Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany (Under Department of Science & Technology, Govt
2020
.:c'-. ~.
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany (Under Department of Science & Technology, Govt. of India) Lucknow 2006
NVld 3All)3dS~3d
~mm fcmR .afR ~~ftlc6) ~ fcmR .afR ~~ftlc6) fcMflT )d;:Jf.~ ~, -.:r:rr ~ 1Wf, ~ ~-110 016 Sf. (l'"ttil4'l tt. GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ~ MINISTRY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY DR. T. RAMASAMI DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Technology Shavan, New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi-110 016 SECRETARY
07.06.2006
MESSAGE
Our Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, an autonomous institution under DST, has developed a perspective plan and Vision for the year 2020 outlining the future directions of research. The forethought is delightful. The legacy of Founder of the Institute, Late Prof. Birbal Sahni, FRS, remains a constant reminder and places a demand on all those who manage the institution a mind set to perform perpetually. The Institute has turned 60 and this is the Diamond Jubilee Vear. The Institute needs to rededicate itself to the lofty goals and objectives ofthe organization. I am pleased the Vision 2020 of the Institute focuses both on the development of the Science of Palaeobotany for possible understanding of geobiospheric changes through the 3 billion years of the history of the earth and to render such a knowledge useful for exploration of Fossil Fuels. I wish that the Vision of Institute is pursued rigorously, constantly improved and strengthened and Palaeobotany is brought into the National Science mainstream. ~- (T. Ramasami)
Tel. : 26510068, 26511439 Fax: 0091-11-26863847, 0091-11-26862418 OJ E-mail: [email protected]
1lm'f mm fcmR 3fR ~~fTl~ ~ ~~fT,~ ~~ fcmR 3fR fcMrT )::cJl::l'f.:fl 1lCFl", ~ ~ lWf, ~ ~-11 0 016 q. ~. (1'"l~Rf m. GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ~ MINISTRY OF SCIENCE &TECHNOLOGY PROFESSOR V. S. RAMAMURTHY DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Technology Bhavan, New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi-110 016 SECRETARY
April 12, 2006 Prologue
Palaeobotany is the meeting ground between Botany and Geology, the two major disciplines of Biological and Earth System Sciences. It had started somewhat as a purely academic pursuit to understand the evolutionary histroy of plant life through the geologic time. As of now, Palaeobotany plays a vital role as a multidisciplinary science in understanding a vast spectrum of challenging fields of scientific enquiry, such as search for early life on our planet; climate, biota and environment of the past vis-a-vis changing geography of the continents and oceans; vegetation dynamics; role of plant life in the origin and exploration of fossil fuels (hydrocarbons & coal); climate change in the recent past and anthropogenic influence; impact of plants in early civilization etc. This understanding and its future perception are the main driving force behind preparation of this Vision Document. I understand that a large group of scientists from diverse disciplines have contributed towards formulation of this vision document. Such team effort augers well not only for the science of Palaeobotany but also for the Institute which was established with such lofty ideals by the visionary Late Prof. Birbal Sahni, dreaming of a place where
II men of all nations will co-operate in the spirit of Science and Service ". The document covers almost all the basic and applied aspects of this multidisciplinary science which were visualized by the founder of this unique Institute almost six decades ago, and are still remarkably relevant to the needs of the society and the Nation. Lastly, it is my earnest desire that this document remains alive and gets continuously refined as our understanding improves with time.
~~' Tel. : 26510068, 26511439 Fax: 0091-11-26863847, 0091-11-26862418. E-mail: [email protected] VISION BSIP Symbol ofworld's premier research Centre in promoting Palaeobotanical research interlinked with Scientific and Social development involving basic research in areas like origin and evolution of plant life, its ecological ramifications and research to back extended industrial application. t( •••for the science ofPalaeobotany and this Institute an ever-brighter and more usefulfuture in which men ofaI/nations will co-operate in the spirit of Science and ofService " Birbal Sahni (April 03, 1949) M SSION • Excellence in R&D work through a dedicated scientific team. • Continuous development of Palaeobotany through integrated scientific approach; innovative ideas in basic and applied research; interpretation in relation to plant life evolution and geological processes and to understand environmental evolution through time. • Promoting industrial application, particularly in Fossil Fuels Exploration for enhancing institutional leadership and contributing to the development ofsociety. • To enhance BSIP's role in the academic and industrial development of the country. "Palaeobotany is the common ground between Botany and Geology-it is in fact tire botany ofthe rocks It would not only allow us glimpses into the evolutionary history ofplants, but helps us more and more accurately to tell the ages ofstrata and thereby to explore the mineral wealth ofthe earth, particularly coal and oil, to picture the geography ofthe past, and to understand the structure ofthe earth's crust with its recurring phases ofearth movements some ofthem affecting entire continents. " Birbal Sahni (April 03, 1949) 2 VISION-2020 BSIP is dedicated to promote research on basic as well as applied aspects ofPalaeobotany and allied Earth System Sciences. The aim is to bring excellence in R&D through dedicated scientific team work so that we are able to improve our understanding in the following perspective areas ofresearch: • Precambrian palaeobiology and search for early life. • Gondwana and Cenozoic floristics, biodiversity, palaeobiogeography, biostratigraphy and palaeoclimates. • High-resolution sequence biostratigraphy, relative sea level changes, and palaeoenvironmental modeling ofpetroliferous basins. Study of major time boundaries and extreme climatic events in earth history. • Source rock evaluation of Mesozoic-Cenozoic successions in petroliferous basins. • Coal and Organic Petrology related to CBM and economic utilization' • Quaternary palaeoclimate (through palynology of continental and manne sediments, Dendrochronology andArchaeobotany; supported by geochemistry! geomagnetic studies). • Understanding temporal variability of Indian Monsoon system through palynological and otherpalaeobotanical proxies. • Study of mangrove swamps on aspects of organic matter preservation (palynological and organo-geochemical studies). • Molecular palaeobiology (evolution ofearly protists and flowering plants). • Aerobiology and biopollutant prediction. • Geochronometry and Isotopic studies. Creation ofmultispeciality National Facilities at BSIP for enhancing Institutional leadership and contributing to the development ofsociety and nation's growth is further envisaged by: • Developing BSIP as a partial revenue generation centre by promoting industrial application of High Impact Palynology in studies related to Fossil Fuel exploration (oil/gas, coal, lignite, peat, CBM). • Establishing an integrated multidisciplinary Quaternary Palaeoclimate Research Centre. • Upgradation ofGeochronometry and Isotope Laboratory. The other objectives will be to: • Promote Palaeobotanical education in Universities, Research Institutes and Industry through contactprogrammes. 