Guide 2013-2014

2013 -14

Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology

C O S N U S S U T E S A R E I V N E

GENESIS To set up an institute for research in arid and semi-arid regions of Gujarat, the Gujarat Ecology Commission (GEC) signed a MoU with Jacob Blaustein Institute of Desert Research, Israel in September 1993. Prof. Uriel Safriel, Head- Mitrani Centre for Desert Ecology, Israel visited Kachchh in May 1994. Based on his expert advice, Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE) was established in May 1995 and registered as a public trust and a society.

MISSION GUIDE will catalyse the process of ameliorating hardships to human beings in desert ecosystems of Gujarat, following sound ecological principles and carefully using scientific knowledge, imaginative technology and capital.

MANDATE Focus on desert and arid ecosystems of Gujarat, with special emphasis on Kachchh; Develop benchmark database for ecosystems of Kachchh and thereafter undertake continuous monitoring and trend-analysis through specific research activities; Identify problem areas and evolve appropriate solutions and management strategies, with the help of applied research; Formulate and implement relevant projects that would provide models for emulation; Disseminate ecological information and communicate action plans to suit local conditions, through extension and other programs; and Provide consultancy and training to NGOs, Government officials, corporate sectors and other natural resource managers, in the principles of ecology, integrated management and sustainable development.

Contents

Director’s Note 1 Infrastructure & Facilities 7 Thrust Areas 11

Projects 12 Collaborations 33 CoHaB – ESR at GUIDE 35 Publications 38 Board of Governors 43 The GUIDE Human Resource 44 List of Dissertation Students 45 1

Director’s Note

Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), stepping into its 19th year, continues to function as a pioneering dryland research institute striving to address the needs of community through its research agenda. In order to fulfill its avowed mandate to achieve a synergy of science and community in the field of ecology and environment, GUIDE has made added progress. The stewardship and unflinching effort rendered by our Chairman Shri S. G. Mankad, IAS (Retd.) and the Board of Governors of GUIDE are enabling us to function with vigor and quality over the previous years.

In yet another attempt to acquire global eminence and to draw worldwide attention towards Kachchh dryland issues, GUIDE had signed a MoU with Greenwich University, UK and initiated a collaborative research programme on “Ecosystem Assessment of the Habitats in the Kachchh District - Planning for Biodiversity and Livelihoods into the Future” under the UK India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI). Dr. Debbie Bartlett from Greenwich University and Dr. V. Vijay Kumar from GUIDE are the Principal Investigators of the project. In this connection, Dr. Debbie Bartlett from Greenwich University visited GUIDE during the period between 8th and 20th June, 2013.

As part of the collaborative project on “Climate Change and Its Uncertainty” with STEPS Centre of the University of Sussex, UK, a workshop was organized at GUIDE, Bhuj during the period between 22nd and 26th October, 2013. Dr. Lyla Mehta and the project partners; Mrs. Upasona Ghosh, Ms. Rithika, Shri Shibaji Bose, IMHR, Kolkata; and Dr. Alankar, SARAI/CSDS, New Delhi had attended the workshop. The Scientists from GUIDE also actively participated in the workshop.

Further, ESRC STEPS Centre, University of Sussex, UK in collaboration with CSSP, JNU, New Delhi organized an International Symposium on “Exploring Pathways to Sustainability” during the period between 10th and 11th February 2014 at New Delhi.

In this Symposium, a special two hours panel on “Uncertainty From Below” was dedicated to the collaborative research project on “Climate Change and Its Uncertainty – Below and Above”. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar attended the Symposium and delivered a talk on “Climate Change and Uncertainty – Dryland Scenario”.

In yet another event, Sh. R. V. Asari, Director was invited as a resource person in workshops organised at Gandhinagar by the Regional Centre, NAEB - MoEF, GoI, Mumbai. He delivered talks on “Framing of Communication Process for Sustainable JFM/FDA” and “Convergence of NAP & Other Schemes for JFMC and Field Level Staff” respectively on 5th and 7th March 2014. As a part of the collaboration with CASII, the CoHaB project Early Stage Researchers (Ms. Iulia Nicoleta Rascanu - Romania, Mrs. Melanie Robin Wattenbarger -USA, Ms. Ruby Rana and Ms. Holly Jennifer Morgan – Canada) had visited GUIDE during the period between 3rd November and 1st December 2013. The researches gained experience on Diaspora and its linkages with environment through expert (Dr. Heena K. Gangar, Dr. Vimmi Sardarngani, Dr. Lalitha Narayan, Ms. Judy Frater, Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Dr. G. A. Thivakaran, Dr. A.K.R. Mahato, Mr. M. Laxman and Mrs. Vidhisha Kannan) lectures and field explorations to various parts of Kachchh including Dholavira, Narayansarovar, Mandvi, Banni and Rann of Kachchh. 3

In order to strengthen its scientific manpower and to enhance its accomplishment, GUIDE has recruited a team of qualified and experienced scientists and researchers (Dr. Jayesh Bhatt, Dr. K. Prabhu, Mr. Sudhanshu C. Mohapatra, Mr. Anil Raghvajibhai, Mr. Ajay Gohil and Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Ms. Trupti Vaghela, Mr. Ajitsinh B. Gohil, , Sh. Ratansi Chaudhury, Mr. Nitul Lal and Sh. Midhun Gopi) with multi-disciplinary background who would work on different aspects of diverse ecosystems, biodiversity and livelihood opportunities in Kachchh and other places of Gujarat.

Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj, ever since its establishment in May1995, has been working steadfastly to address different ecological issues pertaining to arid and semi-arid regions of Gujarat in general and Kachchh in particular. In continuation of this, GUIDE has undertaken many new research projects in areas of ecology, environment and biodiversity. A new collaborative project on “Ecological perspective of Rann of Kachchh: Studies on physico-chemical and microbial community structure of soil” was submitted to DBT, New Delhi in collaboration with S. P. University, Anand.

In an effort to fortify the research endeavor of the institute, few research proposals have also been framed, including the international research proposal in collaboration with STEPS Centre of University of Sussex, UK.

As a part of its recognition by K.S.K.V. Kachchh University, Bhuj, GUIDE has jointly undertaken teaching programme of M. Sc. (Environmental Science) course and the fourth batch of students passed out in May 2013. A plan to commence integrated master’s programme with the Kachchh University is also on the avail. A proposal for Integrated Environmental Biology course was submitted to the K.S.K.V. Kachchh University for further processing at Education Department, Gandhinagar. Apart from teaching, in the areas of research, GUIDE’s scientists have guided students from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu; Shri Sarvajanik College, Mehsana and K.S.K.V. Kachchh University, Bhuj.

GUIDE has been awarded “National Education Leadership Award” by the Dainik Bhaskar, Mumbai in a function jointly organized by Dainik Bhaskar group and Stars of the Industry group at Taj Lands End Hotel, Bandra, Mumbai on 23rd October, 2013. On behalf of GUIDE, Dr. G. A. Thivakaran had attended the function and received the prestigious award. 4

Another significant milestone is guiding of doctoral students by the faculties of GUIDE. Sh. Nikunj B. Gajera, Project Scientist, has been awarded Doctor of Philosophy for his thesis “A study on the Avian diversity in drylands of Kachchh with special reference to their conservation and management” under the guidance of Dr. V. Vijay Kumar.

The Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat, Ahmedabad has organized one day Round Table Seminar on “Quality Improvement in Higher Education” on 11th September 2013 at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar. The seminar was graced by the Honorable Chief Minister of Gujarat, Lord Bhikhu Parekh (Chief Guest of Honour), Education Ministers, Industrial Minister, Chief Secretary of Gujarat, Sh. Hasmukh Shah (Founder Chairman of GUIDE), Principal Secretary and Commissioner of Higher Education and Vice Chancellors of the Universities of Gujarat. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar from Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology was invited for the seminar and he attended the seminar.

Total participants of the seminar were around 35 and they discussed the importance of Pre University and University education and ways and means to improve the education standards of the Gujarat State.

Demonstrating their presentation capability, GUIDE scientists and researchers have attended several national and international seminars and symposia and presented research papers. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar attended the International conference on “Diasporic Indian Cinemas and Bollywood on the Diaspora” jointly organized by the Osmania University and Center for Advanced Studies in India during the period between 22nd and 24th January, 2014 at Hyderabad. Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato participated the International Conference on Conserving Biodiversity for Sustainable Development and presented a paper titled “Linkage between Culture and Biodiversity: A Case Study in Chhotanagpur Plateau, Jharkhand” held at National Institute of Technology, Rourkela on 16-18th August, 2013. Ms. Druma Vaida, JRF (DST Project) attended a national conference on “Advances in Environmental Science and Technology” conducted by Central University, Gandhinagar during 25th & 26th Feb. 2014. She had presented a paper on “Preliminary investigations on biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles by halo-tolerant bacterial strains from Banni”. She was awarded the Third Prize oral paper presentation. 5

The 17th Annual General Meeting of the GUIDE Society was held on 24th August 2013 at 12.00 hrs at GUIDE, Bhuj-Kachchh under the Chairmanship of Sh. S. G. Mankad, IAS (Retd.). Also during the year, three BoG meetings and several Management Committee meetings were held for the smooth functioning of GUIDE.

