000387   Mohan P M;Dhivya P;Sachithanandam V; Subburaman S (Ocean Studies and Marine Biology Dep, Pondicherry Univ, Brookshabad Campus, Post Bag No.26, Junglighat, Port Blair, Andaman, Email: pmmtu@yahoo.com) : Physico-chemical parameters of seawater and its significance in Sisostris bay, Andaman sea. J appl Geochem 2012, Mar, 38-45.

To understand the physico-chemical parameters of seawater and its significance of Sisostris Bay, Port Blair, Andamans, a study was conducted for a period of one year (September 2007-2008). The parameters such as Temperature, Salinity, Dissolved Oxygen, pH, ORP/Eh and Turbidity was estimated using the Quanta Hydrolab at surface and 15m depth for five stations which covers the entire Bay from Ross Island to Phoenix Bay. The study suggests that the mixing of water was noticed in October, at 15m to the surface. The results of Dissolved Oxygen and ORP (Eh) suggest, between September and March, the productivity reaches to a peak level but during December entire productivity may disappear till July. Later, the entire cycle repeats and progresses once again.

1 illus, 10 tables, 11 ref

000386   Mishra S (Agricultural Meteorologist & Rainfall Registration Authority of West B, , ) : Drought and its management in West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 45-56.

After 2009 and 2010 again in 2012 a large part of the state in going to face a drought like situation during the kharif season when up to the end of the first week of August the districts of Gangetic West Bengal recorded 27 per cent monsoon rainfall deficiency. As a consequence about 60 per cent of the target area for aman still remain uncovered upto 7th of August. India meteorological Department has also indicated that improvement of the situation during the remaning period of the season is a remote possibility. The obvious impact is, therefore, considerable reduction in the agricultural production specially in food cropss. A review of the situation for the last 100 years also reveals that the frequency of droguth in increasing in an alarming rate which stands boldly on the way of agricultural development and food security of the state. Thesituation needs to be handled carefully and judiciously. In the present study attempts have been made to analyse drought from different angles and suggest long and short term location and time specific measures to combat it with a view to augment and sustain agricultural production for all round economic development of the state.

4 illus, 4 tables, ref

000385   Mandal S;Basu P (Geography Dep, Thoara High School, Thoara, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal) : Statistical inevitability of horton's laws in drainage basin analysis: a case study of Dwarakeswar river basin. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 281-90.

R. E. Horton formulated four specific laws of drainage composition in the tributary network of drainage basins. The laws are based on the hierarchy of stream of different orders in terms of number, length, area and slope. This paper examines the Hortonian laws in the stream networks of the Dwarakeswar river basin. It reveals that there is an intimate relationship between the growth of stream networks and the underlying structure of the tributary basins. However, this paper further emphasizes the significance of Hortonian laws as the relationships observed largely support the Hortonian inferences and the existence of a mathematical relationship in hierarchical growth of tributary networks.

5 illus, 12 ref

000384   Mandal S (NO, , CSIR Net JRF., Email: tomblo.sakti@gmail.com) : Different types of choropleth mapping and analysis: population density of Bankura district, West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 339-46.

In choropleth mapping, most classification schemes that have been proposed are based on the properties of the data's statistical distribution without regard for the data's spatial distribution. However, one of the more important tasks associated with choropleth map reading is the task of regionalization and identifying spatial patterns. For this reason some authors have proposed class interval selection procedures that also consider spatial contiguity. This paper evaluates different classification schemes based on given data set's statistical as well as its spatial distribution. This paper also involved with the choosing of suitable choropleth technique for given data set considering their accuiracy level.

4 illus, 5 ref

000383   Mandal P K (Geography Dep, Kalyani Univ, West Bengal) : Tourism potentials in Purba and Paschim Medinipur district- a comparative study. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 591-600.

In the first decade of 21st century tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in India and it has been 'acknowledged as the biggest component of the tertiary sector. Tourism development in an area invariably leads to the social, cultural and economic development of the area in terms of increase of income, poverty alleviation, employment opportunities, infrastructural growth, improvement of standards of living etc as well as the general development of that area. Tourism is used as developmental tool and the tool of regeneration of economies. The present study is going on to discuss about the tourism resources in Purba Medinipur and Paschim Medinipur District. In comparison with Purba Medinipur, Pascim Medinipur has much more tourism resources in terms of folk-cultural, historical, religious, and natural tourism resources. In spite of that tourism development is remain backward in Paschim Medinipur. Being a backward area and a potential tourism destination Paschim Medinipur, promotion of tourism is the way for the development of economy as well as the general development of the area.

5 tables, 13 ref

000382   Mandal K P (Geography Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata) : Tourism as an industry: a case study of Darjeeling in West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 551-62.

Nestled among rolling mountains, the ""Queen of the Hills"" - Darjeeling provides a perfect gateway for those seeking to be in harmony with nature. With its natural beauty, Darjeeling provides lor a wide variety of activities from leisurely scenic walks to more grueling activities such as trekking and river rafting. Darjeeling is known internationally for its famous Darjeeling Tea and handicrafts. It is also home to the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a World Heritage Site. Owing to a diverse population Darjcoling celebrates some festival or the other nearly every month. Popular places to visit include Tiger Hill - for a glimpse of Mt. Everest, Batasia Loop and the War Memorial, Tea Gardens, Buddhist Monasteries. Himalayan Zoological Park and Snow Leopard Breeding Centre among others. Now a day's tourism is an industry and instrument of economic development and employment generation, particularly in remote or backward areas, has been well recognized World over. Tourism is now one of the key sectors in country's economic scenario. It has been direct and indirect links with a multitude of activities, ranging from hospitality to handicraft, from civil aviation to rural roads and a whole gamut of services. Darjeeling is a suitable example of this. The present paper attempts to analyse the tourism industry and evaluate the impact of tourism in the economy of Darjeeling, in terms of income and employment generation and also to highlight the tourism potential of the district.

1 illus, 9 ref

000381   Mandal D K (Geography & Applied Geography Dep, North Bengal Univ, West Bengal, Email: dkmandal_geo@yahoo.co.in) : Geolithological characteristics of eastern doon valley by using remote sensing techniques and GIS tools. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 579-90.

Geolithology play an important role in shaping the earth surface. The present paper will highlight the factors concerning the geolithoiogical parameters and their influence on the development of various geomorphic units based on Remote Sensing techniques and G1S tools. The Doon valley is a topographic depression of irregular parallelogram shape with its longer axis running parallel to Lesser Himalayan Range. Doon valley is considered as a 'piggy back' basin formed on the Siwalik folded thrust sheet due to down-buckling (Singh, 1996). In the last two decades a number of workers have attempted to identify geomorphic features in Indo-Gangetic Plain, and have emphasised role of alluvial fans of different dimension in evolution of orogenward part of alluvial plain. Mukherji (1990) proposed a generalised morphostratigraphic interpretation to the geomorphic features of Chandigarh Dun. Mishra (1990) discusses aspects of morphostratigraphy of Middle Yamuna valley. Nossin (1971) prepared a geomorphological map of Doon valley, and Nakata (1972) discussed landforms of Doon valley. Rao (1978) and Singh and Singh (1988) also discuss geomorphic features of this area using remotely sensed data. The present work is carried out with the objective to identify major geological units and its role over the development of geomorphic characteristics of the Doon valley area. Doon valley is a unique spindle shaped, fiat bottom geomorphic unit in Garhwal Himalaya. It is bounded by Lesser Himalayan hills and northern Siwaliks in the north and by Siwalik Hills in the south, and transversely bordered by Ganga and Yamuna rivers in SE and NW of the valley respectively. On the basis of amassed data related to geolithology, structure, tectonics and geo-technical parameters like tone, texture, drainage pattern etc,, the Doon valley is divided into several geological as well as geomorphic units and identified their peculiar characteristics.

