and healthy fruits are processed for The nursery is fenced with barbed seed extraction. Normally, 2-3 days of wireto protect it from grazing by drying is done. Rubbing and crushing animals and biotic pressure. of fruits is done with care. Some common tools used during extraction Labour include axe, pruning knife, sacks, trays, Labourers are mainly used during buckets and other abrasive material. sowing, transferring from bed to Species which have wings pod/seeds, polypot, filling of polypot and weeding are detached by crushing or rubbing of and collection of seeds. Around 10 the seed. Large, firmly attached wings labourers carry out different activities are removed by hand and discarded. while one permanent labourer is used in the nursery the whole year round. Achievement The great achievement of the nursery Shade House is that it can successfully germinate The main structure of Shade House those trees that are hardly grown in

CONTENTS 2 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 other places of Mizoram. The Forest How to collect the fruits: The fruits Guard, who is the man in-charge of falling on the ground are collected. this nursery, has done a wonderful job Processing of seed: The fruit in successful germination of the tree. collected should be covered up 3-4 days In the nursery, the staff mainly uses for softening the fruits' cover. Then the traditional techniques. These, coupled fruits are put in a water bucket where with staff experience, is working very the seed can easily be separated from well. The trees which are successfully the fruit. The seeds are dried in shade. grown include, Thingdawl (Tetrameles Method of sowing: The seed has nudiflora), Banphar (Anthocephalus to be sown in a shaded bed. It should cadamba), Zuang (Duabanga grandiflora) be covered with a thin layer of soil. and Sal (Shorea robusta). The seed collected in August can be Nursery techniques for different sown on the nursery bed on February. trees are as follows: Usually it germinates three weeks after Thingdawl (Tetrameles nudiflora) sowing. Time for seed collection: The collection of seed can be started from Zuang (Duabanga grandiflora) the middle of April. Time for collection of fruits: In How to collect the seed: Mostly April and May, the fruits become dark, collected by chopping off fruit-laden which means the seed is ready for branches. If the fruits are dark green, it collection. has seed content How to collect the fruits: The seeds Processing of the seed: The seeds are very small; they should be taken collected are dried under sun for 3-4 out from the fruits. days. The fruits then break up and Processing of seed: The fruits seeds have to be taken out. should be dried under the sun for Method of sowing: The nursery about 2- 3 days. The fruits then bed has to be ploughed and seed has break and seeds are taken out to be sown directly. For better results, from the fruits. dry leaves are burned on the nursery Method of sowing: The bed should bed as this removes some of the weeds be made in such a way that the soil present on the bed and also in better is loose enough. The seed should be seed germination. covered by sacks to prevent them from The seeds should be sown right being blown away in wind. Water away as they are viable for a few days should be given regularly. only. If the seedling is good, it should be transferred to the polypot in August. Banphar (Anthocephallus cadamba) It is a fast growing tree and doesn’t Time for collection of fruits: require that much fertiliser. If the roots August and September are the time cross the polypot, it will be difficult to for collection of seeds, but, if possible, plant the next year. If the polypots are collection in August is preferable. to be kept in the nursery for a longer

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Materials used in nursery Nursery beds

Successfully planted Duabanga trees Awards for outstanding service 2016 time, the root must be taken care bed should be covered with sacks and otherwise the plant will be die. water should be given regularly. The seed germinates after 15 days. Sal (Shorea robusta) After germination, the seedling is Time for collection of seed: The shifted to the polypot. seed is collected in June. How to collect the seed: The fruit Discussion cover is removed and the seed is The forest guard's efforts and taken out. dedication have brought changes to Processing of the seed: The seed is this nursery to even made it compatible viable for a short period only, so it has with some of the central nurseries to be sown with 1-2 weeks. established in Mizoram such as Tuirial Method of sowing: Before the seed Central Nursery and Sairang Central is sown, the nursery bed should be Nursery which had been established well ploughed. After sowing, the seed long back.

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Biodiversity conservation through 'Sanskritik Vans'

The main objective of Van Mahotsavs is to create mass awareness about important trees and green cover

Patel SK1, Verma YL2 (2010), Pavagadh (2011), Mangadh (2012), Dwarka (2013), Kagwad (2014), an Mahotsav is an annual Navsari (2015) Anand, Valsad, Surat tree-planting movement in and Jamnagar collectively in 2016. VIndia, which began in 1950. As per the description given in the It has gained significant national Puranas, each Graha (Planet), Nakshtra importance and every year millions (constellation) and Rashi (Zodiacs) of saplings are planted across India has its own favourite tree or trees during celebration of Van Mahotsav and protection of such trees gives week. Gujarat government had started positive effect and power to individual; a trend and associated the celebrations keeping this in mind, each and every of Van Mahotsav with cultural van viz, Punitvan, Mangalyavan, heritage instead of only promises Tirthankarvan, Hariharvan, Bhaktivan, of saving the environment and Shyamalvan, Pavakvan, Virasatvan, preventing deforestation. The initiative Smrutivan, Nageshvan, Shaktivan, of celebrating Van Mahotsav with Jankivan, Mahisagarvan, Amravan, people and planting trees according Ektavan, and Shahidvan is constituted to the various Indian traditions by Grah Vatika, Nakshtravan, Rashivan, have collectively came to be known Panchvati, Navgrahvan, Dashavatar- as ‘Sanskritik Van’, with the main van, Devvan, Heritage corner, Dhan- objective of creating mass awareness vantaryvan, Arogyavan, Nirog Balvan about important trees and green cover. etc. The State government has thus Department of Forest, Gujarat State, changed the concept and given a new has been organising and executing shape to Van Mahotsav programme this new concept of Van Mahotasavs keeping in mind that once faith is in State, districts and taluka level developed for conservation, people since 2004. Van Mahotasavs have been unintentionally preserve nature. held at Gandhinagar (2004), Ambaji (2005), Taranga (2006), Somnath (2007), 'Tirlhankar Van''at Taranga Chotila (2008), Shamlaji (2009), Palitana Taranga is a Jain pilgrimage centre

1 Range Forest Officer Trainee, at CASFoS, Bunrnihat, Assam, [email protected] 2 Deputy Conservator of Forest, Mehsana (SF) Forest Dvs., at Bahumali Bhavan, Third Floor Mehsana-3294001, Gujarat State

CONTENTS 5 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 named after Boudhh Devi Tara, 120 km Figure 1: Design of Tirthankar Van from Ahmedabad, in Mehsana district based on Kalpvriksha Yantra of Gujarat. It has a beautiful temple of Lord Ajitnathaji, built by the Solanki dynasty king Kumarpal in 1121 AD. Due to rush of thousands of pilgrims, Taranga assumes special importance as a pilgrimage as well as a tourist centre. Keeping in view the significance of the centre for the followers of Jainism, a Tirthankar Van was set up on July 13, 2006. This 'Van' has been planned in the typical design of Kalpa Vruksha Yantra. The Tirthankar Van also has Nakshatra Van, Navgraha Van, Rashi Van and SriparniVan.

Material and method The major sources of secondary data for this case study come from reports and publications published by the Gu- jarat Forest department. Information about area, plant species, number of trees, nurseries, distribution of sap- lings regarding Tirthankar Van were taken from the booklet for Van Mahot- sav-2006, provided by the Gujarat For- est Department. These booklets also had information about trees planted in Rashivan, Nakshtravan, Grah Vatika and Shreeparnivan, so that the people can see and identify the trees with re- spect to their Rashi, Grah and Nakshtra. Several field visits have been made and west of Sabarmati. The rocky hills through direct sighting, tree identifica- covered by Anogeissus forest, form a tion and counting has been done. With hilly landscape. respect to these information and data, The 24 Tirthankars of Jainism were the result is given in original form. enlightened with eternal knowledge under various trees. These trees are 2.1 Establishment of Tirthankar Van known as 'Kevali Vriksha'. It is believed Taranga hill is located in the western that planting of these trees brings bless- end of the Aravallis; it is to the south- ings of the Tirthankaras. The design of

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Table 1: Detail of trees planted in Tirthankar Van S. Name of Tirthankar Name of “Kevali No. of No. No. Vriksha” planted sapling sapling planted survived 1 Shri Rishabhdeva Swami Ficus benghalensis 1 1 2 Shri Ajitnath Swami Alstonia schularis 1 1 3 Shri Sambhavnath Swami Shorea robusta 1 1 4 Shri Abhinandan Swami Buchanania lanzan 1 1 5 Shri Sumatinath Swami Callicarpa macrophylla 1 - 6 Shri Padmaprabha Swami Ficus benghalensis 1 1 7 Shri Suparsvanath Swami Albizia lebbeck 1 1 8 Shri Chandraprabha Swami Calophyllum inophyllum 1 1 9 Shri Suvidhinath Swami Aegle marmelos 1 1 10 Shri Shitalnath Swami Ficus lacor 1 1 11 Shri Sreyanshnath Swami Saraca indica 1 1 12 Shri Vasupujya Swami Symplocos racemosa 1 1 13 Shri Vimalnath Swami Syzygium cumini 1 1 14 Shri Anantnath Swami Saraca indica 1 - 15 Shri Dharamnath Swami Butea monosperma 1 1 16 Shri Shantinath Swami Cedrus deodara 1 - 17 Shri Kanthunath Swami Symplocos racemosa 1 1 18 Shri Arnath Swami Mangifera indica 1 1 19 Shri Mallinath Swami Saraca indica 1 1 20 Shri Suvrat Swami Michelia champaca 1 1 21 Shri Naminath Swami Mimusops elengi 1 1 22 Shri Neminath Swami Salix caprea 1 1 23 Shri Parsvanath Swami Woodfordia fruticosa 1 1 24 Shri Mahavir Swami Shorea robusta 1 - Total 24 20 this Van is based on the ‘Kalpa Vriksha’ survey no. 717 of total area covering yantra, where the trees associated with 5,969 sq m from Timba gram panchayat the Tirthankars are planted. has been transformed from government For establishing Tirthankar Van, wasteland to forest land and given to survey no. 718 and 719 of total area the Forest Department, Social Forestry covering 14,872 sq m from Timba gram Range, Kheralu. Similarly, total area panchayat has been transformed from of 33,159 sq m from forest land has grazing land to forest land as well as been transformed for the purpose of

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Tirthankar Van. Thus total area of Figure 2: Design of Navgrah Van 54,000 sq m (5.4 ha) has been utilised for establishment of Tirthankar Van.

2.2 Establishment of Navgraha Van Indian astrology strongly believes in definite correlation between plants and planets (Navagrahas). These planets are supposed to influence different organs in the body, either in positive or negative manner, and may result in diseases due to evil effects. Different plants have been prescribed for usage to overcome the ailments. Such plants are thus associated with planets and are believed to have medicinal properties for treating the diseases. A Navgraha passes. It is believed that celestial Van would thus typically include plants bodies like the sun and the moon exert associated with each of the Navgrahas. different influences on human beings when they are transiting through these 2.3 Establishment of Nakshatra Van 27 constellations. It is also believed Constellations are groups of stars that such effects can be moderated or which appear to be fixed in the sky. enhanced by planting and worshiping The Hindu panchanga assigns a separate trees assigned to each constellation. This tree for each of the 27 constellations collection of trees planted in the correct (Nakshatras) through which the sun order constitutes a Nakshatra Van.

