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Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology

MISSION

GUIDE will catalyze 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, arid and semi-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 programmes

Provide consultancy and training to NGO's, 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 AND FACILITIES ................................................................................ 7

NATIONAL CONFERENCE .................................................................................................. 11

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS ....................................................................................................... 14

PUBLICATIONS ..................................................................................................................... 35

BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF GUIDE ................................................................................ 40

HIIGHLIGHTS OF ACHIEVEMENTS .................................................................................. 45

GUIDE Annual Report 2012-13 Page 1


(GUIDE), stepping into its 18th 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.

The contract tenure of Prof. G.

Agoramoorthy as Honorary Director of

GUIDE has come to an end on 2nd

June 2012. The Chairman, Board of

Governors (BoG) of GUIDE has

appointed Shri R. V. Asari, IFS (Retd.) as

Advisor in GUIDE during July 2012 and

later appointed as Director of GUIDE

from 29th September 2012. Further, the

Board of Governors has constituted a

Management Committee for

monitoring the day to day

administrative programmes of GUIDE

under the Chairmanship of Ms.

Vijayalaxmi Sheth.

In yet another attempt to acquire

global eminence and to draw

worldwide attention towards Kachchh

dryland issues, GUIDE had signed a

MoU with STEPS Center of Sussex

University, Brington, UK and initiated a

collaborative research programme on

“Climate Change and Uncertainty

from Below and Above”. As part of this

initiative, Dr. V. Vijay Kumar attended

the inception meeting of the project

partners at Kolkata during the period

between 21st and 26th August 2012.

Another follow-up meeting was

conducted between 25th and 28th

January 2013 at Ahmedabad for

finalizing a common methodology for

the study areas in India. The workshop

was attended by Dr. Lyla Metha, IDS,

Sussex University, UK; Mrs. Uapsona

Ghosh, IMHR, Kolkata; Dr. Alankar,

JNU, Delhi; Shri Shibaji Bose and GUIDE

was represented by Director, Joint

Director and Scientists. A follow-up

field trip to project locations in

DIRECTOR’S NOTE


Kachchh, Gujarat was organized

between 31st January and 4th February

2013. The team consisting of Dr. Lyla

Metha, Director and Joint Director of

GUIDE visited Kanmer village at Rapar

taluka, Jakhau village at Abdasa

taluka and Bhirandiyara village in

Banni in Kachchh in connection with

the project.

To add a feather in the GUIDE’s cap,

Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Joint Director of

GUIDE participated in the 4th

International Conference on Drylands,

Deserts and Desertification held

between 12th and 15th November, 2012

at Bluastein Institutes for Desert

Research, Sede Boqer Campus of Ben-

Gurion University, Israel.

Hehadpresented a paper on

“Reclamation of the Greater Rann of

Kachchh, Gujarat, India – A pilot

approach” under the theme “Soil and

Land Restoration in Drylands”.

To augment the rigour of the

academic activity of GUIDE, Director

and Joint Director had attended the

meeting of “International Academic

Institutions” held between 9th and 10th

January, 2013 as part of Vibrant

Gujarat. GUIDE had signed MoUs with

Pandit Deenadayal Petroleum

University, Gandhinagar; Gujarat

National Law University, Gandhinagar;

SANDHAN, Gandhinagar and

Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat,

Gandhinagar in areas of research,

technical, training, faculty and

students exchange programme.

GUIDE had also arranged a stall in the

Education Pavilion during the Vibrant

Gujarat 2013 event.

Research and academic

collaboration with Yobe State

University and Desert Research

Monitoring Control Centre (DRMCC),

Nigeria is also afoot. As a follow up, a

team of four members visited GUIDE

during April 2012 under the leadership

of Prof. Musa Alabe, Vice Chancellor,

Yobe State University, Nigeria and

signed an MoU with GUIDE. This MoU

facilitates both the organizations for

faculty exchange, collaborations

between professionals working within

the same field, joint research and

development for controlling

desertification and training of faculties.

As a follow-up of the MoU, Dr. V. Vijay

Kumar had visited DRMCC during the

period between 16th and 26th February

2013 for initiating collaborative

research, academic and training

programmes. Prof. Musa Alabe, Vice

Chancellor, Yobe State University


arranged meetings with high level

officials at DRMCC, Yobe State

University and Government of Nigeria.

During the trip, Dr. V. Vijay Kumar

visited desert areas and Oasis in Yobe,

Abuja and Kano states of Nigeria.

As a part of the collaboration with

CASII, initiatives have been taken to

conduct CoHaB project for Early Stage

Researchers (ESRs) in GUIDE during the

month of November 2013. Another

MoU was signed with Gujarat State

Forest Development Corporation

(GSFDC), GoG, Vadodara for

undertaking NTFP analysis of GSFDC

and APSEZL for characterization of soil,

water, air in APSEZL, Mundra. National

and State level collaborative research

programmes were proposed to NEERI,

Nagpur; GEER Foundation,

Gandhinagar and S.P. University,

Anand on different biological and

ecological aspects.

Dr. V. Vijay Kumar attended the

consultation workshop on “Strategies

for disaster risk reduction of vulnerable

occupations” at Ahmedabad jointly

organized by CEPT University,

Ahmedabad and Kyoto University,

Japan.

In order to strengthen its scientific

manpower and to enhance its

accomplishment, GUIDE has recruited

a team of qualified and experienced

scientists (Dr. G. Thirumaran, Dr. Shalini

Dhayani Dr. Nimisha Tripathi and Dr.

Deepak Dhayani) and researchers

(Ms. Dipa Lalwani, Ms. Bhoomi H.

Bakori, Ms. Anasuya Rawat, Mr. Rajesh

Choudhari and Mr. Mayur Goswami)

with multi-disciplinary background

who will work on different aspects of

diverse ecosystems, biodiversity and

livelihood opportunities in Kachchh

and other places of Gujarat.


(GUIDE), Bhuj, ever since its

establishment in May 1995, 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 organized a national awareness

programme in collaboration with

Gujarat State Biodiversity Board,

Gandhinagar and K.S.K.V Kachchh

University, Bhuj-Kachchh on

“Biodiversity Conservation and

Management with Some Emphasis on

Guggal” on 22nd January 2013 at

K.S.K.V Kachchh University, Bhuj-

Kachchh. The main objective of the


symposium was to bring a

conglomeration of research and

academic institutions, government

and non-government organizations,

policy makers and various

stakeholders dedicated to research,

conservation and restoration of

wetlands with an aim to establish a

nationwide awareness on biodiversity

Act and biodiversity conservation and

its management.

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 third batch of

students passed out during May 2012.

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 guidance, GUIDE’s scientists

have guided students from J.S.S

University, Mysore; S.P. University,

Anand; Gujarat Vidyapeeth,

Gandhinagar; Shri Sarvajanik College,

Mahsana and K.S.K.V. Kachchh

University, Bhuj.

Demonstrating their presentation

capability, GUIDE scientists and

researchers have attended several

national and international seminars

and symposia and presented research

papers. Many of the scientific papers

were published in international

journals.

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 2013. The laboratory

and infrastructure facilities developed

during the previous year have further

been strengthened by adding

equipments like New Brunswick shaker,

Deep freezer, Millipore ultra pure

water, Geographical Positioning

System, Rotary vacuum Flash

Evaporator (Total Cost Rs. 12

lakhs)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.

Further, GUIDE has signed a MoU with

APSEZL, Mundra for operating an

environmental laboratory at APSEZL.

The laboratory is operational since

July, 2011.

To share their views, distinguished

dignitaries including Prof. V. C. Soni,

Saurashtra University, Rajkot; Shri

Rajeeva, IFS, Chairman, Gujarat State

Biodiversity Board, Gandhinagar; Dr.

