Enter records

ID: 63348
Title: Urban waste recycling in developing countries should be improved
Author: Alexander Gorobets
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (2) 173-174 (2019)
Subject: Urban waste recycling in developing countries should be improved
Keywords: Urban waste recycling, Developing countries, improved
Abstract: Currently, the major ecological concern in developing countries (e.g Mexico, Indian, China) is the poor control of urban waste (highlighted by epidemics of rubbish dumps).This is leading to unsustainable use/depleting of the Earth’s limited natural resources and the global pollution of life-supporting hydrosphere, atmosphere, lithosphere and biosphere (particularly by phosphorus and nitrogen from food waste and hazardous chemicals from electronic and plastic waste) due to water/air streams and interrelated biogeochemical cycles. At present, the major part of all urban solid waste (USW) in developing countries goes to landfills, incineration and illegal dumps that is unsustainable and risky for both human health and the global natural environment (e.g. climate change through methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions).Only a small part of USW in developing countries is recycled.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Grizzetti, B. Et al., Environ. Sci. Policy, 2013, 33, 186-195. WHO, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, 2018
Literature cited 2: IPCC, International Panel for Climate Change, Geneva, Switzerland, 2018 Turner, D.A. et al. Resour, Conserv. Recycling, 2015, 105, 186-197.

ID: 63347
Title: A simple push-pull strategy to harvest earthworms from coconut leaf vermicompost produced in tanks
Author: Murali Gopal, and Alka Gupta
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 138-144 (2019)
Subject: A simple push-pull strategy to harvest earthworms from coconut leaf vermicompost produced in tanks
Keywords: Coconut leaf vermicompost, cow dung, earthworm harvesting, mustard solution, push-pull strategy.
Abstract: The process to recycle lignin-rich coconut leaves, produced in abundance from coconut gardens, to vermicompost, using a local isolate of Eudrilus sp. Is an important value-addition technology from ICAR-Central Plantation Crop Research Institute helping coconut farmers and entrepreneurs to enhance their economic returns. Vermicompost is produced in cement tanks and at the end of the composting period, earthworms are hand-sorted from the mature and partially composted materials by employed workers. The scarcity of labour for earthworm sorting and non-availability of earthworms at the required time for further vermicomposting had become an impediment in sustained production of vermicompost leading to abandonment of the technology by many adopters. To overcome this situation, a simple push-pull /pull-pull strategy was developed for harvesting the earthworms, wherein freshly ground mustard solution was used as repellent (Push agent) and cow dung (with or without bagasse/banana wastes) was used as an attractant (‘pull’ agent).The strategy is simple, efficient and saves on labour , eliminates drudgery, reduces production cost and time. It will pave way for sustained adoption of vermicomposting technology by coconut farmers and entrepreneurs.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Prabhu, S.R., Subramanian, P., Bidappa, C.C. and Bopaih, B.M., Prospects of improving coconut productivity through vermiculture technologies. Indian Coconut J., 1998, 29, 79-84. Gopal, M., Gupta, A. And Thomas, G.V., Opportunity to sustain coconut ecosystem services through recycling of the palm leaf litter as vermicompost: Indian scenario (a technology/research note). Coconut Res. Dev., 2010, 26, 42-55.
Literature cited 2: Jaganathan, D., Thamban, C., Jose, C.T., Jayasekhar, S. and Anitha Kumari, P., Analysis of organic farming practices in coconut in South India. J. Plantation Crops, 2013, 41, 71-79. Lawrence, A.P. and Bowers, M.A., A test of the ‘hot’ mustard extraction method of sampling earthworms. Soil Biol .Biochem., 2001, 34, 549-552.

