018860   Ghosh B;Chakma N (Geography Dep, Burdwan Univ, Burdwan-713 104) : Bardhaman town as evolved over time and space. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 227-34.

Located in 23°14'N latitude and 87° 51' E longitudes, Barddhaman, the Class I town (since 1961) is the headquarter of the Barddhaman district, West Bengal. The river Damodar constitutes the southern boundary of the town. It is situated on both the banks of the Banka river. Being site and situational advantages, this agriculturally prosperous town since its inception has been recognised as the seat of settled civilization. Distinct growth nuclei have evolved in different time periods. At present the town contains an area of 23.04 km2 and is divided into 35 wards with a population of 3,21,937 (Literacy Survey Report: Barddhaman, 2008), which was 2, 85,602 as per Census, 2001. The town has flourished mainly as an administrative centre and as a centre of trade and as a nodal point in communication.

11 ref

018859   Gazi A R (Geography Dep, Calcutta Univ, West Bengal) : Some socio-demographical aspects of the muslim minority in West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 323-30.

In the era of globalization, all the developing countries are making effort to upgrade them. India, since independence, is classed as a multi-communal country, has been ameliorating radically. Here all religious communities are not having the same development syndrome. Few communities among all are suffering from social negligence, economic deprivation, lack of job opportunity, etc. In India, especially in West Bengal, the Muslims are the most backward as a minority community. Its social, economic, urban, living and marital status, are not improving satisfactorily in comparison to other religious communities even among the other minority communities in West Bengal because of socio-economic and political deprivation. Population growth rates, share of rural and urban population, marital status, are some of the burning issues of this community in this state. An attempt therefore has been made in this paper to assess the development parameters of Muslim community in West Bengal.

5 illus, 4 tables, 8 ref

018858   Ganguli M (Geography Dep, Burdwan Univ, West Bengal) : Water balance of Chinsurah, district Hooghly, West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 597-604.

An attempt to analyse the water balance of Chinsurah and it's surroundings. Water balance refers to the balance of water between input and output within particular environmental circumstances. It helps to identify how the total amount of precipitation (rainfall) of a rain-gauge covered area is balanced with many factors such as, evapo-transpiration, soil-moisture storage, water surplus etc. on monthly basis and also helps to know the months of water surplus, months of water deficit with amount and finally the climatic type of the region.

4 tables, 9 ref

018857   Gangopadhyay I S (Geography Dep, Barrackpur Rastraguru Surendranath College, Barrackpur, 24Pgs N, 700 120) : Wetland environment and develpement of Nadia district, West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 207-12.

Ecologically speaking wetlands are transitional zones between open water and terrestrial ecosystem endowed with specific structural and functional attribute. According to Ramsar convention (1971) wetland is defined as "Areas of marsh, pen, peat land or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water i.e. static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water, the depth of which at low tide does not exceed 6 meters". So they are extremely important natural resources with multiple utilities in terms of ecology, economy and sociology. Current wetland loss rate can bring a serious environmental, social and economic problem. So wetland is under constant threat. The present paper deals with the study of environmental problems and management of resources of the wetlands of Nadia District West Bengal which are mainly flood plain wetlands with special reference to Krishnanagar and Tehatta subdivision, Hanskhali block of Ranaghat subdivision and Haringhata block Kalyani subdivision. The primary objectives of the study are to analyze the impact of loss of wetland of the study area on the environment and to suggest measures for conservation of these fragile eco-systcms. The present research work has been based on study of wetland ecology of the district and involved intensive field study, sample survey and collection of primary data. The shifting nature of the rivers Bhagirathi, Bhairab, Mathabhanga and the Jalangi along with its meandering course has created fresh water wetlands (locally called as of bils, khals), dead and old river beds and marshes lie scattered all over the district. The rapidly developing agricultural economy in this area along with the anthropogenic impact and related activity has led to conversion of wetland leading to its loss. In this context the district points towards the urgent need of planned harnessing of wetland resources. In view of the fact several steps has been taken by the Govt. for conservation, up gradation, pollution control and improvement of the pattern of utilization of the water resources from the existing water bodies. Wetlands are most productive ecosystem on earth. They play certain vital functions in maintaining environmental sustainability. So full implication of wetland values and losses are to be undertaken.

15 ref

018856   Dutta R K (Geography Dep, Rabindra Bharati Univ, Kolkata-50) : Geomorphological study of parts of the upper Ganga basin area - the Uttarakhand Siwalik Himalaya, Uttarakhand. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 273-26.

The study area is situated in upper Ganga basin and southern part of the area falls under Ganga-Yamuna Doab. The area is characterized with varied fluvial and tectonic landforms. The geo- lithological structure of Siwalik Himalaya and active fluvial processes have a great impact in the evolution of physical landscapes of the study area. Broadly speaking, the area is a representative of the distinct polycyclic landscape with the dominance of neotectonics under humid environment. The fluvial landscape elements are the dissected ridge and valleys, waterfalls, rill and gully, river meander, flood plain, dry channels, series of braided channel and ox-bow lake, gravel deposition, wide river valley. A series of anticline, syncline, fault scarp, structural ridge and valley are found as tectonic landform elements.

4 tables, 8 ref

018855   Dutt S (NO, , Aarohi Bazaar, Sector-H, Flat No A-2, Second Floor, Aliganj, Lucknow-226 024) : Inland water transportation in India, scope and challenges : a comparative study. J Instn Engrs-Pt MA 2011, 91(Jan), 16-25.

The paper briefly describes the relative merits and demerits of inland water transportation in India. The paper discussed the geographical significance of the waterways in India, it's different features and comparative benefits, that can be achieved from inland water transport. Apart from Indian water transport modes, comparative study has also carried out on the relative merits and demerits of other water transport of India, Europian Union, North and South America. The study discussed about the cost-effectiveness of frieght shipnents in inland, rivers. The paper analyse the root causes for the degeneration of IWT. The paper also discussed on the advantages of transportation through IWT mode.