1 illus, 51 ref

000380   Malsawma J;Lalnuntluanga P;Badekar A;Sangode S J;Tiwari R P (Geology Dep, Mizoram Univ, Aizwal-796 009) : Magnetic polarity stratigraphy of the bhuban succession, surma group, Tripura-Mizoram accretionary belt. J Geol Soc India 2010, 76(2), 119-33.

A 1355 m thick Bhuban sequence exposed along Tuirial section in the Aizawl district, Mizoram has been studied for magnetostratigraphic and rock magnetic attributes. The study reveals mono-mineral nature of the rocks with magnetite in the range of Stable Single Domain (SSD) showing the most favourable mineralogy to produce authentic (Natural Remanent Magnetization) NRM directions. Using routine demagnetization methods we reveal a total of 7 normal magneto-zones in the studied part of the Tuirial section. Correlation of the observed polarity with GPTS gives ages <126> 12.5 Ma to <126>8 Ma. A notable increase in the rate of sedimentation at -9.5 Ma (-750 m level in the section) indicates facies change from turbidite like sequence to pro-delta system. Detailed sedimentologic work is under progress to relate the magnetostratigraphy to understand some of the basin evolutionary processes.

8 illus, 4 tables, 52 ref

000379   Malarkodi N;Mallikarjuna U B (Geology Dep, Bangalore Univ, Bangalore-560 056, Email: malargeo@rediffmail.com) : Sequence stratigraphy of some quarry section, near Gowripatnam, Rajahmundry area, Andhra Pradesh. J Geol Soc India 2010, 76(2), 111-18.

Attempt is made to work out the sequence stratigraphic frame work of Infra and Intertrappean beds exposed in Soma quarry section, near Gowripatnam, Rajahmundry area to understand the mode of depositional process in the basin by integrating litho and biostratigraphic data. The study documents the field data to recognize some of sequence parameters in the field. The sequence stratigraphic study shows the Sequence Boundary, Transgressive Systems Tract (TST), three shallowing upward sequence, Maximum Flooding Surface (MFS) and Highstand Systems Tract (HST) deposits got exposed as a result of basinal rise and fall.

4 illus, 31 ref

000378   Maithani P B;Srinivasan S (Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research, , Begumpet, Hyderabad, Email: premmaithani@gmail.com) : Uranium and rare earth investigations in parts of Karnataka, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh. J appl Geochem 2012, (Jun), 71-5.

Exploration for uranium in the Quartz-Pebble Conglomerates (QPC) in the Bababudan Group in Dharwar Craton has resulted in identifying a number of uranium occurrences. Prominent among them include Kalasapura, Chickmagalur etc, where significant uranium mineralization has been reported. Apart from uraniumin the QPC, extensive surveys were carried out in parts of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat for rare minerals and rare metals, which resulted in locating a number of occurrences of Niobium - Tantalum bearing pegmatites, which has added to the rare metal potential of the country significantly.

7 ref

000377   Kundu S;Mondal A (Water Resources Development & Management Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee-247 667) : Land surface temperature assessment & its relationship with landuse using satellite image. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 431-6.

This study aimed at the use of thermal remote sensing technique for analyzing land surface temperature (LST) pattern over different landuse. The variation of temperature of Kolkata and surrounding region has been identified here regarding different landuse. Thermal remote sensing technique is very useful and helps in the assessment of the impact of different landuse on the environment. As it is observed from the generated LST that the water body and vegetations are giving lower temperatures while built-up areas are indicating much higher temperature.

2 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

000376   Kundu S K;Mondal D (Jindighee High School (HS), Sagardighi, Murshidabad, West Bengal) : Levels of development in Murshidabad district of West Bengal: a block level study. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 515-22.

Regional disparity is the outcome of unbalanced regional development that varies from region to region depending upon socio-cultural, economic and demographic characteristics. Murshidabad district of West Bengal is one of such backward districts identified in Human Development Report (HDI-0.46, 2004) and it belongs to the huge diversity in terms of geographic phenomena. The present study is aimed to demonstrate the spatial pattern of levels of development and to appreciate the inter-block disparity in Murshidabad using fourteen indicators. The simple statistical technique of Deprivation Index has been used to compute block level development index based on the data mainly collected from Primary Census Abstract-2001 of Murshidabad. The computed Development Index for each block portrays wide inter-regional disparity where, Suti-II holds top position while Farakka and Kandi block suffer from wwst condition.

1 illus, 6 ref

000375   Kundu B;Gahalaut V K (National Geophysical Research Institute, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: rilbhaskar@gmail.com) : Slab detachment of subducted indo-australian plate beneath sunda arc, Indonesia. J Earth Syst Sci 2011, 120(2), 193-204.

Necking, tearing, slab detachment and subsequently slab loss complicate the subduction zone processes and slab architecture. Based on evidences which include patterns of seismicity, seismic tomography and geochemistry of arc volcanoes, authors have identified a horizontal slab tear in the subducted Indo-Australian slab beneath the Sunda arc. It strongly reflects on trench migration, and causes along-strike variations in vertical motion and geochemically distinct subduction-related arc magmatism. Proposed a model for the geodynamic evolution of slab detachment.

7 illus, 58 ref

000374   Kundu A;Goswami B;Eriksson P G;Chakraborty A (Geology Dep, Asutosh College, 92, S.P. Mukherjee Road, Kolkata-700 026, Email: kundu.abhik@gmail.com) : Palaeoseismicity in relation to basin tectonics as revealed from soft-sediment deformation structures of the lower triassic panchet formation, Raniganj basin (Damodar valley), Eastern India. J Earth Syst Sci 2011, 120(1), 167-81.

The Raniganj basin in the Damodar valley of eastern India is located within the riftogenic Gond-wana Master-Basin. The fluvio-lacustrine deposits of the Lower Triassic Panchet formation of the Damodar valley in the study area preserve various soft-sediment deformation structures such as slump folds, convolute laminae, flame structures, dish-and-pillar structures, sandstone dykes, pseudonodules and syn-sedimentary faults. Although such soft-sediment deformation structures maybe formed by various processes, in the present area the association of these structures, their relation to the adjacent sedimentary rocks and the tectonic and depositional setting of the formation suggest that these structures are seismogenic. Movements along the basin margin and the intra-basinal faults and resultant seismicity with moderate magnitude (2-5 on Richter scale) are thought to have been responsible for the soft-sediment deformations.