Table 2: Detail of trees planted in Navgrah Van S. Name of planet Name of trees planted No. of No. No. sapling sapling planted survived 1 Budh(Mercury) Achyranthes Aspera 5 5 2 Shukra(Venus) Ficus glumerata 5 3 3 Chandra(Moon) Butea monosperma 5 3 4 Guru(Jupiter) Ficus religiosa 5 3 5 Surya(Sun) Calotropis Procera 5 3 6 Mangal(Mars) Acacia Catechu 5 3 7 Ketu(Ketu) Saccharum Spontaneum 5 4 8 Shani(Seturn) Acacia Ferruginea 5 4 9 Rahu(Rahu) Cynodon Dactyon 5 5 Total 45 33

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Table 3: Detail of Trees planted in Nakshatra Van. S. Name of Name of trees No. of sapling No. sapling No. constellation planted planted survived 1 Ashwini Strychnos nuxvomica 3 2 2 Bharni Emblica officinal 3 3 3 Kritika Ficus glomerata 3 3 4 Rohini Syzygium cumini 3 3 5 Mrigshira Acacia catechu 3 3 6 Ardra Awuilaria agalocha 3 3 7 Punarvasu Dendrocalamus strictus 3 3 8 Pushya Ficus religiosa 3 3 9 Ashlesha Mesua ferrea 3 - 10 Magha Ficus benghalensis 3 3 11 Purva Falguni Butea monosperma 3 3 12 Uttara Falguni Ficus rumphii 3 3 13 Hasta Jasminium auriculatum 3 3 14 Chitra Aegle marmelos 3 3 15 Swati Terminalia arjuna 3 3 16 Vishakha Mesus ferrea 3 3 17 Anuradha Mesua ferrea 3 3 18 Jyestha Bombax ceiba 3 3 19 Moola Vateria indica 3 3 20 Poorvashada Calamus spp. 3 3 21 Uttarashada Artocarpus heterophyllus 3 3 22 Shravana Calotropis gigantean 3 3 23 Dhanishtha Prosopis spicigera 3 3 24 Saiabhisha Anthocephalus cadamba 3 3 25 Poorva Bhadrapada Mangifera indica 3 3 26 Uttara Bhadrapada Azadirachta indica 3 3 27 Revati Madhuca latifolia 3 3 Total 81 77

2.4 Establishment of Rashi Van the zodiac sign of a person. Indian The 27 constellations are further astrology has assigned specific trees for grouped into 12 zodiac signs. specific zodiac signs. Astrology groups human beings into these zodiacs. The zodiacs play a vital 2.5 Establishment of Shriparni Van role in the lives of human beings and As per Hindu mythology, the goddess any astrological prediction starts from Laxmi resides in Shriparni (Gmelina

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Figure 3: Design of Nakshatra Van Figure 5: Design of Shiparni Van

Results Each Sanskrutik Van (during Van Mahotasav) covers on an average 6.5 hectare involving 30 to 40 plants species with more than 10,000 plant saplings. If we consider 16 Sanskrutik Van; each from 55th to 66th Van Mahotasav and 4 Figure 4: Design of Rashi Van from 67th Van Mahotsav in Gujarat, the final figure goes to 104.54 hectare of land and more than 160,000 plant saplings. While considering the Tirthankar Van, it covers 5.4 hectare of land involving more than 43,000 plant saplings of more than 30 plants species. The land on which Tirthankar Van has been established has been transformed from wasteland, revenue land and patch of brushy forest land. Instead of initial brushy surroundings, with association of Rashi Van, Navgrah Van, Nakshatra arborea) and brings peace, happiness Van, Shreeparni Van and Bilva Van, the and prosperity for worshippers and 'Tirthankar Van' has more than 40,000 people who raise such trees. Keeping plant saplings today. Due to the change this in mind, 100 trees of Gmelina in environment, increase in avifauna, arborea have been planted at this place butterfly population as well as frequent as per the design given here. visits of python has been noted here Including all those Vans, plantation (direct sighting by forest guards). of more than 40,000 trees at Smriti Instead of initial brushy surroundings, Van, Bilva Van, viewpoint, Main gate, now per year around 6,500 visitors Kid garden, Camp sight, Between are getting rich vegetation, greenery Timba-Taranga and boundaries has around them and fresh air at Taranga been made. Hill. Frequent visits of students and

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Table 4: Detail of Trees planted in Rashi Van S. Name of Name of trees planted No. of sapling No. sapling No. zodiac planted survived 1 Aries Ficus recemosa 5 2 Emblica officinalis - - Strychnos nuxvomica - - 2 Taurus Syzygium cumini 5 3 Ficus recemosa - - Acacia chundra - - 3 Gemini Acacia chundra, 5 2 Aquilaria agalocha - - Dendrocalamus strictus - - 4 Cancer Ficus religiosa 5 5 Musua ferrea - - Dendrocalamus strictus - - 5 Leo Ficus benghalensis 5 3 Ficus religiosa - - Butea monosperma - - 6 Virgo Aegle marmelos 5 3 Jasminum auriculatum - - Butea monosperma - - 7 Libra Terminalia arjuna 5 5 Aegle marmelos - - Mesua ferrea - - 8 Scorpio Bombax ceiba 5 1 Mesua ferrea - - Shorea robusta - - 9 Sagittarius Calamus rotung 3 1 Shorea robusta - - Astocarpus heterophyllus - - 10 Capricorn Calotropis gigantaia 5 4 Astocarpus heterophyllus - - Prosopis spicejera - - 11 Aquarius Anthocephallus chinesis 5 3 Prosopis spicejera - - Mangifera indica - - 12 Pisces Azadirachta indica 5 5 Mangifera indica - - Madhuca indica - - Total 60 37

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scholars to this place has resulted in the [3] Anon (2010), Mangalyavan – Ambaji Forest State government organising annual Department, Gujarat State, Publicity and Nature Education camps here. liqision, Gandhinagar [4] Anon (2010), Punitvan – Gandhinagar Forest Under Social Forestry through a Department, Gujarat State, Publicity and scheme like Van Mahotasav, people liqision, Gandhinagar have been motivated and roped in [5] Anon (2010), Bhaktivan – Chotila Forest tree planting activity. This is not only Department, Gujarat State, Publicity and helpful in Social Forestry, but also helps liqision, Gandhinagar [6] Anon (2010), Tirthankarvan – Taranga Forest in greening Gujarat as well as India. Department, Gujarat State, Publicity and liqision, Gandhinagar References [7] Chauhan IA, The Gir, Gir welfare Fund, [1] Anonamous(2010), Hariharvan, Somnath- Kumar A. and wildlife division Sasangir Raja Veraval Forest Department, Gujarat State, m.(2008) [2] Anonamous(2010), Shyamalvan- Shamlaji, [8] Sagreiya, KP(1994), Forest & Forestry Forest Department, Gujarat State, Publicity National Book Trust, New Delhi Revised by and liqision, Gandhinagar Dr SS Negi) P.1-34

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Photo plate-2: Recent condition of Tirthankar Van

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Photo plate 3: Recent condition of Tirthankar Van

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Photo plate 4: Recent condition of Tirthankar Van

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Photo plate 1: Site plan and converted land map of Tirthankar Van

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Photo plate 5: Recent condition of Navgrah Van at Taranga

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Photo plate 6: Recent condition of Nakshatra Van at Taranga

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Photo plate 7: Recent condition of Shreeparni Van at Tirthankar Van

Photo plate 8: Recent condition of Rashi Van at Tirthankar Van, Taranga

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Man-crocodile conflict in Vadodara

Crocodile attacks on humans are largely preventable; the primary cause being a lack of awareness of the danger humans put themselves in

Patel Rahulkumar Keshavlal conserve the population of crocodiles in Vadodara region. he human population growth rate in close vicinity to nature Introduction Treserves, increasing demand for Vadodara district of Gujarat is the resources and growing demand for location of the Vishwamitri-Dhadhar access to land seems to pose unique river system and basin. The Vishwamitri challenges in wildlife management. river originates from the western and The species, Mugger, is recovering southern slopes of Pavagadh hills, across the part of its range in passes through the heart of Vadodara Viswamitri river in Vadodara. The city; further downstream it is linked loss of habitat, combined with human with two other tributaries, Dhadhar expansion into previously wild areas, and Jambuva, and finally culminates in is causing increasing reports of conflict. the Gulf of Kambhat. Here we look at the extent and causes Of paramount importance in its of man-crocodile conflicts, how it ecology is the presence of highly pro- is dealt with in the area and efforts tected species, the Indian crocodile. The taken by the Forest Department and crocodiles have been inhabiting and other government agencies to mitigate breeding in the stretch of the Vishwa- these issues amicably and also help to mitri River for thousands of years.

RFO Trainee 2016-17 Course, CASFOS, Burnihat, Assam

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The census carried out in 2015 shows the crocodile population thrive. that the river is now home to over 260 5. The populace has increased as urban crocodiles. The figure was 204 in the areas don’t have many predators last census of 2011. (ToI 6.3.15 ) that consume crocodile eggs. 6. Also, many restaurants and Why crocodile population slaughterhouses dump their waste in has increased the river that makes food availability 1. The crocodile is included in easy for crocodiles. Appendix-I of the Convention of 7. Forest officers said awareness International Trade in Endangered among citizens has led to increase in Species (CITES) and brought the population. under Schedule-I of The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, meaning Threats and reason of conflict that any activity which is against 1. Human population growth the survival of the highly protected and close vicinity species cannot be done without Demographic and social changes place being approved by the State Wildlife more people in close proximity with Board/ National Wildlife Board. crocodiles as human populations grow, 2. Moreover, unlike in other parts settlements expand into and around of the country, they are not killed protected areas as well as in urban and in Gujarat because the mugger sub-urban areas. crocodile is the mount of Khodiyar The urban population growth was Maa, a form of the Mother Goddess 25.12 per cent and rural population worshipped widely in State. growth was 5.12 per cent during 3. Crocodile is a tough species. It has 2001-11 (censusindia.gov.in/2011). evolved to survive in a drought- People use the river, its tributaries and prone region and is very adaptable. connected water bodies for bathing, 4. The Vishwamitri and its tributaries washing clothes, fishing and relieving are flush with fish stock and help themselves.