17 illus

018854   Dey S;Sarkar P (Physical Geography, Geography and Disaster Management Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar-799 130) : Electrical conductivity (R O) of soil and its bio-physical significance: a geophysical investigation for monsoon ground water condition measurement. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 439-44.

This paper attempts to assess the monsoon ground water condition of an open highland in Tripura University campus. A systematic geophysical survey was carried out to record electrical conductivity of the soil pf the selected study area. The survey was conducted in the month of September 2009, when the weather was clear with good sunshine and the soil was dry enough (at least 15 days interval of rainfall). In this study two-pin method was adopted during survey. Through the study it has been observed that the ground water condition of most of the parts in this area is very low even in the monsoon season. Due to high amount of rainfall some pockets were marked by comparatively higher level ground water. A map of ground water condition was prepared within radiometric shades on the basis of geo-electrical data generated during the field. Apart from the physical significance of electrical conductivity, biological indicators were also observed for understanding the ground water condition of the selected study area.

16 ref

018853   Dey A (Geography Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Women participation in work force: a case study of Hooghly district, West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 511-16.

This paper is concerned with the religious tourism. India as well as West Bengal has a rich religious & cultural heritage. With the development of economic and social infrastructure the unorganized tourist flow become organized in Bengal. Now a days tourism become a industry and these paper is concerned about the how & what possible steps should be taken for further development of the religious tourist spot. The famous Dakshineswar temple which is situated in urban area and Hanseswari temple is in semi urban area are considered here. The problems of insufficient infrastructural facilities which effect the tourism are also discussed here.

6 ref

018852   Dam S H (Geography Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Rabhas of cooch behar-an ethno-cultural outline. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 425-30.

Rabhas are one of the important but little known scheduled tribe community residing in a pocket located in the northeastern corner of India. They are found mostly in Kamrup and Goalpara districts of Assam and Cooch Behar and Jalpaiguri districts of West Bengal. They have many significant habitual practices with conspicuous ethnic and linguistic characters. They can be parted into two groups on the basis of their occupancy like: the forest dwelling Rabhas and the village dwelling Rabhas. Of these, the later group has intermingled with other racial clusters prevalent in this geographical setting and has undergone acculturation. On the other hand, the former group still practices rudimentary rituals and customs pertaining to them. This paper envisage an overall picture of the livelihood patterns of the Rabhas with special emphasis on their age- old customs and traditions followed by them.

2 tables, 7 ref

018851   Dam H;Chakraborty W (MA is a Research Scholar (Part time) in Geography, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Exclaves of Cooch Behar-a question on human dignity and social identity. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 455-60.

More than sixty years have passed after Indian Independence but the residents of the Indo-Bangladesh exclaves still experience a step-motherly attitude as they are denied free access to the main land of India and henceforth not accepted in the main stream Indian society. The exclaves of India are a host of lands present as bits and portions amidst the Territory of Bangladesh. The Indian exclaves in Bangladesh were originally lands under the Koch kings. These lands are also referred to as the 'Chhit Mahals' or simply the 'Chhits' which became legally the part of Indian Territory with the inclusion of The Princely State of Koch Bihar on September 12, 1949. Later, i.e. on January 1,1950 CoochBehar was declared as a district of West Bengal and hence the exclaves were also declared as the portions of Cooch Behar itself. So, the residents are legitimately Indians but they lack their politico-- social identity of being Indian citizens. This paper overviews the present condition and problems faced by the residents of the Indo-Bangladesh enclaves and exclaves. Many of us are safe within the boundaries of our country do not even know about their existence-so this might be an effort to inform them about those Indians who sings the national anthem, hoists the national flag with full respect but deprived of being legitimate Indians.

6 ref

018850   Chatterjee M;Purkait P (Geography Dep, Burdwan Univ, Burdwan, Email: chatterjeemitrajit56@gmail.com) : Development of new golapbag academic campus of the university of Burdwan and changing physical and socio economic environment in the surroundings: an assessment. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 605-12.

The New Golapbag Academic Campus of the University of Burdwan comprises of Directorate of Distance Education (DDE), Departments of Computer Science, Environmental Science and Bio-technology, Burdwan Institute of Medical and Life Sciences and University Institute of Technology (UIT). Prior to the development of the campus, the place was dirty and an area of nuisance. But after the development of the campus there has been a sea-change in the environment of the place. This paper is an attempt to look into the impact of the development of the new academic campus of the university on the physical and socio-economic environment of the surrounding areas.

8 illus, 8 ref

018849   Chakravorty M (NO, Geography Barasat State Univ, West Bengal) : Status of human development in the district of Murshidabad. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 485-96.

Mursdidabad district consists the largest proportion of Muslims among all otrher districts of West Bengal. Here the percentage of Hindu population is 35.92%, percentage of Muslim population is 63.67% and others consist of 0.40%. Level of Human Development of Murshidabad District will show the level of social attainment of Muslims living in West Bengal. The study shows that most of the blocks in Murshidabad district are under developed.

4 tables, 6 ref

018848   Chakraborty S (M.Sc. M.Phil is a Research Scholar (Part time), in Geography, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Socio economic study of Howrah maidan area (Micro level study). Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 496-502.

Author has tried to depict the picture of livelihood on a small part of ward no 29 of Howrah Municipal area. A group of people living in the periodical Hat area for a long time without any identity at all. Here a micro level study has been attempted to find out the problems and prospects of the people of this area.

4 illus, 6 ref

018847   CHakrabortty D (Geography Dep, Viswa-Bharati, Santiniketan) : Micro fluviogeomorphic feature and associated land use: a case study in island of Mayurakshi river below Tilpara barrage. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 401-10.