9 illus, 2 tables, 100 ref

000373   Kumaralingam S;Madhan Chakkaravarthy V (Zoological Survey of India, Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Email: madhan.chak@gmail.com) : Biopharmaceutical potential of nematocyst venom of Chiropsalmus quadrigatus Haeckel, 1880. J appl Geochem 2012, Mar, 7-10.

Drug from marine species is drawing attention for the well being of humankind. The present study was taken up to establish the toxicity of this species, elucidate its chemical nature, and identify an antidote for the toxin. The Chiropsalmus quadrigatus venom contains less protein in 0.6 ml (1.264 ± 0.16) and more protein in 0.2ml fraction (1.602 ± 0.14). Significant lethal action of C. quadrigatus in mice required 2:36 min and toxicity of this lethal toxin increased beyond the initial level dosage. Induced with (0.25 ml) escape reaction was active and with (0.50 ml) the escape reaction was dull, in the case of (0.75 ml) symptoms appear to escape reaction, palpitation and with (1.0 ml) the symptoms of Grooming, very active, palpitation reaction were observed. High analgesic activity of tail flick response after 30 min by male albino mice is noted when injected with 25% of 0.50 ml crude (4.23 ± 0.13) and low analgesic activity was noted from 75% of 50 ml crude (0.84 ± 0.06). Estimation of protein from the venom, toxicity and analgesic activity on mice was elaborately discussed in this work.

3 illus, 5 tables, 9 ref

000372   Kshetrimayun K S;Bajpai V N (Earth Science Dep, Assam Univ, Silchar-788 011, Email: drkrishnakanta@gmail.com) : Establishment of missing stream link between the Markanda river and the Vedic Saraswati river in Haryana, India-geoelectrical resistivity approach. Curr Sci 2011, 100(11), 1719-24.

Missing stream link between the Markanda river and the Vedic Saraswati river in the plains of northern Haryana has been established based on geoelectri-cal resistivity surveys. The study revealed extensive buried sand channels composed of coarse sand with gravel and fine sand. The average thickness of coarse sand with gravel aquifer horizon was about 90 m and has been identified at a depth between 10 and 100 m. The fine sand horizon was observed beyond a depth of about 45 m. These sand bodies are extended laterally for a distance of about 12 km in the northeast to southwest direction connecting the Markanda river and the Vedic Saraswati river. The transverse resistance values of these buried channels (7392-7585 Ωm² for coarse sand with gravel, and 384-2856 Ωm² for fine sand) indicate good groundwater potential. The age of these buried sand bodies belongs to the Late Harappan period, as evident from different archaeological sites found in and around the survey area. Thus, the present study reveals that once the Markanda basin was a part of the Vedic Saraswati river system, and one of the headwaters of the once celebrated Vedic Saraswati river can be identified as the present Markanda river.

4 illus, 19 ref

000371   Kizil U;Tisor L (Technical Programs Dep, Biga Vocational School, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart Univ, Biga, Canakkale, Turkey, Email: unal1975@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of RTK-GPS and total station for applications in land surveying. J Earth Syst Sci 2011, 120(2), 215-21.

Accuracies of Real-Time Kinematic Global Positioning (RTK-GPS) system and Total Station (TS) were investigated in GIS environment. In geostatistical evaluations, Kriging method was used with spherical, exponential, and Gaussian models. The survey results demonstrated that an area of 3.5 ha or smaller can be best explained with Gaussian model, while the larger areas require a spherical model. A vertical error of 60 cm and a horizontal error of 30 cm can be observed when the survey points outside the construction area are eliminated. The optimum area per survey point was calculated to be 20 x 20 m² to increase the accuracy. This case study showed that an inaccurate survey can result cost over estimations up to 27%.

8 illus, 20 ref

000370   Joshi I S (NO, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune, Maharashtra, Email: indira@tropmet.res.in) : Volcanic eruption eyjafjallajokull of april 2010 and its effects on pressure, temperature and rainfall. J appl Geochem 2012, (Jun), 103-5.

For many years, climatologists have noticed a connection between large explosive volcanic eruptions and short term climatic change. At first, scientists thought that the dust emitted into the atmosphere from large volcanic eruptions was responsible for the cooling by partially blocking the transmission of solar radiation to the Earth's surface. Recent stratospheric data suggests that large explosive volcanic eruptions also eject large quantities of sulfur dioxide gas which remains in the atmosphere for as long as three years and affects the dynamics of the troposphere and stratosphere which in turn changes the weather/climate. Keeping the above in view using 38 stations, surface pressure, temperature and rainfall data study has been undertaken to examine the effects of 19th April volcanic eruption on the above parameters.

2 tables, 19 ref

000369   Jahan C S;Mazumder Q H;Islam A T M M;Adham M I (Geology and Mining Dep, Rajshahi Univ, Bangladesh) : Impact of irrigation in Barind area, NW Bangladesh- an evaluation based on the meterological parameters and fluctuation trend in groundwater table. J Geol Soc India 2010, 76(2), 134-42.

Barind Integrated Area Development Project (BIADP), NW Bangladesh launched in late eighties of last century boosted cropping intensity from 117% in pre-BIADP to about 200% at present. Increasing trend of rainfall for the period 1980-2006 in the southern portion had a positive impact on BIADP, but in the northeastern part, reverse trend is indicated. The groundwater outflow from the central part following the surface gradient is indicative of effluent drainage characteristics. Although rainfall has increased in the southern part, there has been progressive decline in groundwater level due to increase in irrigation demand. In the northern part there has been decline in groundwater level due to less resource potential. The PET, ET_crops and net irrigation requirement generally has decreased from pre- to post-Project implementation stages and rainwater has been the supplementary irrigation resource and thus dependency on groundwater has been reduced with exception in northwestern part. While the southern part is marching towards humid condition, north is creeping towards semi-aridity. Proper groundwater resource management with ecological balance is warranted for the sustainability of BIADP.

5 illus, 6 tables, 14 ref

000368   Jagadheesha D;Manikiam B;Sharma N;Pal P K (Atmospheric Science Programme, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) Head Quarters, Bangalore-560 094, Email: d_jagadish@rediffmail.com ) : Atmospheric stability index using radio occultation refractivity profiles. J Earth Syst Sci 2011, 120(2), 311-9.

A new stability index based on atmospheric refractivity at <126>500 hPa level and surface measurements of temperature, pressure and humidity is formulated. The new index named here as refractivity based lifted index (RLI) is designed to give similar results as traditionally used lifted index derived from radiosonde profiles of temperature, pressure and humidity. The formulation of the stability index and its comparison with the traditional temperature profile based lifted index (LI) is discussed. The index is tested on COSMIC radio occultation derived refractivity profiles over Indian region. The forecast potential of the new index for rainfall on 2° x 2° latitude-longitude spatial scale with lead time of 3-24 hours indicate that the refractivity based lifted index works better than the traditional temperature based lifted index for the Indian monsoon region. Decreasing values of RLI tend to give increasing rainfall probabilities.

4 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

000367   Iyer U S;Nagar S G (NO, Indian Institute of Tropical Meterology, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune-411 008, Email: usha@tropmet.res.in) : Variability in surface inversionv characteristics over India in winter during the recent decades. J Earth Syst Sci 2011, 120(1), 73-84.