Ramakrishna, Ex. Director, Zoological

Survey of India and Prof. Indranil

Gadvi, Bhavnagar University happily

visited GUIDE.

Another significant milestone is the

publication initiatives of “State of

Environment Report on Rann of


Kachchh, Gujarat State” (State of

Environment of Gujarat) through

Gujarat Ecology Commission,

Gandhinagar. In an effort to fortify the

research endeavor of the institute,

many research proposals have also

been framed, including the

international research proposal in

collaboration with BAIF, Pune; Critically

endangered species and Mangrove

proposals to IUCN, and study of

marine and terrestrial biodiversity of

Gujarat to Gujarat State Biodiversity

Board, Gandhinagar.

Moreover, many projects were

successfully completed within

stipulated time. This includes

Ecological and Economic Role of

Forests, Kachchh Circle, Gujarat and

Environmental Assessment of Kandla

Port in collaboration with NIO,

Mumbai. Other important ongoing

projects include Environmental

monitoring study with ESSAR and BoRL,

Jamnagar; Biodiversity study in

Dholera SIR in collaboration with GEER

Foundation, Gandhinagar and

Mangrove monitoring in Dandi and

Kachchh. The new projects initiated

during 2012-13 include; People’s

Biodiversity Register, Study on Guggle

in Gujarat, Forest resources of

Kachchh, Tree Groves of Kachchh and

publication of book on Forests of

Kachchh, Gujarat.

As a matter of pride, GUIDE was

facilitated with a precious accolade

of “Kachchh Ratna” awarded by the

Kutchi Chair of K. S. K. V. Kachchh

University, Bhuj-Kachchh for best

performance in environmental

research activities. The award was

presented on 7th April 2012 in a special

function Chaired by the Honorable

Finance Minister of the Gujarat State –

Shri Vajubhai Vala and Minister for

State – Shri Vasanbhai Gopalbhai Ahir.

The important dignitaries included; the

former Vice Chancellor of K.S.K.V.

Kachchh University – Dr. S. G. Yadav;

the Vice Chancellor of Ambedkar

University – Dr. Manoj Soni; Editor of

Kutchmitra - Shri Kirthibhai Khatri, MLA

of Abdasa Taluka of Kachchh - Shri

Jayanthibhai Bhanushali, Dr.

Dharshanaben Dholakiya, , Dr. B. S.

Patel, Members of Kutchi Chair and

Faculties of K.S.K.V. Kachchh University.

During the year GUIDE has initiated an

e-newsletter on a quarterly basis

mainly to disseminate information on

dryland ecology. E-Newsletters of

GUIDE were circulated to many

institutions, universities, scientific

community and members of the Board

& Society of GUIDE.


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)

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

TECHNICAL SUPPORT TO ACTION PROGRAMMES

Demonstration of Ecological Restoration Programmes

Technical Support to Non-governmental Organizations and Governmental

Agencies/Departments

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

Environmental Management and Planning (EMP)

THRUST AREAS


INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES

CAMPU S

The Institute is spread over four acres of

land acquired from Government of

Gujarat, where its own complex comprising

well-furnished blocks for academics,

laboratory, library, administration, meeting

hall and 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.

HOSTE L ACCOMMODAT ION

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.

COMP UTER FACI L I T I ES

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.

TEACHI NG AND RESE ARCH

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 NGO’s. Analysis of all the types of environmental samples i.e. soil, water (fresh

water and sea), 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.


HERBARIUM &MUSEUM

The institute possesses excellent collectionof

plant and animal specimens (especially marine

fauna) of Kachchh in particular and Gujarat in

general. The floral specimens collected are

properly catalogued with phyto-geographical

information.

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.

Speciment of terrestrial animals from Gujarat is

also planned to be preserved and exhibited in

the museum, which will cater the purpose of

reference materials. The development of digital

herbarium is in process which will function as a

reference centre for students and researchers.

L IBRARY & DOCUMENTATION

A library with a wide range of multi-

disciplinary collection viz., arid and semi-arid

ecology, different ecosystems, plant and

animal ecology, biodiversity, management

techniques, environmental economics,

interpretation and education is being actively

build up. 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 facilitates 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.

TECHNICAL SERVICES

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.


Biological resources are vital and important natural resources to the human being, for their

sustenance and socio-economic development. Biodiversity provide us food, fresh air, cloth,

medicine and many ecological services to mankind and other living creature. At present,

various means of developmental activities cause degradation and fragmentation of habitats

which pose severe threats on biodiversity. Now-a-days, a large number of plants and animal

species of Kachchh region of Gujarat are facing threats due to unfavourable anthropogenic

activities. In view of the above, a one day National workshop on “Biodiversity Conservation

and Management with some emphasis on Guggal”was organized by Gujarat Institute of

Desert Ecology (GUIDE) in collaboration with Department of Chemistry, KSKV Kachchh

University to generate awareness about conservation and management of local biodiversity.

This workshop was funded by Gujarat Biodiversity Board, Gandhinagar.

The major objectives of the workshop was to generate awareness on biodiversity and its

importance for human being and environment, spread awareness amongst participants about

the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and Biological Diversity Rule, 2004, awareness on

formation of Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) and People’s Biodiversity Register

(PBR) in villages and municipalities level, to give overview about status and importance of

National Conference

National Awareness Workshop

On

“Biodiversity Conservation and Management with some

emphasis on Guggal”


threatened biodiversity with some emphasis on ‘Guggal’ for its conservation and to strengthen

the link between govt. officials, scientist, NGOs and local communities for conservation of

biodiversity.

The workshop was inaugurated by Shri Rajeeva, IFS, PCCF and Chairman, Gujarat

Biodiversity Board and Guest of honour, Dr. Tushar Hati, I/c. Vice Chancellor, KSKV

Kachchh University, Dr. A. P. Singh, Member Secretary, Gujarat Biodiversity Board, Shri.

R.V. Asari, IFS (Retd) and Director, Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology, Bhuj, Dr.

Ramakrishna, Ex-Director, Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata and Prof. V. C. Soni,

Department of Bioscience, Saurashtra University, Rajkot. The workshop was attended by

dignitaries including academicians, scientists, researchers, Forest Officials, representative

from NGOs, villages of Kachchh and media from various parts of the Gujarat as well as from

the country.

The keynote address was delivered by Shri Rajeeva highlighting on the importance of

Biological Diversity Act, 2002 for conservation of biodiversity in Indian context followed by

Shri R. V. Asari, IFS (Retd.) Director, Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology, who emphasized

on the history of biodiversity conservation, its documentation and management relevant to

International and National scenario. Dr. A. P. Singh gave detailed information about the

formation of Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) at village level. He also

highlighted about the creation of BMCs, structure, function and power of the BMCs and point

out that this act must be implemented at three levels viz. local, state and national.


Dr. Ramakrishna, Ex-Director, Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata delivered a lecture on

“Acts and Conventions in Indian Biodiversity”. In his lecture, he highlighted the important

issues of biodiversity, economic importance of biodiversity, Convention of Biodiversity, etc.

He presented some updated information to the participants on controlling and regulating

factors of hot spots, ecological niches, habitat heterogeneity, mega biodiversity, cultural

diversity, etc.

Prof. V. C. Soni, Saurashtra University, Rajkot pointed out the loss of biodiversity under the

name of development while, Dr. I. R. Gadhvi, Bhavnagar University provided a overview

about the grassland and wetland ecosystems in Kachchh.

The workshop was also addressed by Shri. A. C. Sampat, DCF, Kachchh circle and Dr. Rohit

Patel from GUIDE on Commiphora species in Kachchh.