Fluviodynamics and microgeomorphic features in island of Mayurakshi river below Tilpara barrage have been analyzed on the basis of the visual interpretation of remotely sensed geocoded data and field studies. Fluctuation in river regimes as well as river discharge in premonsoon, monsoon, post monsoon, period control the terrain characteristics as well as land use in the study area. Seasonal unpredictable flood and traditional human intervention, cause shifting mosaics of this islandic geomorphic landscape system. Therefore proper managements of strategies are needed to restore geoecological balance in this unique land unit.

8 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

018846   Chakrabarty P (Geography Dep, Kalyani Univ, Kalyani-741 235) : Water crisis and host-guest relationship: a case study in Darjeeling, West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 239-44.

Darjeeling once known as the "Beauty Queen of Hill Stations" has lost its glory due to the negative feedbacks from the visitors during recent years. Apparently it seems that political unrest is the reason but intensive field study reveals that the way of treating visitors by the resident population is the main problem which gets its ultimate hostile expression in the eve of Gorkhaland movement in recent years Among the issues which affects the host guest relation in Darjeeling, water crisis is most vital. This paper is an attempt to analyze this problem from the standpoint of sustainability.

8 ref

018845   Bose S (Geography Dep, Dr Bhupendranath Dutta Smriti Mahavidyalaya, Hatgobindapur, West Bengla) : Relationship between economic status and tuberculosis: a case study in Andharsuli village, Burdwan district. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 481-4.

Tuberculosis is related with poverty. Tuberculosis is known as disease of poverty. In the district of Burdwan many cases of tuberculosis are reported especially from Kanksa and Ausgram blocks which are known as Jungle Mahal. The lack of proper nutrition together with poverty has been responsible for the rising incidence of tuberculosis in Jungle Mahal.

2 illus, 3 tables, 2 ref

018844   Boral E (Geography Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata) : Status of urban parks and green space in Kolkata-an analysis. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 445-54.

Urban areas in India, today, are faced with excessive population along with the pressure of unplanned economic development, industrialization, and vehicular emissions. Over the years, this rising population has led to a decrease in open spaces and green belts in the cities. Urban green belts are regarded as lungs for cities and towns, serving as a sink for pollutants and checking the flow of dust. A reduction in its area leads to negative ecological impacts. Parks represent the most distinguished green areas in the urban landscape. Parks are regarded as 'public spaces' being accessible to all citizens, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age or socio-economic level. They serve many functions as providers of passive and active recreation as also environmental benefits. Considering the steady increase in pollution levels in and around the cities, it has become imperative to increase these green belts. Good design, management and maintenance are essential to ensure these spaces are sustained, while meeting the citizens' needs, alongside urban ecological sustainability. This paper is an attempt to evaluate the status of green spaces particularly urban parks in Kolkata and also assesses citizens' perceptions about the values of these parks.

5 illus, 9 tables, 6 ref

018843   Biswas S (Geography Dep, Mrinalini Datta Mahavidyapith, Birati, West Bengal State Univ, West Bengal) : Evolution of a town- a case study of Madhyamgram. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 319-22.

This author has made an attempt to investigate on the aspects of the evolution of a town with particular emphasis on Madhyamgram township North 24 Parganas District, West Bengal. It has been observed that an attempt should be made to plan for huge cities with big satellites rather than continue to promote villages, which become "cities" by the mere accretion of migrants. Further it is necessary to build satellite cities which are self-sufficient but well-connected and hence close enough to the main Metropolis like Kolkata and others.

5 ref

018842   Bishal P (Geography Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Changing landuse pattern a case study on Haldia town. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 657-62.

Land is a basic resource of human activity. Landuse is the surface utilization of all developed and vacant land on a specific point, at a given time and space. It is the use actually made of any parcel of land for any purpose. The study of landuse is an urgent need for resource planning. Cultural advancement as well as overall economic development of a ration. The potentiality of a region depends upon the scale (extensive / intensive) of use land. However, economic and cultural advancement can better be carried out only through the systematic an balanced utilization of land. The paper highlights a proper picture of the changing landuse pattern of Haldia town in Purba Medinipur District of West Bengal.

6 ref

018841   Bhuyan S (Fisheries Dep, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Katghora, Korba, Chhattisgarh) : Hydrological characters and their relationship in fish ponds manured with different organic manures. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 5(1), 14-18.

Hydrology of water bodies play an important role in regulating the various metabolic activities of fish. Optimum levels of these parameters are essential for the better survival and growth of fish as organic manures influence the quality of water to a large extent. The present investigation describes the effect of three organic manures viz., raw cowdung (T₁), vermicompost (T₂) and poultry manure (T₃) on various hydrobiological and physico-chemical characteristics in ponds stocked with carp fry. Dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, transparency, alkalinity, free CO₂, H₂S, nitrate nitrogen, ammonical nitrogen, phosphorus and plankton were estimated. Amount of free CO₂, H₂S and ammonical nitrogen was found to be higher in cowdung and poultry manure treatments and for some period of time, it was found above the toxicity level. The hydrological characteristics and productivity profiles of ponds reveal that vermicompost is better manure for fish culture than poultry manure and cowdung.

1 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

018840   Bhattacharyya S R K (NO, Behala Aryya Vidyamandir, Kolkata) : Management to reduce urban flooding : a case study of Kolkata municipal area. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 579-88.

Urban flooding is a big problem in the developing, under-developed and also developed countries. It hampers the socio-economic life from various aspects. Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, India is also affected from flooding which is maintained by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). The KMC comprises a geographical area of about 187 sq. km which is divided into 15 bouroughs and 141 wards. The outfall system for Kolkata region consists of a series of natural and man-made channel as part of the River Hooghly estuarine belt. Water logging on Kolkata's streets is a major problem during the monsoon season.. Poor drainage network, inadequate drainage capacity, poor or no maintainance of the sewer resulting heavy siltation and reduction in carrying capacities. Chockage of drains at different stretches due to indiscriminate dumping of solid waste in sewer line due to connection of surface drains with sewer, absence of internal sewerage networks are the causes of drainage congestion as well as urban flooding. For alleviating waterlogging integrated urban renewal programme, desilting of trunk sewers, improvement and augmentation of pumping stations, desilting of canals, improvement of sewerage treatment etc. various steps has been taken.