ID: 63346
Title: Sharp variations in groundwater levels at the same location: a case study from a heavily overexploited, fractured rock aquifer system near Bengaluru, South India
Author: P.N.Ballukraya and V.Srinivasan
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 130-138 (2019)
Subject: Sharp variations in groundwater levels at the same location: a case study from a heavily overexploited, fractured rock aquifer system near Bengaluru, South India
Keywords: Borehole depth, dewatered zone, fractured rock aquifer, ggroundwater level.
Abstract: Analyses of 83 borehole camera video scans revealed that (i) measured groundwater levels show variations of up to about 200m, even in borewells located in close proximity to each other; (ii) water-bearing joints located at shallow depths in deeper borewells often produce cascades of water which flow down-hole till they meet the water level; (iii) the downward flow recharging waters directly through the existing borewells shafts lead to the formation of a dewatered zone below the recharge zone and above the saturated zone, and (iv) the borewells completed in the dewatered zone show a direct relationship between water level and well depth-deeper the borewell , deeper is the water level. Only the currently yielding borewells, with atleast one water-yielding joint below the water level rise a fair estimate of the regional groundwater table.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Briscoe, J. and Malik, R.P.S., India’s Water Economy: Bracing for a Turbulent Future, Oxford University Press, New Delhi, 2006. Shah, T., The groundwater economy of South Asia: an assessment of size, significance and socio-ecological impacts. In the Agricultural Groundwater Revolution: Opportunities and Threats to Development (eds Giordano, M. and Villholth, K.G.), CABI, Oxfordshire, UK, 2007, pp.7-36.
Literature cited 2: CGWB, Annual report for 2011-12, Central Ground Water Board, Faridabad, 2012. Alzzard, M. et al., Investigation of recharge dynamics and flow paths in a fractured crystalline aquifer in semi-arid India using borehole logs: implications recharge dynamics and flow paths in a fractured crystalline aquifer in semi-arid India using borehole logs: implications for managed aquifer recharge.J. Hydrogeol, 2016, 24, 35-57.

ID: 63345
Title: Production of novel bioflocculants from Kelbsiella variicola BF1 using cassava starch wastewater and its application
Author: Ngoc Tuan Nguyen, Thi Ha My Phan, Tuyet Nhung Tran, Bharath Kumar
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 121-129 (2019)
Subject: Production of novel bioflocculants from Kelbsiella variicola BF1 using cassava starch wastewater and its application
Keywords: Cassava starch, exopolysaccharide, flocculants, Kelbsiella variicola, wastewater treatment.
Abstract: In this study, Klebsiella variicola BF1 that uses cassava starch wastewater to produce flocculants was identified using 16S rDNA gene sequencing. The pure flocculants of strain BF1 could be easily extracted by ethanol precipitation with a high yield of 7.5 g/l. It was mainly composed of 83.1 % carbohydrates and 10.6 % proteins. The flocculating activity revealed 97.6 ± 0.6 % for kaolin suspension at 12.8 mg/l CaCl2.Interestingly, the flocculating activity was 78 % without the addition of metal ions. Furthermore, flocculants of strain BF1 can be effectively applied in the treatment of cassava starch wastewater and municipal wastewater.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Buthelezi, S.P., Olaniran, A.O. and Pillay. B., Production and characterization of biofloculants from bacteria isolated from wastewater treatment plant in South Africa. Biotechnol. Bioprocess Eng., 2010, 15, 874-881. Dermlim, W., Prasertsan, P. and Doelle, H., Screening and characterization of bioflocculant produced by isolated Klebsiella sp. Appl.Microbiol. Biotechnol.,1999, 52, 698-703.
Literature cited 2: Sun, P., Hui, C., Bai, N., Yang, S., Wan, L., Zhang, Q., and Zhao, Y., Revealing the characteristics of a novel bioflocculant and its flocculation performance in Microcystic aeruginosa removal.Sci.Rep. 2015, 5, 17465. Yu, L. et al. A novel Fe (III) dependent bioflocculant from Klebsiella oxytoca GS -4-08: culture conditions optimization and flocculation mechanism. Sci. Rep., 2016, 6, 34980.