3 / • Disseminate information through publications and software development. • Maintain and develop library ofdocuments and published records. • Maintain and develop museums ofPalaeobotany for Education and Research at various centres. • To maintain and continuously develop Repository of Palynological study material and modem plant herbarium. • National and International cooperation through organization and participation in meetings, seminars, conferences and through collaborative scientific programmes. • Maximize efforts through training, integrated approach and marketing technologies in developing application ofPalaeobotanical science in industry, particularly in Fossil Fuel exploration and obtaining contractual work from the domestic and foreign agencies. "here we study not only fossil plants but also the rocks ill which theyarefoU/,d" Birbal Sahni (April 03, 1949) 4 PREAMBLE Professor Birbal Sahni, FRS established the Institute in the year 1946 for development ofthe science of Palaeobotany visualizing its potential to understand the origin and evolution of plant life, and to use the knowledge of fossil plants in resolving various geologic problems including exploration offossil fuels. The Institute is devoted to develop both fundamental and applied aspects of Palaeobotany, and has adopted an integrated and multidisciplinary approach for fulfilling its aims and objectives: • To develop Palaeobotany, including palaeopalynology, in all its Botanical and Geological aspects, • To constantly update the data for interaction with allied disciplines, • To co-ordinate with other knowledge centers in areas ofmutual interest, such as early life, exploration offossil fuels, vegetation dynamics, climatic modelling, conservation offorests, etc., and • To disseminate palaeobotanical knowledge. A vast amount ofpalaeobotanical (including palynological) data from Precambrian to Recent has been generated from the various Indian sedimentary basins strengthening its academic database. The applied and economic aspects of palaeobotanical! palynological researches that are for the benefit offossil fuels industry (Hydrocarbon, Coal and CBM) have remained, to this date, yet to be fully realized to help materialize fully the vision of the Founder. In order to develop and promote the science of Palaeobotany and to enhance BSIP's role in the industrial development of the country, we need reorientation consistent with the vision and objectives ofour Founder laid down almost six decades ago. This is necessary for its future growth in the right direction and to enhance its reputation as an international Centre of excellence in palaeobotanical research and education. In fulfilling the multi-dimensional utility ofthis fusion science, mutually beneficial programmes with appropriate institutions are also essential for a holistic approach. The present document provides the different facets of Palaeobotany and the ever expanding wide spectrum ofpalaeobotanical researches. The areas of focus in coming years emerging out of synergy with colleagues in the Institute and outside are elaborated in the pages that follow. ~ c'j51. Naresh C. Mehrotra Director "to achieve for this young Institute a hopefulfuture ofbroad and truly interllationaloutlook which is oneofourmain objectives" Birbal Sahni (April 03, 1949) 5 Precambrian Palaeobiology India has an important position on the globe having some of the earliest cratonic remains, which survived subsequent weathering and deformation and are suitable for early life forms studies. Understanding the Archaean life is the key to understanding the earliest biosphere on the Earth. The organo-sedimentary structures and organic remains viz, archaebacteria, cyanobacteria and eubacteria have been recorded in these cratonic Archaean sediments of Sandur, Simoga and Chitradurga Schist Belts ofKarnataka and Iron Ore Formation ofBonai Keonjhar area of Orissa. These remains are so fragmentary and incomplete that at various instances only chemical signals are to be relied upon to believe their presence. These evidences are crucial in the chain ofmeager records world over. The global records offossils preserved in sediments deposited over Eparchaean unconformity provide an in-depth insight into the Proterozoic biosphere and leaves many questions to be answered. The trends of macro-evolutionary changes, stratigraphic implications and interpretations are highly data intensive. Strengthening of available data base would provide higher resolution of evolutionary perceptions. With its advantageous situation oflarge surface exposure ofPrecambrian sediments, India can offer answers to many questions related to advent, evolution and diversification of early life forms. Some of the important aspects of Precambrian Palaeobiology, which need attention are: • Evidence of life in extreme conditions (Thermophophiles, Halophiles and Methanogens) • Advent ofArchaea and its manifestations • Evolution ofoxygen in the atmosphere • Phophogenesis • Origin ofEukaryotes • Megascopic life • Multicellular life (metc'i~·hytic and metazoan remains) • Biomineralization • Ediacara fossils • Ichnofossils • Advent, diversity and extinction patterns ofPrecambrian fossils The study ofPalaeobiochemistry ofPrecambrian sediments and fossils is an important tool to decipher early biogenic processes as well as to understand the antiquity of important steps in the evolution ofbiological kingdom. Astropalaeobiology is a new dimension ofthe Precambrian palaeobiology that will help in understanding the origin oflife on earth as well as possibly on other planetary bodies. New missions to Mars and study of fallen asteroids are being given importance to understand the early biosynthesis. With the ambitious space research plans ofIndia, BSIP intends to take a step forward to work on all these aspects, which fall in the ambit ofastropalaeobiology. 6 Gondwana Floristics, Palaeoclimate and Palaeoecology Gondwana System represents fluvio-lacustrine deposits with rich coal measures. Gondwana sediments are floristically represented by three distinct floral successions in ascending order- Glossopteris flora of Permian age, Dicroidium flora of Triassic age, and the Ptilophyllum flora ofJurassic-Cretaceous age. Enormous data have been generated regarding morphotaxonomy, cuticular study, anatomy, ontogeny, reconstruction of plants and vegetational scenario, phylogeny, evolution of floras, biostratigraphy, lithostratigraphy for understanding basinal development in space and time, correlation ofIndian Gondwana flora with other Gondwana floras and antiquity ofplant groups. Palynological investigations have helped to study various stratotype of Gondwana formations and coeval rocks in the Himalaya. High-resolution palynological data has provided information about significant marker species to know morpho-evolutionary trends in various Gondwana palynoassemblages. From Lower Gondwana exposures several new findings ofGlossopteris leafas well as fertile organs have been made from various localities. Studies have revealed well diversified Triassic flora of Middle Gondwana mainly from South Rewa Gondwana Basin. Significant recovery of Upper Gondwana flora characterized by the dominance of bennettitalian taxa along with marker fern genera and conifers have been made from different Indian sedimentary basins. Record of Phyllopteroides laevis, index genus taxa of Early Cretaceous of eastern Australia, from Rajmahal Formation indicates the proximity of India with Australia during Early Cretaceous Period. Recent findings of angiospermous remains (Sonajoricarpon rajmahalensis, a fruit and pollen) from the Rajmahal Formation suggest the evolution of angiospenns during Early Cretaceous Period in India also. More areas to be focused are: • Morphotaxonomy, cuticular, anatomical and ontogenetic features, ultra structural study (SEM & TEM), reconstruction of plant parts as well as vegetational scenario and