The variation in surface inversions during the recent decades over 20 stations in the Indian region is documented. Radiosonde data at OOUTC for the period 1971-2000 has been used to compute the inversion frequency. The depth and strength of the inversions as well as the wind speed through the inversion layer have also been computed. The frequency of inversions at stations north of 20°N is <126>20-60% higher than stations located south of 20°N. Moreover, all the stations show frequencies increasing from the 1st to the 3rd decade. Most of the stations show decreasing depth and increasing strength significant at 99% level. With the exception of Nagpur and Hyderabad which show high frequency of very deep inversions increasing from, the 1st to the 3rd decade, the decadal variations of inversion depth at most of the other stations show that shallow and moderate inversions occur more frequently than deep or very deep inversions. Decadal variations in inversion strength show weak inversion frequencies decreasing from the 1st to the 3rd decade while moderate/strong inversions occur more frequently at most stations. Frequencies of very strong inversions are low or absent. Wind speeds are either weak or moderate with frequencies increasing from the 1st to the 3rd decade. Low frequency of strong winds and negligible frequency of very strong winds are observed.

6 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

000366   Hari Krishna K;Appala Raju N (Geo-Engineering Dep, Andhra Univ, Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Land use and land cover mapping analysis through remote sensing and GIS techniques- a case study of GVMC. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 23-30.

The present research paper is focused on comprehensive analysis of existing land use/ land cover characteristics of Visakhapatnam city based on Greater Visakha Municipal Corporation boundary using Remote Sensing data. Land is one the critical natural resources on which most developed activities are based. This study is based on both primary and secondary data. The satellite data have been used for the land use/ land cover classification of Visakhapatnam city is based on NRSC manual. The land use /land cover types as identified are built up land, agricultural land, forest land waste land, marshy land and water bodies. 37 percent of the area covered by the built up land. 25 percent of the area covered by the hilly terrain and forests. Agricultural land is covered by 18 percent of the area and waste land is covered by the 15 percent of the area remaining marshy land and water bodies are occupied by the 2 and 3 percent of the area.

4 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

000365   Gupta A K;Nair S S (NO, National Institute of Disaster Management, IIPA Campus, New Delhi-110 002, Email: envirosafe2007@gmail.com) : Urban floods in Bangalore and Chennai: risk management challenges and lessons for sustainable urban ecology. Curr Sci 2011, 100(11), 1638-45.

Number of major cities and towns in India reported a series of devastating urban floods in the recent decade. Mumbai flood 2005 followed by other major cities of South Asia like Dhaka, Islamabad, Rawalpindi also suffered with urban flooding. Census 2001 figured 285 million people in 35 metro cities of India, and is estimated to cross 600 million with 100 metro cities in 2021. Regional ecological challenges coupled with climatic variability are noted to aggravate flood risks and impact on affected communities. Urban flooding was primarily a concern of municipal and environmental governance, has now attained the status of 'disaster', which has drawn the attention of environmental scientists and disaster managers. Challenges of urban flooding in terms of drainage and flood mitigation including structural and non-structural measures and key issues of urban ecology in two major metropolitan cities of India - Bangalore and Chennai, have been studied. Risk management challenges in the context of land-use, city and population growth, wetland degeneration, waste disposal have been discussed.

8 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

000364   Guin D (Geography Dep, Khamarberia Jr. High School, Onda, Bankura, West Bengal) : Literacy of scheduled tribes in West Bengal: a socio-geographical. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 712-20.

The present paper is an attempt to unfold the literacy scenario of STs in West Bengal using the data from census of India. Though the level of literacy of STs has been increasing steadily, still it is much lower than those of other sections of population, i.e. scheduled castes and non scheduled population. The district level analysis gives an insight to the high degree of spatial variation of level of literacy and different dimensions of disparity in literacy. Besides these general findings, different factors responsible for such type of spatial variation have also been identified from the correlation-coefficient of different socio-economic indicators and literacy.

3 illus, 6 tables, 13 ref

000363   Guha S (Geography Dep, Rammohan College, Kolkata-700 009) : Dynamic geomorphological processes and sediment transport- a case study from Hugli estuary and Sagar island. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 211-20.

The study shows various morphological processes and their impacts on the movement of sediment in a complex dynamic coastal zone like Hugli Estuary and Sagar Island. This is an area where eustatic, isostatic and tectonic forces control the significant geomorpholoical changes in a combine manner. Sediment transport is very important phenomena in this particular study area. With the help of satellite imageries, GIS techniques and a lot of numerical modeling with engineering parameters the study has given a fruitful result. There is a constant movement of sediment in this zone. Analysis of sediment samples show sand and clay are found togetherly. Cohesivity of sediments is affected by the seasonal salinity variations near the mouth of the estuary. It is seen that in saline water fine sand is more cohesive while silt may have non-cohesive properties in fresh water.

3 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

000362   Ghosh T K (NO, Rajdia Abdul Jabber Balika Bidyalaya, Bangladesh) : Agricultural land capability and land use of the lower Tista basin India & Bangladesh. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 497-506.

This author has made some discussion on the problem of Land Capability and Land use of the Lower Tista Basin India and Bangladesh. The present paper is concerned with the study of land capability and land use of the Lower Tista Basin Zone to Zone. We find the area available for cultivation has been shrinking steadily district wise. This tendency of special development of settlement at the cost of farmlands and forests must be arrested. The only way to do that is the develop learning vertically even in the rural areas. This measure by the Government in resettling the vast mass of people uprooted by periodic floods of the Tista India and Bangladesh. The changing land use pattern over the last two decades that there has not been much change in the area under forests but the development of roads and new settlements, has caused the decrease in areas available for cultivation.

8 illus, 4 ref

000361   Ghosh S (NO, Krishnath College, Berhampore, Murshidabad, West Bengal, Email: sghosh2871972@gmail.com) : Geomorphic land evaluation for sustainable use of land resources in Purulia district, West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 263-74.

The present work is an attempt to classify the land on the basis of geomorphic parameters for sustainable use of land resources. Puruliya district is situated in the western most part of West Bengal consists of plateau fringe area. Plateau fringe area has diversified landscape features ranging from hills, undulating terrain to valley fill zone. Terrain of the district is mainly controlled by granite-gneiss rocks. Terrain in the region is mainly characterized by undulating terrain with occasional hillocks. Soil is mainly lateritic and poor ground water resource. Different geomorphic parameters (absolute relief, relative relief, slope and drainage density) are calculated from the SOI topographical map. Geomorphic land classification is carried out by overlaying different geomorphic parameters in GIS environment. Four land categories are generated. Class-1 & class-II land indicate good and moderately good quality land in terms of relief, slope and drainage. Class-Ill & class-IV land indicate fair and poor quality land in terms of relief, slope, drainage. Among these. class-I & class-II land categories jointly cover nearly 80% of the total area. It indicates that nearly 80% of the study area, geomorphic features is not constraints for human intervention of land use. Plateau fringe area is the epitome of wasteland and provides several important constraints on human land use. This area is characterized by predominance of agricultural activities, but not properly developed. Therefore, sustainable land use practices are only option for the present as well as future generation. Sustainable land use means production with conservation. It is achieved through crop rotation, terracing of agricultural land, agro-forestry, organic and inorganic fertilizer use along with lime, green coverage through JFM and efficient use of water resource. Class-I & class-II land are suitable for agriculture and allied activities and class-Ill & class-IV land are suitable for forestry related activities.