15 ref

018839   Bhattacharya K (Geography Dep, Burdwan Univ, Burdwan West Bengal) : Changing land use pattern Kulchaura mouza, P.S. Khondoghosh, dist.-Burdwan. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 101-6.

Land use is nothing but the surface utilization of all developed and vacant land on specific point at a given time and space. Land use is any kind of permanent or cyclic human intervention to satisfy human needs. Land use is the application of human controls upon land in a systemic manner. The land use pattern of the Kulchaura mouza is mainly based on agriculture. The present paper concerns to find out the changes in land use pattern between 1990 and 2010. Land use pattern of an area broadly reflects the type and character of soil.

018838   Bhattacharjee D;Sukla H (East Calcutta Girls' College, Lake Town and Mrinalini Datta Mahavidyapith, Birati, Kol.-51) : Towards an approach to find out the human development index of north 24 parganas at block level. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 299-308.

A careful analysis has been done here to compute the Human Development Index (HDI) of North 24 Pgs at block level. The methodology is mainly based on United Nations Development Program - HDR framework. However it has been modified in some cases, depending on the availability of data. The index gives a very distinct feature of present blocks in North 24 Pgs, West Bengal. 12 blocks are in underdeveloped categories, 8 blocks are in moderately developed category and only 2 blocks are in developed category. To identify the most influencing factors for this HDI, regression equation are also done which reveals that the Adult literacy is the most important determinant.

5 ref

018837   Bhattacharjee D (Geography Dep, F.C. College, Diamong Harbour, 24 Pgs.(S), West Bengal) : Physical and cuntural landscape of the Bhagirathi basin with the emphasisi on Gangotri area. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 191-206.

The study has given the special emphasis on glacio-fluvial landforms and their impact on land use characteristics. The study area is characterised with varied landforms like glacial, glacio fluvial, fluvial and neotectonic landforms also. Besides various exogenetic (glacial, glacio-fluvial, fluvial) and endogenetic (tectonic) processes, structure has a dominant controlling factors for the development of various landforms which influence varieties of land use elements like settlement, road, terrace cultivation, pasturing, Dam, forest, rocky barren etc. The Himalayan Mountain, system is the source of one of the world's largest supplies of fresh water. All the major south Asian rivers originate in the Himalayan and their upper catchments are covered with snow and glaciers. Mountains form one of the most important bio-geographical resource zones of the world. They are remote areas covering 52 per cent of Asia, 36 percent of North America, 25 per cent of Europe, 22 per cent of South America, 17 per cent of Australia, and 3 per cent of Africa making up, in total, 24 per cent of the earths continental surfaces. They encompass some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes, a great diversity of species and habitat types and distinctive, tenacious and often disadvantaged human beings. They directly support 22 per cent of the world's people who live within mountain regions. A further 40 per cent live adjacent or very close to mountain areas and are benefited from mountain resources in more than one ways. The Himalayan environment indirectly has an effect on a much larger area than its actual geographical stretches. In South Asia, the Himalayan environment greatly affects the densely populated Indo-Gangetic and Brahmaputra plains.

9 ref

018836   Basu K (NO, Dwiendralal College, Krishnanagar, Nadia) : Rabindra sarovar lake: dynamics of the pattern of its utilization as an urban water body. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 431-8.

The role of urban and peri urban water bodies are a multifaceted one. Environmentally these water bodies along with parks, if any, serve the purpose of an open space in the crowded landscape. Some of the water bodies are used for some common domestic activities and cultural practices and as a consequence the biota, soil and water quality are largely affected. Whereas some water bodies are used for economic activities. Others provide huge parks and open space in the surrounding for recreational activities and health programmes. There is a differential utilization pattern of water bodies in urban landscape, which are largely guided by the environmental consciousness of the local inhabitants and their socio-economic background. The environmental, economic and aesthetic valuation of these water bodies is quite important issues in the growing urban landscape. Kolkata, an important metropolitan city of India, demands the due attention. In this paper an attempt has been made to illustrate the change in use of water bodies of Kolkata considering Rabindra Sarovar as an example.

5 tables, 8 ref

018835   Basanta Singh S;Deva Singh N (Geography Dep, Manipur Univ, Imphal-3, Manipur) : Scarcity of drinking water and water-borne diseases: a case study of Imphal city. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 137-50.

The paper examines ever increasing demands of drinking water for the population of 2.2 lakhs (2001) in the Imphal city. The average per-capita consumption of water in the city, 11.33 liters per day is low compared to the average American per-capita consumption of over 567.8 liters per day. The poor water supply has compelled the city dwellers to collect unsafe, dirty and contaminated water from the Imphal River and ponds located in the city areas. The water collected from the Imphal river presents of pathogens and organic wastes as the values of Faecal Coli forms, BOD and DO are beyond their permissible limits. Such a scarcity of water and use of contaminated water affects the human health in the city by causing various water-borne diseases such as typhoid, dysentery, viral hepatitis, and enteritis and gastro-enteritis. In 2005 and 2006, there were 9078 and 7395 patients of water-born diseases in the city and enteritis and gastro-enteritis being the highest prevailing disease. However, cholera and paratyphoid are rare.

2 illus, 8 tables, 18 ref

018834   Bardhan M (Geography Dep, Netaji Satabarshi Mahabidyalaya, Ashoknagar) : Appraisal of modernization of rural area: a case study in Dhosa village, 24 Pargana(S), West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 34-56.