Another significant milestone is the publication initiatives of a book on “Forest and Wildlife of Kachchh- A Natural Heritage”. This was published in collaboration with Gujarat State Forest Department and the book was released by the Honorable Chief Minister of Gujarat State on 14th August 2013.

A quarterly E-Newsletter of GUIDE titled, “GUIDE.net”, is regularly released to a larger scientific community. In addition to these, several scientific papers were published in national (5 Nos.) and international journals (16 Nos.).

The GUIDE laboratory has been recognized as “State Air & State Water Laboratory” by the GPCB, Gandhinagar on 3rd September 2010 and the recognition is extended up to 2nd September 2015. The laboratory and infrastructure facilities developed during the previous year have further been strengthened by adding equipments like Rotary vacuum Flash Evaporator, Miskin Water Sampler and Soxhlet apparatus from the project grant of DST, New Delhi. A team of well-trained analysts is working full time and the laboratory is now poised to undertake a broad range of advanced ecological research envisaging the lab-to- field approach. Laboratory facilities, besides serving different project requirements also meet analytical requirements of GPCB, industries, farmers and other NGOs.

Another important recognition to GUIDE is the accreditation by the NABET. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar (Mining of Minerals – Opencast and Irrigation Projects) and Dr. G. A. Thivakaran (Ports, harbours, jetties, marine terminals, break waters and dredging) were selected as Coordinators. Dr. K. Karthikeyan, Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Dr. Rohitkumar Patel, Sh. Mukesh Koladiya, Dr. Jagruti Sanghvi, Sh. Sudhanshu Charan Mohapatra, and Sh. Dayesh Parmar were selected as Functional Area Experts in Water Pollution (WP), Ecology and Biodiversity, Air Pollution and Landuse areas respectively. Further, the accreditation of NABL is in process.

Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Joint Director is promoted to Additional Director.

Dr. G. A. Thivakaran, Senior Principal Scientist is promoted to Chief Principal Scientist.

A research proposal of Ms. V. Devi on “Assessment of Chemicals and Bacterial Contaminations in the Ground Waters of Selected Talukas of Kachchh District, Gujarat” under the Women Scientist Scheme of DST, New Delhi under the Mentorship of Dr. K. Karthikeyan has been submitted.

Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato was invited as a Resource Person in UGC Sponsored Refresher Course on “Tribal Studies” organized by Academic Staff College, Ranchi on 24th August 2013.

Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Scientist has attended the training programme on “Traditional and Modern Approaches in Animal Taxonomy” organized by University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore; between 15th and 29th April, 2013.

GUIDE

INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES

CAMPUS

The Institute is spread over four acres of land acquired from Government of Gujarat, where its own complex comprising well-furnished blocks for administration, research, laboratory, academics, library, meeting hall and a hostel for research scholars is located. In addition, residential blocks for scientists have also been constructed within the premises of the institute which make it possible to devote more time to their research activities.

HOSTEL ACCOMMODATION

The hostel complex has eight rooms of double occupancy and special double occupancy rooms to accommodate important visitors. All the scholars of GUIDE are accommodated in the hostel. Dining and recreational facilities are provided in the hostel, which include television, table tennis and provision for outdoor games such as volley ball, badminton and cricket.

COMPUTER FACILITIES

Since, computers and relevant software are essential and integral part for quality research, it is constantly endeavored to procure new software and keep the systems updated. The institute is equipped with ample computer facilities for storage and processing of research data including an ecological data base.

TEACHING AND RESEARCH

Research activities in different disciplines are in progress since the inception of institute through its multi-disciplinary team of scientists and research scholars. Apart from the routine research, GUIDE has also undertaken initiatives in creating ecological models in grassland restoration, community based mangrove restoration and saline land reclamation. Further, the Institute has been recognized as Research and Education Centre by K.S.K.V. Kachchh University, Bhuj and is involved in conducting M.Sc. Environmental Sciences programme with the university. The institute has modern teaching aids and field research equipments with appropriate accessories to operate in-house and field programmes.

ANALYTICAL LABORATORY

The laboratory facilities at GUIDE meet all the requirements of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of terrestrial and coastal areas. Regular analysis of environmental samples is being carried out for industrial sectors, local agriculturists and NGOs. Analysis of all the types of environmental samples i.e. soil, water (Inland and Coastal), waste water, sludge are being carried out in GUIDE. In addition, the analysis of on-site air quality is also done using sophisticated air samplers.

All the analysis in this laboratory are carried out through standard methods using equipment such as Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, UV-vis Spectrophotometer, Flame-photometer, etc., several sophisticated instruments such as; Repairable Dust Samplers, Stack Monitoring Kit, Fine Particulate Sampler, Spectro-fluorometer and Ion Chromatography have also been added recently. With eminent scientific supervision and skilled technical staff, the laboratory is running as a self-sustained unit and is recognised as State Air & State Water Laboratory (First of its kind in Gujarat) by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board, GoG, Gandhinagar.

HE RBA RI UM &MUSEUM

The institute possesses excellent collection of plant and animal specimens (especially marine fauna) of Kachchh in particular and Gujarat in general. In total around 850 floral specimens were collected and catalogued with phyto- geographical information. The development of digital herbarium is in process which will function as a reference centre for students and researchers.

Extensive specimens of intertidal molluscan shells from Kachchh and Jamnagar coastal habitats are preserved and kept as ready reference materials in the marine laboratory which could be used by different school and college students. Specimen of terrestrial animals from Gujarat is also planned to be preserved and exhibited in the museum, which will cater the purpose of reference materials.

LIBRARY & DOCUMENTATION

A library with a wide range of multi-disciplinary collection of books, reports, and reprints on arid and semi-arid ecology, different ecosystems, plant and animal ecology, biodiversity, management techniques, environmental economics, interpretation and education are available. In addition to reference works and text books on these subjects, a massive stock of monographs and reprints on ecology, ecosystems etc. is also available. The JSTOR subscription for a period of five years helps in accessing over 370 international journals in the fields of Botany, Environment, Agriculture, Ecology, Biodiversity etc. Currently the reference collection comprises of over 1,600 books, monographs, reports, etc., that are now being computerized for easy review and retrieval. An important part of the library services is also envisaged through computerized database and literature search facilities, enabling rapid survey of existing information on a particular topic. An amount of Rs. 2–2.50 Lakhs is spent every year on journals and books for the library.

GIS & REMOTE SENSING CELL

GIS & RS facilitate research activities related to biodiversity, land use, soil, and geo- hydrological regime, Natural Resource Mapping (NRM) and Participatory Resource Mapping (PRM). The cell is well equipped with GIS software Arc GIS 9.3.1, Cartalinx and Image processing software ERDAS Imagine 9.3. We are also focusing on Open Source GIS software like QGIS, GRASS, MapWindow and Multispec. The cell also has database of LANDSAT and IRS Satellite imageries. The cell has mapped thematic layers of landscape features of Gujarat in general and Kachchh in particular.

Kachchh LISS- III Satellite Imagery

TECHNICAL SERVIC ES

Institute provides various kinds of technical and analytical facilities on soil, water and air to the academic and research institutes, industries and NGOs. The various services include: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Marine Environmental Monitoring(MEM) Environmental Managment and Planning (EMP) Training programmes on Natural Resource Development and Management, Biodiversity, etc.

AREA OF RESEARCH

GUIDE’s research activities are linked to the goal of developing it as a centre of excellence in the study of understanding and addressing ecological, environmental and social problems and/or issues and promoting sustainable development in arid and semi-arid regions of the state.

11 Thrust Areas

RESEARCH & STUDIES  Biodiversity Assessment and Conservation Studies  Desertification and Land Degradation Process

 Regional Environmental Assessment and Planning  Socio-Economic Studies for Development Options  Natural Resources Management in Arid and Semi-Arid Zone (Rangeland Ecology, Agro-Ecology)  Impact of Invasion by Exotic and Introduced Species  Remote Sensing & GIS Applications for Biodiversity Conservation & Environmental Planning  Coastal Biodiversity and Coastal Monitoring TEACHING  M. Sc. in Environmental Science (In collaboration with K. S. K. V. Kachchh University, Bhuj)  B. Sc. in Marine Science (In collaboration with Government Science College, Mandvi). NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT  Development and Conservation Options in Rann of Kachchh  Watershed Development and Management  Restoration of Degraded Ecosystems including Grassland, Mangroves, Forests, Wetlands, etc.  Development Options for Pastoral Communities  Improving the Management of Protected Area Networks  Ecological Restoration of Mining and Industrial Areas  Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

 Environmental Management and Planning (EMP)

TECHNICAL SUPPORT TO ACTION PROGRAMMES

 Demonstration of Ecological Restoration Programmes  Technical Support to Non-governmental Organizations and Governmental Agencies/Departments 12

Terrestrial Ecology Division Projects

Ecological Evaluation of Biota and Provide Conservation and Monitoring Strategies for 1 km Peripheral Area of 1840ha allotted for Infrastructure Development-Adani Ports & SEZ Limited, Mundra, Kachchh.