Funded by Working Plan Circle, Gujarat State Forest Department

Team Dr. Rohit Patel (PI), Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (Co-PI),

Mr. Mukesh Koladiya and Raushan Kumar

Budget Rs. 15, 12,000 /=

Duration 18 Months

Status Ongoing

Dryland Division

1. Study on the Forest resources Survey in Forest Areas of Kachchh District, Gujarat

Kachchh district covers about 22% of the total geographical area of Gujarat state and

experiences scanty and erratic rainfall. The district always showed higher livestock population

than human, which necessitated considerable fodder demand that needs to be addressed. In

this connection, Working Plan Circle of the Gujarat State Forest Department sponsored a

study to evaluate forest resources in Kachchh district. The field study will be initiated from 1st

April 2013 onwards.


Funded by Working Plan Circle, Gujarat State Forest Department

Team Dr. Rohit Patel (PI), Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (Co-PI),

Mr. Mukesh Koladiya and Raushan Kumar

Budget Rs. 8, 00,000 /=

Duration 9 Months

Status Ongoing

2. Monitoring of the Commiphora wightii (Guggal) plantation in Kachchh,

Junagadh and Gandhinagar circle of Gujarat state

National Medicinal Plant Board (NMPB)

has sponsored a project on plantation of

Commiphora wightii (Guggal) in the

Gujarat State through the Forest

Department. Under this project, massive

plantation activities were under taken in

Kachchh, Junagadh and Gandhinagar

forest circles between 2006 and

2013covering a total area of 3410 ha.

The present study aimed to generate a

database on the Guggal population in

different Medicinal plant Conservation

Areas (MPCAs) and also to suggest

conservation and management

recommendations for further

improvements. The field study will be

initiated from 1st April 2013 onwards.


3. Collection of Baseline Data Pertaining to Biodiversity and Socio-economic in

Dholera SIR Area, Gujarat: Vegetation components

Government of Gujarat is in the process

of developing the first Special

Investment Region (SIR) of Gujarat in

Dholera, located in Ahmedabad district,

spread over 900 km2

area covering 22

villages. In this connection, the

Government has decided to develop data

base of the region pertaining to air, soil,

water, flora, fauna and socioeconomic

status through Gujarat Infrastructure

Development Board (GIDB). The GIDB

has allotted the biodiversity part of the

study to GEER Foundation and GUIDE.

During the present study, a total of 219 plant species belonging to 64 families have been

recorded from the study area. The final draft report of the study has been submitted to the

GEER foundation, Gandhinagar. Final report of the project will be submitted shortly.

Funded by Gujarat Infrastructure development Board, Gandhinagar

Nodal Agency GEER foundation, Gandhinagar

Team Dr. Rohitkumar Patel (PI), Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Dr.

Nimisha Tripathi (Co-PI), Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Nainesh

Patel, Dr. Mital Kaneria and Mr. Yatin Patel

Budget Rs.18, 97,000/-

Duration June 2011 to May 2012

Status Ongoing


4. Ecological Evaluation of Biota and Provide Conservation and Monitoring

Strategies for 1 km Peripheral Area of 1840ha allotted for Infrastructure

Development-Mundra Port & SEZ Limited, Mundra, Kachchh.

Gujarat State Forest Department has

allotted 1,840 hectare land to Adani

Port 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 measures for

management and conservation of the

area. The total allotted land area was

divided into three parts, based on

ecological characteristics viz., natural

vegetation including forest, mudflats

and mangroves.

Total 3 field surveys were conducted

for ecological evaluation of the study

area. The preliminary investigations

have recorded 118 plant species

including a rare and endangered plant

Commiphora whightii. Along with

plants, the faunal component includes

6 species of mammal, 2 species of

reptiles and 61 species of birds from

the 1 km peripheral areas of the

Bharadimata. The final draft report of

the study has been submitted. Final

report of the project will be submitted

shortly.

Funded by Adani Port SEZ Ltd., Mundra

Team Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Dr. Rohit Patel, Mr. Nikunj

Gajera, Mr. Nainesh Patel, Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya

Budget Rs.5, 06,000/-

Duration 1 year

Status Ongoing


5. Integrated Grassland Development in Banni

Banni, the largest remnant grassland and

perhaps the only single vast stretch of

grassland in India, is situated on the northern

border of the Bhuj taluka (230 19' to 23

0 52' N

latitude and 680 56' to 70

0 32' E longitude) of

Kachchh district. Covering an area of 2617.72

sq. km.(GUIDE 2007), the grassland forms

the fringes of the Greater Rann.

The project attempts restoration of degraded

grassland and ecological assessment of

grassland biodiversity of Banni Region of

Kachchh District. The project was sanctioned

in May 2007 by the Gujarat Department of

Forest and Environment (GDFE), GoG,

Gandhinagar, however, the project activities

commenced from April 2008.

Total 4 villages namely; Lakhara, Raiyado,

Gorevali and Bhojardo were selected for the

development of grass plots in this year,

covering a total area of 500 ha., which will

be completed in April/May 2013.

Funded by Gujarat Department of Forest and Environment (GDFE)

Team Dr. V. Vijay Kumar (Project Leader), Mr. Prakash M. Patel (PI)

Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya

Budget Rs. 664 Lakhs

Duration 5 Years (2007 – 2013)

Status Ongoing


6. Integrated Watershed Management Programme

The watershed project (IWDP -9) was

sanctioned by the DWDU during May, 2011.

The project villages’ include Dhrobana, Mota

Dinara, Nana Dinara and Kuran, covering an

area of 7,188 ha in Pachchham area of Bhuj

taluka of the Kachchh district. These villages

are located along the fringes of the Greater

Rann of Kachchh.

Major problems of the project area includes

degraded lands, climatic constraints, poor soil

fertility, soil erosion, poor vegetative cover,

water crises, soil and water salinity resulting

into land degradation and its productivity. The

integrated project aims at improving the land

status through various soils, water and other

site specific amendments, thereby improving

the socioeconomic status of the villagers. The

project activities were initiated during

June/July, 2011. During the initial ten months

period, the following activities were covered

under the project:

PRA of the project area.

Baseline survey and preparation of

Detailed Project Report.

Formation and registration of village

committees.

Entry Point Activities (Survey, Planning

and Execution).

Work Phase Activities (Survey, Planning

and Execution).

Funded by District Watershed Development Unit (DWDU)

Team Dr. V. Vijay Kumar (Nodal Officer)

Mr. Prakash Patel (Dy. Engineer),

Budget Rs. 1,078 Lakhs

Duration 5 Years (2011- 2016)

Status Ongoing


Funded by GSFD (Development and Management)

Team Mr. Nikunj B. Gajera (PI), Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (Co-PI) and

Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya

Budget Rs. 11, 91,000 /=

Duration 1st May 2011 to Dec. 2012

Status Completed

7. Assessment of Ecological and Economical Impact of Forest, Kachchh Circle

Forests are known to be critically important habitats in terms of the biological diversity they

contain and the ecological functions they serve. It is well known fact that forest ecosystem

provides direct and indirect ecological

benefit and share in the generation of

economy to the society. The measure of

ecological and economic value of the forest

to the society might be conveniently

classified as: Direct use values, indirect use

values and optional values.

The study covered forest areas of Kachchh

circle including Kachchh and Patan districts

of the Gujarat state.

For the assessment, secondary data was collected from IMD, NBSS-LUB, Survey of India,

Gujarat State Forest/Agriculture/Animal Husbandry/Irrigation departments, GWRDC, and

GWSSB. Primary data on soil, socio-economic survey was conducted in forest and

neighboring non-forest areas. A total of 3,163

households were surveyed from forest villages

and 691 households surveyed from non-forest

villages of Kachchh Circle.

The analysis of data collected from primary and

secondary sources was completed and the

results showed positive impacts of forest in

providing ecological and economical services.

The final report was submitted in Dec. 2012.


