Documenti di Didattica
Documenti di Professioni
Documenti di Cultura
Organisational Structure
GOVERNING BODY
Chairman
(w.e.f. 20.06.2000)
Professor C.V. Subramanian Professor Ashok Sahni
A-8, Damayanthi Apartments Dean of University Instruction &
17, South Mada Street, Nungampakkam Professor of Geology
Chennai- 600 034 Panjab University
Chandigarh – 160 014
Members
Professor V.S. Ramamurthy, Professor V.S. Ramamurthy,
Secretary or his Nominee Secretary or his Nominee
Department of Science & Technology DST, Technology Bhavan
Technology Bhavan, New Mehrauli Road New Mehrauli Road
New Delhi – 110 016 New Delhi – 110 016
Shri Arun Sharma, Joint Secretary Shri Arun Sharma, Joint Secretary
& Financial Adviser or his Nominee & Financial Adviser or his Nominee
Department of Science & Technology DST, Technology Bhavan
Technology Bhavan, New Mehrauli Road New Mehrauli Road
New Delhi -110 016 New Delhi -110 016
Members (Ex-officio)
Dr. N.P. Singh Dr. N.P. Singh
Director Director
Botanical Survey of India Botanical Survey of India
P-8, Brabourne Road P-8, Brabourne Road
Calcutta -700 001 Kolkata -700 001
1
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Professor N.K. Mehrotra Professor M.P. Singh
Department of Botany Department of Geology
Lucknow University Lucknow University
Lucknow -226 007 Lucknow – 226 007
Member-Secretary (Ex-officio)
Professor Anshu K. Sinha, Director, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Chairman
(w.e.f. 01.10.2000)
Professor P.S. Ramakrishnan Professor J.S. Singh
School of Environmental Sciences Department of Botany
Jawaharlal Nehru University Banaras Hindu University
New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi -110 067 Varanasi - 221 005
Member-Convener (Ex-officio)
Director, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Members
Professor M.S. Srinivasan Dr. K.R. Gupta
Department of Geology Adviser (ESS), DST
Banaras Hindu University Technology Bhavan, New Mehrauli Road
Varanasi - 221 005 New Delhi –110 016
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Annual Report 2000-2001
Member (Ex-officio)
Shri Ravi Shanker Shri Ravi Shanker
Senior Dy. Director General Senior Dy. Director General
GSI, Northern Region, Sector ‘E’ GSI, Northern Region, Sector ‘E’
Aliganj, Lucknow- 226 020 Aliganj, Lucknow- 226 020
Chairman (Ex-officio)
(w.e.f. 01.10.2000)
Professor C.V. Subramanian Professor Ashok Sahni
Chairman, Governing Body Chairman, Governing Body
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Members
Shri Arun Sharma Shri Arun Sharma
Joint Secretary & Financial Adviser Joint Secretary & Financial Adviser
or his Nominee, DST, New Delhi or his Nominee, DST, New Delhi
Member (Ex-officio)
Director, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
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Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
ORGANISATIONAL SET-UP
CHAIRMAN
GOVERNING
BODY
DIRECTOR
Scanning Electron
Microscope
Electronic Data
Procesing
Photography
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Annual Report 2000-2001
Research
Thrust Area: Antiquity of Life
Project 1: Palaeobiology and biostratigraphy of Precambrian Basin
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Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Rock samples (30) from Laptal Chojan La section Oxfordian to Berriasian age correlation for the
of Spiti Shale Formation, Malla Johar area have been formation. The palynozones identified have been
worked out for their spore-pollen. The characteristic compared with the known Ammonite zones to
taxa, viz. Callialasporites spp, Murospora florida, develop an integrated biostratigraphy of Spiti Shale
Cicatricatisporites australiensis, Aequitriradites unit in the Tethyan Mesozoic sequence.
spinulosus, Appendicisporites sp,, etc. evidence the Vijaya
Observation, description, morphotaxonomy and seeds and cuticles, but presence of Botryococcus-algal
photodocumentation of Permian plant fossils from colony in almost all the samples are significant. The
Tindharia, Pankhabari, Kalijhore nala sections of palaeoecological significance of the algae is being
Darjeeling and Rohtak Khola section of South Sikkim studied.
district have been carried out in detail. The R. Tewari & A.K. Srivastava
assemblages are represented by following species:
Gangamopteris cyclopterioides, G. major, G. Chemically processed coal and carbonaceous
clarkeana, Gangamopteris sp., Glossopteris shale samples from Kalijhora, Rakti Khola and
communis, Gl. indica, Gl. stenoneura, Gl. varia, Gl. Bamon Pokhari areas of Darjeeling district (WB) for
vulgaris, Noeggerathiopsis hislopii, equisetalian axes palynological analysis. Carbonaceous shale samples
and vertically and horizontally preserved Vertebraria from Kalijhora nala section have yielded
axes. The compilation of floristic data and palynofossils, represented by Scheuringipollenites
stratigraphical significance of the flora are under maximus, Alisporites sp., Distriatites sp.,
progress. Carbonaceous shale samples from different Faunipollenites varius, Striatopodocarpites and
sections of Tindharia, Baman Pukharia, Pankhabari Microfoveolatispora. A number of Botryococcus
and Rohtak nala were chemically processed. algal colonies have also been found.