6 illus, 6 tables, 11 ref

000360   Ghosh K G;Pal S (Geography Dep, Visva-Bharati, Santiniketan, West Bengal, Email: krishsansegeo@gmail.com) : Spatio-temporal change detection of agricultural development: an analysis on Murshidabad district, West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 221-8.

Measurement of agricultural development is one of the important aspects to delineate the economic root and help to adopt necessary steps for agricultural development as per need. In the present study the spatio temporal disparities in agricultural development status in Murshidabad district has been analysed with the help of Z-score taking into account justified 29 indicators for the year 1995 and 2007. For block level analysis the Z-scores have been grouped into 5 categories. The Berhampore, Domkol and Nabagram accounted high development while Farakka and Samserganj recorded low development status during both the periods. But, there is a wide range of spatio-temporal variation in response to fast changing socio-cultural and economic conditions. Moreover, the tendency of the people shifting to the other occupation, crisis of economically & educationally equipped farmer and labour as well as multiplied demand aggravated the problem. Improved infrastructure, education, financial support etc. may help to overcome the problem.

3 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

000359   Ghosh G K;Rawat M S;Joshi V (Jalingi High School, Jalingi, Murshidabad, West Bengal, Email: goutamkg7919@gmail.com ) : Landslide inventory of the north district of Sikkim Himalaya. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 443-64.

Landslides and slope failures are the most common natural phenomenon in the North District of Sikkim Himalaya, causing heavy damage to property, disruption of the road network, loss of human lives, and urban and rural settlement and various other civil engineering structures, particularly during the monsoon season. The total number, frequency, dimension and damages are determined mainly by weak geological conditions, immature topography of the terrain, heavy rainfall and anthropogenic factors. The present landslide inventory paper of the North district of Sikkim Himalaya has been prepared for future landslide hazard assessment of this area. The landslide inventory map of the study area has been prepared on Arc GIS software and textual part of the present paper has been prepared Ms Word file. The inventory consists information of 84 major landslides within the study area of which 29% are debris slide/flow, 29% are rock cum debris/complex slide, 17% are sinking/subsidence/rotational slide and the rest of the slides are heterogeneous slide. The landslide occurrences with the geology of the study area indicates that low grade melamorphites of Daling Group are most susceptible to landslide whereas the Gneissic rocks of Central Crystalline Gneissic Complex (CCGC) Group are least susceptible to landslide. The present paper includes attributes-such as location, Morphometric characteristics, geology, landuse pattern, causative factors etc. this landslide database is based on mostly previous published and unpublished work and also partly on the field studies carried out up to2nd - 3rd November, 2011.

2 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

000358   Gandhi N;Sanjeev Kumar;Prakash S;Ramesh R; Sheshshayee M S (NO, Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: naveen@prl.res.in) : Measurement of marine productivity using <. J Earth Syst Sci 2011, 120(1), 99-116.

Various experiments involving the measurement of new, regenerated and total productivity using ¹⁵N and 13C tracers were carried out in the Bay of Bengal (BOB) and in the Arabian Sea. Results from ¹⁵N tracer experiments indicate that nitrate uptake can be underestimated by experiments with incubation time <4 hours. Indirect evidence suggests pico- and nano-phytoplankton, on their dominance over microphytoplankton, can also influence the f-ratios. Difference in energy requirement for assimilation of different nitrogen compounds decides the preferred nitrogen source during the early hours of incubation. Variation in light intensity during incubation also plays a significant role in the assimilation of nitrogen. Results from time course experiments with both ¹⁵N and ¹³C tracers suggest that photoinhibition appears significant in BOB and the Arabian Sea during noon. A significant correlation has been found in the productivity values obtained using ¹⁵N and ¹³C tracers.

4 illus, 55 ref

000357   Fotedar A;Loan B A;Fotedar B K (Environmental Sciences Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 004) : Water chemistry of Loran Mandi nallah, Poonch area, Jammu & Kashmir state. J Aquatic Biol 2010, 25(2), 75-84.

Twenty water samples of Loran-Mandi nallah, Poonch area, J&K State were analysed for elements Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Na⁺, K⁺, Si⁴⁺, Fe²⁺, Cu²⁺, Ni²⁺, Zn²⁺, Pb²⁺ and Mn²⁺. The analyses revealed Si⁴⁺, Fe²⁺ and Pb²⁺ and Mn²⁺ to be present above permissible limits and hence waters are toxic for human consumption. As far as agricultural use of the waters of Loran-Mandi waters is concerned, no element is present above the permissible limits and hence the waters are non-hazardous for crops. Bicarbonates, sulphates, chlorides, nitrates, pH, total dissolved salts (TDS), electric conductivity (EC), total hardness (TH) are also present within the safer limits showing suitability of waters for both domestic use and agricultural use. Corrosivity Ratio (CR) <60> 1, Magnesium Ratio (MR) <60> 50, Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) <60> 6, Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC) <60> 2.5 and Soluble Sodium Percentage (SSP) values <60> 60 reveal waters safe for agricultural purpose. CR reveals waters can safely be transported through metallic pipes without any corrosion. Weathering index in the area is high resulting in enormous erosion and landslides making the waters turbid. In order to control erosion, adequate forestation in the upper reaches is recommended along with proper vetiver grass plantation to be carried out in the middle mountains. There is need of constructing embankments on both the banks of Loran-Mandi nallah from Rajpura to Chandak. This will reduce siltation and flash floods in the area. There is also need of proper sanitation in the whole belt to be attended to. Lastly, the water should be hygienically filtered in big tanks, disinfected with iodine/bromine/chlorine to make it fit for domestic use.

1 illus, 3 tables, 47 ref

000356   Dutta T K;Kundu P K (Barakoli High School, PO: Thakurpura Hat, Dakshin Dinajpur, West Bengal, Email: tarai.tushar@gmail.com) : Structural pattern of the toto house: a case study of totopara in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, India. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 239-46.

The spatial interaction between man and nature has been changed in the course of time throughout the world. Three basic needs of human being for his livelihood are food, cloth and shelter. Throughout thousands of years, man has shaped his environment for his wants. Even the tribes are not exceptional, though they were initially controlled fully by the nature. However, due to the touch of modern civilization such tribes are now compelled to change their traditional socio-cultural pattern as well as their habitat. The present paper is focussing particularly on the changing pattern of a traditional Toto house in the Sub -Himalayan region of Dooars of Jalpaiguri district of West Beneal of India.

4 illus, 11 ref

000355   Dutta R K (NO, Rabindra Bharati Univ, Kolkata-700 050, Email: rupam_2007bijoy@rediffmail.com) : Hydrogeomorphic mechanism of bank erosion of the Ganga river and its management with special emphasis on bio-engineering techniques in the western Himalayan foothill area, Haridwar district, Uttarakhand. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 191-204.