The concept of modernization has both benefited and adversely effected the rural Bengal in recent years. This study is about a village in south 24 pargana-DHOSA which has gone through the various phases of modernization in last 10 years. The different Central Government schemes for developing rural infrastructure,socio-economic condition,agricultural pattern,sanitation,housing,employment etc have drastically changed the previous backwardness of the village.Some enhancing factors like presence of high school,bank,panchayat office,health centre,commercial market etc supported the process of modernization.But some adverse effect can also be seen in Dhosa in changing family structure,changing occupation increasing child labour,neglecting rural culture etc. Thus Dhosa is changing into a new dimension revealing different facets of modernization.

6 ref

018833   Ali M (Geography and Environmental Studies Dep, Bahir Dar Univ, Bahir, Dar, Ethiopia) : Geographic analysis of consumers and traders' behaviour in periodic markets of Shahjahanpur district Uttar Pradesh. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 107-16.

A geographical study of consumers and traders' behaviour of markets is the need of essential feedback for rapid development over the rural surrounding areas where periodic markets are the main centers for selling agricultural and non-agricultural products. This paper is an attempt to understand the buyers and traders decision making process, both individually and in groups. It explains the study of consumers and traders' behaviour of markets when, why, how, where and what people do or do not buy and sell products. It also analyses the travailing behavior traders and consumers for different commodities in the periodic markets, where shopping behaviour determines more complex against the size and the distance of the centres.

4 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

018832   Alam S M (Geography Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata) : Analysis of vegetation profile of Kolkata - a GIS and remote sensing approach. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 705-18.

"Trees are life'. We are benefitted from many aspects by trees. But we forgot the importance of our life partner by our consumption nature. Though Dept of Forest said 23.04% area of India covered by vegetation but recent Satellite Picture argued that only 19.14% of area is forested. This is true in the state of West Bengal and Kolkatatoo. So, an attempt has been made here to analyze the vegetation profile of Kolkata at micro level. We have worked on the project based on the vegetation cover of Ward 19 and 20, Kolkata. Maps of existing land use/covers have to be updated periodically to monitor changes. Due to lack of ground information, some known features have been used as reference categories to classify the study area. Classification of the whole map has been done to get the build up area, open space and the vegetation cover. In this paper my point of concern is the vegetation of the study area. To speed up mapping and decision making, remotely sensed satellite data have been advocated. And at the end we have also suggested some possible remedies of problems that are corrupting and would become vulnerable at the near future if protection is not taken.

9 ref

018831   Acharya M (Geography Dep, Burdwan Univ, Bardhaman-713 104) : Rehabilitation: a case stidy of the Raniganj coalfield. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2010, 33(2), 331-8.

As is most commonplace for any mining area, subsidence is the most eminent threat to RCF and rehabilitation is the only way to save the inhabitants. Many areas within the RCF, though still inhabited by a sizeable populace, are subsidence prone. Thus human lives, property and domestic animals in such areas are endangered and need to be safeguarded. This achieved through rehabilitation of such population by relocating them to a safe place with reasonable amenities and facilities. But the process of rehabilitation in RCF is a complex one and consists of multiple layers and dimensions where many hurdles are to be overcome. It demands effective management and good hindsight apart from application of reason and rationality. The objective of this study is to bring out the process of rehabilitation in RCF with all its complexities through specific case studies.

2 illus, 5 ref

009261   Wanganeo A;Yousul A R;Balapure S (Limnology Dep, Barkatullah University, Bhopal-462 026) : Variationin fish species in lotic systems under different climatic conditions. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2003, 2(4), 465-8.

Climatic conditions prevailing at various altitude, significantly affect the growth and survival of fishes besides also playing a positive role in governing the fish diversity. Investigation reveals that lotic systems under temperate climatic conditions support less fish diversity in comparison to tropical conditions.

3 tables, 6 ref

009260   Tomar SK;Dhiman NK (Mathmatics Dep, Panjab University, Chandigarh-160 014) : 2-D deformation analysis of half-spacing due to a long dip slip fault at finite depth. Proc Indian Acad Sci-Earth Planet Sci 2003, 112(4), 587-96.

Closed form analytical expressions of stresses and displacements at any field point due to a verylong dip-slip fault of finite width buried in a homogeneous, isotropic elastic half-space, are presented. Airy stress function is used to derive the expressions of stresses and displacements which depend on the dip angle and depth of the upper edge of the fault. The effect of dip angle and depth of the upper edge of the fault on stresses and displacements is studied numerically and results obtained are presented graphically. Contour maps for stresses and displacements are also presented. The results of Rani and Singh (1992b) and Freund and Barnett (1976) have been reproduced.

10 illus, 21 ref

009259   Thomas T;Jaiswal R K;Galkate R (NO, Natn Inst of Hydrol, Gana Plains South Reg Cen, 278 Manorama Colony, Sagar-470 001) : Forecasting and frequency analaysis of low flow for Beas at Pandoh. J Instn Engrs-Pt CI 2004, 84(Feb), 297-302.

The availability of water during non-monsoon season is very low, its reasonably accurate estimation and forecast plays a vital role in the systematic developmental planning and utilisation of water resources. A statistical model was used to forcast the low flows (November to May) for the river Beas at Pandobh, using the 10-day flow data of previous periods. Initially the forecast of 10-day flow from November to May was formulated on the basis of four observed 10-day data immediately preceding the November flow. The forecast was updated every ten days when additional data became available. The observed and forecasted discharges were compared for the four test years (from 1995 to 1998) and the percentage errors were computed. Frequency analysis of low flows was also attempted based on 18 years annual low flow series. Low flow quantiles were estimated using various distributions. The parameters were estimated using method of moments, probability weighted moments and L-moment techniques. Based on the criteria of ADR and efficiency, the log normal distribution was found to be well suited for computation of low flow discharge for any desired return period. The 100 year return period low flow discharge for Beas at Pandoh is 25.96 cumecs.