Although the samples are devoid of megaspores, A.K. Srivastava & A.P. Bhattacharyya
Completed identification of 350 impression and megafossil specimens belonging to Glossopteris flora
compression specimens from eight localities of from Barakar and Kamthi formations exposed in
Mand–Raigarh coalfield, Chattisgarh, viz. Kantasar different nala sections and collieries.
nala section near Dokripari village, Mand river S. Chandra & K.J. Singh
section near Ambetikra temple, Kasaia nala section
near Kasaia village, Gersaghat section near Gersa Traced the marker spore-pollen species from the
village, Saria nala section, and Barod, Jindal and coal-bearing and Kamthi sediments of Talcher
Mand open cast projects. The plant fossils indicate coalfield (Orissa). The Permo-Triassic palynofloral
Early to Late Permian age (Karharbari, Barakar and transition has been recorded in the subsurface
Kamthi formations) for the various beds. Photography material. The change of palynoflora is gradual. The
of important taxa is also completed. Singh again variation in the pattern of change over the distribution
visited the coalfield area and collected above 250 of nonstriate and taeniate bisaccate pollen is more
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Annual Report 2000-2001
significant than the cingulate spores at the P/Tr Crescentipollenites. The youngest palynoassemblage-
transition in coalfield as compared to the pattern III (137.15-77.90 m) exhibits similar palynotaxa as
observed in Damodar basin. A paper on the study in palynoassemblage-II, but with additional records
has been finalised. Additional samples were collected of Falcisporites, Goubinispora, Satsangisaccites,
from five bore-holes drilled in the coalfield area for Densoisporites, Playfordiaspora, Klausipollenites
further palynological studies. and Nidipollenites and assigned Late Permian/Early
A. Tripathi Triassic age. Permo-Triassic transitionary
palynofossils have been recorded in this coalfield for
Carried out microscopic observation to search the first time. Also collected samples of bore-hole
spore–pollen species in 500 m thick Gondwana cores and outcrops in Sohagpur and Mand-Raigarh
sediments in bore-hole DPD-6 from Deocha– coalfields. Chemical processing of samples from
Pachami area, West Bengal. Further study is in bore-holes ROP-8 and MJB-1 of Mand-Raigarh has
progress for precise dating of the three stratigraphic been completed. Quantitative analysis of the
units— Barakar, Dubrajpur and Rajmahal formations. productive samples is in progress.
Vijaya Ram-Awatar
Investigated plant fossils from Thisgora and area have yielded well-preserved cuticles. Externally
Mathani areas of Pench valley coalfield. The flora is all the leaves are similar to N. hislopii. Three distinct
represented by the species of Gangamopteris, types of leaf cuticles have been observed. Cuticular
Glossopteris, Euryphyllum, Palaeovittaria, sterile preparation, description and photodocumentation of
and fertile foliage shoots of Buriadia. Systematic the specimens and cuticles are complete. The
description and specific delineation of the flora on taxonomic significance of cuticular features vis-a-vis
the basis of external morphological features and morphological characters in the generic and specific
cuticular structures are being carried out. circumscription of Noeggerathiopsis leaves are under
Noeggerathiopsis leaves recovered from Rawanwara progress.
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Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Component 3: Ultrastructure of fossil cuticles and megaspores and comparative studies on selected
modern taxa
Completed transmission electron microscopic Z. furfuracea. Dispersed cuticles from the sediments
(TEM) studies of the cuticular membrane (CM) of were also studied for ultrastructure under TEM. These
peltaspermaceous taxon of Mesozoic pteridosperms show well-preserved structures. SEM studies on the
Lepidopteris sp. and compared it with three other taxa sporoderm of megaspores recovered from Barakar
of Mesozoic pteridosperms. It was found that the shales of a coal mine near Hahajore, Hura Basin,
structural configuration of CM varies for each taxon. Rajmahal Hills have been done. A variety of
Two taxa of living cycads (Zamia fischeri and Z. megaspores have been sorted out from the bulk
furfuracea) have also been investigated under TEM. maceration sample. Light microscopic studies have
The CM in all the four species— Cycas circinalis, been completed. Inner body in all the megaspore taxa
C. revoluta, Zamia fischeri and Z. furfuracea shows is absent.
a polylamellate outermost zone, though faintly so in U. Bajpai
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Annual Report 2000-2001
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Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
samples from south of Brahmini Coalfield. Also of plant fossils from Kota, Gangapur and Lameta
visited Geological Survey of India, Kolkata to formations. A number of associated animal fossils
discuss the palynological reports and future plan were also noticed.