palaeoclimatic interpretation and to identify various index taxa and assemblages and their biostratigraphic potential. • Evolution, diversification, extinctions, antiquity and relationship of various plant groups (including early land plants and flowering plants) and ecological variation andpalaeoenvironmental interpretation. • Terrestrialization, pattern of colonization and palaeocommunity structure analysis for micro and mega climatic variations. • Palynological study (micro-/ megaspores and DOM) for identification, morpho- character analysis and pattern of evolution. Palynodating by marker taxa as well as assemblage and correlation of coal-bearing horizons in Gondwana successions and coeval successions in the Himalaya. • Taphonomic studies for palaeoclimatic interpretations. • Modelling ofpalaeovegetational succession ofthe basin and palaeogeographic and palaeoclimatic simulation. • Conservation of suitable sites to preserve the palaeobotanical and palaeontological wealth for general awareness. The integrated multidisciplinary approach ofresearch on the palaeofloral knowledge to understand the web of interactions of the past dynamic earth's ecosystem as well as potentiality ofits economic resources will be enhanced. 7 Tertiary Floristics and Biostratigraphy In view ofthe collision ofIndian Plate with the Asian Plate and uplift ofthe Himalayas, the investigation ofHimalayan flora particularly ofthe Higher Himalayas is very significant. The work on Tertiary floristics ofHigher Himalaya will throw light on the advent ofcooler Sino Japanese and European elements in India. Likewise work on the Tertiary flora ofnortheast and northwest India will give the idea of intennixing of Southeastern and Afro-Arabian elements in India and vice-versa during Tertiary Period. The work on the Deccan Intertrappean will provide data on the early history ofangiospenns in India and evolutionary lineages ofangiospenns taxa. Future avenues ofresearch based on Tertiary floral studies are: • Search for early flowering plants in India as they suddenly became the most dominant group ofterrestrial plants from Cretaceous onwards and to trace the antiquity and evolutionary lineages ofvarious angiospennous families/taxa. • Study of morphological and anatomical features in relation to environment (CLAMP Analysis). The features in the extant woods and leaves (which fonn the most commonly available fossil material) in relation to environment/climate and their correlation with the fossils will provide better picture about the past climate. • The data generated will be utilized for climate modelling based on computer programmes. • The analysis of cuticular remains has played an important role in understanding the taxonomy and evolution of fossil plants. Emphasis on the study ofcuticle ultrastructure is desirable since this membrane is composed of a number of layers that can be identified based on structural and chemical features. • Plant-animal interactions can be seen by direct or indirect evidences. The presence ofnectaries in the flowers and their relationship with insects, possible damages ofplant parts by herbivores and coprolite studies will provide useful information about the c(H:volution ofplant and animals. • Fungal stu<;lies may provide evidence ofparasitic mode oflife and demonstrate the early existence ofsymbiotic relationships. • Charophytic gyrogonites frequently occur in sediments in the fossil fonns. Their study has largely been neglected. Charophytic remains (gyrogonites) can prove useful biostratigraphic tool. • Stomatal studies with reference to atmospheric pC02 changes. The study can be ofgreat use in deciphering C02 levels in the past, consequently giving clues about the past climate. • The taphonomic studies of the fossil material will help in understanding the intricate processes involved in fossilization. • The study of Paleosols and soil organic matter can be used for deducing palaeoclimate by estimating proportion ofC3/C4 plants once present at a site, using carbon isotopes from paleosol carbonates. 8 Marine Micropalaeontology of Petroliferous Basins India has a fast growing energy requirement in the oil & natural gas sector with high import dependence. Demand for concerted geoscientific studies is bound to increase due to the expansion ofhydrocarbon exploration activities, especially in offshore region. Prediction of hydrocarbon potential is one of the most challenging problems, as geoscientists need more and more accurate techniques for stratigraphic analysis and source rock evaluation of petroliferous basins. BSIP has a strong base in taxonomy, biostratigraphy and palaeoenvironmental analysis based on terrestrial palynomorphs (spore-pollen), marine phytoplankton (dinoflagellate cysts and nannofossils) and organic matter studies (Palynofacies). Precise biochronostratigraphy, palaeoenvironmental framework and source rock evaluation of sedimentary successions are the essential components of hydrocarbon exploration where BSIP can contribute effectively. Sequence biostratigraphy and palaeoenvironmental analysis based on multi microfossil/palynofacies distribution patterns especially in relation to the pervasive influence of relative changes in sea level have emerged as a new approach to study sedimentary sequences. Organic-walled microfossils (dinoflagellate cysts) and palynofacies are important tools for identification of sequence components and key stratal surfaces, besides the source rocks. Since organic rich sediments with high TOC value mostly accumulate in Transgressive Systems Tract and High Stand Systems Tract, identification of systems tracts in outcrop/subsurface sections (based on palynological/palynofacies /organic facies parameters) is necessary for location and identification of source rocks. Taxonomic studies need to be emphasized to identify and continuously refine stratigraphic ranges and environmental signatures of key microfossil taxa! associations from both out crop and subsurface sections. Multidisciplinary integrated studies on phytoplankton/ palynology/palynofacies and source rock evaluation, thus, need to be rigorously pursued at BSIP to generate and update high impact palynological research database not only to provide support to exploration related work in the industry but also to gain requisite academic excellence in particular disciplines. Important areas of focus visualized in marine micropaleontology and high impact palynology are: • Integrative high resolution biostratigraphy ofMesozoic-Cenozoic Successions • Organic Ir.:ltter studies (Organic facies/Palynofacies) for source rock evaluation. • High-resolution sequence biostratigraphy, palaeoenvironmental analysis and relative sea level changes, and development ofbasinal models. • Global bioevents, Time boundaries and Mass extinctions. • Past global climate changes, extreme climates and Oceanic Anoxic Events in earth history (palynological proxy indicators of wanning/cooling or catastrophic episodes) • Phytoplakton /palynological study ofcoastal/ marine/Quaternary successions, especially ofmodern delta systems • Study of calcareous algae for palaeoenvironment and biofacies characterization 9 Hydrocarbon xploration Existing facilities in the country to systematically generate the necessary quantum ofreliable geo-scientific data in respect ofPalynofacies and high-resolution biostratigraphy are limited. The currently established facilities existing with the National Oil companies seem to be just sufficient for their own needs. The increasing number ofplayers that are being added up with each new round ofbidding for exploration blocks or for small and marginal field development and exploration often depend on offshore outsourcing in the field ofbiostratigraphy and source rock evaluation. It appears that even the national oil companies