^ccr3 illus, 3 tables, 7 ref

009258   Suresh R;Sankaran P V;Rengarajan S (Regional Meteorological Centre, , Chennai-600 006) : Atmospheric boundar layer during northeast monsoon over Tamilnandu and neigbourhood a study using TOVS data. Mausam 2002, 53(1), 75-86.

Thermodynamic structure of atmospheric boundary layer during October - December covering southwest and northeast monsoon activities over interior Tamilnadu (TTN), coastal tamilnadu (CTN) and adjoining Bay of Bengal (BOB) has been studied using TIROS Operational Vaertical Sounder (TOVS) data of 1996-98. Heigts of neutral stratified mixed layer, cloud layer and planetary boundary layer (PBL) have been estimated through available standard pressure level data. Highest PBL occurs during active northeast monsoon. Cloud layer thickness during weak northeast monsoon over interior Tamilnadu is significantly higher than that over coastal Tamilnadu and also over Bay of Bengal. Convective stability (instability) of the atmosphere in 850-700 hPa layer is associated with weak/withdrawal (active) phase of northeast monsoon. One of the plausible reasons for subdued rainfall activity during weak northeast monsoon over interior Tamilnadu could be convectie instability seen over this region in 850-700 hPa layer. But the same is absent in CYN and BOB where no rainfall activity exists during weak nonsoon phase. Virtual temperature lapse rate in 850-700 hPa layer exceeding (less than) 6°K/km is associated with active (weak) phase of northeast over the interior, coastal Tamilnadu and Bay of Bengal.

6 illus, 6 tables, 14 ref

009257   Srivastava M V;Pasricha P K;Dutta H N;Singh R (Radio and Atmospheric Sciences Div, National Physical Laboratory, , New Delhi-110 012) : Summertime turbulent heat fluxes at East Antarctica over neighbouring rocky and ice shelf sites. Mausam 2002, 53(1), 69-74.

During the ninth Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica, in the year 1990, a micro-meteorological tower was installed at Maitri (70°S, 12°E) on the rocky terrain and on an experimental basis, on the nearby ice-shelf at the location of Dakshin Gangotri (70°7'S, 11°7'E). The synoptic features strongly influencing over the sites are the southeasterly katabatic winds from the polar cap and/or northerly low level warm and humid winds from the sea. These flows are responsible for the formation of strong surface based in inversion and strong convective conditions at the ice shelf and rocky terrain durin the minimum and maximum insolation periods, respectively. Presents a study of surface layer structure over two contrasting surfaces on near-coastal Antarctica and deals with the significance of the energy exchange processes over the rocky Antarctic region and the parameterization of turbulent fluxes over

2 tables, 11 ref

009256   Sahijpal S;Marhas KK;Goswami J N (Physics dep, Punjab University, Chandigarh-160 014) : Determination of rare earth and refractory trace element abundances in early solar system objects by ion microprobe. Proc Indian Acad Sci-Earth Planet Sci 2003, 112(4), 485-98.

Synthetic standards are used for determining various instrument specific parameters needed in the data deconvolution procedure adopted fro obtaining REE abundances. Results obtained from analysis of standards show that our ion microprobe may be used for determining REE abundances down to ppm range with uncertainties of ~10 to 15%. Abundances of rare earth and several other refractory trace elements in a set of early solar system objects isolated from two primitive carbonaeceous chondrities were determined using the procedures devised by the authors. The results suggest that some of these objects could be high temperature nebular condensates, while others are products of melting and recrystallization of precursor nebular solids in a high temperature environment.

8 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

009255   Roy Bhowmik S K (India Meteorological Dep, , Lodi Road, New Delhi-110 003) : Prediction of monsoon rainfall with a nested grid mesoscale limited area model. Proc Indian Acad Sci-Earth Planet Sci 2003, 112(4), 499-519.

This model together with a higher horizontal resolution (50km) and vertical resolution (16 - levels) model to examine the impact of incresed resolution to simulate mesoscale features of rainfall during monsoon disturbances. The model was run for 22 days in the mouth of August 1997 and one week in September 1997 during three monsoon depressions and one cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal. The model results are compared with observations. Shows that the model can capture mesoscale convective organization associated with monsoon depression.

6 illus, 28 ref

009254   Ramadass G;Himabindu D;Srinivasulu N (Center of Exploration Geophysics, Osmania University, Hyderabad-500 007) : Structural appraisal of the Gadag schist belt from gravity investigations. Proc Indian Acad Sci-Earth Planet Sci 2003, 112(4), 578-86.

Semi-detailed gravity investigations were carried out over an area of approximately 2750 sq km with maximum N-S and E-W extents of 55 and 50 km respectively in the Gadag region in the Dharwar craton with a view to obtain a clearer perception of the structural configuration of the region. From qualitative analysis of the gravity high and occurs in two discontinuous segments - the main N-S treding segment, and its thinner NW-SE treding extension, the two separated by a NE-SW treding deep seated fault. While the N-S trend of the Gadag schist belt is bounded on its east by the NW-SE trending Chitradurga thrust fault and on its west by another major NNW-SSE tredning fault, the NW-SE extension is likewise bounded by two other NW-SE major faults. Quantitative evaluation form forward modeling/invesrion of five profiles in the region, assuming a density contrast of 0.29gm/cc of the anomalous schistose body with the gneissic host rocks indicated a synclinal structure plunging to the southeast along its axis for the Gadag schist belt. The maximum width and depth from surface of the schist belt are 22 km and 5.6 km respectively.

5 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

009253   Rai T EA;Sankaran P V;Ramakrishnan B (Regional Meteorological Cente, , Chennai) : Climatological characteristics of sea breeze parameters at Chennai. Mausam 2002, 53(1), 31-44.