for sampling. A. Rajanikanth
A. Tripathi
Carried out studies on the plant megafossils Investigated megafossils from Eddala-Gattu
of the Gangapur Formation, Pranhita-Godavari locality of Raghavapuram. The recorded genera are
Graben. Association of cycadophytes, conifers and Cladophlebis indica, Sphenopteris sp., Baiera sp.,
pteridophytes within the plant assemblage indicate Taeniopteris spatulata, Ptilophyllum cutchense, P.
gymnosperm dominant vegetation during the time acutifolium, P. sahnii and Elatocladus
of deposition. Studied equisetalean stem jabalpurensis. In general, cycadophytes and
impressions of variable morphology. Plant conifers dominate the assemblage, whereas
megafossil impressions of pteridphytes and pteridophytes are comparatively less. The
conifers from the Kota Formation were also palaeofloral assemblage is contemporaneous to
studied. They are invariably small in size. Also Vemavaram and Gollapalle floral assemblages of
studied conifer strobilus and stem impressions East Coast and Sehora floral assemblage of
from the Lameta Formation, Nand-Dongargaon Jabalpur Formation (MP). The floral assemblage
sub-basin. Robust nature of conifers facilitated is assigned Early Cretaceous age.
their preservation. Undertook field work in the N. Prakash
Wardha-Pranhita-Godavari and collected a number
Study of detached fertile organs has been Recovered diverse and abundant leaf
completed. Two new taxa Townrowea and impressions from Chui Hill, Jabalpur Formation,
Douglasea have been identified. Their Satpura Basin. Excellently preserved leaves in
morphographic and cutinized structure are quite reddish-pink clay show dominance of conifers
different from each other. These forms appear to (Elatocladus sp., E. jabalpurensis, Brachyphyllum
be similar to the conifers of northern and southern jabalpurensis sp. nov., Pagiophyllum chawadensis,
hemispheres, but because of their detachment from Araucarites minutus, Satpuria sehoraensis)
the main organ and having no fertile unit followed by bennettitales (Anomozamites sp.,
definitively attached, they could be attributed to Ptilophyllum cutchense, P. acutifolium) and
any of the known genera, viz. Voltzia, pteridophytes. Cycadales is represented by
Voltziostrobus and Voltziopsis. Townrowea has Taeniopteris spatulata. The floral assemblage is
been isolated in attached condition as well, but compared with floral assemblages of Satpura and
fertile units have shed off due to fully mature South Rewa basins and found to be younger than
fructification. Chaugan and older than Bansa floral assemblages
S.C. Srivastava & N. Prakash and belongs to Early Cretaceous age.
N. Prakash
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Annual Report 2000-2001
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Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Pyrite framboids occurring on degraded leaf Jabalpur, and Naicolam, Trichurapalli; Tertiary-
cuticles were observed under SEM and EDAX Bihpuria well #1, Upper Assam; Miocene-
systems (with U. Bajpai). The investigations from Amberiwadi, Maharashtra; Pliocene to Pleistocene-
Late Tertiary sediments of Mahuadanr valley, Palamu Mahuadanr valley, Palamu, Bihar) have been studied
indicate that framboidal pyrites are formed in the under LM, SEM and TEM (with U. Bajpai and N.
cavities and cell lumens of degraded leaves and other Prakash). It has been observed that most of the leaves
plant entities under reducing conditions and are the or leaf fragments start undergoing various
result of the activity of mainly sulphate reducing degradational processes, as soon as they are detached
bacteria. Pyrite framboids occur in clusters and as from the parent plant body. The pathogen (fungi and
solitary spherules. The elemental analysis and organic bacteria) enters the leaf tissue through stomata, pore
matter substrate of framboids indicate that the C, Fe or cracks and first degrades non-lignified components
and S are the main constituents. However, N and O present between cuticular layers and then the other
are also present in sufficient quantity. The parts. These fungi and bacteria rapidly colonize the
morphological characters of bacterial colonies are plant fragments including leaf litter when buried
generally retained during mineral uptake to form under the sediments. The observations under SEM
framboids. Srivastava and Shukla visited Neyveli and TEM shows three characteristic stages of
lignite field, Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu and degradation of leaf cuticles affected by fungal
collected lignite samples, leaf compressions, lignified attack— hyphal invasion, penetration and dissolution
woods and resin lumps from different mines. of tissues. In case of bacteria infestation, corrosion,
cavity formation and tunneling represent various
Microbial action on dispersed and compressed degradational phases. These processes ultimately
leaf cuticles from clay, shale and carbonaceous shale contribute towards the formation of amorphous
of various geological periods (Early Carboniferous- organic matter types.