Funded by Chief Conservator of Forest, GSFD, Kachchh

Team Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato(PI), Mr. Nikunj Gajera (Co-PI),

Dr. Rohitkumar Patel (Co-PI), Mr. Raushan Kumar Raman,

Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya,

Budget Rs.3, 50,000/-

Duration April 2013-June 2013

Status Ongoing

8. State of Environment of Ranns (SoER) – Part of State of Environment of Gujarat

Gujarat Ecology Commission (GEC),

Gandhinagar has taken initiatives in publishing a

book on “State of Environment of Gujarat”, in

which one topic, State of Environment of Ranns

was allotted to GUIDE. The chapter deals with

Greater and Little Ranns of Kachchh, and its

pressure, state, impact and responses for

conservation, management and sustainable

utilization of the Ranns. The chapter has been

submitted to GEC during Dec. 2012.

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

Kachchh is the largest district 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 Sanctuary, Kachchh

Bustard Sanctuary, Desert Wildlife Sanctuary and Asiatic Wild Ass Sanctuary. Apart from

this, the district possesses the 13th

Biosphere Reserve of the country known as Kachchh

Biosphere Reserve, covering an area of 12,754 sq. km. keeping in mind on the importance of

forest and its wildlife, and to bring out a wider publicity, the Gujarat State Forest Department

has initiated to bring out a publication on forest of Kachchh. GUIDE has taken the task of

achieving the same.

Funded by Gujarat Ecology Commission (GEC), Gandhinagar

Team Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Coordinator,

Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Mr. Nainesh Patel

Budget Rs.3, 50,000/-

Duration 6 months

Status Completed


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

GMDC, Bhavnagar

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 developmental, water conservation, education scholarship

and awareness programmes to fulfil the needs of basic amenities and employment generation

for the local stakeholders/villagers.

GMDC has one lignite mine in operation at Surkha (N), Bhavnagar. This mine site

encompasses an area of 4690 Ha between Latitude (N) 210 26’ 43’’ to 21

0 43’ 00’’ and

Longitude (E) 720 07’ 30’’ to 72

0 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 1stphase.

The task of carrying out 3rd

party evaluation of the impact of CSR activities done by GMDC,

Bhavnagar has been 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 under completion and to be submitted to GMDC.

Funded by Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd., Ahmedabad

Team Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Dr. Rohit Patel, Mr. Nikunj Gajera,

Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Nainesh Patel, Mr. Raushan Kumar

Budget Rs.5, 00,000/-

Duration January 2013-July 2013

Status Ongoing


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

district, Gujarat

Groves or 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 they are restored

and appropriately managed. Therefore, it is important to study the groves and take appropriate

measures to create awareness and protection. 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, the present study aims to document the tree and sacred groves in Kachchh district;

assessment of floral and faunal composition of the groves, 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 trees and sacred groves

will be proposed.

Funded By Research and Training, GSFD, Gandhinagar

Team Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (PI), Dr. Rohit Patel (Co-PI), Mr.

Nikunj Gajera (Co-PI) and Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya

Budget Rs. 13,38,000/-

Duration One Year

Status Ongoing


12. People’s Biodiversity Register of 10 selected Gram Panchayats of Kachchh

district, Gujarat.

Biological resources are vital to the human well being and for their socio-economic

development. In view of the importance of biodiversity, a Convention on Biological Diversity

(CBD) was initiated and as a follow-up Government of India made an Act namely “Biological

Diversity Act, 2002” and “Biological Diversity Rule, 2004” to conserve the biodiversity and

associated traditional knowledge. According to this Act, every Panchayat, Taluka and District

shall have a Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) and People’s Biodiversity Register

(PBR) for the documentation, conservation and management of local biodiversity and sharing

of benefit arising out of it.

Based on the above background, Gujarat State Biodiversity Board has given a project to

GUIDE in September 2012 covering 10 Panchayats in 5 Talukas of Kachchh district. The

main objectives of this project are Creation of Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC)

and preparation of People’s Biodiversity Register. The PBR includes wild and domestic flora

and fauna, and associated traditional knowledge of villagers on biodiversity.

Funded By Gujarat Biodiversity Board, Gandhinagar

Project Team Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Dr. Rohit Patel, Mr. Nikunj Gajera,

Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, Mr. Nainesh Patel, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan,

Mr. Ajay Gohel

Budget Rs. 4, 37,000/-

Duration One Year

Status Ongoing


13. Climate change and Uncertainty from below and above.

GUIDE has initiated a collaborative research programme on “Climate Change and

Uncertainty from Below and Above” with STEPS centre of Sussex University, UK. The

project aims to bring out the perception on climate change and uncertainty from the local

villagers (below), authorities concerned (above) and others (middle). 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. After the meeting, a field trip

was arranged to project locations in Kachchh. The field study has been initiated since, January

2013 covering three categories of villages; Bhirandiyara (Grassland-located in central part of

Kachchh), Kanmer (Predominantly agriculture-located in eastern part of Kachchh) and Jakhau

(Coastal belt-located in western part of Kachchh). The field work is in progress.

Funded By STEPS centre of Sussex University, UK

Project Team Dr. V. Vijay Kumar and Shri. R. V. Asari, IFS (Retd.)

Dr. Deepak Dhyani, Mr. Jaydeep Chauhan and Mr. Ajay Gohel

Budget 14620 GBP /-(Rs. 12,32,628/-)

Duration November 2012 to March 2014

Status Ongoing


Wetland Division

1. Development of Rhizobial consortia for enhancing plant growth in arid and semi-arid

regions of Saline Desert, Kachchh, Gujarat

A large portion of microbial diversity is still undiscovered from desert regions. Thus the

present study envisages investigating the novel plant-associated micro-biota from different

arid, semi-arid and saline soil of the Banni region for generating a knowledgebase. 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 hard 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.

Funded by Dept. of Science and Technology, New Delhi, Govt. of India

Team Dr. K. Karthikeyan, (PI - GUIDE), Dr. Asifa Qureshi, (PI - NEERI)

Budget Rs. 58.77 Lakhs

Duration 3 years (2012 - 2015)

Status: Ongoing


2. Marine Monitoring Studies at Vadinar Oil Terminal and SBM, Jamnagar, Gulf

of Kachchh

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

planktonology at four stations namely Jetty,

SBM, Jetty intertidal and Pipeline intertidal.

Funded by ESSAR Industries, Jamnagar

Team Dr. K. Karthikeyan (PI), Dr. G.A. Thivakaran (Co-PI)

Dr. Pranav Pandya, Dr. Thirumaran, Ms. Devi Veluswamy and Ms.

R. Leka Meera

Budget Rs. 9, 60,000

Duration Yearly

Status Ongoing


Funded by Bharat Oman Refineries Limited (BORL), Jamnagar, Gujarat

Team Dr. K. Karthikeyan(PI), Dr. G.A. Thivakaran (Co-PI), Dr. Pranav

Pandya, Dr. Thirumaran, Ms. V. Devi and Ms. Leka Meera.

Budget Rs. 8.4 Lakhs

Duration Yearly

Status Ongoing

3. Marine Monitoring Studies at SBM and COT, Bharat Oman Refineries Limited

(BORL), Vadinar, Jamnagar, Gulf of Kachchh

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,

India. 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 planktonology.


Funded by Kandla Port Trust- KPT through National Institute of Oceanography,

Mumbai

Team G.A. Thivakaran, Dr. S. F. Wesley Sunderraj, Dr. K. Karthikeyan,

Mr. Nikunj Gajera, Mr. Mukesh Koladia, Mrs. Munmun Sinha,

Ms. V. Devi and Dr. Sourav Kundu

Budget Rs. 32,000,00

Duration Two years

Status Completed

4. Comprehensive Terrestrial Environmental Impact Assessment Study for the

Proposed Multi-Product Special Economic Zone at Kandla Port, Gandhidham,

Gujarat

Kandla port has several ideal conditions for setting up Special Economic Zone (SEZ). In

order to boost trade and commerce in this region due to these ideal conditions, Kandla Port

Trust (KPT) is planning to promote a multi-purpose special economic zone (MPSEZ) in two

segments, namely Kandla block (Block A) and Tuna Block (Block B). Different kinds of

industries will be accommodated in each block based on their nature and types. A

comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study both on the terrestrial and

marine realm has been planned and the task was assigned by KPT to National Institute of

Oceanography (NIO), Mumbai. National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), in turn, assigned

the task of carrying out the terrestrial EIA studies to Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology

(GUIDE), Bhuj.