ID: 63344
Title: Microbiological quality of drinking water in Amarja reservoir catchment, Aland taluk, Karnataka, India
Author: Syed Shams Rizvi and M.A. Mohammed -Aslam
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 114-121 (2019)
Subject: Microbiological quality of drinking water in Amarja reservoir catchment, Aland taluk, Karnataka, India
Keywords: Aerobic plate count, drinking water contamination, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, sulphite-reducing anaerobes
Abstract: Geogenic and anthropogenic activities are the main reasons for the deterioration of groundwater quality. Different kinds of microbial pathogens present in drinking water are responsible for gastrointestinal and waterborne diarrhoeal diseases. The present study estimates the microbial quality of drinking water of Amarja reservoir catchment in Aland taluk, Karnataka, India. Thirty-two water samples were taken from different villages in the study area. Microbiological parameters like Escherichia aeruginosa, sulphite-reducing anaerobes and aerobic plate count at 37°C was analysed. The results showed that 18 of the 32 samples were positive for E. coli and total coliform, 17 samples for P.aeruginosa and 18 samples for sulphite-reducing anaerobes. Moreover, six samples were positive for both E. coli and sulphite-reducing anaerobes, whereas five samples were positive for sulphite-reducing anaerobes and P.aeruginosa.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Rajendra, S., Rubin, D. And Abhishek, M., Microbiological quality of potable water in Dehradun city.Int.Res.J.Pharma., 2012, 3 (6), 130-137. Palamuleni, L. And Akoth, M.Physico-chemical and microbial analysis of selected borehole water in Kahikeng, South Africa.Int.J.Environ.Res.Public Health, 2015, 12 (8), 8619-8630.
Literature cited 2: Macy, J.T.and Quick, R.E., Transmission and prevention of water-diseases. In Encyclopedia of Life Support System, Eolss Publishers Co Ltd,Oxford,UK,2009,ISBN:978-1-84826-182-2. Mena, K.D., and Gerba, C.P., Risk assessment of Pseudomonas bacteria in water. Rev. Environ. Contam., Toxicol. 2009, 201, 71-115.

ID: 63343
Title: Evaluation of a crop growth model for sweet potato over a set of agro-climatic conditions in India
Author: V.S.Santhosh Mithra, Raji Pushpalatha, S.Sunitha, James George, PP.Singh, R.S.Singh, J.Tarafdar, Surajit Mithra, Chandra Deo, Sunil Pareek, B.K.M.Lakshmi, R.Shiny and G.Byju
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 104-109 (2019)
Subject: Evaluation of a crop growth model for sweet potato over a set of agro-climatic conditions in India
Keywords: Crop phenology, calibaration, growing degree days, SPOTCOMS, simulation.
Abstract: A study was conducted to evaluate the wider applicability of sweet potato growth model, ‘SPOTCOMS’ for simulating the phenology and yield over asset of agroclimatic conditions in India. The model simulated the phenology of the crop as a function of growing degree days. The genetic coefficients required for the model were estimated from the field experiments conducted with sweet potato variety, Shree Bhadra and other local varieties at the study locations. The model simulated the yield of the sweet potato well and the statistical indices calculated between the simulated and observed yields stated the reliability of the model simulations. The agreement index (D-ind3ex) for sree Bhadra ranged from 0.55 to 0.99, and the D-index for local varieties ranged from 0.55 to 0.99, and the D-index for local varieties ranged from 0.51 to 1.00.The calculated values of normalized objective function ranged from 0.01 to 0.10 for Sree Bhadra and 0.00 to 0.22 for other local varieties, and indicated better agreement of simulated and observed yields. The normalized root mean square error ranged from 0.80 % to 10.40 % for sree Bhadra and 0.00 % to 22.44 % for other varieties, and these results suggested the wider applicability of the model with excellent to good simulations. The mod3el also simulated dry matter distribution in tubers pertaining to different stresses such as water, nitrogen and potassium. The study revealed that the simulation model ‘SPOTCOMS’ can be used for simulating the yield as well as to manage the stresses during the crop growth period and to optimize best management practices for the crop cultivation irrespective of the agroclimatic conditions.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Muktar, A.A., Tanimu, B., Anurah, U.L. and Babaji, B.A., Evaluation of the agronomic characters of sweet potato varieties grown at varying levels of organic and inorganic fertilizer. World J. Agric. Sci., 2010, 6 () , 370-373. Ustimenko, C.G.V .and Bakumovsky, Plant growing in Tropics and Subtropics, Mir Publishers, 1982.
Literature cited 2: Villareal, R.L., Sweet potato in tropics: progress and problems. In Proceedings of the Ist International Symposium on Sweet Potato (eds Villereal, R.L.and Griggs, T.D.) AVRDC, Taiwan, China, 1982, pp.3-15. Edison, S., Vinayaka Hegde, Makesh kumar, T., Srinivas,T., Suja,G. And Padmaja,G., The sweet potato in the Indian Sub-Continenet.In The Sweet Potato,Springer,Netherlands, 2009, pp.391-414.