Kotshu Hills, J&K; Permian- Lohapity, Jharia Anand-Prakash, G.P. Srivastava, M. Shukla &
coalfield; Late Triassic-Janar and Haral villages, M. Kumar
South Rewa Basin; Early Cretaceous- Sehora,
(I) Organic petrological evaluation of Karanpura coal deposit (Damodar Basin) in relation to carbonization
properties, genesis and depositional history
Studied microconstituents (macerals and through reflectance measurements on maceral
microlithotypes) of coals from Kargali Seam of vitrinite indicate that the coals have attained high-
Kathara colliery to assess the nature and composition volatile bituminous A stage. On the basis of coal
of coals. The coals belong to Early Permian Barakar types, it appears that the Kargali Seam originated
Formation of East Bokaro coalfield. In general, these dominantly from woody vegetation under anaerobic
coals are found to be rich in vitrinite group (38-74%, (wet-reducing) condition with occasional aerobic
vitric and fusovitric coal types) followed by inertinite (dry-oxidative) conditions. The rank and composition
and liptinite groups. Likewise, their vitrite, clarite, of coals indicate that these coals are within the
vitrinertite and duroclarite microlithotypes are high. threshold of methane (thermogenic) generation.
The rank values (Ro max 0.82 - 0.94%) determined B.K. Misra & B.D. Singh
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Annual Report 2000-2001
The biopetrological investigations on coals the coals from Mahadoli area has indicated a gradual
representing Kosar (bore-hole KDR-43), Dongargaon increase in the values (Ro max 0.53-0.62%) from the
(BH KDR-38) and Mahadoli (BH WM-16) areas of bottom to the top part of the seam. The top and the
the Wardha valley coalfield has revealed that the coals middle seams of the Dongargaon area possess similar
contain remarkably low (14-20%) mineral matter reflectance values (0.59-0.62%) as recorded from the
association. The ternary and binary (m.m.f.) plottings top part of the seam in Mahadoli area. However, the
have suggested that the middle seam in Dongargaon top seam near Kosar village contains low reflectance
and Kosar areas of the Yeotmal district contain mixed values (0.53-0.54%) The coals in all the three areas
type of coal. However, the top seam in Dongargaon have attained high volatile bituminous C stage of the
area contains vitric type of coal and the middle seam rank.
in Mahadoli area (Chandrapur district) is represented O.S. Sarate
by fusic coal type. The vitrinite reflectance study of
(III) Biopetrographic evaluation of coals from Satpura Gondwana Basin with an emphasis on depositional
pattern and utilization potential
Finalised a paper entitled “Petrology of Kanhan herbaceous vegetation with frequent spells of
coals, Satpura Gondwana Basin (India) vis-à-vis coal oxidative (aerobic) conditions affecting the organic
bed methane”. Estimated macerals of Early Permian matter. A field work was undertaken in Kanhan valley
Barakar coals from Eklehra and Mathani mines of coalfields and collected coal/shale samples from
Pench area under fluorescence mode. The sub- Mohan (Maori Incline), Ambara (Shastri and
bituminous A to high-volatile bituminous C stage Bhawani), Ghorawari (Jharna) and Rakhikol (Bansi
mixed types (vitrinite: 13-59%, inertinite: 22-60%) Incline) underground mines. The channel samples
coals have low amount of liptinite (6-15%). However, representative of top, middle and bottom sections of
under fluorescence mode hydrogen-rich liptinite Seam I (MECL III Top) belonging to Early Permian
macerals show manifold increase (11-38%). The Barakar Formation were collected. The coals are
liptinites are found to be chiefly constituted by generally of bright banded in nature, and the seam is
sporinite (spores-pollen) and liptodetrinite (detritus). expected to have potential for coal bed methane
On the basis of coal types, the seam of studied area generation.
appears to have formed chiefly from woody and A. Singh & B.D. Singh
Coals studied from Belanda and Kalinga areas diagrams suggest that most of the coals lie in
show the dominance of inertinite, vitrinite and exinite fusovitric-vitrofusic groups. However, fusic and vitric
group of macerals. Telocollinite and desmocollinite groups were also recorded. It suggests that fluctuating
form the characteristic sub maceral of vitrinite group, oxidative and reducing conditions prevailed during
while the semifusinite, fusinite and inertodetrinite the genesis of Talcher coals.
constitute inertinite components. Sporinite, resinite, R. Saxena & J. Rai
cutinite form exinite group of maceral. Maceral
pattern of these coals on triangular and two axial
13
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Twenty selective resinites from lignite beds fresh and oxidized resin. Three papers on the intra-
of H.D. Patel block of Panandhro, Bhuri Devi areas and inter-seam characterization have been finalised.