The present EIA study has the following scope

1. Physio-chemical characterization of the impact zone in terms of air, soil, ground and

surface water and biological characterization like fauna, flora and their conservation

status.

2. Feasibility of the location for the proposed development activity in the light of

collected baseline environmental characters.

3. Description of processes and products planned in the proposed SEZ.

4. Adherence to relevant environmental quality standards

5. Anticipation/predicted impact as based on the gathered baseline data and assessment

in the light of proposed activities.

6. Suggestion of appropriate mitigation and abatement measures.

7. Suggestion of a holistic and long-term management plan to ensure sustainability of the

activity.

8. Socio-economic aspects

As per the scope of the project two seasonal data on the components of the study have been

gathered, analyzed and the report has been submitted to NIO-Mumbai in June 2012.


Funded by Adani Petronet Ltd., Dehej, South Gujarat

Team G.A. Thivakaran, Pranav Pandya and Dr. Thirumaran

Budget 4, 16,875/-

Duration September 2011 to August 2012

Status Completed

5. Mangrove Plantation Monitoring Studies at Dandi, Surat

Adani Petronet located at Surat is handling

coal and other products in its jetty at Surat.

The company has raised mangrove plantation

to the tune of 200 ha at the coastal stretch of

Dandi village near Surat. Gujarat Institute of

Desert Ecology, Bhuj was entrusted to carry

out regular monitoring of the raised

plantation of 200 ha at Dandi through

assessment of different ecological

characteristics. The regular monitoring is

being carried out in a periodic manner at a

time interval of 3 months using standardized

monitoring protocol including different

components of the monitoring activity.

Objectives of this monitoring program are:

Assess the survival and mortality (if any) of the planted mangroves bimonthly through

density assessment and find out the cause for mortality.

Assess growth of planted mangroves bimonthly through increment in GBH, Canopy.

Record associated macro-faunal population dynamics as an indicator of the stand

health through faunal density and diversity studies.

Study relevant physical and chemical characteristics of soil and water (salinity,

nutrients etc.).

Find out natural (algal encrustation, shift in

substrate nature) and anthropogenic threats

(cattle grazing, cutting) to the plantation and

suggest measures to ward it off.

Suggest appropriate management plan based

on findings to ensure long-term survival of

the planted mangroves and discharge of its

natural ecological services.

Two seasonal studies have been carried out and reports were submitted.


Funded by Adani Port and Special Economic Zone (APSEZL), Mundra

Team Dr. G.A. Thivakaran, Dr. Sourav Kundu, Dr. Rohit Patel, and

Mr. Nandha gopal,

Budget 4,42,750/-


Status Completed

6. Mangrove Plantation Monitoring Studies at Luni, Mundra

Adani Port and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZL) as a part of its environmental plan,

has developed mangrove plantation in 200 ha at the coastal stretch of Luni village in Mundra

Taluka. Further mangrove plantation efforts

are being planned in a long term manner.

Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology, Bhuj was

entrusted to carry out regular monitoring of

the raised plantation of 200 ha at Mundra

Taluka through assessment of different

ecological characteristics. The regular

monitoring is carried out in a periodic manner

at a time interval of 3 months using

standardized monitoring protocol including

different components of the monitoring activity.

Objectives of this monitoring program are as follows:

Assess the survival and mortality (if any)

of the planted mangroves bimonthly

through density assessment and find out

the cause for mortality.

Assess growth of planted mangroves

bimonthly through increment in GBH,

Canopy.

Record associated macro faunal

population dynamics as an indicator of

the stand health through faunal density

and diversity studies.

Physio-chemical characterization of soil and water (salinity, nutrients etc).

Find out natural (algal encrustation, shift in substrate nature) and anthropogenic

threats (cattle grazing, cutting) to the plantation and suggest measures to ward it off.

Suggest appropriate management plan based on findings to ensure long term survival

of the planted mangroves and discharge of its natural ecological services.


Funded by Adani Petronet Ltd., Dehej, South Gujarat

Team Dr. G.A. Thivakaran and Dr. Pranav Pandya.

Budget Rs.1.46 lakhs

Duration October 2012 to September 2013

Status Ongoing

7. Mangrove Plantation Monitoring at Jakhau

Adani Petronet Ltd., located at Dehej, south Gujarat has carried out mangrove plantation to

the extent of 50 ha during the monsoon months of 2011. Availability of suitable site at Jakhau

has enabled Adani Petronet Ltd., to carry out this plantation. This plantation was part of the

ongoing mangrove afforestation program of Adani group of companies. In addition, the

plantation was created to meet the legal stipulation of Ministry of Environment and Forests

(MoEF) and to maintain a viable and ecologically functional mangrove forests in Kachchh.

Plantation was carried out in 50 ha in a single block at Jakhau Bundar (Bubber Island). A.

marina, was the candidate species and a total area covered was 50 ha. Density of 2500 plants/

ha was followed with a gap of 2 × 2 m. An overall survival rate of 67% was estimated in the

present study. Present density in different plantation sites ranged from 1657 to 2435

saplings/ha with an average density of 1910 saplings/ha. As per the survey, saplings have

attained an average height of 60 cm. Gradual succession in macro-benthic community is

observed which will serve as a good indicator of plantation success.

Physico chemical parameters of water and sediment showed a normal nature with salinity

ranging from 39 to 41 ppt. Apart from environmental factors for low survival, pressure from

cattle grazing can be taken as causative of high mortality, low growth and stunted nature of

planted mangroves.


Funded by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd., Mundra

Team Dr .G.A. Thivakaran, Dr. Pranav Pandya and Dr. G. Thirumaran

Budget 1,30,000/-


Status Ongoing

8. Mangrove Plantation Monitoring at Talaja, Bhavnagar

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZL) is India’s largest private multi-

port operator. APSEZ is a part of the Adani Group, a global integrated infrastructure player.

Earlier, the company had only one operational port at Mundra, today it also operates ports at

Dahej and Hazira in Gujarat, India. Adani Petronet has carried out mangrove plantation to

extent of 50 ha during 2011 monsoon at the coastal belt of Talaja in Bhavnagar district during

the monsoonal months of 2011. The plantation activity was performed by the Bhavnagar

division of the forest department. The task of monitoring and assessing the plantation was

assigned to Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj. As per the project task, the

first quarterly monitoring study was conducted by GUIDE during February, 2013. This Ist

quarterly report highlight the status of the developed mangrove plantation. In the present

monitoring study, survival rate, growth during the last one and half year and mid course

corrections, if any, to improve the survival and enable the plantation to grow into a mature

mangrove formation is suggested.