ID: 63342
Title: Development of avalanche information system using remote sensing and GIS technology in the Indian Karakoram Himalaya
Author: H.S.Gusain, H.S. Negi, Sudhir Dhamija, V.D.Mishra and Snehmani
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 104-109 (2019)
Subject: Development of avalanche information system using remote sensing and GIS technology in the Indian Karakoram Himalaya
Keywords: Avalanches, geographic information system, remote sensing. Snowfall
Abstract: Snow avalanches pose severe threat to lives and property in snow-bound regions of the Western Himalaya. The Karakoram Range in Western Himalaya has the highest mean elevation and is the most glaciated region compared to other ranges. Snowfall in this range is frequent even during summer season. Snow accumulation on mountain slopes results into frequent snow avalanches and several lives have been lost due to snow avalanches in the past. In this communication we discuss about the development of avalanche information system using remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) technology for the Indian Karakoram Himalaya. High spatial resolution (0.5m) PLEIADES satellite images and digital elevation model (DEM) of ASTER GDEM V2 (30 m) and Cartosat (10M) have been used here. Terrain parameters, eg. slope, aspect, elevation, etc. have been derived using DEM. Sites in avalanche-prone areas have been identified using terrain parameters and snowfall information. Villages in the region, camp locations of border guarding personnel, pedestrian routes followed by villagers and border-guarding personnel, avalanche sites along pedestrian routes, etc. have been digitized using appropriate GIS vector features, eg. point, line and polygons. Past avalanche accidents along pedestrian routes, past avalanche occurrences, climatology of the region, etc. have been mapped in GIS environment. Remote sensing and GIS technology proved to be useful for the development of avalanche information system in digital form. The system is being used for avalanche forecasting and mitigation of avalanche hazard in the Indian Karakoram Himalaya.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Sharma, S.S. and Ganju A., Complexities of avalanche forecasting in Western Himalaya: an overview. Cold Reg. Sci. Technol., 2000, 31, 95-102. Gusain,. S, Mishra, V.D., Arora, M.K., Shailesh, M. and Singh, D.K., Operational algorithm for generation of snow depth maps from discrete data in Indian Western Himalaya. Cold. Reg. Sci. Technol., 2016, 126, 22-29.
Literature cited 2: McClung, D.M., Avalanche character and fatalities in the high mountains of Asia. Ann. Glaciol, 2016, 57 (71), 114-118. Ganju, A., Thakur, N.K., and Rana, V., Characteristics of avalanche accidents in western Himalayan region, India. In Proceedings of the International Snow Science Workshop, Penticton, B.C., Canada, 29 September-4 October 2002, pp.200-207.