Several sea breeze parameters sach as time of onset, withdrawal, duration, depth, variation with height, direction etc. have been derived and studied or Chennai city and Chennai AP observatories, which has been based on a large data base for the period March-October, 1969-83. The monthly and sub monthly values of several sea breeze parameters have been derived. By invoking the concept of superposed epoch analysis the important role played by sea breeze in modulating diurnal variation of surface temperature and relative humidity has been established. The sea breeze at Chennai has been shown to be shallow with a depth of under 1 km. Modal directions of sea breeze and its normal speed have been derived.

7 illus, 9 tables, 15 ref

009252   Patnaik K C;Nayak L (P.G.Dep of Zoology, Berhampur University, Berhampur-760 007) : Study on diurnal variation of some physico-chemical properiteis of Gopalpur coastan waters of Orissa during the monsoon period. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2003, 2(4), 437-40.

Diurnal variation of some physico-chemical properties of Gopalpur coastal waters, which is about 5 km south of Berhampur University, has been studied during September 2002. The parameters studied include temperature, salinity, DO, nitrites, phosphates and silicates. The average surface water temperature was varying between 27.2°C and 29.85°C being the maximum at 1700 hours and the minimum at 0500 hours. In relation to the diurnal variation of the surface water temperature the salinity, DO and silicates sharply follow it and are directly related to it. There is an inverse relationship of nitrite and nitrate to them. Phosphate value was the maximum at 2300 hours being 0.35 μg-at/L.

2 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

009251   Kane R P (NO, Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciaia - INPE, C.P. 515, 12201-970 - Sao Jose dos Campos, SP, Brazil) : Trends, periodicities and ENSO relationship of New Zealand rainfall. Mausam 2002, 53(1), 9-18.

The rainfall series for six homogeneous regions of New Zealand for 1901-1996 were not well intercorrelated (maximum correlation + 0.6). Rainfalls were almost equally spread in all months. Trends (total changes over about 90 years) were -0, +11, +2, -6, +1, +8 (±-4)% for the six regions. For seasonal rainfall, large trends were -19± for DIF and +16± for MAM of region 1. Spectral analysis shoowed peaks in QBO (Quasi-biennial oscillations, 2-3 years) range and near 3, 4.5, 6-9, 10-11 years and higher periodicities. ENSO relationships were not clear-cut. In individual EL Nitio events, only the very strong events of 1972-73, 1982-83 and 1997-98 were associated with widespread droughts in New Zealand, while the 1940-41 El Nitio event was associated with excess rainfall. During the durations of all other El Nitio events, New Zealand rainfalls were excess or deficit for a few months, followed by deficit or excess for the next few months (oscillatory nature), similar in all regions in some events, dissimilar in others, with no preference for any season. During La Nitia (anti-El Nitio) events also, oscillations were observed.

3 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

009250   Jena B;Sudarshana R;Chaudhuary S B (Oceanography Division, National Remote Sensing Agency, Hyderabad-500 037) : An environmental inventory of sagar island using IRS-IC liss-III data. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2003, 2(4), 405-9.

Coastal zone plays an important role in terms of its rich biodiversity and environmental interaction. The monitoring, mapping and management of these sensitive areas is highly necessary to protect the flora and fauna of the area. With this background, a study has been conducted to characterize and assess the environmental issues in and around of Sagar island. It includes degradation of coastal habitats like mangrove, coastal erosion and the impact of demographic and socio-economic factors in the Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) of the island. Analysis of satellite data reveals that the coastal erosion has increased dramatically during 1999 compared to the past spand of 30 years, i.e. from 1967 to 1996. Further, during 1998 and 1999 an estimated area of 1 km² of mangroves and Casuarinas has been degraded. In the socio-economic point of view, the island population during 1864 was 1488, i.e. 5.2 persons/km², As per 1991 census, the population of the Sagar Island is 1,49,222, which is a 100.2-fold increase leading to heavy stress on the ecosystems and bio-resources of the island. Under this circumastance there is a need for management plant to protect the existing habitat and conservation of estuarine bio-resources and development of decision support system (DSS).

3 illus, 3 tables, 4 ref

009249   Himabindu D;Ramadass G (Center of Exploration Geophysics, Geophysics Dep, Osmania University, Hyderabad-500 007) : Remote sensing and geophysical studies for groundwater exploration in Osmania University campus, Hyderabad, India. Mausam 2002, 53(1), 87-98.

With the increasing resolution of satellite sensors, it is possible to fruitfully exploit the special advantages of image analysis for a wide range of geological environments. With this view, a LISS-III and PAN merged image of the 1600 acre (approximately 6.5 sq km) Osmania University (OU) campus taken from IRS-ID in the month of May (a fairly representative month in terms of minimum annual drainage/vergetation cover) was acquired. The image was then digitally processed and visually interpreted for potential groundwater resource regions. Since occurrence of groundwater in crystalline rocks, the host rocks for the entir Hyderabad region, is generally associated with secondary porosity, the accent was on determining and establishing lineaments of considerable surface extent. This was then augmented with maps of subsurface features as obtained from geophysical studies for the southern part of O U campus and available bore well/open well information. Subsequently, information from the three sources was integrated for a better understanding of the geological situation and the interrelationship of its various constituents to determine possible locations of groundwater resources. The significant findings comprised the identification of three major dykes, two running E-W and the third running NE-SW.

7 illus, 18 ref

009248   Gadgil S;Joseph P V (NO, Centre for Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences and Centre for Ecological, Bangalore-560 012) : On breaks of the indian monsoon. Proc Indian Acad Sci-Earth Planet Sci 2003, 112(4), 529-58.

13 illus,43 ref

009247   Dugam SS;Kakade SB (NO, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune-411 008) : Indian monsoon variability in relation to regional pressure index. Proc Indian Acad Sci-Earth Planet Sci 2003, 112(4), 521-7.