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2. Species habitat loss, degradation they will bite when provoked or and land use transformation surprised. If we objectively analyse the Over the years of its course within the reasons behind these attacks, we may city of Vadodara, the river has been be able to minimise them and hopefully subject to abuse as a consequence of convince people that crocodiles are rapid urbanisation and neglect towards worth keeping around. water systems within the city and its outskirts. It has also suffered from 1. Spreading awareness among people ecological damage by way of sewage, Crocodilian attacks on humans are contaminated storm water outfalls, largely preventable, the primary cause industrial effluents drained in the river being a lack of awareness of the danger and several other point and non-point they put themselves in. This is why sources of pollution. education and awareness are critical. On certain occasions, river water Safety measures, when practiced, can has reached flood alert level. Flood prevent many attacks. waters inundating low-lying parts of The State Forest Department has city have resulted not only in despair swung into action, spreading awareness for people living in these areas, but also about safe practices on the banks of the created situations of human-crocodile rivers. Attacks on humans intensify conflict as they endanger the habitats during the April to July period. Mother for crocodiles within the river as well. crocodiles, nesting and hatching young ones, are insecure about their safety 3. Increasing wildlife population as a and, consequently, on high-alert and result of conservation programmes nervous. Any movement near the river Strict enforcement of the Wildlife Pro- banks, where the nests are usually tection Act, 1972, and the species adapt- located, aggravates the crocodiles. able nature have caused it to flourish. But for people using the banks, it is difficult to entirely cut-off access to Human-crocodile the river. Some wash clothes, others conflict incidents attempt to cross the river. Many take Muggers attacking people were ob- a plunge for fun. However, according served while the victims were crossing to forest officials, crocodiles have the river,washing clothes and operating not attacked unless they have been a motor for pumping water. Mainly the provoked or disturbed. conflicts were observed during June– September. (www.thretenedtaxa.org) 2. Compensation Crocodiles are one of protected Human-crocodile conflict species under Schedule I (Part II) of mitigation the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The majority of crocodilian species do Any violation of the Act can result in not pose a serious danger to people, up to seven years of imprisonment. although like any other wild animal, Victims of these reptilian attacks are

CONTENTS 22 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 given compensation from the State 4. Awareness campaign government—kin of the deceased get In villages, crocodile awareness Rs 4 lakh, and disability get anything programmes are being introduced in between Rs 59,100 and Rs 200,000, schools and safety tips shared through depending on the extent of disability. group meetings. “Magar thi sachavie, magar ne sachavie (Keep safe from 3. Signboards regarding habitat crocodiles, keep crocodiles safe)" is the of crocodile mission slogan. It has found a connect In Vadodara, as part of the safety meas- with the people. ures, numerous signboards carrying The city is also seeing a rise in mi- warnings about crocodilian dangers grant population, which is mostly una- have cropped up over bridges and in ware of such dangers. Coupled with streets. The only way to mitigate the the fact that the Vishwamitri riverbed risk of crocodile attacks is to make peo- has been shrinking, reducing the nest- ple aware of their behaviour. ing space for the crocodiles, the num- ber of incidents has only increased.

Photos by Mr. Nilesh shah (Motivator)

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Photos by Mr. Nilesh shah (Motivator)

(Fencing around crocodile affected water bodies by the Forest Department)(Warning Boards by the Forest Department regarding habitat of crocodile in river)

The Forest Department is conducting identified the needs for which people awareness programmes in this area. turn to the rivers—toilets, washing and crossing. The Forest Department has 5. Effective management by apparently asked civic bodies to make the Forest Department these facilities away from the riverbed. The Vishwamitri has been divided into seven zones by the Forest Department. 6. Wildlife rescue centre Two volunteers, two guards and The Forest Department has a one forester have been assigned to wildlife rescue centre and a toll free each zone. Their job is to make locals number 18002332636. Forest officers aware of their reptilian neighbours immediately respond to the call of any and to ensure that all safety measures rescue of wildlife, including crocodiles, are in place. The department has also and rescue the animals in Vadodara.

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7. Protected area for crocodiles, safety measures, capacity building Crocodile park of rescuers and Forest Department City planners are thinking a proposal officials and also standardising of to declare a certain stretch of the efforts. Such mitigation measures can Vishwamitri, passing through the city, effectively bring down the negative a protected zone for crocodiles and interaction and ultimately provide beautify it. This will prevent attacks. It opportunities to promote crocodile will not be a protected zone as defined conservation. under the Wildlife Protection Act. But, it will ensure that animals are not Conclusion disturbed. Use of properly implemented and The initiative has been proposed monitored crocodile exclusion enclo- under the Vishwamitri River Front sures and crocodile fences and aware- Development Project. A feasibility ness programme among citizens, study has been done and the report proper supervision, continuous rescue has been sent to the State Government operations and management plan in- for approval. corporating socio-economic realities The corporation is also planning to help to gain community support and build a crocodile park for awareness effectiveness in the area to reduce man- among people and to provide crocodiles crocodile conflict and conservation of an ideal environment. this unique species.

8. Community engagement, safety Acknowledgement guideline and training in safe capture Vadodara Social Forestry Division, This covers community engagement, Gujarat

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Forest fires and the way forward

A first person account of dealing with forest fire

Shivendra weight the truck got stuck in loose soil. I requested the Territorial Range Officer was working as Range Officer to bring an elephant to pull the fire (mobile squad) when on April brigade truck out. At around 5.30 am I26, 2009, at about 12.30 pm, I the next day, three elephants reached received a call about a forest fire in the the spot. But, they were reluctant to Keratapuram area. The field staff, which go close to the truck as the ground had was on patrolling, was immediately heated up due to the fire. called back to the headquarters. Again, 12 labourers were engaged At 2.30 pm, with four executive staff to create a carpet area with soil and members and nine labourers, I reached water from the truck; in two hours the the spot. After conducting a survey of area cooled down. The elephants then the area, it was found that a mangrove pulled out the truck, but by that time, patch of about 500 sq m was burning. due to the heat, the front right tyre of The force was devoted to cut a fire line the truck was completely damaged. The on the demarcated point. fire brigade staff told that us that till the The Territorial Range Officer, police tyre is not repaired, it won't be possible and fire brigade were also informed as to use the truck. fire was adjacent to human habitation. The situation was discussed with All about 4 pm, the fire brigade came. the Arial Bay Range Officer and it But, as there was no proper road, it was was decided to hire 2-3 tractors to cut not possible for the fire truck to reach the fire line. The Assistant Director, the spot. The Arial Bay Territorial Range Agriculture, was contacted at about Officer was requested to bring 10-15 8 am for the tractors. He told us that regular labourers. As they reached the while one tractor at the headquarter spot, the force was engaged to prepare was not working, the other two were a road for the fire tender. about 40 km away. Meanwhile, the fire was spreading We then called the Pramukh of the and now covered about 800 sq Panchayat Samiti and the Pradhan and m due to the 3-tier canopy of the requested them to provide the tractors. rainforest. Somehow, a 50-metre The tractors with ploughing blades kutcha road was made for the reached the spot at around 9.30 am and fire truck. The truck was engaged at were engaged in cutting a 1-km long about 9.30 pm. Unfortunately, due to its fire line. The fire was then contained.

Range Officer, Department of Environment & Forest, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

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Anti-poaching operations in Maharashtra's Sholapur district

On World Forestry Day, brave forest officials send black buck poachers behind bars

VR Shinde it was late in the night and most of the villagers were asleep. The team then n 21st March, 2009, the World fanned out and started searching for Forestry Day was celebrated all the probable location in the fields and Oover the world with the “Oath” open lands. Despite searching for two to protect environment and wildlife. On hours, they were no closer to catching the same day, one black buck was shot the poachers. dead by poachers at Boramani village, They continued their search near Sholapur city in Maharashtra. The operations and at 1:30 AM, while officers of the Forest Department swung searching in the open lands or malrans into action and caught six poachers they saw a light in the field at about and sent them behind bars in a very half a kilometer from their location. short time. Moving quietly through the rocky It all began on 21st March when the area, they reached a hut where the forest officials Sholapur, Maharashtra, light was shining. Alighting from their got the information that some poachers vehicle, they were shocked by what from Mumbai had entered Sholapur’s they saw. On the ground, there were grass lands to hunt and had killed a thalis or plates in which food had been black buck near Boramani village, in consumed. On all the thalis there were Sholapur District. pieces of mutton and bones. Acting on this information, the forest One of the members of the team officials – the Range Officer along with kicked the door open. There were six his team – moved to verify this piece men sleeping inside the hut and there of information. On the way to the site were also weapons which included two at 9:30 PM, where the act of poaching imported rifles and pistols and a huge had taken place, the Range Officer quantity of ammunition. The poachers also informed the local police station. had been caught red handed. The forest On the way, they searched each and officials seized all the weapons and every vehicle on the National Highway ammunition along with the meat of the 13 (Solapur – Hyderabad National black buck which had been killed. Two Highway) but to no avail. vehicles which were used for poaching When they reached Boramani village were also seized.

Range Forest Officer, Radhanagari

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All the six offenders were arrested Court sentenced all the six accused and produced before the Hon’ble to rigorous imprisonment for 3 years Court which remanded the accused and imposed a fine of Rs. 25,000 under to custody for seven days for further Wildlife Protection Act and Rs. 10,000 investigations. At the end of seven under the Arms Act on each of the days of investigation a charge sheet accused. was filled in the Hon’ble Court of Law. Nature lover’s as well common During the trial, evidence collected public from Sholapur, lauded the quick by the Range Officer (Mr. Shinde) action taken by the forest officials who was the investigation officer, was particularly the Range Officer, Mr. placed before the Court. The Hon’ble Shinde in bringing the poachers to book.

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Solving a panther kill case

An account of dealing with wildlife traffickers

Vishwas B Bhadale came across a person who had a connection with the actual poacher. he story began with the arrest This person however would not reveal of some persons by Pune police the truth but would give us misleading Tat Katraj. The police had caught answers. Since we could not use these persons who had a panther skin physical force to get the information in their possession. They had come we devised a plan to get the correct to Katraj with the intention of selling information. the skin. All the accused were college We had four people who were being students and were now in the custody interrogated. We divided them in two of the Crime Bramch of Pune police. groups, three of these people who were News of this arrest reached the Forest less connected with the case were kept Department and we contacted the Pune in one group and the person who was police for more details. The accused the real culprit was kept alone. They were then handed over the Forest were kept in two different neighboring Department for further investigation rooms. The three persons were told that through the Court procedure. we will not beat you, but we will make During the interrogation of the the sound as if we are beating you and accused, we tried to get the correct you have cry and shout as if we are information about where the killing beating you. The real culprit was in of the panther had taken place. Based the room and I was there with him. I on the information provided by the told him “tell me the truth or else I will accused, we travelled to Kolhapur, beat you”. At that point, in the other Gargote and Budargad forest area. room, the forest officers started making There we were able to arrest other the sound as if they were beating the persons who were connected to this people in the room. Hearing this, the act of poaching. The arrested persons real culprit got frightened and started were placed under our custody by the telling the true story as to who had Hon’ble Court for two days. We were really killed the panther. however unable to get the correct According to the information information about the spot where the provided by him, the kill had taken kill had taken place. The accused were place in the Ratnagiri (Konkan) District. then released on bail after two days. The name of the village was Vadgaon During our investigations, we in Kudai Tehsil. This place was about

Range Forest Officer

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600 km from Pune. We quickly rushed (the panchanama accounts state, to to the Vadgaon village the same night things which were found at particular so as to grab the real poacher. The next place at particular time, in criminal law day morning at 6:00 AM we reached the panchnama has corroborative value) Vadgoan village and searched the house and sealed the remains of the panther. of the offender. We were able to get hold We then searched for the knife and of the person who had actually killed cutter which was used in the case. the panther. The accused was a very Further, we questioned the culprit poor villager staying with his family about the poison which he used for the in the house. During interrogation he killing. It was thrown in bushes 100 to revealed that the panther had killed his 200 m away from the spot. We found cow. So, he then put poison in the cow’s the box of poison, did a panchanama and carcass. The panther came to feed on sealed it and took it into our possession. the kill the next night and after eating We then questioned the culprit from the poisoned flesh fell sick and died. where he had purchased the poison. The accused then removed the skin and After searching his house we were the nails of the panther with a knife and able to find the purchase receipt for cutter and then buried the body. the poison. We did the panchanama and On being led to the site, we exhumed took it our custody. Thus, concluded the body of the panther. We were only the search of the panther kill. We able to find the bones and the skull of the arrested the culprits and took all the animal, as the kill had been done a year sealed material with us and came back before. We removed the bones, skull to Pune. All the evidence was then and other body parts, did a panchanama placed before the Court of Law.