ID: 63341
Title: Development of composite radial filter for recharging aquifers with canal water
Author: Gaurav, J.P. Singh, P.P. Sahota and K.Singh
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 87-93 (2019)
Subject: Development of composite radial filter for recharging aquifers can l water
Keywords: Aquifer, artificial recharge, canal water, composite radial, filter
Abstract: A laboratory scale model of composite radial filter was designed, fabricated and tested for recharging aquifer with canal water. Charcoal (C), coarse sand (CS) and gravel (G) filter materials were placed in annular rings of developed radial filter in different combination of thickness, viz.1:1, 11:1, 1:2, 1:2:2 and 1:2:1 for four treatments T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. Flow equation for discharge through composite radial filter was developed and verified through experiments. The design depth of the filter for given discharge was also obtained. Sodium hypochlorite solution was injected through chlorination unit at the outlet of the radial filter to remove the bacteriological contamination of filtered water. The performance of composite radial filter was evaluated by analyzing canal water before and after filtration. Water Quality parameters of filtered water were found to be within permissible limit at low flow rate (0.3 lps) .The water quality parameters of filtered water from treatment T3 with thickness of 10, 20 and 20 cm for C, CS and G respectively was found to be comparatively better than other three treatments (T1, T2 and T4).The composite radial filter consists of C, CS and G filter media having thickness in ratio of 1:2:2 was found to be the best for recharging groundwater aquifer with canal water.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Rodell, M., Velicogna, I. And Famiglietti, J.S., Satellite-based estimates of groundwater depletion in India. Nature, 2009.460 (7258), 999-1002. Kamra, S.K. and Sharma, D.K., Groundwater recharge structures for small farmers in alluvial regions. In third Ground Water Congress, Central Ground Water Board, Ministry of Water Resources, Government of India, 2011, 22-23, pp. 168-174.
Literature cited 2: Kumar, S., Kamra, S.K., Yadav, R.K. and Sharma, J.P., Evaluation of sand-based storm water filtration system for groundwater recharge wells. Curr. Sci., 2012, 103 (4), 395-404. Ramachandrappa, B.K., Thimmegowda, M.N., Studies on borewell recharge through filter bed using runoff water in eastern dry zone of Karnataka. Indian J. Dryland Agric. Res. Dev., 2016., 30)2), 44-49.

ID: 63340
Title: An integrated approach in developing flood vulnerability index of India using spatial multi-criteria evaluation technique
Author: K.H.V.Durga Rao, Shravya Alladi and Amanpreet Singh
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 80-86 (2019)
Subject: An integrated approach in developing flood vulnerability index of India using spatial multi-criteria evaluation technique
Keywords: Flood vulnerability index, morphometric analysis, probable maximum precipitati0n, probable maximum run-off, run-off potential, spatial decision support system.
Abstract: In recent years, flash floods took place in various parts of the country that are not under floodplains due to high rainfall events, causing damage to rail, road and urban infrastructure. There is a need to develop a flood vulnerable index map of the country for precautionary measures in such vulnerable areas. Developing flood vulnerability index (FVI) at country level in India is a multifaceted job due to huge variations in topographic, meteorological and hydrological conditions over space and time. The paper focuses on developing a scientific approach in preparing FVI map of the country in a spatial decision support system environment by using space-based inputs, topographic data and long-term meteorological data. Probable maximum precipitation (PMP) and high rainfall frequency were computed using 100 years daily rainfall data of the country. Runoff potential of the country was prepared sing high resolution landuse, soils, and digital elevation model grids. Probable maximum run-off was further computed at national level using PMP and run-off potential grids. Morphometrric analysis was done using topographic and drainage information. All these layers were normalized and integrated in SDSS environment to compute the flood vulnerability index of the country. Suitable weights were given for all layers using the knowledge base reviewed across the globe. Sensitivity analysis and validation were done using the previous flood incidents.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: WMO, Associated program on flood management. Technical Support Unit, Associated Programme on Flood Management Technical Document No.1, 2004, 2nd edn. Yashon, O.O. and Ryutaro, T., Urban flood vulnerability and risk mapping using integrated multi-parameteric AHP and GIS: methodological overview and case study assessment. Water, 2014, 6, 1515-1545; doi:10.3390/w6061515.
Literature cited 2: Balica,S.F., Wright, N.G., vander Meulen,F.A flood vulnerability index for coastal cities and its use in assessing climate change impacts.Nat.Hazards, 2012, 64 (1), 73-105; doi: 10.1007/s11069-012-0234-1 Balica, S.F., Popescu, I., Beevers, L.and Wright, N.G., Parametric and physically based modelling techniques for flood risk and vulnerability assessment: a comparison. Environ. Model. Softw., 2013, 41, 84-92; doi:10.116/j.ensoft.2012.11.002.