Funding Agency: Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd., Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Mundra Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Budget: Rs.5, 06,000/- Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Duration: 1 Year Mr. Nikunj Gajera, Status: Completed Mr. Nainesh Patel, Mr. Raushan Raman

Gujarat State Forest Department has allotted 1,840 hectare land to Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd (APSEZL), near a forest area known as Bharadimata. Due to high ecological sensitivity of the area, APSEZL approached GUIDE to evaluate the baseline data and status of 1 km peripheral area of the Bharadimata and suggest suitable management and conservation measures for the area. Based on ecological characteristics, the study area was divided into three parts namely; natural vegetation including forest, mudflats and mangroves. Three intensive field surveys were conducted for ecological evaluation of the study area.

A total of 150 plant species including threatened plants like Ephedra foliata and Commiphora wightii were recorded from the area. Along with plants, 15 species of mammal, 11 species of herpetofauna and 72 species of birds were also recorded from the study area. The final study report has been submitted.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Third party evaluation on impact of CSR activities done by Surkha (N) Project, GMDC, Bhavnagar

Funding Agency: Gujarat Mineral Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Development Corporation Ltd., Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Ahmedabad Dr. Nikunj Gajera, Budget: Rs. 5, 00,000.00 Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Duration: 6 months Mr. Ajaykumar Gohel, Status: Completed Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Nainesh Patel, Mr. Raushan Raman

Corporate Social Responsibility has become a worldwide concept whereby organizations consider the interests of society by taking responsibility for the impact of their activities on customers, employees, shareholders, communities and the environment in all aspects of their operations. Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation (GMDC) is engaged in tapping major mineral resources in many parts of Gujarat. As a part of the CSR activities, GMDC has carried out various infrastructure development, water conservation, educational development, employment generation and awareness programs to fulfill the basic needs of local communities.

GMDC has one lignite mine in operation at Surkha (N), Bhavnagar. This mine site encompasses an area of 4690 Ha between Latitude (N) 21° 26’ 43’’ to 21° 43’ 00’’ and Longitude (E) 72° 07’ 30’’ to 72° 16’ 30’’. The capacity of this mine is about 500 tons lignite/day. From the date of inception, GMDC, Surkha (N) Project has been carrying out many CSR activities around the project site, covering 6 villages during the 1st phase.

The task of carrying out 3rd party evaluation of the impact of CSR activities done by GMDC, Bhavnagar was allotted to GUIDE. A team of scientists and researchers from GUIDE surveyed the project area to evaluate the impact of CSR activities made by GMDC. The final report of the project is submitted to GMDC.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Preparation of book for Forest & Wildlife of Kachchh district, Gujarat

Funding Agency: Gujarat State Forest Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Department, Kachchh Dr. Nikunj Gajera, Budget: Rs.5, 00,000/- Dr. Rohitkumar Patel, Duration: April 2013-June 2013 Mr. Raushan Kumar Raman, Status: Completed Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya

Kachchh is the largest district (in area) of India and falls under Desert Bio-geographic zone of the country. The district is characterized by scrub and mixed thorn forest with interspersed grassland with few unique landscapes like saline marshy desert- Ranns, coast, gulf, mangroves etc. In addition, Kachchh encompasses distinctive geographical, geological, archeological and cultural diversity. There are many important wildlife sanctuaries including Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kachchh Bustard Sanctuary, Kachchh Desert Wildlife Sanctuary and Asiatic Wild Ass Sanctuary. Apart from this, the district possesses nation’s 13th Biosphere Reserve known as Kachchh Biosphere Reserve, covering an area of 12,754 Km2. Keeping the importance of forest and its wildlife, and to have a wider publicity, the Kachchh Forest Circle, GSFD assigned a task to bring out a publication on forest and wildlife of Kachchh. The book was jointly published by GSFD, Kachchh circle and Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology, Bhuj.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

People’s Biodiversity Register of 10 selected Gram Panchayats of Kachchh district, Gujarat.

Funding Agency: Gujarat Biodiversity Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Board, Gandhinagar Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Budget: Rs. 4, 37,000/- Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Duration: One Year Mr. Nainesh Patel, Status: Completed Dr. Nikunj Gajera, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Ajay Gohel, Mr. Raushan Raman, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Dr. Jayesh Bhatt, Ms. Trupti Vaghela

Biological entities are vital to the human well being and socio-economic development. In view of the importance of biodiversity, Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was initiated, and as a follow up Government of India enacted “Biological Diversity Act, 2002” followed by “Biological Diversity Rule, 2004” to conserve the biodiversity and associated traditional knowledge. As per the Act, every Panchayat, Taluka and District shall have a Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) and People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) aimed at documenting, conserving and managing the local biodiversity and equitable sharing of benefits.

Based on the above background, Gujarat Biodiversity Board has sanctioned a project covering 10 Panchayats under 5 Talukas of Kachchh district to GUIDE in September 2012. The main objectives of the project include constitution of Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) and preparation of People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR). The BMCs were constituted and the PBRs were prepared and submitted (English and Gujarati language) to Gujarat Biodiversity Board, Gandhinagar.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Preparatory Phase Evaluation of Watersheds in Gujarat State ( Batch -II & III, IWMP Programs).

Funding Agency: Gujarat State Team: Mr. Prakash Patel (PI), Watershed Management Agency Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, (GSWMA), Gandhinagar. Dr. Rohit Patel, Dr. Nikunj Gajera, Budget: Rs 11, 07,000 + Rs. 10, 14,000 Mr. Kishan Pandya, Duration: 5 + 5 months Mr. Chaten Senaria, Status: Batch –II Completed, Mr. Sahadev Gadesia, Batch – III Ongoing Mr. Ramesh Ahir, Ms. Geeta Goswami, Mr. Raushan Raman, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan,

Mr. Ajaykumar Gohel

Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) is a modified programme of erstwhile Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP), Desert Development Programme (DDP) and Integrated Wastelands Development Programme (IWDP) of the Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, New Delhi.

The main objectives of the IWMP are to restore the ecological balance by harnessing, conserving and developing degraded natural resources such as soil and vegetative cover.

Gujarat State Watershed Management Agency (GSWMA) under the Commissionorate of Rural Development has sanctioned two independent watershed monitoring programs to GUIDE in Gujarat. This is mainly to assess the entire watershed activities in line with DPR and rules and regulation of GSWMA. The Batch – II covered 30 watershed projects implemented in five districts (Patan, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Junagadh and Porbandar) of Gujarat State. The Batch – III covered 26 watershed projects in 4 districts (Porbandar, Jamnagar, Patan and Banaskantha) of Gujarat State. The studies have been completed and final reports are under progress.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Status, Conservation and Management of Tree groves of forest areas of Kachchh district, Gujarat.

Funding Agency: Training and Research Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Circle, GSFD, Gandhinagar Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Budget Rs. 13, 38,000/- Dr. Jayesh Bhatt (Co-PI), Duration: One Year Mr. Raushan Raman, Status: Ongoing Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Ajaykumar Gohel, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Dr. Nikunj Gajera , Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya

Tree groves are the patches of forests or natural vegetation protected by indigenous people through religious and cultural practices from time immemorial. Culturally protected forest patches, the tree groves or sacred groves have been the integral part of many traditional societies. Studies highlight that, groves support a good number of rare and endemic species, persist only in favorable niches, and the groves are ideal places for them. The groves can have a greater role especially in conservation of the threatened endemic biota if restored and appropriately managed. There is a paucity of documentation of the biodiversity of groves and its conservation and management aspects are lacking in Kachchh in particular and Gujarat in general. Therefore, it is imperative to study the groves to create awareness and its protection.

The present study aims to document the tree groves in Kachchh district; which includes assessment of floral and faunal composition, spatial distribution of rare, threatened and endemic species and cultural associations of local community with the groves. Based on the above, strategies for conservation and management of tree groves will be proposed.

The field surveys were completed in Rapar, Bhachau, Anjar, Lakhpat, Abdasa and Nakhatarna talukas of Kachchh district. A total of more than 200 tree groves were recorded from the above talukas. Data analysis and final report is under progress.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Biodiversity Action Plan for Mining Areas of Ambuja Cement Limited, Ambujanagar, Kodinar, Gujarat

Funding Agency: Ambuja Cement Ltd., Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Ambujanagar, Kodinar, Gujarat Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Budget: Rs. 24, 50, 000/- Dr. G. Thirumaran (Co-PI), Duration: 5 months Dr. Jayesh Bhatt, Status: Ongoing Dr. Nikunj Gajera, Dr. K. Prabhu, Mr. Raushan Raman, Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Ajaykumar Gohel, Mr. Ajit Gohil, Mr. Nithul Lal

Biodiversity is being increasingly threatened globally, nationally and locally due to various natural and anthropogenic factors. Human activities are placing severe pressure on biological resources that leads to fragmentation and degradation of habitats, and resultant loss of biodiversity.

The commitment towards conserving and managing the biodiversity in and around Ambuja Limestone mines, an integrated approach on preparation of Biodiversity Action Plan for the area was initiated by the Ambuja Cement Ltd., Ambujanagar, Kodinar through GUIDE, Bhuj.