Riverbank erosion is a major hydrogeomorphic hazard observed in foothill and plain areas including some portions of deltaic parts. The present paper is concerned with analysis of the causes of the Ganga river bank erosion and its management in the Western Himalayan foothill zone, Haridwar district, Uttarakhand. The study area extends from 29°35'37"N to 30°13'29"N latitude and 77° 52' 52"E to78° 21' 57"E longitude covering an area of 1883 sq.km. The present study is based on the application of modern methodology including G1S, GPS and latest Remote Sensing data as well as intensive fieldwork. Haridwar city located at the foothill of Siwalik is facing various fluvial hazards, such as; Seasonal flood, water logging, river bank erosion, channel shifting, channel avulsion, rill and gully erosion etc. Among these hazards, river bank erosion creates maximum damage of the settlement area, agricultural areas and transport network. Due to shifting of river channels many villages have been rejected by villagers. That is why agriculture, settlement, road, vegetation etc land use elements are being damaged by these fluvial hazards. Hence a scientific landuse planning and preparation of hazard zonation map are very important for reducing the intensity of the problems of the area under study.

3 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

000354   Dey F (Geography Dep, Rabindra Bharati Univ, Kolkata, Email: falguni.dey2008@gmail.com) : Folk culture of West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 537-50.

Bengal has traditionally been the adobe of folk culture in India. Unlike other part of the world, with its variety of components like music, dance, drama, painting, folk culture represents the heart core feelings of rural Bengal. Politically saying, in the then India, East Bengal i.e. present day Bangladesh and West Bengal which share cultural similarities, were jointly named as Bengal. So far the term folk culture is concern, 'folk' means 'lok' or the 'people in general'. Folk culture is thus developed, maintained and nurtured mainly by the uneducated common people of rural Bengal. The origin of folk culture is deeply embedded in the religion, festival, education, health, emotion, love, marriage, entertainment, loneliness and in the variety range of human sentiments. Unfortunately, with passage of time, influx of urbanization, globalization and westernization have forced Bengal folk culture to confront a tremendous challenge at present day.

7 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

000353   Deshpande S M;Aher K R (Post Graduate Geology Dep, Institute of Science, Caves Road, Aurangabad, Email: dr_smd@gmail.com) : Hydrogeoelectrical studies in Harsul area of Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. J appl Geochem 2012, (Jun), 10-15.

Vertical electrical sounding (VES) was used to locate potential groundwater resources in Harsul area of Aurangabad. The geo-electrical field measurements are conducted in 7 selected locations of the study area, using Schlumberger configurations. The data has been analyzed through conventional curve matching techniques to find out the characteristics of the subsurface layers, potential ground water zones were identified in the study area. The presence of groundwater in geological formation leads to distinctive reduction in the resistivity value. This characteristic of geological formations makes the geoelectrical survey more suitable than any other geophysical method for delineation of potential groundwater zones. Geo-electrical surveys are conducted to find out variation of resistivity either with depth or laterally. The former type of survey is called vertical electrical sounding (VES) and the latter is called profiling. Many configurations have been developed to carry out profiling and VES. Wenner and Schlumberger configurations are widely used for profiling and VES respectively. The values so obtained by resistivity method were correlated with the geology of the area. The resistivity values are low up to a depth of 35m and further down the values show increase continuously indicating (35m onwards) the deficiency of water in the deeper levels. The results from this study area are, for a contribution to better understanding of the aquifer systems in the area. Based on vertical electrical soundings suggestions like, recharge measures i.e. roof top rainwater harvesting should be made mandatory for institutions, industries, commercial complexes and housing societies etc and if employed deficiency of water may be overcome and fulfill the demands and selective use of groundwater for domestic and agriculture can be increased in the area.

2 illus, 2 atbles, 9 ref

000352   Das T (Geography, Birpara College, Jalpaiguri, West Bengal) : Geographical ecology: dispersal of species of population in the world. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 669-74.

At the present time there are numerous geographers who concerned ecological concepts as providing an important basis for geographic explanation. Discussion are made on distribution of ecological elements through the viewpoint of geography. Through the study of geographical ecology more attempt is given to understand how organisms are distributed over the world and what force brought about this distribution. The exploration"why a particular species has come to occupy a particular niche in a particular part of the world,requires knowledge of where it originated, how it dispersed and how it evolved its present adjustments and characteristics" (Odum, Barrett. 2010 ). Consequently more pressure is given on just few aspects of the field like dispersal forces, causes, Continental drift (Sing, 1999) migrations, barriers,how organisms are growing and which factors are responsible for them etc in that article. Through this article it could be understand that how geography and ecology is inter-related,interact and inter-dependence one another. Finally for understanding of their present day distribution considerations are taken into Biogeography, Climatology and, paleo-ecology (Odum,Barrett. 2010 ).

1 illus, 6 ref

000351   Das S (Geography Dep, Kalyani Mahavidyalaya, Kalyani, Nadia-741 235) : Promotion of community based ecotourism (CBET) at Pastanga, East Sikkim. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 607-14.

The nature of tourism industry in 21st century is quite multi-dimensional. Globally the growth of this industry is remarkable. Tourism activities at a particular destination are characterized by its both positive and negative effects on economy and natural environment. The negative impacts become inevitable and severe if not managed sustainably. Promotion of ecotourism generally minimizes such negative impacts of tourism sector as it advocates promoting tourism in such a manner so that maximum profit can be achieved by minimum exploitation of environment both natural as well as cultural. Particularly, the CBET allows the maximum involvement of people of local communities to gain direct benefits of tourism activities. Such CBET ensures the conservation of natural environment and simultaneously the local culture also. This paper is an attempt to study the spatio-temporal and infrastructural development as well as promotion of CBET at Pastanga village of East Sikkim.

2 illus, 11 ref

000350   Das P;Das K;Chakraborty P P;Balakrishnan S (Geology Dep, Bengal Engineering and Science Univ, Howrah-711 103, Email: kaushik.met@gmail.com) : 1420 Ma diabasic intrusives from the mesoproterozoic Singhora group, Chhattisgarh supergroup, India: implications towards non-plume intrusive activity. J Earth Syst Sci 2011, 120(2), 223-36.