Regional Pressure Index (RPI) over the Indian region (20°N-40°N and 70E-85°°E) has been constructed for 101 years (1899-1999) on monthly scale. The relationship of these indices was caried out with the Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall (June -September) (ISMR) over the various homogeneous regions, for all time scales. From the analysis it has been seen that RPI in the month of May is significantly associated with ISMR over various regions on all the scales. The relationship is statistically significant at 1% level. Reveals that RPI in the months of May and January will be a new precursor for the long range forecasting of ISMR on the smalller spatial scale. On the decadal and climatological scale, winter and spring time RPI show a significant iverse relationship with the rainfall over the regions Peninsular India (PI) and North West Indian (NWI) , while the association is direct with Central North East India (CNEI) and North East India (NEI). The relationship is significant at 0.1 and 1% level respectively.

4 illus, 23 ref

009246   Danesh Miah M;Ashraful Alam S;Mozaffar Hossain M (Institute of Forestry and Environmental Sciences, University of Chittagong,4331 Bangladesh), ) : Assessment of the ground water quality in the hilly areas of Chittagong district, Bangladesh. South Asian Anthrop 2002, 2(1), 21-7.

Study attempts to assess the ground water quality in the hilly areas of Chittagong district, Bangladesh. Water samples were collected from 10 representative sources including four deep tube wells and six shallow tube wells. A total of 50 sample were analyzed taking five numbers of sample from every source. After analysis derived results were compared with the drinking water quality fixed by the Bangladesh Gazette, WHO and USPHS. The parameters were pH, EC, Alkalinity, Hardness, Chloride, Iron, Nitrate, Phosphate. The study reveals that ground water of the study area can be considered as pure drinking water though the ground water is slightly acidic.

2 tables 18 ref

009245   Bhargava P K (NO, Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee-247 667) : Estimation of monsoon wind characeristics in India. Mausam 2002, 53(1), 19-30.

A detailed statistical analysis of monthly average wind speed data of monsoon period (June-September) for the year 1921-90 for 57 stations spread all over India have been reported. Probability densities, average wind speeds, standard deviations, kurtosis and skewness of wind speed frequency distribution for each station have been worked out. Histograms depicting relative frequency distribution of average wind speeds have also been prepared. It is observed that the different histograms do not exhibit any similarity among themselves indicating thereby that no single distribution in uniformly applicable for all the statios. It is also seen that the average wind speeds during monsoon period over major part of India varies from 7 to 14 kmph. Further, at most of the stations average monsoon wind speed is generally higher than average annual wind speeds. It is also noted that most of the time the wind speed exceeds 10 kmph in coastal regions of Gujarat and southern parts of the peninsular India. The information generated is of multi fold application such as identification of sites suitable for installation of Wind Energy Conversion Systems Development of Driving Rain Index and Design of buildings for creating comfortable environment indoors.

4 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

009244   Bawiskar S M;Chipade M D;Singh S S (NO, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pashan, Pune-411 008) : Energetics of zonal waves during different phases of monsoon. Mausam 2002, 53(1), 1-8.

Energetics of lower tropospheric zonal waves during onset, established and withdrawal phases of monsoon have been studied for 1994, 1995 and 1996. The analysis show that energetics of wave 0 over RI (10°S-10°N), long waves (waves 1=2) over R2 (10°N - 30°S) and short waves (waves 3-10) over R3 (30°N - 50°N) influence the monsoon activity over India on intra-seasonal scale. The weekly analysis of the energetics of zonal waves indicates that the momentum transport of wave 0 over latitudinal belt L0 (12°S -3°N), wave 1 over the belt L1 (10°N - 15°N) and wave 2 over the belt L2 (33°N - 45°N) is related to all India rainfall on a weekly scale. Larger southward momentum transport of wave 0 over L0 and larger northward momentum transport of wave 1 over L1 and wave 2 over L2 enhance the monsoon activity over India.

6 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

000124   Yamuna Singh;Singh K D P;Srinivasan S;Chhabra J;Gupta R K (Atomic Energy Dep, Atomic Mineral Directorate for Exploration and Res, Begumpet, Hyderabad 500 016) : Anomalous concentration of silver in uraniferous Siwalik sandstones of romehra, Hamirpur District, Himachal Pradesh. J Geol Soc India 2003, 62(4), 4495-7.

For the first time, anomalously high silver content (4 to 100 ppm) is reported from uranium-rich, Middle Miocene to Early Pleistocene Siwalik sandstones of Romehra (Survey of India toposhet No.53A/6:3a°32'49''N, 76°26'09''E), himachal Pradesh. The results of sequential heavy media separation, followed by magnetic separation, suggest the potential for upgradation of silver values from the Siwalik sandstones of the Romehra area, and hence, further work in this regards may prove to be rewarding.

^ssc1 illus, 1 tables, 5 ref

000123   Vinoj V;Satheesh S K (Centre for Atmospheric & Oceanic Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560 012) : Observations of aerosols from space :an overview. Mausam 2003, 54(1), 287-98.

Aerosols are of natural and anthropogenic (man-made) origin. Aerosols directly affect the climate by scattering and absorption of solar and terrestrial radiation and indirectly by enhancing the reflectivity of clouds by acting as cloud condensation nuclei. Estimation of effects of aersols on climate is complicated by the fact that their chemical composation, abundance and size characteristics are highly variable both spatially and temporally. Measurement of aerosols can be situ (direct) or remote. For the remote sensing of surface such as ocean or land, algorithms should include atmospheric corrections to correct for the atmospheric effect to satellite measured signals. However, remote sensing of aerosol properties such as its chemical composition is still extremely difficult. In this paper, we review the investigations of aerosols using satellite data with emphasis to Indian region. Various sensors and algorithms used for the remote sensing of aerosols and future scope are also discussed.

6 illus, 3 tables, 44 ref