The primary aim of BAP is to facilitate enhanced conservation of biodiversity in and around Ambuja limestone mining areas and thereby contributing towards the maintenance of national and global biodiversity. The BAP provides guidelines for required actions for conservation of existing habitats and its species, improvement of habitats for the species, and appropriate planning and delivery mechanisms.

The field surveys were completed and final report is under progress. 19

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Technical support for constitution of BMCs and preparation of PBRs by the BMCs in 25 Gram Panchayats

Funding Agency: Gujarat Biodiversity Team: Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Board, Gandhinagar Dr. Jayesh Bhatt (Co-PI), Budget: Rs. 26, 25,000/- Dr. Rohit Patel, Duration: 1 Year Mr. Raushan Raman, Status: Ongoing Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Ajaykumar Gohel

For the present project a total of 25 Gram Panchayats located in Mandvi Taluka of Kachchh district was selected. The project works are just being initiated.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Climate change and Uncertainty from below and above

Funding Agency: STEPS Centre of Sussex Team: Dr. V. Vijay Kumar (PI), University, UK Dr. Nikunj Gajera (Co-PI), Budget: 14620 GBP /- (Rs. 12, 32,628/- ) Mr. Ajay Gohel, Duration: November 2012 to March 2015 Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan Status: Ongoing

GUIDE has initiated a collaborative research programme on “Climate Change and Uncertainty from Below and Above” with STEPS centre of Sussex University, UK. As part of this initiative, a workshop was organized between 25th and 28th January 2013 at Ahmedabad for finalizing a common methodology for the study areas in India. For the present study, three sites were selected in Kachchh district based on the major ecosystems and also representing the regions of the district i.e. Agriculture (Kanmer village, eastern parts of Kachchh), Grassland (Banni region, north-centre parts of Kachchh) and Coastal (Jakhau village, western part of Kachchh).

A total of 403 households were surveyed through a structured questionnaire. The people’s perception revealed that the temperature has been increasing (up to 510 C) during the summer season and decreasing (up to 10 C) in the winter season during the last two decades. The average rainfall in the district is found to have been increased except coastal areas of the district where rainfall is decreased. It is also found that the rainfall of the district become very much unpredictable and the duration between two rainfalls in a season has also been increased. Because of the uneven and unpredictable rainfall, temperatures, development of the area and increases in transportation facilities people have changed the cropping pattern from traditional to cash crop varieties and changes in livestock composition from susceptible Cow to sturdy Buffalos.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Status and Distribution of Caracal (Caracal caracal) in Gujarat

Funding Agency: Gujarat Biodiversity Team: Dr. Nikunj B. Gajera (PI), Board, Gandhinagar Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (Co- Budget: Rs. 17, 19,396/- PI), Duration: Dec 2013 to Nov 2014 Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya Status: Ongoing

The caracal, Caracal caracal (Schreber, 1776), is one among the medium-sized carnivores distributed in arid and semiarid tracts of western part of the country. The rapid pace of habitat destruction and ongoing anthropogenic activities in the natural areas of this animal has caused severe impact on the population and distribution of caracal. The arid and semi- arid tracts of Gujarat are one of the important natural habitats of this animal where its present status is unknown, data deficient as reflected in the global status, threatened as per IUCN Redlist and schedule- I species under Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. In Gujarat, this animal is poorly understood about its population and distribution. So, the present study aimed to attempt to assess the status and distribution in Gujarat.

To achieve the objectives of the proposed study, two levels of approaches were designed which include; macro level assessment (the current scenario of the species through literature survey, reconnaissance survey and questionnaire survey) and micro level assessment through intensive field surveys and using camera traps. Field surveys were carried out at 69 forest ranges located in 16 districts of the Gujarat State. A total of 418 forest officials and 356 villagers/maldharies have been interviewed to assess the present status and distribution of caracal. Out of 69 forest ranges, only 19 ranges have confirmed the occurrence of caracal during the past (Before 10 years) while 7 ranges have confirmed the sightings within last 3 years. The field survey is under progress.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Monitoring of Commiphora wightii (Guggal) Plantation in Kachchh, Junagadh and Gandhinagar Circle of Gujarat State

Funding Agency: GSFD, Gandhinagar Team: Dr. Rohit M. Patel (PI), Budget: Rs. 8, 00,000.00 Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (Co- Duration: 9 months PI), Status: Ongoing Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Dr. Nikunj B. Gajera, Mr. Mukesh Koladiya, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan, Mr. Raushan Kumar Raman

Under the promotion and development of Medicinal plants in the wild, National Medicinal Plant Board (NMPB); New Delhi sponsored a project on the large scale plantation of Guggal in Kachchh, Junagadh and Gandhinagar Forest circle. During the period between 2007-08 and 2012-13 over 3500 ha has been brought under the plantation of Guggal. GUIDE has been assigned the task of monitoring of the plantation, its survival and growth in various locations. The field survey has been completed and final report is under progress.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Forest Resource Survey in the Forest areas of Kachchh District

Funding Agency: Working Plan Circle, Team: Dr. Rohit M. Patel (PI), GSFD, Gandhinagar Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (Co- Budget: 15, 12,000.00 PI), Duration: 18 months Dr. Jayesh Bhatt, Status: Ongoing Mr. Bhagirath Paradva, Mr. Dayesh Parmar

Plants and their communities are vital resources for the dependent biota including wild animal as well as human being. The working plan circle of GSFD sanctioned a project to GUIDE for the assessment of present status of the floral resources of the forest areas in Kachchh district. The project was initiated in April, 2013. The methodology of this project was in line with the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun. A total of 96 sampling locations were selected for the study. The primary data helps in assessing the density, abundance, diversity indices, species richness and biomass of palatable herbaceous species. The field work for the pre-monsoon season was completed and the progress report was submitted. Data collection of the post-monsoon season will commence from July onwards.

Terrestrial Ecology Division

Angiosperms of Gujarat State (Kachchh, Saurashtra and North Gujarat): Digital Herbarium for Academic and Research Purpose

Funding Agency: Gujarat Biodiversity Team: Dr. Rohitkumar M. Patel (PI), Board, Gandhinagar Dr. Jayesh B. Bhatt (Co-PI), Budget: 18, 74,000.00 Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Duration: 1 Year Mr. Bhagirath Paradva Status: Ongoing

To create the digital database of the floral diversity in the Gujarat State, the State Biodiversity Board has sanctioned a project on the digital herbarium of the flora of Kachchh, Saurashtra and North Gujarat Regions. The Herbarium developed under the study is expected to serve as a reference center for various research disciplines of life sciences. The plant specimens will be authenticated by the Botanical Survey of India. Over 850 plant specimens were collected from Kachchh region, in which 250 specimens were submitted to the Botanical Survey of India, Jodhpur for authentication. Further, 700 specimens were also digitized. The field work for the collection of angiosperm species in other parts of the study area is in progress.

Coastal and Marine Division Projects

Third Party Evaluation of Mangrove Plantation Carried out Under ICZM Project by Gujarat Ecology Commission for the Year 2010-11 & 2011-12

Funding Agency: Gujarat Ecology Team: G. A. Thivakaran, Commission, Gandhinagar Dr. G. Thirumaran, Budget: 25.88 lakhs Mr. Dayesh Parmar, Duration: 6 months (Jan, 2013 to June, Mr. Nithul Lal, 2014) Dr. Prabhu, Status: Ongoing Mr. Ajit Gohil, Mr. Mayur Goswami.

Gujarat Ecology Commission (GEC) with the financial assistance of World Bank (WB) is implementing a long term Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (ICZMP) with the active support of Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). The aim of this project is to draw a holistic plan keeping in mind the economic, social and ecological wellbeing of the coastal communities. An integral activity of this multi-faceted plan is to restore and plant mangroves in different coastal stretches of Gujarat. In tune with these aims mangrove plantation to the tune of 15000 ha was planned to be carried out in different coastal stretches of Kachchh, Rajkot and Jamnagar districts. This target plantation by different agencies is being co-ordinated by GEC as the State Project Management Unit (SPCU). Implementation of plantation was through three agencies namely GEC, Marine National Park (MNP) and Kachchh Forest Division (West).

The major objectives of the project are as follows:-

To monitor and evaluate the Mangrove plantation in a total area of 5335 ha carried out under ICZM Project by GEC, MNP and Kachchh Forest Division. To come out with suggestions for mid-term correction in order to ensure better survival and reduced mortality. Extent and quality of involvement of coastal communities in the plantation activities in different sites. To support State Project Management Unit and Implementing Agencies in better management of Mangrove plantation activities. Assisting State Project Management Unit in proper reporting and documentation

Coastal and Marine Division

Developing a practicable model through corporate-community participation for successful Mangrove restoration activities in Kachchh, Gujarat

Funding Agency: International Union for Team: G. A. Thivakaran (PI), Conservation of Nature- Mangroves for Dr. Jayesh Bhatt (Co-PI). the Future- (IUCN-MFF) Budget: 11, 38, 000/- Duration: 18 Months- December 2013- May, 2015 Status: Ongoing

Mangroves are among the most carbon-rich forests, thus carbon credit systems may offer the opportunity to achieve dual goals of poverty reduction and protection of marine carbon sinks. Kachchh coast in Gujarat has become a zone for intensive industrial development. With massive coastal industrial development, already reeling under recurrent drought and poor rainfall and land degradation underlines the need to protect and conserve coastal environment.