Besides offering significant clues towards tracking the geochemical evolution of the mantle and architectural reconstruction of different 'supercontinent', geochronological and geochemical appraisal of igneous inputs are also important to bracket the depositional time frame of any lithopackage, particularly, the unfossiliferous sedimentary successions. The present study deals with diabasic intrusive within Mesoproterozoic Saraipalli Formation, which is an argillaceous constituent present at the basal part of nearly 400 m thick four-tiered unmetamorphosed but deformed sedimentary succession of Singhora Group, Chhattisgarh Supergroup, central India. The SE-NW trending intrusive comprises mainly of plagioclase and augite together with minor orthopyroxene, biotite and opaque minerals. Though some plagioclase laths are partially sericitized, the ophitic-to-subophitic texture of the rock is well preserved. Major and trace element geochemical data indicate that this intrusive is basalt-to-basaltic andesite in character and of subalkaline basalt affinity. Multi-element plot shows overall LILE-enrichment and enrichment of Pb and slight depletion of Nb and P, coupled with moderate La/Nb and Th/Nb ratios. Zr, Y and Nb ternary diagrams plot in the fields of within plate basalt. Selected HFSE ratios indicate a non-plume source with crustal assimilation/sediment mixing. Sm-Nd and Rb-Sr isotope data show that the intrusive has Sr_initial and Nd_initial of 0.709377-0.706672 and 0.510919-0.510815, respectively. Positive ε^t Nd [t = 1420 Ma] values (+0.3 to + 2.3) indicate depleted isotopic nature of their protolith. The calculated TDM age is 1.7-1.9 Ga. The mineral-whole rock isochron data (Sm-Nd systematics) of the intrusive implies an emplacement age of ca. 1420 Ma. Considering synchronous terrain boundary shear zone development in Bastar craton on the southeastern part of the Singhora basin, mafic magmatism in Eastern Ghats and large-scale basic intrusion in Sausar mobile belt, a major tectono-thermal event around 1400 Ma is surmised that affected eastern Indian craton. Moreover, geochronology of a bedded porcellanite unit (ca. 1500 Ma) at the base and a discordant basic intrusive (ca. 1420 Ma) allowed a unique opportunity to qualitatively offer an upper bound of time bracket for the deposition of Saraipalli Formation, i.e., <126> 80 Ma.

11 illus, 4 tables, 44 ref

000349   Das G (Folklore Dep, Kalyani Univ, Kalyani-741 235) : Chaau dance of Chilkigarh, Jhargram: an extinct tradition. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 207-10.

Chhau is one our internationally well-known folk tradition. It is staged in the foreign countries since the 1930s as a folk dance of India and particularly in any travel and tourism festival presenting the culture of eastern India today. Chhau is characterised as a masked dance. However there remains spatial distinction on the manifestation of this very art form in between its Purulia, Mayurbhanj, Seraikala and Chilkigarh gharana among which the last one is declared extinct due to adverse physiological and social environment of the space concerned. This paper is an attempt to study the rise and fall of a folklore genre with the advancement of civil society and the impact of economic growth, urbanization and globalization.

5 ref

000348   Das D (Architecture Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata, Email: ddas_ju@yahoo.co.in) : Sky view factor of urban canyon geometry and its role in urban heat island effect-case study of Kolkata. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 1-10.

Urbanization in developing countries affects the quality of life of millions of people and the physical effect of urbanization have not been understood, for the knowledge base applied, by urban designers, planners, and architects. This is especially the case in tropical cities where urbanization is at peak. Urbanization's effect on the physical environment are apparent in air and water quality (WHO/UNEP, 1992) and it has also brought changes to human, other life forms and physical environemnt (Detwyler and Marcus, 1972). The direct impact of urbanization can be seen in our built environment. The urban built form geometry is changing and so the microclimate of that area. The urban geometry of built forms influences wind flow, energy absorption, and a given surface's ability to emit long-wave radiation back to space.Such changes are epitomized by the concept of Urban Heat Island. The study analyses one of the aspect of urban built form geometry, ie.Sky View Factor and its role in heat island mitigation strategies.

6 illus, 4 tables, 14 ref

000347   Chaudhuri S;Middey A;De B;Goswami S (Atmospheric Science Dep, Calcutta Univ, 51/2 Hazra Road, Kolkata-700 019, Email: chaudhari_sutapa@yahoo.com) : Comparative analysis of tropical land extra tropical cyclones with ground based and modis terra satellite data. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 31-44.

The purpose of the study is to compare with possible clarity the two cyclones, Aila and Katrina. The cyclone, Aila is generated, developed and dissipated over tropics whereas Katrina is developed over tropics but propagated and dissipated over extra tropics. The parameters considered for the comparison are minimum central pressure, wind speed, vertical wind shear, relative humidity, cloud optical depth, cloud coverage, cloud top temperature and aerosol optical depth. The result of the study reveals that the minimum central pressure decreases while the wind speed increases with the advancement of the cyclone Aila whereas the decrease in minimum central pressure is observed to be associated with decrease in wind speed for the cyclone Katrina. The cloud optical depth is observed to be a useful parameter for understanding the genesis, development and dissipation of both the cyclones. The result depicts a variation in cloud coverage during the formation and dissipation stages of both the cyclones, however no significant difference is observed during the mature stage. An important observation is obtained in relation to the cloud top temperature for the cyclones. The result further reveals an imperative finding regarding relative humidity and vertical wind shear associated with both the cyclones.

9 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

000346   Chattopadhyay S;Mandal S;Sengupta R (Geography Dep, Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata) : How micro-credit works in rural and urban area: two different stories. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 375-86.

The paper aims to understand how micro-credit works as a tool for poverty alleviation. For this purpose several Self-help Groups both from rural and urban areas have been interrogated and their functions and performances have been analyzed. Very contrasting situations are observed in rural and urban areas. Rural Self Help Groups are utilizing the credit more effectively and for productive purposes with a higher propensity to the income. Micro-credit enables the rural families to rise above the poverty line. Recovery rate of loan is found to be 100% for both rural and urban areas.

13 tables, 9 ref

000345   Chalapathi Rao N V (Centre for Advanced Study in Geology, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: nver100@gmail.com) : Sr-rich apatite and Nb-rutile from the chelima lamproite dykes, Cuddapah basin, Southern India and their petrological significance. Curr Sci 2011, 100(8), 1207-10.

The Chelima dykes intrude the Nallamalai Group of sedimentary rocks in the Cuddapah Basin, southern India, and constitute some of the world's oldest (1.38 Ga) known lamproites. Electron probe micro-analysis reveals that the Chelima apatite is Sr-rich (SrO: 2.01-7.72 wt%) and LREE-poor (ΣLREE = <60>1 wt%), whereas the Chelima rutile is Nb-bearing (Nb₂O₅: 0.58-1.91 wt%) and Fe-poor (FeO: <60>0.79 wt%). Even though apatite and rutile are present, albeit in much lesser modal proportions, in the co-spatial and broadly coeval (1.25-1.56 Ga) Krishna lamproites at the NE margin of the Cuddapah Basin, these minerals are relatively much impoverished in their respective Sr (SrO: up to 0.11 wt%) and Nb (Nb₂O₅: up to 0.13 wt%) contents. Recent geochemical (isotopic) studies showed the existence of an ancient (2-2.5 Ga) and anomalously enriched (metasomatized) subcontinental lithospheric mantle beneath the Cuddapah Basin and its environs. The contrasting distribution of two highly incompatible trace elements (viz. Sr and Nb) in apatite and rutile from the Chelima and Krishna lamproites reflects either the difference in the nature of their metasomatized mantle source regions or varying melt fraction of their magmas, or both. The present study shows distinct petrogenesis of the co-spatial Cuddapah (Chelima) and Krishna lamproites and highlights the utility of trace element chemistry of accessory phases in unravelling the nature and evolution of the underlying subcontinental lithospheric mantle.

3 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

000344   Chakraborty A (NO, Berhampore College, Murshidabad, West Bengal) : Population growth and economic status of muslim people in Indian context: the case study of a muslim minority concentrated district. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 139-46.