ID: 63339
Title: Household-level food and nutrition insecurity and its determinants in eastern India
Author: Shinoj Parappurathu, Anjani Kumar, Cynthia Bantilan and Pramod Kumar Joshi
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 71-79 (2019)
Subject: Household-level food and nutrition insecurity and its determinants in eastern India
Keywords: Household food security, food policy, calorie intake, under-nutrition
Abstract: Past studies have reported serious levels of food insecurity and under-nutrition existing in the eastern belt of India. This study specifically examined the food consumption pattern, levels of nutrition intake and nutrient intake gap of sample households in 12 villages of Eastern India based on data collected during the agricultural year 2011-12. The results point to serious levels of nutrient intake deficit in the sample villages, though with notable disparities in its level of incidence. Major socio-economic and demographic variables that determine the calorie deficit status of the households were identified, the knowledge of which is important while planning interventions.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Agricultural Statistics at a Glance 2015, Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, 2015. Von Grebmer, K. Et al., 2016 Global hunger index: Getting to zero hunger, Bonn Washington, DC and Dublin: WelthungerhilfeInternal Food Policy Research Institute, and Concern Worldwide, 2016.
Literature cited 2: Rapid Survey on Children (RSoC) 2013-14, National Report, Ministry of women and Child Development, Government of India. Gulati, A., Kumar, A.G., Shreedhar, G.and Nandakumar, T., Agriculture and malnutrition in India, Food Nutr.Bull., 2012, 33 (1), 74-86.

ID: 63338
Title: Overview of damage assessment of structures
Author: Pritam Hait, Arjun Sil and Satyabrata Choudhury
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 30-36 (2019)
Subject: Overview of damage assessment of structures
Keywords: Bridges and buildings, damage index, loss assessment, seismicity
Abstract: Different available analytical and experimental methodologies of local and global damage index (LDI and GDI) determination for bridges and buildings along with their mathematical expression are reviewed in this article. In the literature, impact of seismic loading and material deterioration due to ageing effects is the main focus to study the performance. Case studies for assessment of bridges and buildings are appended here to understand variation of damage index (DI) for various levels of seismicity. The utility of the proposed methods has been discussed in this case study. This article also includes progressive development, limitations and directions of future research on damage assessment of structures. Based on the extensive literature review, the authors have critically analysed the pros and cons of the available methods. However, time-dependent damage assessment, damage estimation for various structural and non-structural components using different materials, variation of damage for different configurations of structures, and deterioration of roads and bridges are the probable future scope for research. In future, damage-based design considering multiple response parameters along with uncertain load, blast load, floods and accidental load could be considered to select allowable damage of structures that would help to understand and ensure the time-dependent safety, progressive phases of collapse and serviceability with high reliability satisfying smart structural requirements.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Griffith, A.A., The phenomena of rupture and flow in solids. Philos. Trans. R. Soc. London, Ser. A., 1921, 221, 163-198. Kaplan, M.F., Crack propagation and the fracture of concrete .J. Am. Concr. Inst., 1961, 58 (11), 591-610.
Literature cited 2: Powel, G.H. and Allahabadi, R., Seismic damage prediction by deterministic method: concepts and procedures. Earthq. Eng. Struct. Dyn. 1988, 16, 719-734. Kang, J.W., and Lee, J.A., A new DI for seismic fragility analysis of reinforced concrete columns. Struct. Eng. Mech., 2016, 60 (5), 875-890.