would need outsourcing ofexploration related palynological work. Backed by its vast academic expertise and extensive database, BSIP is one of the relevant centers of excellence capable to effectively contribute towards meeting the growing demand of workload in the area of palynofacies, biostratigraphy, palaeoenvironment analysis, high-resolution sequence biostratigraphy and organic petrology. Availability under one roof of extensive taxonomic and stratigraphic database on all plant mega and microfossil groups from all geological ages, and specialist scientific group dealing with Precambrian, Palaeozoic, Mesozoic, Cenozoic and Quaternary palynofossils and organic matter studies are its inherent capabilities. • The Institute needs to strengthen the applied palynological and stratigraphic work, besides organic geochemistry studies to cater to the needs of oil companies and other organizations involved in oil!gas and CBM exploration. • The Institute can provide applied database on palynofacies, biostratigraphy, organic petrology, and source rock evaluation within a flexible framework. • The deliveries primarily based on high impact palynological inputs would include- Biostratigraphic Data Base, Sequence Biostratigraphy (based on integrated data), Palaeoenvironmental Models, Source Rock Mapping, Geochemical finger-printing for source rock characterization and hydrocarbon potential, Coal Petrology for CBM, and Atlases of various palynological! microfossil groups, palynofacies and coal micro constituents, Stratigraphic Range Charts, Maps and Models emphasizing Less Explored, Deep Water and Frontier Basins. Fundamental study on mangrove swamps on aspect ofpreservation oforganic matter in the recent sediments with combined palynological, microbial and organo-geochemical studies is a potentially significant area ofresearch for better understanding ofdeposition ofoil vs. gas source rocks and standardization ofreference palynofacies for deltaic/coastal marine environments for quick-look Industrial Palynology. Comprehensive workshops from time to time involving experts in the fields of Sequence stratigraphy, sedimentology and facies analysis, organic matter studies, palaeoenvironment and micropaleontology are envisaged for keeping update with the most modern technology and knowledge for the assessment of hydrocarbon potential. 10 Coal Bed Methane Exploration Coal bed methane (CBM), a saturated carbonaceous gas (CH4) generated and entrapped in coal beds, has recently emerged as one of the most powerful natural energy resources. Presently, methane is a buzzword in energy sectors, however its demand will grow rapidly with National/Industrial development. With this fact in view, to gather CBM related information on coal is mandatory for its exploration and exploitation. Coal petrography provides an insight to coal, which acts as both the reservoir and producer for methane and inherits the properties to generate, store, adsorb, desorb and produce the gas. The methane generating and retention capacities ofcoal depend on its maceral, rank and porosity. To generate data for CBM exploration, petrological studies on coals should be on the following aspects: • Maceral composition (both in normal and fluorescence modes}- in order to improve our understanding on source material serving as raw material for methane generation and on methane adsorption capacity. • Degree ofmaturation or rank- to get information on amount ofgas generated and ability ofcoal to generate methane (thermogenic). • Permeability-inherent porosity i.e. micro-cleats and micro-structures studies through optical microscope with image analyzer, SEM, etc. are extremely useful in knowing desorption capacity (gas flow) ofcoals, which has a bearing on permeability. • Adsorption behaviour ofdifferent macerals and its variation with their content (in different coal lithotypes) should be ascertained. • Behaviour ofmacerals on hydro-fracturing (pre- and post-hydro-fracturing of coal) through laboratory simulation. • Isotopic composition of CBM will help to ascertain its biogenic, mixed or thermogenic origin. Organic matter studies conventionally utilized to understand coal are reliable for ascertaining organic matter type (kerogen) and for determining the maturity oforganic matter in sediments for the evaluation ofsource rock. BSIP is one ofthe nodal centres ofsuch studies having the academic expertise and database. In this endeavour, continuous upgradation of instruments is required in order to generate data ofrequisite standard. A close cooperation and coordination between BSIP and CBM industries is ofprime importance. 11 Coal Petrography Huge reserves ofcoal and lignite in India playa vital role in meeting out the National energy demand. Coal is the feedstock and backbone of steel and power industries, besides it has a great potential for another energy resource offuture- the coal bed gas or methane (CBM). With the National development, the demand for coal and lignite is expected to increase continuously and rapidly in coming decades. Despite the fact, fundamental researches on Indian coal/lignite are still inadequate and require to be pursued vigourously. To improve our understanding on nature, origin, quality (maceral composition), and grade (rank or maturity) and other physico-chemical properties of coal for its judicious utilization in industries, a long-term experimental, analytical and observational investigation using conventional and the most modem petrographic techniques is highly imperative. • By the assimilation of geochemical interpretations of organic microconstituents of coal, petrological investigations are effective in predicting suitability ofcoals for various industrial and economic purposes. • The fluorescence properties of coal macerals have been ascertained; yet chemical and physical factors causing fluorescence need clarification. • Detailed petrographic characterization of coals is essential for selection of coals suitable for liquefaction, i.e. conversion into synthetic oil or syncrude and for specific conversion processes, so that when needed in future the resources are well established, the process suitably designed and products already ascertained for immediate deployment. • Coke petrography has significance related to coke-strength and coke reactivity. • Minerals in coal are poorly understood. Coal mineralogy is extremely essential in understanding its behaviour in coal beneficiation/conversion and when coal is used for specific purposes, besides envirorunental problem. • Systematic study ofcoalification tracks ofvarious vitrinite types (normal, sub hydrous and perhydrous) and inertinitization track during early coalification besides, ascertaining the precursors of 'rank inertinites' (e.g. cellulose-rich and/or lipid-rich cell walls and/or humic detritus?) is needed. • Intensification of large-scale regional and subsurface coalification studies for preparation ofcoalification maps in combination with geophysical research in order to clarify problems ofplate tectonics, depth ofcrust-mantle boundary and magmatic intrusions. The coalification maps will be highly useful for assessment ofquality and grade on a regional scale for selecting coals/seams for specific utilization. Petrological investigations ofcoal/lignite at the BSIP need to oriented to resolve such specific problems in coordination with other organizations engaged in exploration, production and utilization ofcoal resources. 