The density of the planted mangrove in Talaja ranges from 455 to 700 saplings/ha with an

average density of 560 saplings/ha. This represents a survival rate of 16%. A strong tidal

current which uproots the planted saplings seems to be the reason for the poor survival

recorded presently. Physio-chemical characters of soil and pour water (water oozing out from

a pit in the substratum) is normal and conducive for sapling growth. But the oil and grease

contents are abnormal level than that of other plantation site. The coastal environment of

Talaja (Bhavnagar, Gulf of Khambhat) is under constant pressure due to the rapid

industrialization accompanied with increase in pollution. Developmental activities like ship

breaking yard, port, jetties, industries and other subsistence activities have lead to

environmental problem in the plantation site as well as coastal regions.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adani_Group

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazira


Funded by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd., Mundra

Team Dr. Pranav Pandya, Dr. G. A. Thivakaran, and Dr. G. Thirumaran

Budget 8,16,000/-


Status Completed

9. Conservation and Monitoring for a Natural mangrove stand (Area: 1254 ha) at

Mundra

Mundra Port is one of the fastest growing and largest private ports in the country and also a

SEZ (Special Economic Zone). The port in year 2011-12 has handled nearly 64 million tons

of cargo. On the other hand, the area also harbors luxuriant mangrove forests in close consent

to the Port and SEZ area. This economic and ecological combination has made the mangrove

ecosystem crucial and sensitive to be taken care of at priority. In order to balance the

economic growth as well as the ecological security, MoEF has directed industrial giants to

conserve their adjacent ecosystems and have a scientifically derived conservation and

management plan for the mangroves.

Thus, the present study becomes a part of the MoEF directive followed by Mundra Port and

SEZ wherein efforts are being made to assess the mangrove vegetation structure and status at

identified locations, assess the faunal associates and suggest action points to conserve the

Mundra mangroves. High level of erosion, cutting and lopping by fishermen and other

villagers, cattle grazing in some stands and high level of plastic and other litter disposal

within mangrove proper noticed and recorded. Major management suggestions for conserving

Mundra mangrove stands were given.


Book:

Atindra Murmu, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Subir Guha and Phakir Chandra Saren(2013).

Status of Blackbuck, Antilope cervicapra in Orissa, Status Survey Report: 1-20

(Published by the Director, Zool. Surv. India, Kolkata) ISBN: 978-81-8171-317-9

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, pp 97.

Patel, R. M and Dabgar, Y. B. (2012). Plant community structure and Dynamics: A case of

Western Kachchh, Gujarat. Publication by LAMBERT Academic publishing (LAP).

Germany. ISBN 978-3-659-19002-5, pp 93.

Patel, R. M. (2012). Ethno-medicial flora of Kachchh-Gujarat - A case of Western

Kachchh. Publication by LAMBERT Academic publishing (LAP).Germany, 69 pp.

Mukesh H. Koladiya, A.V.R.L. Narasimhacharya and Geeta Padate.(2012). Avi-faunal

Diversity of Urban Area-a case study in Vallabh Vidyanagar, Published by

Publication by LAMBERT Academic publishing (LAP). Germany, ISBN: 978-3-659-

26894-6, pp 57.

Chapter in Book:

Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and Vijay Kumar V. (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: 978-93-5056-297-0

Thivakaran, G.A and Kundu, S. (2012). Ecology of Macrobenthos in the Coastal Waters of

Gulf of Kachchh, Gujarat. In: Marine Biodiversity: Present Status and Prospects.

(Eds: P. Santhanam and P. Perumal). Narendra Publishing House, New Delhi. Pp

207-225.

Thivakaran, G.A.,(2012). Marine Molluscan Diversity: Where do we stand In: Marine

Biodiversity: Present Status and Prospects. (Eds: P. Santhanam and P. Perumal).

Narendra Publishing House, New Delhi. Pp 119-126.

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 Agro-ecosystem

Management. Springer Publications. (Accepted)

Paper Publication in Scientific Journal:

A) National

Amol Ashok Sawale and Thivakaran,G.A. (2013). Structural Characteristics of Mangrove

Forest of Kachchh, Gujarat. J. Mar. Biol. Ass. India. Vol. 54 (2).

Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and Vijay Kumar, V. (2012).Wetland Birds of

Arid Region-A Study on their Diversity and Distribution pattern in Kachchh.

Columban Journal of Life Science Vol. 13 (1&2), pp 44-48.

Arun Kumar Roy Mahato., Vijay Kumar V. and Nainesh Patel.(2012).Indian flying fox in

Hamirsir Lake, Bhuj city needs conservation attention, Current Science, Vol.

103(4), pp 354-355.

Patel, R.M., Vijay Kumar, V. and Ashishkumar (2012). Structure and composition of

woody vegetation in western Kachchh, Gujarat. Journal of Bioscience research, Vol.

3(3) pp 163-174.

Mukesh, H. Koladiya., Arun kumar Roy Mahato and Vijay Kumar, V. (2012). Activity

budgets of sympatric birds in Banni region of Kachchh district, Gujarat, India.

Proc. Zool. Soc. 65(1):52–56. DOI 10.1007/s12595-012-0028-1

Girish Kumar, P., Roy Mahato, A. K. and Yatin Patel.(2012). On a collection of aculeate

Hymenoptera from Bhuj, Gujarat. Bugs ‘R All 19: 10-13.

Shah, J.P. and Thivakaran, G.A. (2012).Status and Distribution of Halophytes in Kachchh

District – A review Current Agriculture,Vol.36: 27- 36

Thivakaran, G. A. and Sawale, A. K. (2013). Mangrove Macrofaunal Diversity and

Community Structure in Mundra and Jakhau, Kachchh, Gujarat. Indian Journal of

Marine Science, (Accepted).

Mukesh H. Koladiya, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and Manoj Kumar Pardesi (2012). Status

of avi-fauna in Lakhara wetland, Kachchh Biosphere Reserve, Gujarat, India.

PROMMALIA, (Accepted).

B) International

Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and Vijay Kumar, V. (2013). Status, distribution

and diversity of birds in mining environment of Kachchh, Gujarat, International


Journal of Biodiversity, Volume 2013, Article ID 471618, 11 pages,

http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2013/471618

Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and Vijay Kumar V. (2013). Status, Diversity

and Conservation of Grassland Birds in Arid Region of Kachchh. International

Journal of Recent Scientific Research 4(3) pp 166-170.

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

International Journal, 2(1) pp 1-5.

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 Vijay Kumar V. (2013). Status, Diversity and

Distribution of Avifauna in Banni Grassland of Kachchh District. International

Journal of Research in Biological Science Vol. 3(1) pp 43-47.

Patel, Y. S., Patel, R. M., Roy Mahato, A. K. 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, Vol. 3(1) pp 265-273.

Mahato, A.K.R., Majumder, S.S., De J.K. and Ramakrishna A. (2013). Activities of Blue

bull, Boselaphus tragocamelus during partial solar eclipse: a case study in

captivity, Ethology Ecology & Evolution, DOI:10.1080/03949370.2013.767860

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) pp 276 - 285.

Mukesh H. Koladiya., Mahato Arun Kumar Roy., Shah Jagruti P. and Vijaykumar V.

(2013). Avifauna of “Pena thathh”: A lesser known wetland in Banni grassland of

Kachchh district, Gujarat, India. International Journal of Research in BioSciences

Vol. 2 (1) pp 59-65.

Gajera Nikunj, Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and Vijay Kumar V. (2012). Birds in the arid and

semi-arid forests of Kachchh: its status, diversity and composition. International

Journal of Research in Zoology 2(4) pp 23-27.


Karthikeyan,K., Nanthakumar,K., Suriyanarayanan S. and Lakshmanaperumalsamy, P.

(2012). Screening of textile dye impacted soils for novel dye decolorizing fungi

employing various nutrient media. Adv. Biol. Res., 6 (1) pp 44-51.

Shah, J.P. and Thivakaran, G.A. (2013). Germination and Growth Performance of

Commiphora wightii and Acacia senegal under different salinity from Arid Coast

of Kachchh, Gujarat (Accepted) at International Journal of Bioscience (IJB).

Thivakaran, G.A. and Murugan, A. (2013). Structural Analysis and Environmental

Parameters of Semi-arid Mangroves of Gulf of Kachchh, India. Paper accepted in

the Springer Journal Wetlands Ecology and Management.