There exist many ecological and technological lacunae in mangrove restoration activities planned in Kachchh coast. Lack of technically skilled work force available for plantation by industries, least involvement of local community and proper guidance from mangrove field biologist has led to failure of many projects. We recognize that communities are seeking ways to generate cash from mangrove forest and other natural resources so, how they can generate alternative livelihood by planting and conserving mangroves. Character of our proposed practicable model is to involve all stakeholders including community, industries and scientific organizations to ensure long term mangrove management and conservation. 27

Proposed model targets long term conservation and management of mangroves by training local community, creating skilled local work force as a village level community based organization (CBO) and developing economic opportunities in the current scenario. Model will help in capacity building and awareness generation among locals for technically sound plantation, post plantation care, climate change and carbon economics potential of mangroves. The key deliverables of the project are formation of a duly registered CBO with the government agency with elected office bearers to manage the activities of the CBO for mangrove conservation. There will be a facilitating agreement between industry and CBO for mangrove plantation in a specified area and its post plantation care.

A well prepared plan by CBO for mangrove plantation approved by industry will be carried out and plantation site will be protected (with survival rate of 70 % maintained for two years) from any sort of damage. Deliverables also include training and awareness generation among locals for mangrove plantation, climate change, REDD, REDD+ and economic potential of carbon sequestered by mangroves. 28

Coastal and Marine Division

Complimentary Mangrove Plantation for IFFCO, Gandhidham

Funding Agency: Indian Formers Team: Dr. G. A. Thivakaran, Fertilizers Company, Gandhidham Dr. Thirumaran, Budget: Rs 63, 15,000.00 Mr. Dayesh Parmar, Duration: 16 Months (May, 2013- Dr. Prabhu, October, 2014) Mr. Nithul Lal, Status: Ongoing Mr. Raushan Kumar Raman

Indian Farmers Fertilizer Co-operative Limited (IFFCO) is primarily engaged in production and distribution of fertilizers. IFFCO plant at Kandla, Gandhidham is constructing a barge jetty of 120 m × 20 m size with 2 MMTPA capacities. While according environmental clearance to the proposed jetty, Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), New Delhi has mandated IFFCO, Kandla to carry out mangrove plantation to the extent of 200 ha in any suitable coastal stretch in Kachchh coast. IFFCO, in accordance with this ministry’s directive assigned the task of carrying out the mangrove plantation to Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj in view of its expertise in mangrove plantation. The task was assigned to GUIDE during May, 2013. The time prescribed to complete the whole plantation activity is 18 months from the date of issuance of the work order.

Plantation activity by GUIDE was initiated during June, 2013 at Sat Saida Bet of Kandla. To begin with, a technical team from GUIDE carried out reconnaissance surveys during June, 2013 and three potential sites in the northeast of Sat Saida Bet, opposite to Kandla Port was identified as technically suitable for mangrove plantation. As the chosen site legally belongs to Kandla Port, due permission was obtained from Kandla Port Trust authorities to carry out mangrove plantation in the chosen site. Mangrove plantation activity was initiated during the fourth week of July, 2013 at Sat Saida Bet. By the end of April, 2014 a total area of 186 ha has been completed.

Coastal and Marine Division

Marine Monitoring Studies At Vadinar Oil Terminal, Vadinar, Gujarat

Funding Agency: ESSAR Oil Gujarat Team: Dr. K. Karthikeyan (PI), Limited, Jamnagar Dr. G. A. Thivakaran (Co-PI), Budget: Rs. 9.6 Lakhs Dr. G. Thirumaran, Duration: November 2013 – October Ms. V. Devi, 2014 (Yearly) Dr. K. Prabhu, Status : Ongoing Mr. Nithul Lal, Mr. Ajitsinh Gohil.

Vadinar Oil Terminal Ltd. (VOTL), an ESSAR Group Company located on the Narara Bet on the southern shore of Gulf of Kachchh (GoK) around 50 km west of Jamnagar has been set up to import crude oil for the ESSAR Oil Limited and to partially evacuate the products manufactured in the refinery. The Single Buoy Moorings (SBM) of VOTL is positioned roughly around 7 km from its berths which enable the authorities to handle super tankers to download crude oil through pipeline systems to the shore based storage structures. The berths located in the Pathfinder Inlet provide all weather berthing facilities for product tankers for loading petroleum products. In addition, the refinery draws seawater for cooling and other uses from the Pathfinder Inlet and the effluent which is largely seawater used for cooling and desalination is released through a marine outfall in the vicinity of the SBM. Realizing the sensitivity of the immediate marine ecosystem and the importance to track ecological changes to maintain the environmental health in their port area, VOTL authorities have instituted a holistic study through GUIDE. This study monitors the marine ecological conditions of the port which will enable them to track environmental changes, if occurring, in the region due to port activities. As per the assignment, monthly monitoring studies are being carried out by GUIDE since November 2011. This ecological study encompasses water and sediment quality, biological productivity, intertidal and sub tidal fauna and plankton at four stations namely Jetty, SBM, Jetty intertidal and Pipeline intertidal. Aim and objectives: a) To assess the Physico-chemical and biological characteristics of water and sediment samples collected from the four critically identified locations in coastal area of Vadinar. b) To assess the impact of ongoing activities of EOL/VOTL on marine ecology. c) To suggest mitigation measures for maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem around the project site.

Coastal and Marine Division

Marine Monitoring Studies at SBM and COT, Bharat Oman Refineries Limited (BORL), Vadinar, Jamnagar, Gulf of Kachchh

Funding Agency: Bharat Oman Team: Dr. K. Karthikeyan (PI), Refineries Limited, Jamnagar Dr. G. A. Thivakaran (Co-PI), Budget: Rs. 9.6 Lakh Dr. G. Thirumaran, Duration: November 2013 – October Ms. V. Devi, 2014 (Yearly) Dr. K. Prabhu, Status: Ongoing Mr. Nithul Lal

Bharat Oman Refineries Limited (BORL) is a company promoted by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) with equity participation from Oman Oil Company Limited (OOCL) to set up a 6 MMTPA grass root refinery at Bina, District Sagar, Madhya Pradesh. BORL located on the Southern shore of Gulf of Kachchh (GoK) around 50 km west of Jamnagar has been set up to import crude oil. The Single Buoy Mooring (SBM) of BORL positioned roughly around 7 km from its berths enable to handle super tankers to download crude oil through pipeline systems to the shore based storage structures. Realizing the sensitivity of the immediate marine ecosystem and the importance to track ecological changes to maintain the environmental health in their port area, BORL authorities has instituted a holistic study to monitor the marine ecological conditions of the port to track environmental changes occurring in the region. In this connection, monitoring of Marine environment task has been entrusted to Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj to monitor their SBM and One intertidal zone. In this regard, monthly monitoring studies are being carried out by GUIDE since August 2011. This ecological study encompasses water and sediment quality, biological quality, intertidal and sub-tidal fauna and planktons.

Aim and objectives To assess the Physico-chemical and biological characteristics of water and sediment samples collected from the 2 critically identified locations in coastal area of Vadinar. To assess the impact of ongoing activities of COT - BORL on marine ecology. To suggest mitigation measures for maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem around the project site. 31

Coastal and Marine Division

Development of Rhizobial consortia for enhancing plant growth in arid and semi-arid regions of Saline Desert, Kachchh, Gujarat

Funded Agency: Dept. of Science and Team: Dr. K. Karthikeyan, (PI - GUIDE), Technology, New Delhi, Govt. of India Dr. Asifa Qureshi, (PI – NEERI), Budget: Rs. 58.77 Lakhs Ms. Druma. M. Vaidya Duration: 3 Years (2012 - 2015) Status : Ongoing

The microbial diversity of desert regions is mostly unknown. Thus, the present study is investigating the novel plant-associated micro- biota from different arid, semi-arid and saline soil of the Banni region. This may provide an insight in future to rehabilitate the Banni region and other unexplored and barren lands. The present investigation is based on the hypothesis whether the association of bacteria present around roots plays a role to promote plant growth aggressively and if it is so then whether such indigenous plant species along with specific bacteria could be used for afforestation in arid regions of the saline desert. The present study will address species from arid and semi-arid regions of the Banni region, where the microbial flora is expected to be different with respect to ecological interactions. In addition, its tolerance to harsh climates and soil salinity warrant the plant’s consideration as a possible prime contributor to the development of the arid regions of India. The proposal is based on hypothesis to bio-prospect bacterial community found in association with roots found in desert environment, for their capability to survive under inhospitable environment.

Coastal and Marine Division

State Air and Water Laboratory

Funded Agency: Gujarat Pollution Team: Dr. K. Karthikeyan (Laboratory In- Control Board, Gandhinagar Charge), Duration: 2 Years (2013 - 2015) Mr. Sudhanshu. C. Mohapatra Status: Ongoing (Senior Chemist), Mrs. Sudha Mahato (Chemist), Mr. Mayur Goswami, Ms. Anasuya Ravat (Jr. Chemist), Mr. Ratansi Chaudhary (Chemical Engineer)

GUIDE Laboratory is now capable of performing all types of analysis of air, water, waste water, soil and sediments for research and consultancy purpose. It is also recognized as the State soil and water laboratory by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), Government of Gujarat. Well-qualified scientific staff, well-equipped laboratory, and dedicated manpower are the key to the worthy status of the laboratory achieved today. The laboratory is further divided into five different sections comprising of soil, water, marine, microbiology and analytical chemistry. Analysis is carried out for research work as well as on commercial basis. Each section has a set of equipment dedicated to the specific type of sample to be analyzed.