12 Quaternary Vegetation and Climate Quaternary palaeoclimatic studies at BSIP are based on analyses of multi proxy palynological records from lacustrine and marine sediments from diversified geographical sites of the Indian subcontinent extending from Himalayas, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Ganga Plain, Orissa, Bengal basin, Northeastern region, South Indian montane, coastal and marine sites, and from the Antarctica Continent. Besides pollen proxy, which has been the mainstay of palaeoclimate studies in the Institute, phytoliths, diatoms, dinoflagellate cysts and organic matter are also being investigated for climate and sea level interpretations. These studies provide data on spatio-temporal climatic changes covering major time span of the Quaternary Period. Much attention is required to gather fine resolution palaeoclimatic data through the analyses of these multi proxy records to be utilized towards understanding precisely the palaeomonsoon variability in the Indian sub-continent during the past millennia. This database will enable to simulate the model for the prediction offuture course ofclimate. Key issues in short term and long-term climate changes (decadal, centennial and millennial scale calibrated with C 14, AMS, TIL, U/Th dates) need to be emphasized. Continental Records So far, the pollen proxy data is generated from Peninsular India (Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Maharashtra), north east India, and south Indian Montane, which constitute a very large and rich phytogeographical province of the country and thus need further study. A comprehensive pollen investigation oflacustrine sediments from these regions is required in order to reconstruct the antiquity ofthe tropical forests and the climatic changes during their formation in the Quaternary Period. Palynological data would also be useful for forest management especially to understand phytogeographical distribution, extinction and migration ofplant taxa from one region to another as well as stress ofanthropogenic activities on the natural vegetation in a definite time frame. As generation and proliferation oftropical forests is largely governed by monsoon, the vegetation sequences derived through pollen studies are useful to understand palaeomonsoon variability in the Indian sub-continent during the past millennia. This information will be of great significance in order to suggest the concrete measures to be taken for the conservation ofnatural forest resource ofthe country. In addition to pollen, other proxy data viz, the chemical analysis including total organic content, total carbonate content and C/N ratio together with carbon isotope, charcoal and sedimentological studies ofsediment cores will be taken up to generate more data in order to substantiate the climatic inferences drawn from the pollen analysis. Climatic scenarios emerging from analyses ofmulti proxy records will provide data base to understand spatio-temporal variability ofmonsoon from the Indian sub-continent and its impact on major climatic events during GlaciallInterglacial periods, Last Glacial maximum, Period ofClimatic Optimum, Medieval Warm Period and Little Ice age that have been investigated globally. Investigation ofdeeper lake or marine sediment profiles with AMS C-14 dates could be helpful in generating high resolution palaeoclimatic variability through patynology and other potential parameters like TOC, DOM, C/N ratio, elemental analysis, etc. Through 13 computerization, synthesis and corroboration of multiproxy data following aspects need attention: • Palaeolimnological studies ofnatural lacustrine lakes ofIndia. • Origin ofSaliTeak Forests and causes ofdeterioration. • Modern pollen rain in Peninsular India. • Evolution ofUpland Savannah in South Indian Montane. • Palaeoclimatic history ofMikirPlateau, Assam, northeastern India. • Creation ofQuaternary pollen data bank • Ladakh region (for geomorphic, geochemical, palaeoseismic, palaeomagnetic studies) Marine/ Coastal Records Semi-enclosed seas surround India with the Arabian Sea lying to her west and the Bay of Bengal lying to the east. The coastal and shelf sediments in both the seas are important recorders ofthe climatic variability. The Arabian Sea is characterized by high surface water productivity, intense upwelling, a mid-depth oxygen minima zone (OMZ) and organic matter rich sediments. These are suitable for the study of palaeoproductivity, palaeomonsoon, sea level changes and organic matter preservability. The deltas on the east coast of India are progradational in nature, characterized by thick pile of sediments and widespread mangrove distribution. These are extremely important not only for studying impact ofsea level changes on mangroves but also for characterizing terrestrial/marine palynomorph and organic matter distribution in deltaic microenvironments for palaeroenvironmental modelling as revealed by recent investigations on coastal sediments. Fewer studies on marine sediments have been carried out in the Institute and need to be focused in future especially in relation to palaeomonsoon and sea level changes. Building up ofdatasets on biogeographic distribution pattern ofdinocysts and palynofacies variation from marine surface/core sediments (coast to slope transect, especially OMZ) is required to identify palynological proxies suitable for areas near river mouths and coastal/shelfregion. Potential areas ofstudy (deltas, estuaries, tidal flats & creeks etc.) based on multiproxy parameters (terrestrial and marine palynomorphs, organic matter etc.) are: • Krishna-Godavari, Palar and Cauvery deltas and estuaries • Saurashtra coast • Karwar and southwest coastal region • Tsunami generated sediments ( East Coast, Andamans, Saurashtra) Antarctica and the Southern Ocean BSIP has been an active participant in Antarctic palaeoclimate studies for the past few years by participating in three Indian Antarctic Expeditions. Pollen analysis can provide terrestrial evidence, which can be crosschecked with oceanic micropalaeontology, ocean currents, and climatological studies. Study ofpresent day flora, their autecology, especially their means ofdispersal, pollen - spore production ofindividual taxa and their sedimentation in terms ofpast climate in circum-Antarctic region is very significant. The multiproxy data set (pollen/spores, diatoms, dinoflagellate cysts, palynodebris, clay mineralogy, palaomagnetic properties, stable isotopes etc.) would serve as benchmarks 14 for a temporal assessment of the lake ecosystems of Antarctica as well as of the climatic changes recorded in polar lake sediments during the Late Quaternary. The data would also be integrated with the proxy palaeoclimatic information to be generated from the ice cores and other related studies proposed to be retrieved from Antarctica. The following aspects are aimed to be addressed: • Generation of high resolution multiproxy data (based on palynological, micropalaeontological, sediomentological, mineral magnetic and geochemical studies) from surface and subsurface glacio-lacustrine and coastal marine sediments in an around Schirmacher Oasis and Larsemann Hills. • Long term monitoring of aerospora over Southern Ocean and Schirmacher Oasis, EastAntarctica(using volumetric air catcher). • Formulation ofdepositional model ofairborne palynodebris • Moss peat development in vast Schirmacher oasis ofEastern Antarctica. • Fine resolution palynostratigraphical and chronological studies of deep lake sediment profiles and clay varves • Palynological & geochemical studies ofdeep Antarctic ice cores • Micropalaeontological study of Southern Ocean sediments for high latitude oceamc processes Palaeoseismicity India offers a variety ofseismotectonic provinces, where palaeoseismic studies can be pursued and Ladakh region is a potential site for such studies. Palaeoseismic methods have proven its effectiveness in documenting the pre-historic earthquakes based on the analysis of seismically induced structures from the geological sequences and their inter-relationships in a geochronological framework (l4C, AMS, TIL dates). The slip per event, their rate and recurrence time can also be estimated. A co-coordinated study can be useful to: 1. Obtain information from Late-Quaternary geologic records on the past earthquakes. 