Abstract in Proceedings of conference/seminar/symposium

De, J. K., Roy Mahato, A. K. and Ghosh M. K. (2013). Socio-ecology and Conservation of

Swamp Deer (Cervus duvauceli Cuvier, 1823) in Dudhwa National Park, India.

Proc. 100th Indian Science Congress, Kolkata. Abs. No. ABW O-3 pp 496.

Vijay Kumar, V. and Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (2012).Reclamation of the Greater Rann of

Kachchh, Gujarat, India – a pilot approach.Proc. 4th International Conference

onDrylands, Deserts and Desertification, Israel, pp 91.

Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Majumder, S. Sen., De, J. K. (2012). Activities of brow-antlered

deer, Rucervus eldii during partial solar eclipse in captivity at Zoological Graden,

Kolkata. Proc. Nat. Sym. Live Organism & their Environment, Kolkata. Abs No. 21,

pp 79.

Arun Kumar Roy Mahato and Sudha Mahato (2012). Living with nature and

biodiversity: a socio-cultural study in Jharkhand. Proc. 2nd Indian Biodiversity

Congress, Bangalore, pp 268.

Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, Ramakrishna and Raziuddin, M. (2012). Pattern of social

interaction in Blackbuck: strategy of group living & survival. Proc. Nat. Sym. Live

Organism & their Environment, Kolkata. Abs. No. Oral-03, pp 23.

Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (2012). Ethno-ecology of Jharkhand: needs renovation for

conserving biodiversity and sustainable environment. Proc. 3rd Nat. Conf. Zoology

on Man and Environment, Ranchi, Abs. No. BD-21, pp 34

Papers presented in seminars /conferences:

Shah J. P. and Soni Bhaumik (2013).Status and Distribution of Associated Avifauna

Diversity in Selected Wetlands of Coastal Kachchh District, Gujarat National


workshop on Bird habitat and their conservation at Hemchandracharya north

Gujarat University, Patan, Gujarat.(First Prize Winner)

Shah J. P. (2013).The distribution and abundance of prosopis juliflora in coastal talukas

of Kachchh district Workshop on “Prosopis juliflora: Retrospect and Prospects”

26th – 28th February, 2013 at Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Regional

station-Kukma, Bhuj

Arun Kumar Roy Mahato (2012). Paper titled “Ethno-ecology of Jharkhand: needs

renovation for conserving biodiversity and sustainable environment” in the

3rdNational Conference of Zoology on Man and Environment held at Ranchi on

11-12 Dec. 2012

Sinha, M., A. Qureshi, A., K. Karthikeyan, Purohit H. J. and Vijaykumar V. (2012). Prosopis

juliflora: Role in nitrogen fixation and carbon sequestration. Discussion Papers

for NAIP All India Workshop on Utilization of Prosopis juliflora: Challenges and

Opportunities, held on 12-13th March 2012, Organized by Central Arid Zone

Research Institute, Jodhpur under National Agricultural Innovation Project

Component – II.

Shah J.P. and Thivakaran, G.A. (2012). Taxonomic status and Utilization of Halophytes in

Coastal Kachchh District, Gujarat on National Conference on “Research in Plant

Sciences-changing pathways and changing lives“29th &30th October, 2012 at

Talod Science college, Talod Dist. Sabarkantha, Gujarat

Participation in Workshop/Training programme by GUIDE Staff:

National Workshop on “Biodiversity Conservation & Management with emphasis on

Guggal” organized by Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology, Bhuj on Jan., 22 2013

Expert group Workshop on “Access and Benefit Sharing arise from Biological Resources”

organized by Gujarat Biodiversity Board, Gandhinagar held on 20-21 Feb. 2013

National workshop on “Prosopis juliflora: Retrospect and Prospects” Organized by

CAZRI, Jodhpur and Regional Research Centre, Kukma. 26th-28th Feb., 2013

One Weak Training on Hyperspectral Remote sensing at M.S. University – Vadodara 21st

-25th November – 2012


BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF GUIDE

Sr. No.

Board of Governors Designation

1. Sh. S. G. Mankad, IAS (Retd.), Former Chief Secretary, Gujarat Chairman

2. Ms. Vijaylaxmi Sheth, Ex. Post Master General, Gujarat Vice Chairman

3. The District Development Officer, Kachchh District Member

4. Dr. R. Parthasarathy, CEPT University, Ahmedabad Member

5. The Vice Chancellor, KSKV Kachchh University, Bhuj Member

6. Prof. Geeta Padate, M. S. University, Ahmedabad Member

7. Sh. Hardik Shah, Member Secretary, GPCB, Gandhinagar Member

8. Sh. Sandeep I. Virmani, Abhiyan, Bhuj Member

9. Dr. V. Vijay Kumar, Joint Director, GUIDE Member

10. Sh. R.V. Asari, IFS (Retd.) Director, GUIDE Member Secretary

THE GUIDE SOCIETY

S. No. GUIDE Society Members

1. Shri S. G. Mankad, IAS (Retd.), Former Chief Secretary, Gujarat

2. Shri Sandeep I. Virmani, Abhiyan, Bhuj

3. Ms. Vijaylaxmi Sheth, Ex. Post Master General, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

4. The District Development Officer, Kachchh District

5. Prof. Geeta Padate, M. S. University, Ahmedabad

6. Sh. Hardik Shah, Member Secretary, GPCB, Gandhinagar

7. The Vice Chancellor, KSKV Kachchh University, Bhuj

8. Head, Regional Station, CAZRI, Kukma, Kachchh,

9. Director, Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi

10. The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), GSFD, Gandhinagar

11. Dr. B. N. Desai, Ex. Director, National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Mumbai

12. Prof. Mahesh Pathak, Vallabh Vidya Nagar, Anand, Gujarat

13. Sh. Kantisen C. Shroff, Chairman, Shrujan, Bhujodi, Bhuj-Kachchh, Gujarat

14. Sh. Asim Chakraborty, Director, Welspun Group, Anjar-Kachchh, Gujarat

15. Sh. Dipak Bhimani, Chairman, Navdeep Chemicals Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai

16. Dr. R. Parthasarathy, CEPT University-Ahmedabad

17. Sh. A. K. Verma, IFS, Member Secretary, GEC, Gandhinagar.

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

19. Sh. R.V. Asari, IFS (Retd.), Director, GUIDE


THE GUIDE TREE(2012-13)

Sr. No.