India is a country, inhabited by the people of various religious faiths peacefully. Among them Muslims are considered as the largest minority group. West Bengal is one of the Muslim minority concentrated state of India, with 1/4th of the state population occupied by people of Islamic faith. Although a huge spatio-temporal variation of Muslim population persist among several districts of West Bengal; Murshidabad remains in peak position having 63.67% Muslim population to total population of the district. The present study is an attempt to evaluate the growth of Muslim population in several community development blocks of Murshidabad district along with their economic status being based on the data procured from both primary and secondary sources. There is a colossal disparity found between the blocks in terms of growth of Muslim population, the consequence of which reflect through economic backwardness of Muslim people. Finally, the result of chi square technique justifies significant impact of population growth on economic status of Muslim people in Murshidabad district.

5 tables, 8 ref

000343   Chakrabarty P (Geography Dep, Kalyani Univ, Kalyani, Nadia) : Health tourism in Kerala. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 601-6.

Visit to Epidauria, the land of the healing God Asklepios, by the Greeks is considered as the earliest expression of health tourism which dates back thousands of years. Before the recognition of tourism as an industry, the spa towns and sanitariums kept the flag of medical tourism high. Today more than fifty countries have designated medical tourism as a national industry. Kerala is forerunner in the field of health tourism in India, which is earning revenues of more than $600 million with annual growth rate of 30 percent. Kerala has started its journey since 1980s and this is high time to evaluate the performance of medical tourism sector in Kerala with reference to its evolution during the last three decades. This paper is an attempt to study the various aspects of health tourism in Kerala.

6 ref

000342   Biswas M (Geography Dep, Baruipur College, West Bengal, Email: mery_rz@rediffmail.com) : Development of river valley and sustainable land use management of mandakini basin, Uttarakhand. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 179-90.

Paper deal with the fluvial Morphology and Development of River Valleys and sustainable land use management of Mandakini Basin,. The work is obtained through a case study of Mandakini basin area which is under the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. Actually it is a detail study on the aspects of valley formations, both by the action of glacier and fluvial under the litho-tectonic and climatic interferences. Development of morphological aspects is a result of the interaction of the hydraulics of flow and factors like velocity, discharge, roughness shear, channel configuration. The special emphasis has been given through the paper is the detail analysis of glacier as well as fluvial valley formations with the expansion of time and space. The present worker has tried to find out how tectonic and climatic causes have become responsible for the development of unpaired river terraces and these terraces are used for major land uses in past as well as today but in a changing nature especially regarding the agricultural system. Most elongated wide terraces are suitable for agriculture but irrigation facilities of the area is need to be developed through mini-hydel power projects or water supply may be regularized through pump system from Mandakini river as it is fed by snow melt water and water is available throughout the year. Regarding the soil nature, vegetable cultivation may be hugely developed both for domestic and business purpose which will help to change the occupation structure and strengthening economic and social scenario of the area under study.

10 ref

000341   Bhushan S K;Rao K N;Vidyadharan K T (NO, MSPL Limited, Baldota Enclave, Abheraj Baldota Road, Hospet-583 203) : Petrography and geochemistry of St. Mary Islands, near malpe, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka. J Geol Soc India 2010, 76(2), 155-63.

Present paper documents the petrography, mineral chemistry and petrochemistry of the acid volcanics of St.Mary group of islands. These are essentially characterized by pyroxene bearing rhyolites with average 73.49 wt.% SiO₂. All the rhyolites from these islands are acmite normative, hence peralkaline with phenocrysts of zoned plagioclase and sometimes hypersthene/augite. There is depletion of LREE with moderate negative Eu anomaly. The enhancement of HFSE elements indicates their compatibility with continental crust. These rhyolites have high equilibrium temperature (915°C) at relatively lower oxygen fugacity (10^-16). The acidic lava flows are anorogenic, within plate rhyolites, generated during northern migration of Indian plate over Marion hotspot.

9 illus, 6 tables, 28 ref

000340   Bhowmick S (Fulia Siksha Niketan, Fulia, Nadia, West Bengal, Email: swatibhowmick87@gmail.com) : Applied geomorphology in the perspective of disaster management. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 507-14.

The application of geomorphic principles for the solution of problems of society and environment is known as applied geomorphology. The relevance of applied geomorphology to many disasters and environmental problems can be demonstrated in almost every part of the world, but the degree of relevance varies with the environment and with the people who occupy or who are developing the area. Applied Geomorphology may contribute much to disaster management specially in the context of flooding and landsliding. In both the cases, the applied geomorphologist has a vital part to play in managing land and water-so long as his work can be understood by those who are to make the decision.

2 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

000339   Bhattacherya J (Geography Dep, Memari College, Memari., West Bengal) : Potentiality and prospects of ecotourism: a study of baranti, Purulia district, West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 531-6.

Since the 1980s Ecotourism has been considered a critical endeavor by environmentalists. According to the definition and principles of ecotourism established by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) in 1990, ecotourism is "Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." Development of Eco-tourism in Baranti area through developing & conserving forest, wild life & extending research and survey among students, researchers &children will improve the socio economic condition of the local poor village people through tourism based economic activities and forest based cottage industry. But unfortunately in spite of the enormous possibility for developing ecotourism in a sustainable and environmentally sound manner the area has been suffering from lack of infrastructural facilities. Present author has suggested some proposals for socioeconomic development of Baranti by using the potentiality of ecotourism.

2 illus, 8 ref

000338   Bhattacharya T K (School of Science, Netaji Subhas Open Univ, 1, Woodburn Park, Kolkata-700 020, Email: tinkikarbhattacharya@yahoo.com) : Hazard risk mapping of erosion-accretion for part of river Ganga of Murshidabad district of West Bangal, India through change detection analysis. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2012, 35(1), 643-56.

Natural hazard becomes natural disaster when it causes a serious disruption of human life and other properties. There arc different types of natural hazards. The present study has considered one of them, the riverbank erosion. This phenomenon is very common in case of river Ganga in its old alluvial stage. The study area has been considered the downstream stretch of the river Ganga from Farakka barrage in the Murshidabad district of the state of West Bengal, India. In this area river bank erosion has already made huge destruction of land, agricultural field, and other socio-economic properties and produced thousands of local people homeless or environmental refugees. Thus, preparation of hazard map of bank erosion of Ganga for the considered stretch becomes very important. The main objective of the present study is the creation of hazard map to know the phenomena, its intensity and to inform the local community and make them aware of the danger. In the present study the hazard maps have been prepared with the help of image processing tools. LANDSAT satellite Images of different years, taken by different sensors like. MSS, TM, ETM, from the year 1973 to 2010 have been used. Based on the spatial and temporal change of the river course the Erosion-Accretion Model (EAM) has been prepared by Change Detection Analysis (CDA). Before the preparation of the model several steps of image processing have been done, like georeferencing, resampling, image enhancing, layer stacking, band ratioing, classification, recoding etc. CDA helps to identify the areas affected by erosion and accretion. The rates of erosion and accretion, the areal quantification have also been found out. The areas which are likely to be affected by river bank erosion have also been identified, which will help for the better management plan of the affected areas.

8 illus, 45 ref