of Rajpardeeh, Kharsalia and Ghogha areas of Further work is in progress. A field work was carried
Bhavnagar were processed for Fourier Transform out to collect fresh materials at Panandhro, Jara
Infrared studies. The characteristic pattern of FTIR dome, Jhura dome, Rajpardeeh, Vastan, Ghalla nala,
peaks of the chronostratigraphically different resins Surat in Gujarat; Akli and Sindri areas of Barmer
indicate the similar plant source. Variations in the and Kuldhar nala of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
aromatic and aliphatic peak pattern were noticed in R. Saxena & J. Rai
Component 4: Biopetrography and geochemistry of coals, oil shales and organic matter in Late
Palaeocene-Oligocene sediments from northeastern India
Petrographic investigation on coal and non-coal is usually the dominant mineral occurring both in
samples from 18 m (Main seam: 60 Feet Seam) and primary (framboids, euhedra and granules) and
A (A1-A3: 4 m – 2 m thick) group of seams secondary (encrustations and in-fillings) forms. Under
respectively from Tikak Parbat colliery of Makum fluorescence mode, the coals appear to be rich in
coalfield and 5D Incline of Dilli-Jeypore coalfield perhydrous vitrinite, liptodetrinite and resinite
was completed. Under normal incident mode, the macerals with low quantities of sporinite, cutinite and
coals are exhibit high vitrinite macerals (48-72%), suberinite. Fluorinite and exsudatinite macerals are
mainly the telocollinite and desmocollinite. Mainly sporadic to common. Rank of the coals varies
resinite and subordinate amounts of sporinite, cutinite between high volatile bituminous C to B stages (Ro max.
and suberinite macerals form the liptinite macerals 0.66-0.72%). However, the coals from Dilli-Jeypore
(up to 15%). Maceral exsudatinite is present are of relatively lower rank than those of the Makum.
sporadically. The macerals of inertinite group are The coals from Makum and Dilli-Jeypore coalfields
generally low to moderate in amount (9-16%) appear to have originated from autochthonous woody
constituted mainly by semifusinite, fusinite and very tropical vegetation predominantly under mildly
commonly present fungal spores, sclerotia and alkaline anoxic milieu.
hyphae. Pyrite, clastics and calcite are the main B.K. Misra
associated mineral matter (7-18%) of the coals. Pyrite
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Annual Report 2000-2001
Finalised a paper dealing with leaf-impressions black facies during sedimentation of Early Eocene
of Arthromeris and Syzygium from the Kasauli rocks in the Morni Hill. Morphological study of
sediments of Himachal Pradesh. In addition a draft various species of the algal genus Pediastrum has
manuscript of a paper describing leaf-impressions been carried out. Critical analysis of various
belonging to six taxa has also been prepared. morphotypes reveals that there are intraspecific
J.S. Guleria & R. Srivastava morphological variations in shape, size and structure.
The stratigraphic distribution of this species has been
Carried out palynological investigations of the found to be restricted to Late Ypresian–Early Lutetian
Subathu Formation in the Lesser Himalayas. The transitional part of the Subathu Formation.
Subathu Formation (Late Thanetian-Middle Lutetian) Palaeoenvironmental significance of fresh water
from Himachal Pradesh and Haryana contains distinct Pediastrum in marine sediments of the Subathu
reworked Permian and Cretaceous palynofossils sediments is now being worked out. A field work
along with characteristic Late Ypresian and Early was also undertaken along with Professor I. B. Singh
Lutetian palynofloras. The pollen assemblage consists (Lucknow Univ.) for systematic collection of
of 17 genera and 22 species of pteridophytic spores, palynological samples as well as field
gymnospermous pollen and dinoflagellate cysts. Of sedimentological studies of lower horizons of the
these, 10 genera and 13 species belong to Permian, Subathu Formation of Nilkanth and its adjoining areas
whereas others are of Cretaceous in age. The Permian of Uttaranchal. Cyanobacteria rich bands were
palynotaxa are well preserved, while the Cretaceous identified in the basal part of Subathu Formation of
forms are generally broken and highly oxidised. The Nilkanth and Tal valley sections. Reconnaissance
palaeogeographic significance of these reworked survey was also carried out at several localities to
palynofossils in the Subathu Formation has been find out their lateral extensions on regional scale.
interpreted. The basal part of the Subathu Formation S. Sarkar & V. Prasad
(Late Thanetian–Early Ypresian), exposed at Nilkanth
(Uttaranchal) and its adjoining areas were studied for
palaeoenvironmental interpretations. Total carbonate
and organic matter content of cyanobacteria-rich
sediments were estimated. SEM studies were
performed to locate biogenic carbonate particles
associated with the cyanobacterial filaments.
Decreased clastic supply and climate induced
fluctuating environmental conditions of intertidal–
supratidal zones provided ideal conditions for the
establishment and rapid proliferation of
cyanobacterial mats in the area.
Palynological study of the stratotype section
(Kuthar Nala) of the Subathu Formation indicates that
this succession span the Late Ypresian and part of
the Early Lutetian time interval. Several characteristic
biostratigraphical markers are identified. Based on
dinocyst distribution a new palynological zonation
scheme has been proposed for this formation.
Palynofloral assemblages recovered from two
sections (Chamla and Kharak) have also been
evaluated to throw light on the role of reducing
Odontochitina operculata (Wetzel) Deflandre & Cookson, 1955, a reworked
environmental conditions on the development of Cretaceous palynofossil from the Subathu Formation
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Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Carried out chemical processing of the samples section (middle Siwalik); Saketi (lower Siwalik);
from the lower-middle Siwalik sediments of Dhangar Bilaspur-Mandi Road section and Haritalyangar and
area (Bilaspur district) and Jwalamukhi-Ranital- adjoining areas, Bilaspur district and 180 samples
Kangra Road section (Kangra district) of Himachal were collected for palynological study.