COLLABORATIONS

In yet another attempt to acquire global eminence and to draw worldwide attention towards Kachchh dryland issues, GUIDE has initiated several National and International collaborations.

International Collaborations (MoUs)

GUIDE has initiated International collaborations with many Universities and Institutions in areas of faculty exchange, collaborations between professionals working within the same field, joint research and development programmes and training of faculties.

Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK. The University of Greenwich, London, UK Desert Research Monitoring Control Centre, Yobe State University, Nigeria. Egerton University, Kenya (in process)

National Collaborations (MoUs)

National level collaborations have been initiated with the following Universities and Institutions in areas of research, academic, technical, training, faculty and students exchange programmes:

K. S. K. V. Kachchh University, Bhuj-Kachchh, Gujarat State, India. National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur, Maharashtra State, India. Center for Advanced Studies in India (CASII), Bhuj, India. Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University (PDPU), Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India. Gujarat National Law University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India. SANDHAN, Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India. Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat (KCG), Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India. Institute of Science and Technology for Advanced Study and Research (ISTAR), SP University, VV Nagar, Gujarat.

National & International Memberships and Recognitions

Membership International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Switzerland.

Global Network of Dryland Research Institutes (GNDRI), Israel.

International Society of Zoological Sciences (ISZS), China

Ocean Expert, Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO.

Special Invitee Gujarat Biodiversity Board under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

Recognition Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIROs) by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Govt. of India, New Delhi.

Education and Research Institute by the K. S. K. V. Kachchh University, Bhuj. GUIDE is officiating partner of K. S. K. V. Kachchh University to conduct M.Sc. course (Environmental Science Programme).

GUIDE Laboratory has been recognized as State Air & State Water Laboratory by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), Government of Gujarat, Gandhinagar.

Accreditations: National Accreditation Board for Education and Training (NABET), Quality Council of India, New Delhi.

CoHaB – ESR at GUIDE

The concepts of home and belonging have taken a key importance due to dramatic cultural, social and political changes and challenges. Therefore the study of diaspora and migration has gained much importance into a promising field of research with practical application during the recent decades. Looking at the importance, an International Trans-disciplinary Research Project on 'Diasporic Constructions of Home and Belonging' (CoHaB) was initiated with the financial support from the European Union’s Marie Curie ITN under the conglomeration of six Universities.

The Partner Universities include; Munster, Germany; University of Oxford, UK; School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), London; Stockholm University, Sweden; University of Mumbai, India and University of Northampton, UK with associated partners which include Migration Policy Group (Brussels, Belgium), The European Immigration Lawyers Network and Centre for Advanced Studies in India (Bhuj, India).

The CoHaB project is committed to training new generation of scholars from various disciplinary backgrounds, which include 12 Early Stage Researchers (ESR) or Doctoral researchers and 3 Experienced or Postdoctoral Researchers on various aspects of diaspora in relation to home and belonging.

Professor Nilufer E. Bharucha from Mumbai University is the Coordinator and Scientist-in-Charge of the project in India. There are three Early Stage Researchers (ESR) with Mumbai University namely; Ms. Iulia Nicoleta Rascanu (Romania), Ms. Ruby Rana (Canada) and Mrs. Melanie Robin Wattenbarger (USA).

Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj-Kachchh is the associate partner of the Centre for Advanced Studies in India (CASII), India. Therefore, as part of the programme on secondment, three ESRs from Mumbai University and one ESR (Ms. Holly Jennifer Morgan) from Munster University, Germany have visited GUIDE for one month placement during the period between 3rd November and 1st December, 2013.

The Kachchh district (largest district in India) located in the western part of the Gujarat State in India has always attracted scientists, sociologists, archeologists, naturalists and tourists due to the virtues of fascinating history, geography, archeology, diversity of flora and fauna, rich cultural heritage of inhabitants, unrivalled embroidery work and other handicrafts, soul- touching folk and Sufi music, traditional architecture and fresh water reservoirs Virda, 36 traditional knowledge of medicinal plants, animal breeding and last but never the least, drought tolerant highly productive livestock.

Kachchh is also an importance place for Diaspora studies, since it has vast traditional history of people migrated from other parts of the world like Iran, Sind, and Rajasthan in India. The migration has many environmental and anthropological linkages. Likewise, people from Kachchh have migrated to Africa, USA, UK and many more countries since time immemorial. This has provided a base for the ESR to explore the Kachchh district.

Apart from taking part in Deepawali events in GUIDE, Bhuj on 3rd November, 2013; the ESRs have undergone field explorations to ecologically important ecosystems/ habitats like dry scrub forests (Narayan Sarovar), Dinodhar hills, Kala Dungar (Black hills of Kachchh-Highest point in Kachchh and its unique migrated Muslim community), Banni (traditional livestock, handicrafts, migrant maldhari community), Chaduva Rakhal (traditional water management system and its isolated crocodile population) sandy and muddy coastal habitats, mangroves, Dholavira in Greater Rann of Kachchh (Harappan Civilization, archeology, Rabari Community and Culture), Mandvi (traditional ship building and age old maritime Diaspora). The team had interacted with Banni Maldharis, Pachchham Communities, Rabari Communities of Rapar and Bhachau, Maritime and Fishermen Community of Mandvi to investigate the connection between Diaspora and its linkages with the environment. It was highlighted by Ms. Iulia Rascanu that there are linkages between Banni and Rabari communities with the Romas of Romania and she has stated that it requires a long-term study to bring out the facts.

The team also visited Sindology Department and interacted with the Sindhi Communities at Gandhidham and communities at Kera, Madhapur and Badadiya to study Africa, US and UK Diaspora.

Apart from these, class room lectures were also conducted through various experts like Dr. Heena K. Gangar, Dr. Vimmi Sardarngani, Dr. Lalitha Narayan, Ms. Judy Frater, Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Dr. G. A. Thivakaran, Dr. A.K.R. Mahato, Mr. M. Laxman and Mrs. Vidhisha Kannan who delivered lectures on Kachchh History, People and Culture; Banni Grassland and Maldhari Community; Greater Rann of Kachchh and Its Unique Population; Coastal Fishermen Community, Traditional Ship Building and Coastal Ecology; Refugee Diaspora; Sindhi Diaspora; IPR & African Diaspora; Frugal Techno-innovative of Diaspora and Peoples and Environment of Kachchh; Application of GIS & RS in Diaspora Research; Climate Change and Livelihood of Banni Maldharis and People, Culture and Traditional Handicrafts of Kachchh.

38 PUBLICATIONS (2013-2014)

Book Sharma D. K. , Asari R. V. and V. Vijay Kumar, (2013). Forest and wildlife of Kachchh - A Natural Heritage. Publ. Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology and Kachchh Forest Circle, Gujarat, Pp.80. Suresh Chovatiya, Gajera Nikunj and Soni V.C. (2013). Breeding ecology of mosquito: Special reference to Genus Anopheles. Publication by LAP LAMBERT Academic publishing. Germany – ISBN 978-3-659-37974-1, 97 Pages. Book chapter Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and V. Vijay Kumar (2013). Status of Biodiversity in Man-made Wetlands along Coastal areas of Kachchh district, Gujarat, India, 86-117. In “Biodiversity of Aquatic Ecosystem-Significance threats and Conservation” (Eds. Bharti, P.K. and Kaoud, H.A.), Discovery Publishing House Ltd, New Delhi, ISBN No.: 978-93-5056-297-0. Nanthakumar, K., Karthikeyan, K., Suriyanarayanan, S. and Lakshmanaperumalsamy, P. (2013). Application of Plackett - Burman Design to Optimize Bioprocess Variables for Decolorization of Reactive Red 195 by a Termite Associated Bacterial Consortium BUTC7. In: Microbiological Research in Agroecosystem Management. R. K. Velu (ed.) Springer India. 23-34. DOI: 10.1007/978-81-322-1087-0_3.