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Analysis of habitat management practices in Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

Habitat management plans at Parambikulam Tiger Reserve address the immediate and long term threats and problems for sustainable management of habitats

Mito Rumi wild dog and wild boar. Parambilkulam Tiger Reserve arambikulam Tiger Reserve was declared as Tiger Reserve in (PTR) is located in the 2009 and is spread over an area of PNelliampathy – Anamalai 643.66 km2. The tiger population at landscape of the southern Western PTR here has been recorded as 34 in Ghats in Palakkad District of Kerala. It number. PTR has six tribal settlements is one of the biodiversity hot spots of the of indigenous tribes namely Kadar, world supporting a rich flora and fauna Malasar, Muduvar and Mala Malasar. and habitat types. It has 1835 plant The tribals are engaged as guides for species with domination of herbaceous treks, safaris and employed in various flora, evergreen and deciduous tree ecotourism activities. All these activities species. Important faunal species found are managed under the aegis of the here include among other the tiger, Parambikulam Tiger Conservation elephant, , sloth bear, sambar deer, Foundation. The Phase IV tiger mouse deer, barking deer, spotted deer, monitoring in PTR started in 2011-12 nilgiri langur, lion tailed macaque, and 26 tigers were identified by using bonnet macaque, Indian porcupine, camera traps. The habitat management

CASFOS, Burnihat, SFS 2015-17 Batch

CONTENTS 31 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 of PTR forms the primary components of habitat of PTR are discussed in the of management plan of PTR. following sections: Vayals: These are low altitude Description of PTR marshy grasslands with perennial PTR with total area of 653.66 km2 falls availability of water and grass. They under the jurisdiction of Parambikulam thus form the most important niche for Wildlife Sanctuary, Nemmara, herbivore population in the sanctuary. Chalakkudy and Vazhachal Forest Vayals are a unique habitat supporting Divisions of Kerala. a specific biodiversity. They are a sus- tainable source of palatable grasses for Habitat Management animals. These are also prime habitats The major habitat management for the prey species like the tiger. There practices undertaken in PTR include are 113 vayals in PTR. The management the following: of all the vayals can sometimes be a i. Maintenance of vayals problem due to lack of funds. ii. Soil and moisture conservation Threats to the vayals include invasion activities by coarse and unpalatable sedge iii. Development of water sources such species in the recent years. Rhyncospora as check dams and water holes corymbosa is the most hazardous sedge. iv. Conversion of monoculture of teak, Exotic weed Eupatorium is seen in eucalyptus plantations into natural most of the vayals. Mikania micrantha forests of indigenous species is also observed in vayals in Karimala v. Fire lines for preventing forest fires and Orukomban Ranges. , PTR comprises of a mosaic forest Glycosmis pentaphylla, Lantana camara vegetation type. Major components are other examples.

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Management strategy by three rivers (basin) – P eriyar, i. The vayals has been categorized into Chalakkudipuzha and Bharathapuzha. very good, good and moderate based Together form 8 sub-basins. on parameters such as availability Parambikulam is the single major river of water during summer, forage system present within the sanctuary. quality, type of adjoining cover There are 61 streams, 58 waterholes (ambush/escape cover), wildlife and 32 check dams in PTR. The utilization and natural salt. moist deciduous and dry deciduous ii. Removal of Invasive species: vegetation types in the Tiger Reserve ● Uprooted pits of Lantana/ necessitate steps to conserve moisture. Rhyncospora and Mikania will be Threats to the water sources include seeded with seeds of palatable – drying up of streams and water bodies grasses. during the dry season. Also several ● Mechanical Methods of weed streams and rivers flowing through the removal and grass cutting in open Tiger Reserve are causing soil erosion. area will be adopted and their cost-benefit analysis will be done Management strategy for future. i. Ridge area treatment activities ● Eco-restoration camps will be required to restore the health of involved to remove weeds. the catchment areas by reducing the volume and velocity of surface Water Sources run off are as follows: PTR region is criss-crossed run ● Protection and regeneration of

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vegetative cover from fire Threat to the forest type is an almost ● Afforestation continuous stretch of poorly raised teak ● Staggered trenching, contour and plantations. These plantations continue graded bunding downstream towards south and west beyond Orukumbankutty along the ii. Drainage line treatment: This will Chalakkudy River Valley to the very be carried out using a combination foothills in Thrissur District. This teak of vegetative and engineering belt extends over more than 150 km2. structures such as earthen checks, Industrial plantations of eucalyptus brushwood checks, gully plugs, have also been raised all along the loose bolder checks, gabion south-western fringes of Parambikulam structures, underground dykes etc. in the Vazhachal Forest Division areas iii. Development of water harvesting in past. During the 1960s all the river structures such as low cost ponds, valley forests along Chalakkudy River nallah bunds, check dams etc. downstream of Athirappilly were clear felled and converted to rubber Soil and moisture plantations through the Plantation conservation measures Corporation of Kerala. The destructive Data on soil and the seasonality and extraction of the giant evergreen quantity of flow in these streams were canopy trees and the subsequent collected and compiled. Gully plugging damage by fire inflicted upon these using dry rubble packing is the forests degraded the areas and created primary method for soil and moisture areas with bamboo and rocky blanks. conservation adopted. Other methods also adopted include brushwood check Management strategy dams, vegetative gully plugging and i. Geographical distribution of contour bunding. selected species in PTR was studied. Spatial patterns of abundance of the Mosaic Forest Type Habitat different scheduled species were PTR forms a mosaic of west coast compared in order to appraise their tropical evergreen forests, tropical relative habitat selectivity and their semi-evergreen forests, southern moist tolerance to human disturbance. mixed deciduous forest, southern dry ii. Indigenous species of the region mixed deciduous forests, southern have been identified and recorded. montane wet temperate forests () Their growth, stock health, and bamboo brakes. The Gaur and regeneration are recorded and Sambar prefer evergreen and semi- studied over period of time all over evergreen habitats, the Chital prefers the. Gap filling plantations are done the moist and dry deciduous type of with indigenous species selected habitats. The prefers the based on Importance Value Index grasslands on hilltops. (IVI) of species.

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Forest Fires the villagers and tourists during sa- Forest fires can cause devastating fari rides. Grasses are cut / scratched damage to wildlife and habitat over across the entire width and the mid- thousands of hectares at an instance. dle portion is burnt. This creates fire- Forest fires caused naturally by breaks during forest fires. lightning are very rare. They are mostly ii. Patrolling is increased during dry anthropogenic in nature. They are season to prevent forest fires. mostly caused by accidental fires set off by villagers or tourists while cooking Conclusion or smoking cigarette on roadside or To protect and conserve wildlife, the in forest areas. They can sometimes be natural habitat must be protected and directly caused by miscreants. conserved. Habitat management forms the basis of wildlife management Management strategy plans of protected areas. Habitat i. Fire line of 5.2 metres width are cre- management strategies must be ated alongside roadways used by formulated after carrying out elaborate

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scientific studies of a habitat, making of the tiger reserve. Visit to the forest use of existing technology in studying and adjoining village settlements biodiversity and ecosystems of the provided us opportunities to critically area. Habitat management plans must analyse the habitat management and address immediate and long term monitoring of the animals. I would like threats and problems for sustainable to thank the whole fraternity of Kerala management of habitats in protected Forest Department for assistance and areas and forests in general. support throughout the tour to make it a very successful Acknowledgements learning programme. I extend my gratitude to Shri K Manoj, Assistant Wildlife Warden, References Parambikulam Tiger Reserve and forest Official records of Parambikulam WLS Division, staff of Parambikulam WLS Division, Kerala Govt. websites: http://www.forest.kerala.gov.in; for the valuable information, support http://www.moef.gov.in and guidance to impart us knowledge

CONTENTS 36 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 Eco-friendly tribal development in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

From eco-tourism activities to education and health programmes for the tribal population in the sanctuary, the Forest Department has initiated a number of development projects in the area

Rohit Chaudhari resulted in diversity of vegetation types, which harbor a large array of hinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, with plants and animals. The sanctuary is an area of 90.442 sq km, was a repository of endemic, endangered Cconstituted in 1984.This is the and rare species—965 species of plants only sanctuary in Kerala located in were collected from the sanctuary. The the rain shadow region, representing a area harbors 27 species of mammals, unique thorny vegetation. It is situated which include albino (probably in Taluk of . the only record in the world). A recent The sanctuary is contiguous with bird survey conducted in the Protected in the north Area (PA) reported 172 species of birds, and east, majority of them breeding here. After along with Marayoor Range in the west Srivilliputhur, the sanctuary has the and Kanthalloor Range along with second viable population of Grizzled Kurinjimala Sanctuary in the south. Giant Squirrel. About 5 sq km area has The complex terrain system has valuable sandal trees.

A panoramic view of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Officer Trainee SFS 2016-18 Course, CASFOS Dehradun

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Eco-friendly tribal sanctuary—Champakkad Tribal development activity Trackers EDC, Eachampetty TTEDC in Chinnar and Alampetty TTEDC. Eco-tourism Eco-development is an important activ- activities are operated from two points, ity as the sanctuary is inhabited by con- at Chinnar which is the entry point to siderable tribal population, spread out the sanctuary from the Tamil Nadu in 11 settlements. Providing adequate side, and Alampetty, about 8 km from livelihood options to the tribes forms Marayoor Town. an important part of PA management. The programmes offered at Chinnar All the 11 tribal settlements within the include visit to watch tower, river side sanctuary were brought under the Eco- trekking along Chinnar river and night Development Project under the Kerala halt at tree top machans and log houses. Forestry Project. Community support At Alampetty, trekking to Thoovanam programmes are run with the Commu- waterfall and stay at log houses are nity Development Fund received from offered as part of eco-tourism activities. the Anaimudi Forest Development The programme is functioning in a Agency, to which the Eco-Development benefit sharing manner. The salaries Committees (EDCs) in Chinnar Wildlife to the guides are based on the income Sanctuary are affiliatedto. generated through various activities. A part of the income is set aside for Eco-tourism activities community development activities. and initiatives The eco-tourism activities were initiated Development activities at in the PA during 2002-03. Trekking and the sanctuary night halt programmes are offered as Some of the development activities that part of eco-tourism. These programmes are undertaken at Chinnar Wildlife are operated by professional EDC Sanctuary are as follows: groups, which were formed from the • Permanent water supply tribal EDCs exclusively for eco-tourism arrangements. operations. Presently three professional • Electrification of settlements by EDC groups are functioning in the PICO Turbine Hydro-Electric project

PICO Turbine Hydro Electric Project Solar panels for lighting

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Tribal Women making paper bags Products prepared and marketed by Tribal EDCs

Library at Vatmeekam coaching Centre

in Tayannankudi and solar light is also carried out for the well being systems in Palappetty, Echampetty of tribal students and people. A PSC and Iruttalakkudy tribal settlement. coaching centre, named ‘Vatmeekam’, has been set up at Karimutty to train With the help of other government tribal people for PSC exams. There are bodies, various programmes for also an establishment of Bodhi Library. employment generation for local Many activities are carried out for people have also been started. These improving the health of the people. include various production units like A free medical camp is conducted Agarbathi making units, Paper bag at each tribal hamlet of the Chinnar making units, Soap making units, Wildlife Sanctuary by Kottayam Amla product making units, Flavoured Nature Society and Wildlife Division, honey making units, Minivet sweets Chinnar. The Wildlife Division also and confectonaries. started ‘Punarjeevan’ project, aimed at An education empowerment activity improving the health of tribal people.