Pradesh and Morni hills, Haryana. Scanning and M.R. Rao
photodocumentation of selected taxa have been
completed. Striatriletes, Lycopodiumsporites, Finalised the results of palynological and
Inaperturopollenites, Pinjoriapollis and sedimentological studies carried out on middle
Pinuspollenites mainly represent the assemblage Siwalik sediments exposed along Nandni-Nagrota
recovered from the Dhangar area. In this assemblage, Road on Jammu-Srinagar Highway. The sequence
gymnosperm pollen are dominant over angiosperm (about 1600 m thick) is represented by couplets of
pollen followed by pteridophytic spores. The medium- to coarse-grained, gravely, multistoried
palynoflora recorded from Jwalamukhi-Ranital- sandstone complexes and silty-muddy fine-grained
Kangra Road section is represented by pteridophytic horizons. The fine-grained muddy horizons are
spores— Pteridacidites (Pteris) and Striatriletes divisible into two facies associations— floodplain and
(Ceratopteris), gymnospermous pollen— interfluve associations. The floodplain facies
Pinuspollenites (Pinus) and Abiespollenites (Abies), association is related to channel processes and is the
angiospermous pollen— Pinjoriapollis (Magnolia), product of sedimentation on flood plains mainly by
Inaperturopollenites and Graminidites. The recovery vertical accretion. In contrast, the interfluve
of palynofossils from Morni hills is poor and mainly association characterised by silt; mud and fine sand
represented by Striatriletes, Pinuspollenites and units are completely mottled, laterally persistent,
Pinjoriapollis A field work was undertaken to study highly oxidised and are unrelated to channel
various Siwalik sediments exposed at Nadah area, processes. Such fine-grained horizons imply
Gaggar River section in Panchkula and adjoining sedimentation on Doab areas (interfluve) lying
areas; Khetpurali section, Haryana; Markanda River between the major rivers, and acting as independent
domain of sedimentation
where deposition took place
in higher sloping surfaces,
ponds, lakes, low-lying
areas and minor channels,
creeks and abandoned linear
valleys. These fine-grain
horizons yielded palyno-
fossils.
Pteridophytic spores,
gymnosperm and angio-
sperm pollen dominate the
palynoflora. Spores of the
families Cyatheaceae,
Schizaeaceae, Parkeriaceae
and Polypodiaceae
represent pteridophytes.
A view of Gaggar River section (Top of Pinjor Formation) Panchkula, Haryana
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Annual Report 2000-2001
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Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
sp., Rhizomaospora sp., etc. with few Tertiary forms, sediments. Presently, the Permian sediments are well
like Striatriletes susannae, Polypodiaceaesporites exposed to the north of the studied localities. Field
sp., Pinuspollenites sp., Abiespollenites sp., besides work was undertaken to collect palynological samples
some fungal forms, mainly Frasnacritetrus sp. The from Itanagar-Naharlagun Road section and Likabali-
distribution of the families in the assemblege indicates Garu-Along Road section. About 114 rock samples
a tropical to subtropical climate during the deposition and about 36 fossil woods were collected from in
of the sediments. Presence of reworked Permian and around Likabali, West Siang district.
palynofossils indicates that the Lower Gondwana G.K. Trivedi
sediments were extensively developed in the region
and were the source rocks for these younger Tertiary
Recorded rich palynofloral assemblages from the along the shore. It has been interpreted that the Siju
Siju and Rewak formations (Middle-Late Eocene) Formation was laid down over the unstable shelf in a
exposed in a stream section at Jenggitchakgre and shallow sea. The dominance of terrestrial elements
along Tura-Dalu Road in West Garo Hills and decrease of dinocysts indicates a regressive phase
(Meghalaya). Dinoflagellate cysts and acritarchs during the sedimentation of the Rewak Formation.
dominate the Siju palynoflora, whereas the Rewak The palynoflora have been compared with the Eocene
palynoflora is mainly represented by spores-pollen assemblages recorded from various sedimentary
followed by fungal remains and dinoflagellate cysts. basins of India. Representation of Areoligera
Predominant palynotaxa of the assemblage are undulata, Areosphaeridium arcuatum, Homotryblium
Achomosphaera alcicornu, A. ramulifera, floripes, Distatodinium ellipticum, etc. suggests a
Homotryblium floripes, H. tenuispinosum, Middle Eocene age for the Siju Formation. The
Operculodinium centrocarpum, O. major, overlying Rewak Formation is dated as late Eocene
Cordosphaeridium fibrospinosum, etc. The on the basis of palynofossils. Chemical processing
palynoflora indicates prevalence of tropical (warm- of the samples from the Boldamgiri/ Baghmara
humid) climate and presence of mangrove elements Formation has also been taken up.