ID: 63337
Title: The Maski Archaelogical research project (2010-18): initial results from a multi-period interdisciplinary project on the Raichur Doab, Karnataka, India
Author: Andrew M. Bauer and Peter G. Johansen
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 30-36 (2019)
Subject: The Maski Archaelogical research project (2010-18): initial results from a multi-period interdisciplinary project on the Raichur Doab, Karnataka, India
Keywords: Archaeological survey, interdisciplinary project on the Raichur Doab, Karnataka, India
Abstract: This article summarizes the results of five field seasons of the Maski Archaeological research project, an interdisciplinary project evaluating the relationships between social and political significance of prehistoric burial practices, and medieval period settlement practices and land-use activities, highlighting how archaeological materials both belie and complement epigraphic analyses of the region.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Thapar, B.K. Maski 1954: a chalcolithic site of the southern Deccan. Ancient India, 1957, 13, 4-142. Asher, C.B. and Talbot, C., India before Europe, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK, 2006, pp.163-166.
Literature cited 2: Eaton, R.M.and Wagoner, P.B., Power, Memory, Architecture, Oxford University Press, Oxford, UK, 2014, p.242. Derrett, J.D.M., The Hoysalas, Oxford University Press, London, UK, 1957, p.59.

ID: 63336
Title: Bioliometric profile of research on antibiotics in sediments during 1958-2016
Author: Chun-Li Zheng, Yi-Fei Wang, Qian –Ling-Lin Qiu, Gang Li and Yao-Yang Xu
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 37-45 (2019)
Subject: Bioliometric profile of research on antibiotics in sediments during 1958-2016
Keywords: Antibiotics, international collaborations, research hotspots, sediments, science categories
Abstract: Antibiotic residues and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) can be accumulated in sediments. In this study, an improved bibliometric analysis was used to evaluate publications on antibiotics in sediments from the aspects of major countries, subject categories and keywords during 1958-2016.The results indicate that USA and China dominated studies in the recent period from 2005 to 2016.The most representative journal and subject category were Applied and Environmental Microbiology and Environmental Science and Ecology respectively. ARGs and antibiotic resistance bacteria involving mechanism such as sorption, adsorption and biodegradation were the mainstream research areas.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Kummerer,K., Antibiotics in the aquatic environment –a review-Part 1.Chemosphere, 2009, 75, 417-434. Zhang, C., Tang, J., Wang, L., Gao, X. And He, X., Occurrence of antibiotis in water and sediment from Zizhuyaun Lake.Pol.J.nviron.Stud., 2015, 24, 1831-1836
Literature cited 2: Hirsch, R., Ternes, T., Haberer, K.and Kratz, K.L. Occurrence of antibiotics in the aquatic environment.Sci.Total Environ., 1999, 225, 109-118. Sarmah,A.K.Meyer,M.T.and Boxall,A.B,A gloabal perspective on the use, sales, exposure pathways, occurrence, fate and effects of veterinary antibiotics (Vas) in the environment.Chemospherer, 2006, 65, 725-759.