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Health of the communities can be Acknowledgements rejuvenated only by reviving the Shri Prasad G., Wildlife Warden, diverse cropping patterns with diverse Wildlife Division, Kerala traditional varieties, which provide Shri Prabhu, Assistant Wildlife them with nutritional and food security. Warden, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary This agri-project has also become a part of income source for the tribal people.

CONTENTS 40 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 Imparting new life to Deoriatal

It is important to explain the stand of the department regarding conservation on sustainable basis through firm measures by means of continuous interaction with local people to make any project successful

Neethulakshmi M. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests of oak (Quercus leucotrichophora), eoriatal is a natural lake situated burans (Rhododemdron arboreum), in the Kedarnath Wildlife etc. It is crowned by a majestic view DSanctuary, Rudraprayag of Himalayan peaks Chaukamba, District of Uttarakhand. Located at an Nilkanth, Kedarnath, Bandarpunch, altitude of 2438 mts above mean sea Kalanag, etc. Their reflection on the lake level, to reach the lake one has to trek is a breathtaking view, especially on a for 3 kms from a village named Sari, clear sunny day in the morning. One near Ukhimath. can enjoy the forest by walking on the nature trail encircling the lake. Mythology and importance The lake is a water source for many According to Hindu mythology, devas herbivores like Sambar, Barking deer, used to take a holy dip in the lake, hence etc., and carnivores like leopard. It its name. It is believed to be made by is also frequently visited by Yellow- Pandava brother Bheema, to quench throated Marten. One wakes up in his thirst on the advice of Yudhisther. the morning to the natural orchestra The lake is also called 'Indra Sarovar' of birds like Khalij Pheasant, Koklass by sadhus. Pheasant, Himalayan Partridge, Blue

Reflection of Himalayan peaks on Deoriatal

IFS, DFO Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

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Nature trail around the lake

Burans (Rhododendron arboreum) in full bloom around the lake

Whistling Thrush, Black-headed Jay, Burans bloom in spring. Some camp in Eurasian Jay, Rufous Sibia etc. In tents in the meadows surrounding the winter, especially in snow, the view lake. There is also a 14 km long trek of Himalayan Monal, the State bird of from Deoriatal to Chopta, traversing Uttarakhand, perching on tree top is an thick lush green forests. unforgettable experience. Both Indian and foreign tourists Eco-tourism initiative visit the site to enjoy the reflection of in the past the Himalayan mountains on the lake, An Eco-development Committee (EDC) to enjoy snow during winters and the was formed in the past with villagers

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Camps at Deoriatal

Snow at Deoriatal of Sari as members to manage eco- Moreover, an entry gate, which was tourism activities in Deoriatal. Under built by the department so as to the initiative, a 3 km long bridle path demarcate the boundary of Deoriatal, was made from Sari to Deoriatal with was destroyed by the villagers, who basic amenities like shelters, waste were of the opinion that the lake was bins, signages, etc., developed on the located outside the sanctuary area and trek route. However, the villagers that they wanted direct control of the wanted to erect shops near the lake management of tourism without the to cater to the needs of the tourists, EDC model. As a result, eventually, which was opposed by the department. the EDC stopped functioning and

CONTENTS 43 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 further talks with the villagers to revive restricted beyond the boundary of the it also failed. However, the villagers sanctuary and the travel agents were continued erecting shops on the trek asked to employ porters to carry the route to Deoriatal in the civil land and camping materials to Rohini bugyal. It catered to the mules for transportation led to unrest among the villagers who of tourists and the camping materials. owned mules, sometimes instigated by the travel agents who had to pay more Degradation of the porters instead of one or two mules. The lake and meadow travel agents, the mule owners' onion The camps at Deoriatal as well as and local representatives approached Rohini Bugyal, a meadow, situated the staff and division office several halfway on the trek to Chopta, are run times with a request to reconsider the by travel agents who employ mules decision. They also used to approach for transporting the camping materials in large group whenever I made a visit to both places. After unloading the to the area. During various meetings, luggage, the mules are set free on the attempts were made to convince them meadows to graze and venture into the regarding the importance of the area lake to quench their thirst. The scarcity in terms of scenic beauty as well as a of staff made it difficult to control the potential habitat for wildlife and the mules and convince their owners every reasons for the failure of EDC initiatives time. Moreover, a check on the camp and motivated the villagers to think been run at Rohini Bugyal was difficult beyond the scope of just porters or mule too. The travel agents were of the operators. Every time, the stand of the opinion that the trekkers need to halt department on restoration of the site at Rohini bugyal at night before they was emphasised. It took several rounds proceed towards Chopta, though the of talks with the local people to make trek is not very tough and can be done the stand of the department clear. easily in a day by an average trekker. Also, the Himalayan treks are never Present scenario chosen by weak trekkers. The water in the lake has become cleaner than before when the mules used to Trying to solve the problem be set free to pollute it. Fresh blades Since the area is visited only by trekking of native grasses started appearing in enthusiasts and the trek route to the meadows, which were about to be Chopta does not fall under any pilgrim replaced by sturdy unpalatable ones route, use of mules can be restricted. soon after the restriction was imposed. Moreover, there is a high chance of The entire surrounding of the lake transmission of communicable diseases as well as the meadow is becoming to the wildlife from the mules, the dogs cleaner with the absence of dung of accompanying the camp assistants and mules which used to spread foul smell the cattle in the surrounding villagers. all over, making it inconvenient for As a first step, the mules were the tourists to camp or enjoy the view

CONTENTS 44 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 while resting at various spots. Further, cases, it is important to ascertain the with strictly demarcating the sites for stand of the department regarding camping, the rest of the meadow is now conservation on sustainable basis free to regenerate. through some firm measures by means of continuous interaction with local Inference people. Eventually, the local people Eco-tourism and EDC initiatives cannot have started respecting the decision be successful always, especially as it of the department and the site is being depends on the aspirations of the local managed well. people to a great extent. In such difficult

CONTENTS 45 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 Conservation of Sangai, a success story

Though the population of Sangai has risen from 14 in 1975 o 204 in 2013, the population is still non-viable. Further measures need to be taken to conserve this endangered deer species

Mahamuda Begum least population in the wild and thus the most endangered. he Sangai (Rucervus eldii eldii) is Sangai is a medium sized deer. an endangered deer whose last The size of a fully grown Sangai stag Tsingle population in its natural is about 110 cm to 125 cm high at the habitat is found only at Keibul Lamjao shoulder and about 105 cm at the hind. National Park, Manipur, over the The length of an adult buck ranges floating biomass locally called phumdi between 145cm-155cm. A mature in the south eastern part of the Loktak Sangai stag weighs about 110 kg. Lake. Sangai, also known as Manipur Brow Antlered Deer, is the State animal History of Keibul Lamjao of Manipur. National Park There are three species of Rucervus Sangai was once reported extinct in 1951 eldii in the world, the other two Eldii and was re-discovered and counted sub-spp are Rucervus eldii thamin of six heads in 1953 by Eldii Percy Gee, Myanmar and Rucervus eldii siamensis the then Honorary Secretary, Indian of Thailand. Recently, there was news Board for Wildlife, Eastern Region, of yet another Rucervus eldii in South in a survey conducted under the China. Of the three Eldii species, auspices of the IUCN. It was the first Sangai—Rucervus eldii eldii—has the turning point for Sangai conservation.

SFS 2015-17 Trainee, CASFOS Dehradun

CONTENTS 46 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016

Following this, the Manipur Wildlife its flagship species Sangai and other Advisory Board declared Keibul area associated wildlife under the provisions as Protected Sanctuary and Sangai as of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. Protected Animal in its meeting held on December 10, 1954 (Manipur Gazette, Sangai Population in the wild February 2, 1955). Sangai was reported extinct in 1951 at Further conservation measures Keibul area, but counted 14 heads in were taken up and Keibul Lamjao area 1975. With relentless protection, con- was declared as Protected Forest vide servation works and local support, the notification No. 55/10/65-M(Pt) dated Forest Department of Manipur could November 25, 1965. Keibul Lamjao manage successfully the population of was declared a Reserved Forest in 1974 Sangai to 204 in 2013. under the Indian Forest Act, 1927. The second turning point for Sangai Threats conservation was the initiative of There is a significant change in the the Government of India in 1975. A vegetation composition of the phumdis team led by Dr M.K. Ranjit Singh, the in terms of shelter and food plants for then Deputy Secretary, Ministry of animals. There is a change in phumdi Agriculture, the Government of India, thickness due to change in hydrology, was instructed to go to Manipur and pollution and phumdi proliferation. to assess the population. The team There is encroachment along the Park counted 14 heads of Sangai in 1975. boundary due to non-delineation. Finally, Keibul Lamjao, covering Moreover, there is dependence of an area of 40 sq km, was declared a the local population on the Park for National Park, called Keibul Lamjao collection of food and fodder biomass National Park, by the State Government due to their poor socio-economic of Manipur in 1977 for protection of condition.

CONTENTS 47 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016

Increasing trend of Sangai Population Year Census type Number of Sangai Total stag Hind Fawn 1975 Aerial - - - 14 1977 Aerial 6 8 4 18 1978 Aerial 9 10 14 23 1979 Aerial 9 13 8 30 1984 Ground 20 25 6 57 1986 Ground 44 45 6 95 1991 Ground 37 51 16 104 1995 Ground 58 69 25 152 1996 Ground 57 65 21 143 1999 Ground 63 61 25 149 2000 Ground 54 76 32 162 2003 Ground 65 74 41 180 2013 Ground (Point 90 86 28 204 Transect Method)

Major issues compacting isolated phumdi patches. The major issues of concern are: Single  Delineation of the Park boundary by isolated population with non-viable constructing ring bunds. population, lack of connectivity for  Establishment of anti-poaching re-colonisation and further loss of camps along the boundary of the genetic diversity. As per studies, the Park. viable population should be more than  Establishment of alternative home 500 individuals of Sangai. Also, there of Sangai within the traditional bio- is shortage of staff and inadequate geographic range of the sub-species. infrastructures for protection of wildlife  Research on Sangai, its associated and its habitat. species and phumdi habitat.