2. Characterize rate ofdeformation and earthquake recurrence interval. 3. Dating the sequences and deformation surfaces that can be used to date the event and quantify rates ofdeformation. 4. Integrate geological, geodating and geophysical data to characterize potential earthquake sources and fault systems. 11 5 Dendrochronology (Tree-ring) Tree-ring based high-resolution climatic reconstruction in both spatial and temporal coverage, has been found most significant for understanding the various aspects ofclimatic changes during recent past. The Institute has generated a good amount of tree ring data towards the reconstruction of climate in global perspective. So far longest climate reconstruction is the pre-monsoon (March-April-May) temperature based on ring width data ofCedrus deodara growing in Garhwal Himalaya, which extends long back to 1226 AD. The climatic reconstruction shows high variability during the Little Ice Age in the high western Himalaya. Similarly, from the eastern part of the Himalaya, July- September temperature is reconstructed which goes up to 1507 AD. The reconstructed data shows some decadal scale fluctuations in which l760s, 1780s, l800s, l830s, l850s and l890s are cool decades with the minimum during 1801-1810 (-0.31 C). Period 1978-1987 (+0.25 C) was the warmest one. Besides climate, tree rings data have also been applied in other studies viz., in the dating ofpalaeoseismic and glacial fluctuations; and to access productivity in woods of geological past. A preliminary investigation on tree growth learthquake relationship from Agora, Uttarkashi, a region faced severe earthquake during 1991 shows that growth rings in Pinus wallichiana were narrow in 1992, the year subsequent to the earthquake events and most ofthe trees exhibit in that year eccentric growth rings, i.e. narrow ring on the upslope side ofthe stem in comparison to wider contemporary rings ofthe lean side. Presence of signature of earthquake on these trees clearly testifies the potential oftree ring data in palaeoseismic dating ofthe Himalayan region. Trees growing in the upper tree line viz., Pinus wallichiana in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh and Pinus wallichiana and Betula utilis around Gangotri Glacier have been found promising to study the glacial fluctuations of the Himalayan region. Besides modern trees, tree ring study from petrified woods ofAraucarioxylon and Podocarpoxylon collected from various Tertiary localities indicate that continued increase in aridity led to extinction of Araucaria from the Indian sub-continent and Podocarpus became endangered taxa in southern and north-east part ofIndia. • Emphasis has been on going researches towards the understanding of the detailed climatic dynamics ofthe Indian subcontinent in global perspective. In this connection, generation ofnetwork ofclimatically sensitive long tree ring chronologies frO!? contrasting climatic zone ofnorth west and eastern part of the Himalaya; and Peninsular Indiahave been given prime importance. • Particularly, the long tree-ring records from tropical forest sites would be of great relevance for the analyses ofmonsoon climatic variability in longer time scale. This long data would be useful in understanding the monsoon variability and its long-term teleconnection with other climatic events viz., Eurasian snow cover and ENSO etc • In the Tree-ring studies carried out so far, only ring-width has been taken into consideration, other tree ring parameters, such as density, isotope, cell size, vessel area etc. also have equal or sometimes, more importance in deciphering and reconstructing past climatic, environmental, ecological and geomorphological studies. These parameters need to be taken up in future. 16 Palaeoethnobotany Palaeoethnobotany (often called archaeobotany) is one of the areas of multidisciplinary research being pursued at BSIP, which contributes directly to the relationship of plants and primitive people during the dark ages ofpre- and proto-historic past,and the environment of ancient cultural settlement sites; apart from reconstruction of vegetational history and palaeoclimate through palynological study of Quaternary researches. The investigations include plant remains recovered through archaeological excavations of early human settlements. Systematic approaches to archaeobotany began in the early phase of 1980s at BSIP in collaboration with field-archaeologists and participation in excavations and in data generation. Against the earlier sketchy picture, a major breakthrough has been made at the Institute, particularly in the studies ofarchaeological plant remains in northern India. So far, our studies have revealed useful plants from a number ofsites exploited in their environment by pre- and proto-historic people and about ancient agricultural systems. The work from Neolithic site Lahuradeva (UP) has traced the antiquity ofrice cultivation from 6/7 millennium Be in Ganga plain. The discipline has a bright future India given the shear size and rich cultural heritage of the country, its diversity in terms ofnatural environment and subsistence strategies. However, it still needs to make a rapid thrust to catch-up with the progress in the regions ofWest and East Asia. In Near Eastern and European countries, proliferation ofworkers in the 1970s and onwards has brought to light vast datasets. Likewise, in SouthAsia at Mehrgarh in Kachi plains ofWest Pakistan, Indian subcontinent, cultivation ofwheat, and barley has documentation of early Neolithic agro-pastoralism around 7/8 millennium Be. We have still to resolve the broader understanding ofhuman and plant relationship in the Dark Ages. Botanical aspect in archeology is no longer peripheral but paramount to many unresolved questions of human past. • There is need for environmental and ethnobotanical conservation of forests, especially in the tropical regions so that hundreds ofecotypes ofearly economic plants are not lost, also of ancient cultural sites for the know-how of past environment. • Focus on a large number of potentially important sites in highly preferred situations in different ecological zones. • There is need of interpretational problem oriented approach to view domestication and beginning ofagriculture from an evolutionary point ofview, so that continuous process from the stage ofgathering can be traced out, on the onset ofHolocene. 17 Aerobiology Aerobiological studies have gained significant importance in the recent years because ofits application in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic disorders such as allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, atopic dermatitis, urticaria, etc. In general allergic rhinitis, also called 'Hay fever', vary from 6 to 12% in USA, Canada, Finland, New Zealand and Australia. Preliminary statistics available from India suggest that nearly 10% of the population suffers with this syndrome. Aerobiology is related with air pollution, biodeterioration, human and animal diseases, forestry and gene ecology, palynology, meteorology, agriculture, etc. Presently, aerobiological studies have its own national network at many centers in the country such as Kolkata, Bangalore, Gwalior, Chennai, Hyderabad, Imphal, Gorakhpur, Pune, Lucknow, Aurangabad, Delhi, Jaipur, etc. Aerobiotic studies at BSIP have a long history including survey ofatmospheric pollen grains, and analysis ofaeromycoflora. Detailed aerobiological data was generated for three consecutive years (1983-86) and over a period of four years (1994-98) employing three internationally recognized samplers, viz. Burkard, Rotorod, and Andersen. The standard record ofaerospora ofLucknow assembled so far are useful as a 'Ready-reckoner' for periodic biopollutant predictions required for the treatment ofvarious allergic disorders caused by air borne pollen grains and fungal spores. Future priorities are: • Preparation ofannual pollen-spores calendars using standard pollen samplers • Identification ofclinically significantpollen types • Establishment ofdata retrieval centers and computer based forecasting systems • Characterization and standardization of different pollen allergens for their allergenic components • Forecasting system using mass media, such as Newspaper, Television, Radio, electronic media, etc. • International multidisciplinary research programmes • Education at college/university level. 