Paper in Scientific Journal

International Koladiya, M. H., Mahato, A. K. Roy, Gajera, N. B. and Patel, Y. S. (2014) Distribution pattern of birds in Banni Grassland of Kachchh district, Gujarat, India. Journal of Research in Biology 4(1):1228-1239 Patel, Y. S., Patel, R. M., Mahato, A. K. Roy and Joshi, P. N. (2013). Status and diversity of Ethno-medicinal plants of Dhinodhar hill, Kachchh district, Gujarat. International Journal of Plant, animal and Environmental sciences, 3(1): 265-273. Patel, R. M., Mahato, A. K. Roy, Vijay Kumar, V. and Asari, R. V. (2013). Status of the medicinal plants in Tharawada-Gandher Reserve Forest of Kachchh, Gujarat and the ethno medicinal practices of local community. Journal of medicinal plant studies, 1 (4): 1-10 Patel, R. M., Patel, Y. S., Mahato, A. K. Roy and Vijay Kumar, V. (2014). Some observation on the distribution and new host plant for Corallocarpus conocarpus in Gujarat, India. International Journal of Plant, animal and Environmental sciences, 4(1): 134-135 Patel, R. M., Mahato, A. K. Roy, Dabgar, Y. B and Vijay Kumar, V (2013). Note on the Distribution of Commiphora stocksiana Engl. In Kachchh: A Rare Medicinal Plant of India Need Conservation. Annals of Plant Science, 3(2): 614-616. 39

Sharma, S.B., R.Z., Sayyed, M.H., Trivedi and Thivakaran, G.A. (2013). Phosphate solubilizing microbes: sustainable approach for managing phosphorus deficiency in agricultural soils. Springer (Open Journal) www.springerplus.com/content/2/1/587. Nanthakumar, K., Karthikeyan, K., Suriyanarayanan, S. and Lakshmanaperumalsamy, P. (2013). Decolorization of structurally dissimilar dyes by a termite derived bacterial consortium BUTC17 in a cost effective nutrient medium. Adv. Appl. Sci. Res., 4 (2): 276-285. Gajera Nikunj, Patel Darshana and Nishith Dharaiya (2013). Assessment of Wetland Status in arid areas of Gujarat using Migratory Birds as a key indicator. In Proceeding: International Wetland Symposium (IWS)" 7th to 9th November-2012, Pokhara, Nepal (Prepared and Published by: Conservation and Sustainable Use of Wetlands in Nepal, 236pp, ISBN: 978-9937-2-5938-5) Pages: 36-41. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Gajera Nikunj, and V. Vijay Kumar (2013). Status, Diversity and Distribution of Avifauna in Banni Grassland of Kachchh District. International Journal of Research in Biological Science Vol. 3(1): 43-47. Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and V. Vijay Kumar (2013) Status, Diversity and Conservation of Grassland Birds in Arid Region of Kachchh. International Journal of Recent Scientific Research 4(3); 166-170. Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and V. Vijay Kumar (2013) Status, distribution and diversity of birds in mining environment of Kachchh, Gujarat, International Journal of Biodiversity. Vol.2013, Article ID 471618, 11 pages, Hyper Text Transfer Protocol: //dx.doi.org/10.1155/2013/471618 Suresh Chovatiya, Gajera Nikunj and Soni V.C. (2013). People’s Perception on Malaria: A Case Study in Rural areas of Rajkot District, Gujarat-India. Health sciences: An Int. Journal, 2(1): 1-5 Raushan Kumar Raman Gajera Nikunj and V. Vijay Kumar (2013).Impact of Salinity Ingression Prevention Structures (Bandharas) on Different Landuse Categories in Abdasa Taluka of Kachchh Region, Gujarat-India. Recent Trends in Civil Engineering & Technology, 3(2): 49-61. Nithul Lal., K. P., Karthikeyan, K., Praveesh, V., Devi, V., Suriyanarayanan, S. and V. Vijay Kumar, (2014). Drinking Water Quality Assessment of Ground Waters of Bhachau - Kachchh, Gujarat, India with special reference to major anions and cations. Int. Res. J. Env. Sci., (Accepted) Sharma, S.B., M H Trivedi1, R Z Sayyed and Thivakaran, G A (2014). Status of Soil Phosphorus in Context with Phosphate Solubilizing Microorganisms in Different Agricultural Amendments in Kachchh, Gujarat, Western India. Annual Research and Review in Biology (Accepted) Quasin. S, Ganguly, K., Mahato, A. K. Roy, and De, J. K. (2013). Activity Patterns of Blue bull or Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) in Captivity at Zoological Garden, Kolkata. International Journal of Pure and Applied Zoology (Accepted).

National

Patel, R. M, Mahato, A. K. Roy and Patel, Y. S. (2014). Study on the floristic diversity of two newly recorded sacred groves from Kachchh district of Gujarat, India. Indian Journal of Plant sciences, Vol.3 (1) pp.75-81. De, J. K., Mahato, A. K. Roy and Ghosh, M. K. (2013). Some observation on the Status and Conservation of Swamp Deer (Cervus d. duvauceli Cuvier, 1823) in Dudhwa National Park, India. Rec. Zool. Surv. India: 113(3): 01-9. Koladiya, M.H., Mahato, A.K.R. and Pardeshi, M. (2014). Status of Avi-Fauna in Lakhara Wetland, Kachchh Biosphere Reserve, Gujarat, India. CIBTech Journal of Zoology 3(1):37-41 Shah, J. J. and Thivakaran, G. A. 2014. Germination and Growth Performance of Commiphora Wightii and Acacia Senegal under Different Salinity from Arid Coast of Kachchh, Gujarat. ABHINAV, Journal of Research in Science & Technology, Vol.2 (7) ISSN 2277-1174. www.abhinavjournal.Com Shah, J.P. and Thivakaran, G. A. 2013. Status and Distribution of Halophytes in Kachchh District: A review. Curr. Agric. Vol.36, No.1-2, pp. 29-32.

Papers presented in seminars /Symposium/conferences/etc:

Arun Kumar Roy Mahato & Sudha Mahato 2013. Linkage between Culture and Biodiversity: A Case Study in Chhotanagpur Plateau, Jharkhand. Proc. International Conference on Conserving Biodiversity for Sustainable Development, held at National Institute of Technology, Rourkela on 16-18th August, 2013. Abs. No. BR 103, 65pp. Nithul Lal. K. P., V. Praveesh., V. Devi., K. Karthikeyan and S. Suriyanarayanan, 2014.Evaluation of Quality of Ground water samples of Bhachau taluka, Kachchh, Gujarat: Special reference on parameters of health importance. National Seminar on Emerging Trends in Environmental Science and Technology (NSETEST-2014), held on 14 & 15th March, 2014, organzied by Yogi Vemana Unveristy, Department of Environmental Science, Vemanapuram, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, India. Devi. V., K. Karthikeyan and G. A. Thivakaran, 2014. Chemical contamination of Drinking water sources from Residential area near Kandla port, Gandhidham, Gujarat. National Seminar on Advances in Environmental Sciences and technology (AEST- 2014) held during 25th – 26th February 2014, organized by Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar. Vaidya, D.M., K. Prabhu, A. Qureshi, K. Karthikeyan and V. Vijay Kumar, 2014. Preliminary Investigations on biosynthesis of silver Nanoparticles by halotolerant bacterial strains from Banni - A saline desert: Studies on dye decolorizing ability. National Seminar on Advances in Environmental Sciences and technology (AEST-2014) held during 25th – 26th February 2014, organized by Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar. Karthikeyan, K., R. Lekameera and V. Vijay Kumar, 2014. Statistical Optimization of Bioprocess Variables For Decolorization of Alizarin Red By Bacterial Consortia Bgss07 From Banni Grasslands– A Saline Desert, Kachchh, Gujarat. Nat. Conf. On Ecotechnologies for Wastewater Treatment: Present Challenges And Future Horizons (EWT-2014), held on 21-22, January, 2014, organized by Dept. of Env. Sci., Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu. Ojha. R., D. Vaidya., K. Karthikeyan, V. Vijay Kumar, A. Qureshi and H.J.Purohit, 2013. Bacterial Community associated with Rhizosphere of Halotolerant Suaeda maritima in semi-arid regions of Saline desert, Kachchh, Gujarat. 54th Ann. Conf. Assoc. Microbioloigsts of India (AMI-2013) & Intern. Sym. on Frontier Discoveries and Innovations in Microbiology and its Interdisciplinary relevance held on 17th – 20th November 2013 at Maharsishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, Abs. No. EMBD 013:374.

Devi, V., K. Karthikeyan and G.A.Thivakaran, 2013. Prevalence of selected Toxic Heavy metals in the Fresh water bodies in the vicinity of Kandla Port, Kachchh, Gujarat. National Conference on Heavy Metals in the Environment (HME-2013), held on November 28-30 2013, organized by School of Environmental Sciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala. Ganatra, B.S, K. Karthikeyan and V. Vijaykumar, 2013. Preliminary Investigation on Bioprospecting of Marine Bacteria from Gulf of Kachchh waters, Gujarat. National Level symposium on Glimpse of Innovations in Biotechnology on 3rd October 2013, Organized by Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu. Vaidya, D. M., K. Karthikeyan and V. Vijaykumar, 2013. Isolation and Characterization of PGPR from Soils of Banni Grasslands: A Saline Desert. National Level symposium on Glimpse of Innovations in Biotechnology on 3rd October 2013, Organized by Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu. Lekameera, R., K. Karthikeyan and V. Vijaykumar, 2013. Biosynthesis of natural pigments from saline desert of Kachchh, Gujarat: Role of a halophilic Serrratia sp. BGK09. National Level symposium on Glimpse of Innovations in Biotechnology on 3rd October 2013, Organized by Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato 2013. Participated Science Academies Refresher Course on “Traditional & Modern Approaches in Animal Taxonomy” organized by Botanical Garden, GKVK Agricultural University, Bangaluru on 15-29th April 2013. Rohit M. Patel 2013. Participated XXIII Annual Conference of Indian Association of Angiosperm Taxonomy and National Seminar on Recent Advances in Plant Taxonomy Research” held Nagpur University, Nagpur (MS) 27th to 29th December, 2013.

BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF GUIDE

S. No. Board of Governors Designation 1. Sh. S. G. Mankad, IAS (Retd.), Former Chief Secretary of Gujarat State, India. Chairman

2. Ms. Vijaylaxmi Sheth, IPS (Retd.) Ex. Post Master General of Gujarat State, India. Vice Chairman 3. The District Development Officer, Kachchh District, Gujarat, India. Member 4. Prof. R. Parthasarathy, CEPT University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. Member 5. The Vice Chancellor, KSKV Kachchh University, Bhuj, Gujarat, India. Member

6. Prof. Geeta Padate, M. S. University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India. Member 7. Dr. Hardik Shah, Member Secretary, Gujarat Pollution Control Board, Member Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India 8. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Additional Director, GUIDE, Gujarat, India. Member 9. Sh. R.V. Asari, IFS (Retd.) Director, GUIDE, Gujarat, India. Member Secretary

THE GUIDE SOCIETY

S. No. GUIDE Society Members 1. Sh. S. G. Mankad, IAS (Retd.), Former Chief Secretary of Gujarat State, India.

2. Ms. Vijaylaxmi Sheth, IPS (Retd.) Ex. Post Master General of Gujarat State, India. 3. The District Development Officer, Kachchh District, Gujarat, India. 4. Prof. Geeta Padate, The M. S University, Baroda 5. Sh. Hardik Shah, Member Secretary, GPCB, Gandhinagar

6. The Vice Chancellor, KSKV Kachchh University, Bhuj 7. Head. Regional Station, CAZRI, Kukma, Kachchh

8. Director Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi 9. The Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF), GSFD, Gandhinagar

10. Dr. B. N. Desai, Ex Director National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Mumbai 11. Prof. Mahesh Pathak, Vallabh Vidya Nagar, Anand Gujarat 12. Sh. Kantisen C. Shroff, Chairman, Shrujan, Bhujodi, Bhuj-Kachchh Gujarat 13. Sh. Asim Chakraborty, Director, Welsupn Group, Anjar, Kachchh, Gujarat 14. Sh. Dipak Bhimani, Chairman Navdeep Chemicals Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai

15. Dr. R. Parthasarathy, CEPT, University, Ahmedabad

16. Sh. A. K. Verma, IFS, Member Secretary, GEC, Gandhinagar 17. Sh. R.V. Asari, IFS (Retd.) Director, GUIDE

18. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Additional Director, GUIDE

The GUIDE Human Resource Sr. No Name Designation 1 Sh. R. V. Asari, IFS (Retd) Director 2 Dr. V. Vijay Kumar Additional Director 3 Dr. G. A. Thivakaran Chief Principal Scientist 4 Dr. Nimisha Tripathy Senior Scientist (till 31st August 2013) 5 Dr. K. Karthikeyan Scientist 6 Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato Scientist 7 Dr. Pranav Pandya Scientist (till 4th April 2013) 8 Dr. Shalini Dhyani Project Scientist (till 7th September 2013) 9 Dr. Deepak Dhyani Project Scientist (till 7th September 2013) 10 Dr. Jagruti H. Sanghvi DST - Women Scientist 11 Dr. Jayesh B. Bhatt Project Scientist 12 Dr. Rohit M. Patel Project Scientist 13 Dr. Nikunj B. Gajera Project Scientist 14 Dr. G. Thirumaran Project Scientist 15 Ms. V. Devi Research Associate 16 Mr. Dayesh Parmar Project Officer (GIS &RS) 17 Mr. Prakash M. Patel Deputy Engineer 18 Mr. Manish P. Vyas Junior Administrative Officer 19 Ms. Geeta Goswami Junior Accounts Officer 20 Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya Senior Research Fellow 21 Mr. Nainesh Patel Senior Research Fellow (till 29th June 2013) 22 Ms. Trupti B. Vaghela Senior Research Fellow (till 8th March 2014) 23 Mr. Raushan Kumar Senior Research Fellow (GIS & RS) 24 Ms. R. Leka Meera Senior Research Fellow (till 8th October 2013) 25 Sh. K. Prabhu Senior Research Fellow 26 Ms. Druma M. Vaidya Junior Research Fellow 27 Mr. Ajay Gohel Junior Research Fellow 28 Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan Junior Research Fellow 29 Sh. K. P. Nithul Lal Junior Research Fellow 30 Mr. Bhagirath Paradva Junior Research Fellow 31 Sh. Ajitsinh B. Gohil Junior Research Fellow 32 Mr. Sudhanshu C. Mohapatra Senior Chemist 33 Mr. Ratansi Chaudhary Chemical Engineer 34 Ms. Sudha Kumari Chemist 35 Ms. Dipa Lalwani Environmental Analyst (till 30th November 2013) 36 Mr. G. Midhun Gopi Environmental Analyst 37 Ms. Anasuya B. Ravat Junior Chemist 38 Mr. Mayur Goswami Junior Chemist 39 Mr. Rajesh Choudhari Junior Chemist (till 15th June 2013) 40 Ms. Bhoomi H. Bakori Junior Chemist (till 11th July 2013) 41 Mr. Anil R. Sadariya Junior Chemist (till 7th December 2013) 42 Mr. Mukesh Thakor Surveyor (till 6th June 2013) 43 Mr. Sahadev Gadeshiya Agriculture 44 Mr. Chetan Sanariya Agriculture 45 Mr. Kisan Pandya Data Entry Operator 46 Mr. Amit Godesara Engineer 45

Sr. No Name Designation 47 Mr. Ramesh Kesatriya Agriculture 48 Mr. Sangeeta Vanker Social Worker 49 Sh. Harish Joshi Sociologist 50 Mr. Gani Node Peon 51 Mr. Arvind K Lakum Diver-Cum-Peon 52 Mr. Altaf A. Memon Diver-Cum-Peon 53 Mr. Hameed H. Maniyar Peon-Cum-Chowkidar 54 Mr. Dansingh Bist Cook - Cum - Care Taker 55 Sh. Ramju Node Night Watchman 56 Sh. Bhura Bhai Day Watchman 57 Mrs. Ushaben Sweeper DISSERTATION STUDENTS AT GUIDE (April 2013 to March 2014)

Sr. University/ Name of the Topic No. Institute Student & Stream POST GRADUATE 1 Mr. T. Dhananjayan Evaluation of Physico-chemical characteristics of Mangrove (Environmental sediments of Jamnagar and Saline soils of Kachchh, Gujarat: Bharathiar Sciences) Special reference on Carbon stock storage and Microbial University, biomass Coimbatore, 2 Mr.P.Mohan Evaluation Of Physico-Chemical And Biological Characteristics Tamilnadu. (Environmental Of Water And Sediments Of Selected Locations Of Vadinar Sciences) Coast, Gulf Of Kachchh, West Coast Of India 3 Jaydip. J. Maheta Evaluation of selected constituents in the Kachchh marine (Chemistry) water 4 Mayur.N.Pokar Physico-chemical characteristics of saline soils of Kutch, (Chemistry) Gujarat: Special reference to organic matter content 5 Kamal. B.Rajgor Evalaution of carbon stock sequestered in different tree (Chemistry) plantations in selected locations of Kutch, Gujarat K.S.K.V. 6 Neha. J. Malaviya Status of chemical constituents in the selected marine water Kachchh (Chemistry) environment of Gulf of Kachchh: Special emphasis on nutrients University, 7 Bhuj, Gujarat Pratibha. A.Singh Assessment of chemical load in selected water samples of (Chemistry) Kutch 8 Shweta Kewlani Studies on antimicrobial, antioxidant and biosorption (Environmental properties of selected sea weeds of Gulf of Kachchh Sciences) 9 Nitin Oza Physico-chemical and Microbiological characteristics of marine (Environmental water samples from Vadinar coast, Gujarat Sciences) 10 Jignesh Babubhai Documentation of traditional knowledge of villagers on local Suthar biodiversities of Mandvi taluka & its use and conservation. (Social Work) Sarvajanik 11 Vikram Bharatbhai Documentation of traditional knowledge of villagers on local MSW college Parmar biodiversities of Mandvi taluka & its use and conservation. mehsana (Social Work)

12 Pratik Dalpatbhai Documentation of traditional knowledge of villagers on local Suthar biodiversities of Mandvi taluka & its use and conservation. (Social Work) Under Graduate 13 K.S.K.V.Kachchh Mr. Naresh. M. Physico-chemical and Bacteriological Contamination of Marine University, Bhuj, Boda B.Sc. (Marine water and Coastal ground water samples from Mandvi taluka, Gujarat Science) Kachchh, Gujarat 46

Editor: R.V. Asari, V. Vijay Kumar, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato & Raushan Kumar Raman Graphics & Design: Raushan Kumar Raman

Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology

Opp. Changleshwar Temple, Mundra Road Bhuj-370 001, Kachchh, Gujarat, India. Ph: +91-2832 235025/28

Fax: +91-2832 235027 Email: [email protected]