Proposed measures Acknowledgement  Extension of the Park area by Sri Arun R. S., IFS, DFO Keibul Lamjao inclusion of habitable adjoining National Park, Manipur areas and habitat consolidation by

CONTENTS 48 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 Socio-economic status of Kani tribe in Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary

Kani tribals are natural foresters and their main source of income mainly is cultivation of cash crops like rubber, cardamom and cinnamon

Mukta V. Tekale region represents biomes ranging from southern thorn forests, dry deciduous, anyakumari is the southern- moist deciduous, semi evergreen for- most district of Tamil Nadu. It is ests to evergreen hill shoals with grassy Kthe geographical end of the In- downs. The tract is exceedingly rich in dian mainland. The confluence of three wildlife harbouring a variety of ani- seas— Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and mals. The avifauna, the reptilian fauna Bay of Bengal—makes Cape Comorin and amphibian fauna of this region is very special in terms of religious, cul- also rich and diverse. In recognition tural and tourism values. Kanyakumari of the tremendous biological poten- takes its name from the deity of Kumari tial, Kanyakumari forest divison was Amman temple—Kanya Devi, an ava- declared as the Kanyakumari Wildlife tar of Godess Parvati. On November 1, Sanctuary in 2002. 1956, according to the State Reorgan- Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary isation Act, Kanyakumari was merged forms the part of southern-most end of with Tamil Nadu. Previously it was a Southern Western Ghats and is recog- part of Travancore State. nised as one of the three mega centres of The forest in Kanyakumari is ver- endemism in India and one of the two dant and virgin and said to be 75 mil- global hotspots of biodiversity in India. lion years old. Of the total district area It also forms the part of Agasthimalai of 167,130 hectares, forest occupies an Biosphere Reserve. area of 50,486 hectares, which comes to about 30.2 per cent of the total district About Kani tribe geographic area. Nearly 52 per cent of Kani tribals have been residing within the forest is dense forest. the sanctuary area since time immemo- The Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanc- rial. During 1911, the Travancore Gov- tuary, with adjacent areas of Kalak- ernment allotted certain forest areas, kad Mundathurai Tiger Reserve and named as Kani settlements, within the Wildlife Sanctuary of Kerala reserved forest of Kanyakumari district. State, constitutes the southern-most tip The Kani tribe is permitted to grow of Western Ghats. It is the culminating food crops and cash crops. Although point of both Western Ghats and East- they are allowed in the settlement area, ern Ghats. The natural vegetation of the but as the ownership rests with the For-

ACF (Officer Trainee), Batch 2016-18, CASFOS., Dehradun

CONTENTS 49 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 est Department, they are not able to sell kinds of wild animals at a great distance it. There are 47 Kani settlements in the and can elude them successfully in the area. thickest of the forests. The 47 Kani settlements are situated within the catchment areas of Pechipa- Social structure of Kani tribe rai, Perunchani and Citthar reservoir. Each ‘Kanikudi’ (Kani settlement) has a During 1988-89, there were 864 families ‘Moothukani’. The eldest son-in-law of with a total population of 3,560. As per Moothukani usually becomes the next the record in 2011, there are 1,578 fami- Moothukani, or another deserving per- lies with a total population of 5,342. son is selected. Moothukani is the cus- The life of the Kani tribal people todian of all social affairs and he deliv- of Kanyakumari is unique. They fol- ers the justice. He takes care of all the low different customs and ceremonies problems pertaining to his people and that are suitable to their environment. presides over meetings where solutions They are a strong and well-built race fit to the problems are found. for the wilds they inhabit. Their value There is a ‘Pilathi’ in each settlement. systems, spirituality, capabilities and He finds out whether evil spirit or bad culture have a huge untapped poten- weather is due to harm done to god. tial for sustainable development. They When a Pilathi wants to select a new Pi- play a crucial role in the stewardship lathi due to his old age, the belief is that of natural resources and biodiversity god will come in his dream and inform and provide environmental services who will be the next Pilathi. He teaches at local, regional and international lev- the Pilathi mantra to the new person els. Indigenous people have rich, varied whom god has selected. The new Pi- and locally rooted knowledge systems lathi goes to forest for meditation for 41 and their immense culture diversity is days by chanting Pilathi mantra taught extremely valuable in a world threat- to him. When he returns, it is believed ened by the homogenising trend of that he has got a super power from god globalisation. They have developed a and acquired knowledge about herbs of remarkable power of scenting different the forest.

Pilathi Kani

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There is a ‘Vilikani’ to assist Muthu- called raveeka. They say that their an- kani. ‘Vili’ means ‘to call’. It is the duty cestors wore a garment made of jungle of Vilikani to make the Kani people as- fibre. The women are not used to wear- semble in one place and inform about ing jewellery in their ears and nose, but the orders of Moothukani. they use a number of brass rings on fin- gers. They also wear chains made up of Appearance beads and shells around their neck. To- Tribals of Kanyakumari District are very day, however, some women wear mod- attractive to look at with black body, ern dresses and jewelllery. circular head, curled hair and broad nose. The tribal women are generally Food small in size and dark-skinned. Men Previously Kani were dependent on show much respect to women. They are wild edible plants and animals for good trackers and fond of sport, and, in food. Recently, there has been a change clearing forest paths, they hardly have in their food habits. Wild as well as cul- any equals. tivated tubers form their staple food. They cook tubers in many ways, such as Language Kallukachi, frying and boiling. Kalluka- They speak Malaipashai, which is a chi method is followed when they go in South Dravidian language of the Ma- the forest. In this method, they firstly layalam-Tamil sub-group. They use collect oval or medium sized stones Tamil script. and heat them red hot by burning large pieces of wood. Then half of the stones Costume are spread closely. Tubers are placed The men wear dhoti and towel and on this layer of red-hot stones. Another women have a long cloth wound round layer of stones is placed above the tu- their waist and wear a small cloth over bers and then the whole structure is their body. The women also use co- covered with Ochlandra leaves. After 20 loured saris and blouses. The women minutes tubers are taken out and eaten wear a long cloth, called charm, around with chillies and salt. Their staple food their waists and wear a loose blouse is rice and millets. They also consume

CONTENTS 51 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 pulses, vegetables and fruits. They use the government has taken steps to groundnut and coconut oil for cooking. improve the education of tribes in They consume milk and milk products Kanyakumari District. Now there are and drink coffee and tea. eight tribal schools in Kanyakumari District. Among them are two higher Occupation secondary schools and one high School, The chief occupations of the trib- two middle schools and three primary als are honey collection, agricultural schools in Kanyakumari District. In all works, hunting and fishing. They also these schools, 70 per cent of the students do plantation of coconut, black pepper, are tribals. Except for the high school, tapioca, cardamom, cinnamon. Nowa- all other schools have hostel facilities. days they also get much income from The students are provided with rubber planting and working under free boarding and lodging, woollen ARSU Rubber Corporation. blankets, textbooks, writing materials and uniforms. House The Kani live in small huts. The huts Health facilities are constructed with wood, mud, and Kani people get government medical grass. But, nowadays the government facilities free of cost. But there is no Pri- has provided them with many facilities. mary Health Centre in any of the Kani settlements. Medical mobile van visits Educational Development each settlement every week. The Department of Elementary Educa- tion and Literacy and of Higher Edu- Puberty ceremony cation in States have provided special Puberty rites are observed when a girl incentives to ST students which include attains maturity. The girl is kept in se- textbooks, uniform, tuition fee, and so clusion (Gudisai Kuthirudu—siting in on. Special focus is also accorded to ST her hut) for about one month. The ma- students under the District Primary Ed- ternal uncle erects the hut and presents ucation Programme, Kasturba Gandhi gifts to the girl. Balika Vidyalaya. Midday Meals Pro- gramme, Navodaya Vidyalaya, Nation- Marriage and dowry al Talent Search Scheme and the like. Among the Kani, monogamy is the The Post-Metric Scholarship Scheme is most common. Polygamy is rarely open to all ST students whose parents’ accepted. The age of marriage varies annual income is up to Rs 1 lakh to fa- from 16 to 20 years for girls and 20 cilitate students to pursue professional to 25 years for boys. A gold thali and courses. toe-rings are marriage symbols. Cash and clothes are given as dowry. But Schools nowadays jewellery and money too is Earlier, tribals had only two schools given alongwith brass vessel, choppers, at Pechipparai and Pathukani. Now grain and pulses, land and house.

CONTENTS 52 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016

Economic condition faith. They celebrate Christmas and The development in economy is largely observe Good Friday. depended on climate, natural resourc- es, infrastructural facilities, entrepre- Medicine knowledge of neurial skills, attitude towards invest- medicine ments and availability of skilled labour. Almost all the tribal men and women at Forest is the main source of income to Pechipparai settlement possess a good these people. Their economic system is knowledge of medicinal plants and their almost self sufficient and confined to uses. The Muttukani in the settlement their village. has thorough knowledge about herbs. He gives medicines for curing Sources of Income ordinary diseases like stomach ache, Daily wages in ARC : fever and common cold. Certain Kanis M a l e - R s 5 0 0 / d a y use medicinal plants independently. If Female - Rs 350/day the disease is not cured, they go to Rubber sheet - Rs 200 /sheet Muttukani for better treatment. Tapioca - Rs 30 /kg Banana - Rs 70 /kg Problems faced by Dry coconut - Rs 30 /kg Kani people Cardamon - Rs 850 /kg When I interacted with some Kani Black pepper - Rs 700 /kg people and asked about their problems, Honey - Rs 200 /lit they told me that they were happy. Only one demand of Kanis is that they should So, the average income of a family is get cultivated land in their own name in approximately Rs 2-2.5 lakh/year. the records. Also they want four hectare land per family according to the Tribal Basic facilities provided by Act 2006. Further, medical facility is not the government available if any emergency occurs. Wild The Tamil Nadu State government has boars and monkeys destroy the crops of provided a lot of basic facilities free Kani people. of cost to Kani people. These include electricity (100 units free of cost per Conclusion month per family), television, mixer- 1. The government of Tamil Nadu is grinder, fan, etc. Students in Class taking many welfare measures to 12 get laptops and bicycles from the look after the well-being of Kani trib- government. al people. Even though the govern- ment is coming forward to enlighten Tribal festival them, the benefits of the government Hindu Kanikkars celebrate festivals schemes have not yet reached the such as , Deepavali and Karthi- people. The economy of tribals is gai. The Christian Kanikkars are limited and not self-sufficient. converts to the Roman Catholic 2. Kani people have forgotten their

CONTENTS 53 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016

traditional agricultural practices ability of trees is destroyed and i.e cultivation of paddy, because leading to their death. they get ready cash from crops like 4. Kani people not ready to approach rubber. government services. 3. There is introduction of invasive alien species, Mucona bracteata, a Acknowledgement leguminous species planted as a I express my sincere thanks to Shri cover crop in rubber plantation for Vismiju, IFS, DFO- Kanyakumari Forest nitrogen fixation. But today it has Divison, Tamil Nadu, Shri Prabhu, turned into a weed and spread into Forest Guard Kanyakumari Forest adjoining forest areas. It covers Divison, Tamil Nadu, Smt. Meera Iyer, the ground completely, climbs on Principal, CASFOS Dehradun, Shri the forest trees and covers them Abhilash D, Course Director, CASFOS completely. Thus the photosynthetic Dehradun

CONTENTS 54 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 Living jewels of Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary has a large number of butterfly diversity, indicating pollution free and ecologically healthy atmosphere—a result of rich floral diversity