ID: 63335
Title: Consortium of Industrial Agro forestry: an institutional mechanism for sustaining agroforestry in India
Author: K.T.Parthiban, R.Jude Sudhagar, C.Cinthia Fernandaz and N.Krishanakumar
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 30-36 (2019)
Subject: Consortium of Industrial Agro forestry
Keywords: Agroforestry, consortium approach, industrial wood, value chain model
Abstract: India is among the few tropical countries which have been reporting a progressive increase in forest cover over the past two decades. Our country being a major consumer of wood and wood products, the role of agroforestry as a viable land-use system is gaining significant attention owing to its contribution towards meeting domestic and industrial wood requirements. Growing demand coupled with legal issues in wood supply from Government-owned forests has resulted in a total mismatch between demand and supply of wood and wood products. The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) conceived and implemented ‘ a value chain model’ and created sustainability in industrial wood generation and supply in the state by involving a wide range of stakeholders. In order to strengthen the value chain and promote agroforestry based on the objectives envisaged in the National Agroforestry Policy of 2014.TNAU established a “Consortium of Industrial Agroforestry’ (CIAF) by linking stakeholders to address the issues related to production, processing and consumption in Agroforestry. Keeping in Line with the guidelines provided in the National Agroforestry policy of 2014, CIAF has successfully established decentralized institutions for supply of quality planting materials to the farmers besides facilitating organized plantation developers, harvesting and marketing institutions. The activities of CIAF have paved the way for creating the much needed database in tree cultivation, development of price supportive mechanism for important farm-grown industrial wood species and reducing the risks faced by tree rowers through innovative approaches like tree insurance and value addition technologies. This consortium-mode value-chain model in agroforestry holds great potential for adoption and replication across India, which would help create self-reliance in raw material security besides augmenting tree cover in the country.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Parthiban, K.T., Vennila, S., Kumar, P., Saravanan, V.and Subbulakshmi, V., Industrial Agroforestry- a value chain approach in Tamil Nadu. In Industrial Agroforestry –Perspectives and Prospective (eds Parthiban, K.T., et al.,) Scientific Publishers (India), Jodhpur, 2014, pp.7-32. FAO, India Forestry outlook study. Working paper No. APFSOS II/WP/2009/06.Food and Agricultural Organisation, Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India (GoI), 2009.
Literature cited 2: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations database, 2013; http://faostat.fao.org/ Knickel, K., Agricultural structural change: impact on the rural environment.J.Rural Sci., 1990, 6 (4), 383-393.

ID: 63334
Title: Evaluation of current policies on the use of unmanned aerial vehicles in Indian agriculture
Author: Vijay Singh, Muthukumar Bagavathiannan, Bhagirath Singh Chuhan and Samar Singh
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2019
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 117 (1) 25-29 (2019)
Subject: Evaluation of current policies on the use of unmanned aerial vehicles in Indian agriculture
Keywords: DGCA, drone policy, precision agriculture, remote sensing, unmanned aerial vehicles
Abstract: Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly called ‘drones’ have enormous potential for technological advances in many sectors including agriculture. The recent revision in UAV policy by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India, can impact the pace of research and development in Machine vision capabilities in the country. Several other countries that have framed UAV policy previously are continuously bringing changes to the existing framework to make it more user friendly. India can learn from those changes and bring out a comprehensive update to foster a broader application of these tools in agriculture. This policy review provides suggestions and solutions for increasing licensing centres, limiting UAV speed and weight for safer flights and including aerial pesticide applications in UAV permits to revolutionize the multibillion-dollar agriculture industry. This article has also examines the current UAV regulations in four other countries.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Hunt Jr. E.R., and Daughtry, C.S., What good are unmanned aircraft systems for agricultural remote sensing and precision agriculture? Int. J. Remote Sens., 2018, 39, 5345-5376. Zhang, C. And Kovacs, J.M., The application of small unmanned aerial systems for precision agriculture: a review. Precis. Agric., 2012, 13, 693-712.
Literature cited 2: Nebiker, S., Annen, A., Scherrer, M.and Oesch, D., A light-weight multispectral sensor for micro UAV –opportunities for very high resolution airborne remote sensing.Int.Arch.Photogramm.Remote Sens.Spat.Inf.Sci., 2008, 37, 1193-1199. Gao, J. Et al. Fusion of pixel and object-based features for weed mapping using unmanned aerial vehicle imagery. Int. J. Appl. Earth Obs. Geoinf., 2018, 67, 43-53.