18 Molecular Palaeontology Molecular biology provides an insight into the history oflife. This branch ofscience dealing with fossil organic molecules is known as Palaeobiochemistry or Molecular Palaeontology. Plant and animal fossils contain decay resistant bio-macromolecules. The most abundant bio macromolecules in extant plants are lignins, which are the main contributors to lignites and coals. Resistant bio-macromolecules are known to occur in fossil and living algal cell walls, seed coats, periderm, spores and pollen. Study ofmacromolecules in fossil material provides an opportunity to investigate their origin, evolution and diversity through time. Geochemical fossils are biological markers that can convey information about the type of organisms contributing to the organic matter incorporated in solid fossil fuels (coals) and sedimentary rocks. They are useful in characterization and correlation offossils found in coal, oil shale, source rock or crude oils. Information about microbial activity or chemical rearrangements at the time ofdeposition and subsequent chemical reactions during diagenetic and catagenetic stages can also be retrieved. Study of collagenes (a protein found both in primitive as well in modem animals) preserved in mineralized skeletons and bones, helps in understanding the evolutionary tree. Biomarkers for plants (especially lower plants) and animal groups in Precambrian sediments can be identified. The amino acid contents ofthe sediments provide extra tool for Quaternary stratigraphy (amino stratigraphy). The studies may be used to: • develop molecular evolutionary clock i.e. the point of divergence of different plant and animal groups. • evolution ofearly protists • understand preservational parameters, taphonomy and diagenetic changes. • identify biomarkers characteristic ofdifferent plant and animal groups. • furnish information regarding maturation palaeoenvironment, origin and genesis ofsource material into fossil fuels. 19 Geochronometry and Isotope Studies The chronology ofclimatic events is vital for modeling the climatic parameters. The proxy climatic records retrieved from a variety ofarchives cover a wide span oftime ranging from decadal to millennial scale. Radiocarbon dating is an important geochemical tool that provides dating ofclimatic events for the last forty thousand years. • BSIP has served as a national facility for dating a large number of samples covering lake and marine sediments, terrestrial deposits, and archaeological artifacts. Attempts will be made to correlate between marine and terrestrial records based on radiocarbon dates and other proxy records. • Corals can provide high-resolution climate record for the past few hundreds years. Indian coasts harbour various species of corals, which have great potentials to provide past climatic information, though it is largely unexplored. Efforts will be made to collect coral samples and analyse for isotopes and trace metals. This will help to understand the causes for short-term monsoon variability. Long coral cores from the Lakshadweep and Andaman islands will fill this gap. The Andaman area is known to be seismically active with evidences of neo-tectonic activities in geologic records. Coral growth is susceptible to environmental degradation, and thus their study may help in reconstructing the seismic activities. • There are many lakes in India, which have been studied for pollen with well constrained rediocarbon dates. Additional parameters, such as CIN ratio and d 13C oforganic matter and d 180 ofbiogenic carbonates will be analysed for a better understanding ofthe past climate variability. • Isotope dendrochronology is an emerging area where BSIP can carve a niche as it has a long tradition ofdendrochronological work. Isotopic analysis (O,C,H) oftree ring shall provide complementary information to growth ring studies for high-resolution climatic inferences. • In view of the ever increasing requirement of the Quaternary Palaeoclimate groups of the country, upgradation of the radiocarbon dating facility is envisaged by augmenting the benzene extraction system and liquid scintillation counter, setting up ofa Graphite Target preparation unit for AMS dating and isotopic analysis unit in collaborationwith appropriate institutions. 20 Geochemistry and Clay Mineralogy Geochemistry is considered to be a very good tool by which one can better constrain as well as understand the process ofpreservation ofplant material in different forms, their occurrence or absence in a particular stratum, geochemical conditions prevailing at the time of deposition, biochemical reactions responsible for the preservation and so on. The development of Geochemical Laboratory in the institute has significance not only to support the on going research activities but also to open up new avenues ofresearch as well, such as: • Source Rock Characterization- in relation to fossil fuel, ore deposits and farmland formation. • Chemostratigraphic Studies- to resolve boundary problems and enhance stratigraphic resolution. • Weathering and erosion studies- in relation to elemental redistribution in different spheres of the earth, degradation of fossil fuel and affect on our monuments and items ofcultural interest. • Petrogenetic studies- major and trace elements including rare earths modelling very useful to understand the origin ofa particular rock. • Stable and Radiogenic Isotope studies- in relation to absolute age ofthe rocks and other deposits and also the depositionaVformational environment. • Water studies- in relation to domestic, industrial and pollution studies as well as watershed managements. • Dust studies-in relation to aerobiology and aerochemistry. Study ofclay minerals can be an asset in the palaeoclimate research. The rationale for using clays as palaeoenvironmental indicators lies in the assumption that climatic fluctuations lead to the formation ofcharacteristic clay mineral assemblages. The lacustrine sediments especially those, which have deposited in the closed basins often, provide excellent evidence for the Late Cenozoic environmental changes The clays may be proved as palaeoenvironmental indicators assuming that they are neoformed and transfonned in soil and weathering profiles within the catchment and that the clay mineral assemblage is controlled by the parent material as well as by the climate. Using this model, the sedimentary clays reflect the environment within the surrounding basin. Generally, the clay deposits exist in two different geological entities, firstly as weathered products of major lithological units in tropical climate, and secondly as detrital or residual sedimentary deposits. Climate and tectonic upliftment play an importantrole in clay fonnation. Temperature and rainfall are the two important climatic factors that mostly control the clay formation. Tectonic uplift affects clay mineral assemblage in a number of ways. Clay mineralogical studies will be used to complement other lines ofpalaeoenvironmental evidence. Since clays are ubiquitous and relatively easy to analyse, their use in palaeoenvironmental reconstruction holds considerable attraction. 