Priya R. Mhaiskar is different from other. The appearance of wings is just like a leaf which is sup- aisamand Wildlife sanctuary is situ- ported by a network of veins. The shape ated in the most fragile ecosystem of the wings varies with the species, Jof Aravalis, around 50 kms from the which make flying pattern of each but- city of Udaipur in the State of Rajast- terfly different from other. Butterflies han. Encompassing a geographical area play a vital role in pollination of various of 52.342 sq km, this sanctuary forms an flowering plants besides being a key ideal habitat to support variety of ter- component of food chain. In the world, restrial as well as aquatic fauna. Jaisa- 16,823 species of butterflies have been mand Wildlife sanctuary is quite rich recorded out of which 1,501 species of in biodiversity, organised into geomet- butterflies are recorded from India (Ali ric composition of ground flora to the and Basistha, 2008). top canopy designed naturally to har- Butterflies are found all over the vest maximum sunlight and maximise world and in all types of environments: the biodiversity. The floral diversity is hot and cold, dry and moist, at sea level dominated by mixed miscellaneous for- and high in the mountains. Most butter- est. The sanctuary is also rich in faunal fly species, however, are found in tropi- diversity, including big carnivores like cal areas. The average life span of a but- Leopards, Hyenas; herbivores such as terfly is at most two months although Chital, Blackbuck, etc., alongwith sig- some tropical butterflies can live up to nificant number of butterflies species. one year. Butterflies are amazing fliers Butterflies have lived on Earth for at and some can migrate over 3,000 miles least 150 million years and have a great (4,800 kilometres) to spend the winter aesthetic value. The most important in a warmer place. To avoid adverse en- part of the butterfly is its wings, which vironmental conditions like cold weath- enables it to move for food, find shel- er, many butterflies migrate from hotter ter and mate, blending in with its sur- region to cooler areas. roundings, to warn its enemies that it is The survival of these beautiful poisonous and should be avoided and creatures has become very critical all the other things it needs. Almost ev- due to increase in corrosive pollutants ery colour of rainbow is displayed in the in the atmosphere. The reaction of wings of butterflies and every butterfly corrosive pollutants with moist oxygen

Officer Trainee SFS 2016-18 Course, CASFOS Dehradun

CONTENTS 55 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 and water forms inorganic and organic acid rain accelerates corrosion reaction acids. The oxides of carbon, oxides of with butterflies. Due to urbanisation nitrogen, oxides of sulphur, oxides of and deforestation, the concentration halogens and hydride of sulphur form of carbon dioxide and methane gases carbonic acid, nitric acid, nitrous acid are increasing in the atmosphere by and sulphuric acid. Organic acids are the day. These gases are increasing formic acid, acetic acid and benzoic surrounding temperature of the earth acid. Butterflies come in contact with and global warming is becoming a these corrosive acids to develop micro- threat to their survival. The particulates bio-electro-chemical corrosion cell. easily adhere to the butterflies and they Oxidation and reduction reactions react with moisture to produce acid and start on the body of the butterfly. It base. It is a major cause of corrosion in disturbs catabolic and anabolic process their body parts. of butterflies (Rajesh Kumar, 2013). Such Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary has a corrosive pollutants destroy the life of large number of butterfly diversity, in- butterflies and hence there is reduction dicating pollution free and ecologically in their population growth. The healthy atmosphere—a result of rich greenhouse gases, along with global floral diversity. Various butterfly spe- warming, are also causing negative cies contributing to biodiversity of the impact on the life of butterflies. The sanctuary are:

Plain Tiger (Danaus chrysippus) White Orange tip (Ixias marianne)

Tiny Grass Blue (Zizula hylax) Danaid Eggfly Hypolimnas( misippus)

CONTENTS 56 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016

Indian cupid (Everes lacturnus) Peacock Pancy (Junonia almana)

Common Bush Brown (Mycalesis perseus) Stripped tiger (Danaus genutia)

Dark Evening Brown (Melanitis phedima) Common Bush Brown (Mycalesis perseus)

CONTENTS 57 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016

Common Emigrant (Catopsilia pomona) Pale Grass Blue (Pseudozizeeria maha)

Common Silverline (Spindasis vulcanus) Blue Pancy (Junonia orithiya)

References 1) Ali I. and Basistha S. K. 2008. A list 2) Rajesh K S. 2013. The effect of of butterflies recorded in Pobitora corrosive pollutant on butterfly. wildlife sanctuary, Assam Insect. Journal of Ecology and Environmental Environ., 3 (4): 106p. Sciences 2(1): 55-58 p.

CONTENTS 58 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 Forestry and contemporary challenges

Contemporary forestry-linked challenges vary from local to global levels and thus need efforts from all the sections of the society to mitigate adverse impacts

Rameshwari Bongale mention of German scientists is simply unavoidable. In today’s context, the orests form the heart of forestry is an important subject at the biodiversity and base of all the national and international levels. Fliving entities on the earth. The The main challenges in forest changes that are occurring in our conservation are the huge pressure that surroundings are with a speed far forest suffers from various economic higher than any time before in history. processes. The unaccounted illegal The changes that are occurring today trade of medicinal plant is one such are long-term and about to affect the example. The commercialisation of environmental balance for years to forest produce has led to the plunder of come. forest wealth and it is still continuing. The Mother Nature stays at While on the one hand, the forest policy equilibrium, taking care of all living of 1988 specifically denies the use of and non-living things. This slight forest for revenue purposes, on the change at delicate areas of this balance other hand, there is a high demand for leads to an overall cascading impact on timber and non-timber forest produce environment that forms the part of chain in the market. This leads to illegal trade at forward and backward linkages. of forest produce, resulting in the huge Unfortunately, the changes that are parallel black economy that is beyond taking place are on large scale and calculation. This is directly linked with taking place in one of the most delicate the economics of ecological services areas of environmental linkages, such that are provided by the forest. as Himalayan eco-system and ocean The challenge of social pressure on current network. Right from urban available forest resources is immense. areas to small tiny villages and from Population growth and changes in local to global, the changing aspects demographic attributes (rural/urban of environment is well noticed and balance, agricultural dependency, largely discussed at various platforms. incomes and prosperity, changes in This very change is the major prime aspirations and expectations) has indication of contemporary challenges further led to many changes in socio in the field of forestry. Forestry as an economic setup of country. In India—it academic discipline has long history being still a developing country—the wherein people have given all their number of people who are directly life for purpose of forest research. The dependent on the forest for their daily

SFS 2016-18 Course, CASFOS Dehradun

CONTENTS 59 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 livelihoods is remarkably high. People dia. The dominant role played by forest living on forest fringes and backward bureaucracy and non-linkages that ex- areas of the country are the main section ist between officials and research needs that extracts many products from to be solved on war footing. The ‘lab to the forest. This extraction has turned land’ concept needs to be implemented unsustainable due to commercialisation on practical lines across various parts of forest products at a large scale. of the country. The social and farm for- If we see the map of India, the estry field has been stagnant for a long distinct nature of mineral wealth can time and there is a dire need for fresh be observed. One of the dominant inputs to revitalise the overall farm for- forest areas is holding a huge mineral estry sector. The forest productivity in wealth beneath it. This leads to a India is one of the lowest in the world. conflict between conservation and Along with social pressure and policy economic development. The State of priorities, low level of contemporary Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha are rich forest research is one reason. in forests, loaded with minerals and Another contemporary challenge for home to a large tribal population of the forestry comes from climate change. country. Forestry activities in such areas This challenge is local as well as global are very tough and create a problem for in nature. Some of the changes in some the foresters. areas of the world are leading to massive The next main challenge in the field imbalance in other areas. Tropical areas of forestry is the level of research in In- are more prone to the impact of climate

CONTENTS 60 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 change that may lead to rise in the deforestation. On the positive side, temperature, erratic nature of rainfall, roads open up opportunities for viable rise in sea level, shifting of snowline commercialisation of forest resources. to higher altitudes and resulting in The contemporary challenge is migration of animals to higher ranges also linked with the accounting of of mountains. These affect forestry ecological services. Greater interest in more than human life due to the very non-production forest functions may close connection forests has with other develop with greater incomes. Many components of the eco-system. of these will be environmental and The responsibility to deal with these recreation services. Concern for the changes mainly lies in the field of forestry. environment and for the ecological The old age activity of afforestation has services provided by forests are not returned to contemporary life with the yet perceived as priorities in the sophisticated name of carbon trapping greater part of Asia and the Pacific, as and green bond. The clean development many countries are more preoccupied mechanism of Kyoto protocol provides with the role of forests in producing the option wherein a developed economically or socially useful physical country can invest in developing goods. As the region's people become countries through window of joint richer, they are, however, likely to put implementation and clean development additional pressures on forests in the mechanism. One cannot ignore the Asia-Pacific region through increased evolution of political orientations and demand for goods. They will also shift policies (within and outside the sector) the balance of their demands toward and institutional/policy adaptations greater prominence of services. (such as economic liberalisation The next area in forestry is about and deregulation, decentralisation, intellectual property rights. As many adherence to trading blocks, becoming of the forest products are indigenous in parties to international agreements and nature and connected with the ethno- associated obligations). botanical history of an area, it needs The energy sector is also closely efforts to give equal share for tribal linked to forestry. Wood fuels and people in profits earned by usage of farm residues are important elements traditional knowledge. The convention in national energy budgets. The rate on biological diversity and Cartagena at which they are being displaced by protocol under UNFCCC take special "modern" conventional fuels, or the care for the protection of the rights of rate at which they enter the commercial indigenous people and equal benefits mainstream themselves, will affect the sharing from ecological resources. forestry sector. Transport infrastructure, The contemporary forestry-linked particularly roads, can also have a challenges vary from local to global major impact on forestry. By improving levels and thus need efforts from all the access to forests, roads offer greater sections of the society to mitigate the ease of settlement, encroachment and impacts of climate change.

CONTENTS 61 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 Usage of indigenous edible fruit and plants in Mokokchung district of Nagaland

Due to lack of proper documentation and conservation, wild edible fruit and plants are getting lost at an alarming rate

Alemwapang Imchen they are unattended both at scientific and farmers level. Due to lack of proper et me take you on a journey documentation and conservation they through one of the north-eastern are getting lost at an alarming rate. Lstates of India, a land of hills Many of these plants although used and forests where folklore has passed traditionally for the treatment of diverse down the generations through word of local ailments are undocumented and mouth. By whatever name people have lack any scientific research. These fruit called this realm, Nagaland has always trees are used in the socio-economic life evoked a sense of mysticism and awe, of the rural people as constructional intensified by the remoteness of its geo- timber, firewood, fodder, charcoal, graphical location. One may consider it dyes, oil, etc. Although, these plants not so huge in area, however, the exu- play an important role in the social berance and diversity of the place, be it and cultural life of rural people, most biologically or culturally, is something of them are threatened. Therefore, to be reckoned. Nagaland has 16 major there is an urgent need to conserve tribes and other minor ethnic communi- these genetic resources for livelihood ties as well, each having their distinct security of rural people and for the dialect. The Ao Naga is one of the ma- benefit of the nation as a whole. jor tribes in the state inhabiting the dis- As a young child, I recollect the wild trict of Mokokchung. The Aos are well days where we used to climb the trees known for their multiple harvest festi- and wade through the thickets unafraid vals held each year such as Moatsu and of what lay ahead just to savour some Tsungremong. A substantial proportion tasty fruits. Sadly, many species are dis- of the people are hardworking farmers appearing due to various reasons which whose major part of their daily diet con- are as diverse as the diversity among sists of local indigenous wild fruits and the people here. Although the wild ed- plants. These are either collected from ible indigenous fruits and plants that I the wild or purchased from local mar- personally relish run in hundreds, very kets and are consumed fresh. few have been scientifically studied or The north-eastern states of India documented. Let me mention some of are a natural reservoir of an umpteen the ethno-botanical uses of wild edible diversity of wild edible fruits and fruits and plants of Mokokchung dis- plants In spite of their potential use, trict of Nagaland from where I belong.