Officials Designation

1 Sh. R. V. Asari, IFS (Retd.) Director

2 Dr. V. Vijay Kumar M. Sc., Ph. D. Joint Director

3 Dr. G. A. Thivakaran M. Sc., M. Phil., Ph. D. Senior Principal Scientist

4 Dr. Nimisha Tripathy, M. Sc., Ph. D. Senior Scientist

5 Dr. K. Karthikeyan, M. Sc., Ph. D. Scientist

6 Ms. Munmun Sinha, M. Sc., Ph. D Scientist (Till 31st July 2012)

7 Dr. Arun Kumar Roy Mahato, M. Sc., Ph. D Scientist

8 Dr. Pranav Pandya, M. Sc, Ph. D. Scientist

9 Dr. Rohit M. Patel, M. Sc, Ph. D. Project Scientist

10 Dr. G. Thirumaran, M. Sc, Ph. D. Project Scientist

11 Dr. Shalini Dhyani, M. Sc, Ph. D. Project Scientist

12 Dr. Deepak Dhyani, M. Sc, Ph. D. Project Scientist

13 Mr. Nikunj B. Gajera, M. Sc., M. Phil. Ph. D Project Scientist

14 Dr. Jagruti Sanghvi, M. Sc., M. Phil., Ph. D. Women Scientist (DST)

Project Staff

15 Dr. Sourav Kundu, M.Sc., M. Phil, Ph D. Senior Research Associate (Till 31st August 2012)

16 Dr. Mital Kaneria, M. Sc, Ph. D Senior Research Associate (Till 10thOctober 2012)

17 Mr. Dayesh Parmar, M. Sc, PGDRS. Project Officer (GIS & RS)

18 Mr. Mukesh H. Koladiya, M. Sc. Senior Research Fellow

19 Ms. Devi Veluswamy, M. Sc. Senior Research Fellow

20 Ms. R. Leka Meera, M. Sc. M. Phil Senior Research Fellow

21 Mr. Nainesh Patel, M. Sc, Senior Research Fellow

22 Mr. Abhinav M. Mehta, M. Sc Associate Fellow (Till 30th June 2012)

23 Mr. G. Nandhagopal, M. Sc Associate Fellow (Till 30th November 2012)

24 Mr. Sandeep Chad, MSW Agronomist (Till 18th April 2012)


25 Mr. Sanjay Baldania, MSW Community Mobillzer (Till 22nd May 2012)

26 Ms. Sunita Maheshwari, M. Sc Lab Analyst (Till 31st October 2012)

27 Ms. Dipa Lalwani, M. Sc Environment Analyst

28 Ms. Sudha Kumari, M. Sc Chemist

29 Mr. Rajesh Choudhari, M. Sc Junior Chemist

30 Ms. Bhoomi Bakori, M. Sc Junior Chemist

31 Ms. Anasuya Ravat, M. Sc Junior Chemist

32 Mr. Mayur Goswami, M. Sc Junior Chemist

33 Ms. Druma Vaidya, M. Sc Project JRF / PA Level

34 Mr. Raushankumar Raman, M. Sc. Junior Research Fellow in GIS & Rs Cell

35 Mr. Mukesh Thakor Surveyor

36 Mr. Sahadev Godeshiya, MSW Community Mobillzer

37 Mr. Chetan Sanariya, MSW Agronomist

Supportive Staff

38 Mr. Prakash M. Patel, B. E. Civil Deputy Engineer

39 Mrs. Jenny Furia, B. Com., CA Accounts-In-Charge / Internal Auditing

40 Mrs. Geeta Goswami, B. Com. Junior Accounts Officer

41 Mr. Manish P. Vyas, B.A Junior Administrative Officer

42 Mr. Arvind K. Lakum Driver

43 Mr. Altaf A. Memon Driver

44 Mr. Hameed H. Maniar Peon

45 Mr. Dhyan Singh Bist Cook

Other Supportive Staff 5 Nos.


DISSERTATION STUDENTS IN GUIDE

The following Post-graduate students from various institutions/universities have

completed their dissertation studies at GUIDE during April 2012- March 2013

Sr. No.

Name of the Student Degree

Perusing University/

Institute

Duration in

months Topic

1 Mr. Nithul Lal M.Sc. Env. Sci.

Department of Water and Health, J.S.S.University, Mysore, Karnataka

2.5 “Drinking Water Quality Assessment of Ground Waters of Bhachau Taluka, Kachchh, Gujarat: A Preliminary Investigation with special reference to Fluoride”

2 Mr. Praveesh Vijayan M.Sc. Env. Sci.

Department of Water and Health, J.S.S.University, Mysore, Karnataka

2.5 “A Study on Prevalence of Selected Anions and Cations in the Ground Water Samples of Bhachau Taluka, Kachchh, Gujarat”

3 Ms. Bhavini Ganatra M.Sc. Env. Sci.

Department of Earth and Env. Sci., K.S.K.V. Kachchh University, Bhuj,

3.0 “Preliminary Investigations on Bioprospecting of Marine Microorganisms for Industrial Applications”

4 Ms. Reena. M. Javiya M.Sc., Chemistry

Department of Chemistry, K.S.K.V.Kachchh University, Bhuj,

3.0 “Physico-Chemical and Microbiological Characteristics of Drinking Water Samples of River, Ground Water and RO from selected locations of Bhuj-Kachchh, Gujarat: A Comparative Appraisal”

5 Ms. Kavita Thakur M.Sc. Env. Sci.

S. P. University 3.0 Understanding mangrove-soil-crab association in Kandla mangroves.

6 Ms. Neha Shukla M. Sc Env. Sci.

KSKV Kachchh Univ.

4.0 Ecological assessment of some wetlands in and around Bhuj, Kachchh

7 Mr. Mayur Gaddhe M.Sc., Chemistry

Department of Chemistry, K.S.K.V. Kachchh University, Bhuj,

6.0 Physical-chemical characteristic of saline soil.

8 Mr. Virajsinh P. Thakor

MSW Shri Sarvajanik M.S.W. (Master of Social Work) College, Mehsana

1.0 Documentation of traditional knowledge of Baladiya village

9 Mr. Rahulkumar R. Raval

MSW Shri Sarvajanik M.S.W. (Master of Social Work) College, Mehsana

1.0 Documentation of traditional knowledge of Kodki village

10 Mr. Jaydip Chauhan MRM Gujarat Vidhyapith, Randheja, Gabdhinagar

3.0 Documentation of traditional knowledge of four village of PBR Project

11 Mr. Ajay Gohel MRM Gujarat Vidhyapith, Randheja, Gabdhinagar

3.0 Documentation of traditional knowledge of four village of PBR Project

12 Mr. Bikash Kumar Mishra

M. Phil Env. Sci.

School of Envir. Sciences, Jawahar Lal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi.

1.6 year Pattern of nutrient transformation in an arid ecosystem: Does salinity and invasion have impact.


Sr. No.

Name of the Student Degree

Perusing University/

Institute

Duration in

months Topic

13 Mr. Mahesh Bashishta

M. Sc Env. Sci.

School of Envir. Sciences, Jawahar Lal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi.

6.0 Integrated ecological study of depleted ecosystems encompassing a community approach

14 Ms. Asha Sharma M. Sc Env. Sci.


4.0 Soil nutrient dynamics and microbial biomass along a salinity gradient in dryland of Kachchh.

15 Ms. Khayali Vaidya M. Sc Env. Sci.


4.0 Impact of nano-organo clay materials on metal remediation in soil

16 Ms. Gaytri Gadhvi M. Sc Env. Sci.


4.0 Biodesulphurization of lignite and petroleum coke: a case study

17 Ms. Sadhna Singh M. Sc Env. Sci.


4.0 Patch structure and nutrient dynamics in Prosopis juliflora invaded dryland of Kachchh

18 Ms. Raksha Javiya M.Sc., Chemistry


3.0 Impact of salinity on physico-chemical characteristics of soil in dryland area of Kachchh

19 Mr. Harsh Himanshu Bhatt

M.Sc., Chemistry


3.0 Characterization of soils in forest, grassland and wetland ecosystems in Kachchh


HIIGHLIGHTS OF ACHIEVEMENTS

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.

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:

a. K. S. K. V. Kachchh University, Bhuj-Kachchh, Gujarat State, India.

b. Sardar Patel University, Anand, Gujarat State, India.

c. National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur, Madhya

Pradesh State, India.

d. Center for Advanced Studies in India (CASII), Mumbai, India.

e. Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University (PDPU), Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India.

f. Gujarat National Law University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India.

g. SANDHAN, Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India.

h. Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat (KCG), Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, India.

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.

a. Institute of Development Studies of Sussex University, Brington, UK.

b. The University of Greenwich, London, UK

c. Desert Research Monitoring Control Centre, Yobe State University, Nigeria.

d. Egerton University, Kenya (in process)


National & International Memberships and Recognitions

Member International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN),

Switzerland.

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

Member International Society of Zoological Sciences (ISZS), China

Member 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.

Recognition 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).

Recognition GUIDE Laboratory has been recognized as State Air & State Water

Laboratory by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), GoG,

Gandhinagar.

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