21 Auxiliary Units Museum The Museum of BSIP acts as nodal Centre for the dissemination of palaeobotanical knowledge. Elaborate schemes to strengthen further the ongoing programmes concerning popularization are envisaged. The task will be achieved through a series of activities, which will include up gradation, addition ofa new hall to the existing structure, bringing out booklets and preparation ofCDs. More panels and fiberglass models depicting the nature oflife through geological ages will be added. These additions will throw more light on academic as well as applied aspects of study of fossils. New hall will be furnished with the information about current activities of the Institute. Booklets highlighting the activities will be published and with a view to establish a virtual museum, CDs will be prepared. Exhibitions, screening of educational films and lectures on topical interest will be provided to the educational Institutions. Fossil specimens will be gifted to the schools/colleges for dissemination ofknowledge and popularization ofPalaeobotany. Herbarium For accurate assessment of the composition of fossil flora from the Tertiary and Quaternary periods, information from the present day vegetation helps to interpret their palaeobotanical and palaeogeographical requirements. Fossils occur as fruits, leaves, wood, cuticle, pollen and spores and generally possess diagnostic characters, with the help ofwhich they are identified. A comparative study with modem equivalents helps to infer the botanical affinity. The main objective ofthe Herbarium is to develop a repository ofreference material of extant plants and their preparations useful for comparative study offossil specimens. In order to cope with the emerging fields ofenquiry it is essential to develop necessary information on floristic diversity, ethnobotany, taxonomy, morphology and molecular systematics ofmodem plants. The Herbarium ofthe Institute, being a repository ofvarious plant materials such as plant specimens, polleniferous materials, pollen slides, wood blocks, wood slides, fruit and seeds etc. functions as complementary to research in various botanical, palaeobotanical and archaeobotanical fields. In view ofrecent developments and demands, a need to electronically preserve such materials as computer fed data has arisen. The wealth ofinformation available in herbarium can be used for this purpose. Thus, up gradation and automation ofHerbarium using softwares is envisaged for establishment of online informative database of living and fossil plants with the aim to develop a Palaeo-Bioinformatics Centre. 22 Electron Microscopy Application of Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) in the field of biology has been effectively explained for investigating the detailed morphology and other features. The use of SEM helped to understand the structural diversity, interpretation and relationship between different taxa, and also constructing the evolutionary models and other aspects. The following aspects are emphasized: Dispersed organic matter- SEM can be efficiently used to explore surface morphology/topography of palaeobotanical specimens in different modes of fossilization, namely, impression (leaves, seeds fruits, etc.), compression (stem, leaves etc.), petrifaction (stem, root, seed, fruit, etc.), and carbonised (wood, seed, fruits, etc.). Microfossils (pollen, spores, fragmentary cuticles and wood trachieds, nanno-fossils/ diatoms/dinoflagellate cysts/ acritarchs/microforams, etc.) recovered from sedimentary rocks are also investigated in much greater morphological details. Taxonomy- It has been possible to investigate at very high resolutions (magnifications) distinctive patterns and characteristic features of the epidermis, e.g., types of stomata and trichomes, glands and their distribution. These are useful not only in the identification of extinct and extant forms but also in recognizing small fragments of plants (fossils) for taxonomy. The study is also useful to identify the epicuticularwax pattern in different species, which is important for taxonomy. Microbial degradation- For taphonomy the preservation of cuticle/organic matter can also be studied under SEM. The microbial degradation ofcuticle and other plant fragments is a specific phenomenon. The conversion of structured mass to unstructured one is due to various kinds of bacterial attack in reducing environment and the phytopathogenic capabilities to act with various minerals available in the sediments. It is possible to investigate the differential composition by using back-scattered detector. The study with SE, BSE and X-ray analysis ofdifferent stages ofmineralization provides complete data. Micro-analysis- EDX allows elemental analysis of micro volumes of biological samples and adds a new dimension to the study ofmorphology. In the plant tissues it is used to locate the chemical elements ofinterest in particular location, e.g. presence ofsilica or crystal in the cell wall. Through the study ofbiomineralized tissue (biodegraded) and formation ofpyrite framboids the composition ofminerals can be analysed. Environmental SEM- The conventional SEM (CSEM) has superior resolution, depth of field and micro analytical capabilities and also has some limitations. The environmental SEM (ESEM) has certain benefits over the CSEM. It can image wet, dirty, oily, out gassing samples, and can acquire electron images from hot sample, incandescence and delicate samples can be seen directly without coating and without sample preparation. Wet samples need not be dried before viewing in the ESEM. This is specially important for specimens that must remain hydrated in the order to retain their structure (bacteria, algae, fungi, trichomes, glands, etc.). 23 Computer Applications Recent advances in the field ofcomputer (hardware/software) are to utilized to its optimum by the Scientific/Administrative/Technical staffofthe Institute: • Data generation! interpretation (using latest software packages) in research. • Exchange of scientific data amongst scientists, within and outside Institute using LANIWAN • To develop and upkeep the records and making internal/external communications as well as notifications (Administrative section). • To make data base of the records/ inventories of Library, Museum and Herbarium.. • To bring Institute publications on the Net, and to bring published material on Digital Media. • To help in complete office automation. GPS and GIS GPS and GIS are tools to visualize the outcomes ofinterlinked processes ofincreasing complexity. For any geological work, positioning is immensely essential and GPS is the best tool for this, whereas GIS can take multiple infonnation layers that can be manipulated, to evaluate relationships among the desired elements. GIS enables to analyze and model the inter-relationships between individual data layers, work more quickly and accurately. It also works as a decision support system. It is visualized that GPS and GIS are the infrastructure need helpful in carrying out the following objectives: • Resource evaluation • Hazard mapping both natural and anthropogenic • Investigation ofdiseases related to material release (rock, water, soil, etc.) • Geochemical anomaly mapping for mineral resources. • Geological structure modelling. 24 EPILOGUE "For what is it after all, that pious men worship in a stone which they place in a temple, but an idea, or ideal, a great truth, a hope ora wish for a higher existence, whether in this world or in the next?" Birbal Sahni (April 03, 1949) Let us put together our efforts in fulfilling the vision ofthe Founder and achieve ourmission. 25 -_I Published by The Director, Birbal Sahni Institute ofPalaeobotany, Lucknow