SFS 2016-18 batch, CASFOS Dehradun

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Houttuynia cordata (Saururaceae) This species is a herbaceous perennial plant. Both leaves and roots are used for culinary purposes. Leaves possess a typical aroma. One may not like the taste at first instant. It is said to cure diabetes, encourage weight loss, used as a diuretic, for pneumonia, etc.

Allium hookeri (Liliaceae) Also known as the hooker’s chives, it is an evergreen, herbaceous plant producing a cluster of leaves. The plant grows from a cluster of thin bulbs with thick, fleshy roots. Leaves are used as a garnish and flavouring on foods. One can make tasty pakodas of it too.

Averrhoa carambola (Oxalidaceae) Also known as star fruit. It is a rich source of dietary fibre, vitamins C, B2, B6 and B9 and minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, zinc and iron. 100g of the fruit contains only 31 calories. You may have it if you want to lose some weight.

Elaegnus latifolia (Elaeagnaceae) It is a shrubby plant reaching height up to 3m. The plant is gathered from the wild for local use as a food, medicine and fuel. The fruit is sour in taste when unripe and becomes sweet on ripening. You may even dry the fruit in the sun and have it later. However this species is rare to find these days.

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Gynura nepalensis (Asteraceae) This is a creeper or climbing plant. The leaves are collected from the wild for consumption and also for local medicinal use. It has been found to keep the digestive system healthy. Juice of the leaves is applied on wounds and bruises as well.

Allium chinense (Liliaceae) It is an evergreen herb that grows to 0.3 m. Its bulbs are edible and are one of the well-known favored condiments used in many traditional Naga dishes. Chutneys made out of it taste superb.

Baccaurea sapida (Phyllanthaceae) Also called Burmese grape tree. The genus comprises over 100 species, distributed from SE Asia to the West Pacific. The fruit of this tree is edibe and is sweet in taste.

Diplazium esculentum (Athyraceae) The ‘vegetable fern’, is an edible fern found throughout Asia and Oceania. It is probably the most commonly consumed fern. The top ends of the young ferns are gathered for culinary purpose. This fern is usually found growing wild along river banks.

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Clerodendrum colebrookianum (Lamiaceae) Also known as East Indian Glory Bower. This is a perennial shrub whose leaves are used traditionally as vegetable. The leaves are also utilised for treatment of diabetes, hypertension, cough and rheumatism.

Zanthoxylum oxyphyllum (Rutaceae) It is a spiny shrub. The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine and food. All parts of the plant are useful. Generally the leaves of this plant are consumed by the locals.

Myrica rubra (Myricaceae) It is a dioecious medium sized tree, with separate male and female individuals. Being a dioecious species, both male and female forms need to be grown if you want to taste its fruit. The sugar added preserved fruit would certainly arouse one's taste buds.

Citrus indica (Rutaceae) Wild mandarins are found in the hill regions of north-east India which is a natural gene bank of several citrus varieties. However due to faulty agricultural practices and lack of sensitisation, these precious genetic resources are gradually getting eroded.

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Rhus semialata (Anacardiaceae) The matured fruit of the plant is used as a condiment for flavoring food and also for several medicinal purposes. The dried fruit is ground and stored in closed containers which can then be used when needed. This is one of the main local medicinal plants utilised by the Ao Nagas.

Musa spp. (Musaceae) The fruit of these wild banana varieties are not consumed as they are unpalatable for humans. Instead the inflorescence (spadix) is consumed for food by the local people. One will certainly find it being sold in the local markets.

Castanopsis indica (Fagaceae) The edible part is the fleshy portion of the seed inside the matured spiny fruit. This species is not so tasty as one might expect. However it can act as a dietary supplement. It is seldom harvested in the wild for consumption.

Calamus erectus (Arecaceae) Unlike most cane species it does not climb and grows only to about 3m. The fruit is edible and sour in taste. Due to shorter internodes, the cane is not useful for making furniture. The fruit bunch is even kept as a show piece due to its unique appearance.

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Phyllanthus acidus (phyllanthaceae) Star gooseberry is a medium-sized deciduous tree. The flowers can be male, female or hermaphrodite. Unlike the common gooseberry which is sour in taste, this is less sour. It is a good source of Vitamin C and can be eaten raw, made into pickle or juice.

Parkia timoriana (Leguminosae). It is a large evergreen tree. The flowers of this tree are pollinated by bats, especially Eonycteris spelaea, which feed on the nectar. The fruit is a local delicacy. A bunch of the fruit may cost around Rs 50 to Rs 100 in the local market.

Elsholtzia blanda (Lamiaceae) It is a small herbaceous plant. The matured, dried leaves and inflorescence of the plant is utilised as an aromatic spice for flavoring in local cuisine. It provides the food with a unique aroma and taste.

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Docynia indica (Rosaceae) Knows as Wild apple or Sour apple, this tree is found in wild tropical rainforest regions of Nagaland. The fruit contains multi-medicinal value viz. for high blood pressure, diabetes, heavy body weight, fatigue, general weakness, etc. The processed dry fruit of this species is very tasty and is sold in the local market.

CONTENTS 68 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 Use of biotechnological tools in conservation of medicinal plants

The most widely accepted scientific technologies of biodiversity conservation are in-situ and ex-situ methods

Ganesh N Patole through biotechnology and legal mat- ters has to be developed. Biotechnolog- edicinal plants occupy an im- ical tools are important as they help to portant position in the socio- select, multiply and conserve the criti- Mcultural, spiritual and medic- cal genotypes of medicinal plants. In- inal arena of rural people of India. Their vitro regeneration, plant tissue culture, sustainable management and harvest- mycorrhization, regeneration through ing can conserve biodiversity, sustain somatic embryogenesis and callus-me- human and environmental health, gen- diated organogenesis hold tremendous erate employment and enhance export potential for the production of high- earnings. quality plant-based medicine. Cryo- Exploration of forest-based plant preservation is long-term conservation products for new pharmaceuticals method in liquid nitrogen and provides and the demand for medicinal plants an opportunity for conservation of en- are increasing. India is ranked second dangered medicinal plants. In-vitro amongst the exporting countries, after production of secondary metabolites China, with an annual export of 50,000 in plant cell suspension cultures has tonnes with a value of more than Rs 100 been reported from various medicinal billion. In addition to the international plants. trade, there is a substantial volume of internal trade in medicinal plants. It has Conservation Strategies been estimated that in total over 8,000 The conservation and sustainable species of plants are used by several utilisation of medicinal plants must ethnic communities. The expanding necessarily involve a long term, inte- trade in medicinal plants has serious grated, scientifically oriented action implications on the survival of several programme. This should involve the plant species, many of which are under pertinent aspects of protection, preser- threat of becoming extinct. Further, the vation, maintenance, exploitation, con- rich biodiversity of medicinal plants is servation and sustainable utilisation. facing a serious threat because of the The most widely accepted scientific rapid loss of natural habitats and over- technologies of biodiversity conserva- exploitation of plants from the wild. A tion are in-situ and ex-situ methods. strong strategy in terms of conservation In-Situ Conservation: The best and

Officer Trainee (2016-18 SFS Batch), ASFOS, Dehradun

CONTENTS 69 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 most cost-effective way of protecting In-vitro Regeneration: The in-vitro the existing biological and genetic di- regeneration of medicinal plants is versity is 'in-situ' or on the site conser- done from various explants and en- vation wherein a wild species or stock hanced production of secondary me- of a biological community is protected tabolites. In-vitro propagation of plants and preserved in its natural habitat. In- holds tremendous potential for the situ conservation of medicinal plants in production of high-quality plant-based India can be accomplished through the medicines. Micropropagation of vari- active support and participation of peo- ous plant species, including many me- ple who dwell in or near and around dicinal plants, has been reported. Plant protected forest areas. regeneration from shoot and stem mer- Ex-Situ Conservation: Conservation istems has yielded encouraging results of medicinal plants can also be in medicinal plants like Catharanthus accomplished ex-situ, i.e. outside roseus, Cinchona ledgeriana, Digitalis spp, the natural habitat by cultivating Rehmannia glutinosa, Rauvolfia serpentina and maintaining plants in botanical and Isoplexis canariensis. gardens, parks, other suitable sites, Regeneration through somatic and through long-term preservation of embryogenesis: Somatic embryo- plant propagules in gene banks (seed genesis is a process where groups of bank, pollen bank, DNA libraries, etc.) somatic cells/tissues lead to the forma- and in plant tissue culture repositories tion of somatic embryos which resem- and by cryopreservation. ble the zygotic embryos of intact seeds and can grow into seedlings on suitable Biotechnological Tools medium. Plant regeneration via somat- The sustainable utilisation of plant di- ic embryogenesis from single cells, that versity can be greatly assisted by the can be induced to produce an embryo application of direct and indirect bio- and then a complete plant, has been technological procedures. demonstrated in many medicinal plant

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species, for example Cayratia japonica. responsible for their medicinal proper- Conservation through cryopreser- ties. Genetic transformation improves vation: The cryopreservation of in- the yield and quality of medicinal vitro cultures of medicinal plants is a plants and involves the alteration or useful technique. Cryopreservation is introduction of genes which improves long-term conservation method in liq- secondary metabolite synthesis. Genet- uid nitrogen (–196 °C) in which cell di- ic transformation technology has be- vision and metabolic and biochemical come a versatile platform not only for processes are arrested. A large number trait improvement but also for studying of cultured materials can be stored in gene function in plants. Genome ma- liquid nitrogen. Since whole plants can nipulation is the general aim of genetic regenerate from frozen culture, cryo- transformation with medicinal plants preservation provides an opportunity by developing techniques for desired for conservation of endangered me- gene transfer into the plant genome in dicinal plants (e.g. Rauvollfia serpentina, order to improve the biosynthetic rate Digitalis lanata, Atropa belladonna). of the compounds of interest. Genetic Genetic transformation: Medicinal transformation facilitates the growth of plants are one of the most important medicinal plants with multiple durable sources of drugs, as plants contain resistances to pests and diseases. Like- many secondary metabolites which are wise, transgenes or marker-assisted se-

CONTENTS 71 FIELD FORESTER | DECEMBER 2016 lection may assist in the development Conclusion and future of insect-, pest-, drought- and salinity- prospects resistant plants, which are needed to Biotechnology is now integrated in all fulfill the world's need and save land aspects of plant germplasm characteri- for the conservation of plant biodiver- sation, acquisition, conservation, ex- sity in natural habitats. There are more change and genetic resource manage- than 120 species belonging to 35 fami- ment. Future prospects are highly en- lies in which transformation has been couraging in terms of the development carried out successfully by using Agro- and application of new techniques and bacterium and other transformations protocols within the context of germ- techniques. plasm conservation.

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