R.K. Saxena & S. Sarkar
Fossil fruit of Sterculia villosa from Oligocene sediments of Makum Coalfield, Assam X 1 Modern fruit of Sterculia villosa X 1
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Annual Report 2000-2001
19
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Studied and identified a number of woods from stratigraphic antiquity of the fossil Bombacaceae
the Intertrappeans and Neogene sediments of Gujarat. pollen in India.
The woods belong to various genera, viz. Afzelia- J.P. Mandal
Intsia, Bauhinia, Cynometra, Ficus, Sterculia, etc.
Identified some dicot and palm leaf-remains from Completed the morphotaxonomy and
Eocene of Rajasthan. Also finalised a paper on the identification of spore-pollen recovered from
Intertrappean woods of Kachchh (with R. Parachuri and Vidyamandir well sections, Ratnagiri
Srivastava). district (Maharashtra). The palynological
J.S. Guleria assemblages consist of fungal remains
(Phragmothyrites, Notothyrites, Parmathyrites,
Collected and processed lignite samples from Kutchiathyrites, Ratnagiriathyrites, Lirasporis,
exposed section (6-27 m) of mine II of Neyveli lignite Dicellaesporites, Dyadosporonites, Multicellae-
field. The palynological assemblage recovered from sporites, Pluricellaesporites & Staphalosporonites),
the samples belongs to 33 genera and 40 species, out pteridophytic spores (Lygodiumsporites, Striatriletes,
of which 23 genera belong to angiosperms, 5 genera Pteridacidites, Osmundacidites, Cyathidites and
(8 species) to pteridophytes and 5 genera belong to Polypodiaceaesporites) and angiospermous pollen
fungi. The recorded assemblage attributes Miocene (Quilonipollenites, Plumbaginacipites, Dipterocar-
age for the lignite deposits and indicates that the puspollenites, Retitrescolpites. Lakiapollis,
lignite was deposited in a moist tropical forest along Ctenolophonidites, Verrutriporites, Clavaperiporites
with inland elements. Carried out study to understand and Malvacearumpollis). The palynoflora suggests a
evolution, palaeogeographic distribution and warm and humid climate (tropical-subtropical) with
extinction of the genus Trilatiporites (= plenty of rainfall during the deposition of sediments.
Sclerosperma) with context to Indian sub-continent. The environment of deposition has been interpreted
K. Ambwani as nearshore with sufficient fresh water or freshwater
swamp near by. The Heliospermopsis represents the
Studied rock succession in two sections from salt glands of mangrove plants.
Fulra nala (Fulra Limestone Formation, Late-Middle M.R. Rao
Eocene) of Kachchh Basin. One section has yielded
palynofossils. The assemblage mainly contains Continued the morphotaxonomic study of
Aplanosporites and dinocysts besides few palynofossils recovered from Akli Formation, Giral
Margocolporites, Tricolporopilites and pteridophytic lignite mine, Barmer district (Rajasthan).
spores. A few palynotaxa comparable to Tasmanites Dinoflagellate cysts, fungal remains, pteridophytic
and Tetraploa have also been recovered. Section of spores and angiosperm pollen constitutes the
Khari Nadi Formation (Early Miocene) near Kunri assemblage. The flora is distinctly dominated by
village has yielded Striatriletes, Khariasporites, monosulcate pollen appearing to be related to the
Palaeomalvaceaepollis, Hibisceaepollenites, family Arecaceae (Palmae). Based on qualitative and
Meliapollis and Pinuspollenites. The quantitative analyses two zones were identified in the
palynoassemblage compares well with Striatriletes studied sequence. The lower zone is characterised
susannae zone (Kar, 1985) except dinocysts which by high frequency of dinoflagellate cysts along with
are meagre in the present assemblage. A few low number of pteridophytic spores suggesting the
Bombacacidites pollen of smaller size have been deposition of this part of sediments under shallow
recovered from Naredi Formation (Early Eocene). A marine environment. The upper zone is distinctly
paper has been finalised highlighting their dominated by angiosperm pollen having affinity with
phytogeographical significance and discussing the coastal elements and the palms. Most of the
20
Annual Report 2000-2001
palynotaxa present in the assemblage shows affinity composition and hence the two formations may
with plants confined to tropical to subtropical regions. represent a facies variation. These assemblages are
Palynofloral comparison of the present assemblage comparable to Miocene assemblage of Assam, Tamil
with those recorded from other Tertiary sediments of Nadu and Kutch.
Rajasthan, Kutch and Meghalaya indicates Late R.S. Singh
Palaeocene age.
S.K.M. Tripathi Carried out investigation on the materials from
Ratnagiri, Goa, Kerala, Pondicherry and its adjoining
Analysed Tertiary sediments (Quilon and areas. Sectioning and study of 40 carbonised woods
Warkalli formations) of Kerala for palynomorphs. from Kerala were done and study is in process.
Angiosperm pollen (48 genera with 68 species) Structural details could be observed in two wood
dominates the assemblages followed by pteridophytic samples. Morphological and SEM investigation of
spores (27 genera with 32 species). Fungal remains carbonised woods, fruits and cuticles from Ratnagiri
are present in all the assemblages. An analysis of are in process. One wood from Kalviwadi,
ecological grouping based on their affinities with Sindhudurg district (Maharashtra) is tentatively
extant plant shows that fresh water swampy and water identified with family Sonneratiaceae. Detailed
edge plant communities dominate over montane, studies were also made on dispersed angiospermous
mangrove and other vegetation types. The behaviour leaf cuticles from Sindhudurg Formation (Miocene)
of plant communities through rock succession shows of Ratnagiri district. Photodocumentation,
that the deposition of sediments took place under observation, description of the same have been done
transgressive and regressive phases. Following taxa and affinities discussed. One of the cuticles has
are common to all the assemblages: revealed a unique kind of stomatal structure not
Polypodiisporites, Lycopodiumsporites, Crassore- reported so far from any living or fossil plant group.
titriletes, Todisporites, Iridacidites, Striatriletes, Other cuticles are assignable to dicot families. Two
Cyathidites, Quilonipollenites, Lakiapollis, papers have been finalised on these aspects (with R.
Ctenolophonidites, Retitrescolpites, Tricolporopollis, Tewari and K. Ambwani). Another paper on fruit
Malvacearumpollis, Chenopodipollis, Ericipites, (Amberiocarpon gen. et sp. nov.) from Amberiwadi
Dipterocarpusopollenites and Dermatobrevicol- village, Sindhudurg district has also been finalised
porites. The assemblages of Quilon and Warkalli (with K. Ambwani).
formations do not show much difference in floral A. Agarwal
Macerated samples from the Deccan for the collection of Intertrappean rock samples from
Intertrappean beds, exposed about 3 km. NNE of the Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh
village Papro, Lalitpur (UP), to confirm the earlier R.S. Singh
results. During the process “paraphyses” of the fern
Acrostrichum was recovered showing marine Carried out work on dicotyledonous woods from
influence at the depositional site. Palaeocene marker Ghansor, Seoni district (MP). A number of fossil
species are common to the assemblage recovered woods were cut, studied and photoducumentated. The
from this Intertrappean bed. Samples from areas woods were tentatively identified as Hydnocarpus
around Naskal, (AP) were also macerated and the and Homalium (Flacourtiaceae), Grewia (Tiliaceae),
palynomorphs are typical to the Maestrichitian Elaeocarpus (Elaeocarpaceae), ?Euphoria
assemblage. Recovery of dinoflagellate cysts is (Sapindaceae) and ?Barringtonia (Lecythidaceae). A
significant for palaeoenvironment of this paper dealing with Deccan Intertrappean woods of
Intertrappean site. A detail study of the assemblages Kachchh was also finalised (with J.S. Guleria).
from Naskal is in progress. Also undertook field work R. Srivastava
21
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Taxonomic study of coralline algae from thin inner-shelf. Marine trangressive environment shifted
sections of Tertiary (Oligocene and Miocene) from lagoon to medium - high-energy open shelf
limestone samples of Kachchh Basin was carried out. environment when coral bioherms were formed.
Late Oligocene (Chattian) coralline algae have been Attempts have been made to provide information on
recorded from the topmost member (Bermoti the depth distribution of coralline incrusting
Member) of Maniyara Fort Formation exposed in the associations and from the Oligocene of southwestern
Bermoti stream in a locality about 0.5 km SE of Kachchh. In addition a conceptual model of medium-
Bermoti village and also in the stream near village energy reef formation has been proposed on the basis
Bernani. The Chattian algal assemblage comprises of Late Oligocene (Chattian) algal forms. Taxonomic
species of Lithophyllum and Mesophyllum. Late study on the coralline algae from Tertiary (Paleocene)
Lower Miocene (Burdigalian) coralline algae have sediments of Meghalaya have also been done on the
been recorded from the Chhasara Formation exposed samples of Lakadong Limestone Member, collected
along the Khari Nadi near the village Chhasara. The from K.L.M.C Limestone quarry, near Bholaganj
Burdigalian algal flora is represented only by species (about 0.5 km west of western bank of Um
of Corallina. Interpretation has been made on the role Sohryngkew River). The coralline algal flora
of calcareous algae especially in evaluating comprises species of Lithoporella, Sporolithon,
palaeoecology and palaeobathymetry. The Phymatolithon, Lithophyllum and Mesophyllum.
environment of deposition of Maniyara Fort A.K. Ghosh
Formation was marginal marine, littoral to shallow
Dinoflagellate cyst bioevents identified in the Palynofacies investigations of the lower part of the
upper Cretaceous-Palaeocene succession of the Khasi Mahadeo Formation (Therriaghat area) revealed
Hills (Meghalaya) are summarized. Detailed significant variations in the vertical distribution of
morphotaxonomical studies on some dinoflagellate dinocysts and land-derived organic matter (marine/
cysts belonging to Apectodinium are carried out. terrestrial component). Stratigraphic levels with high
These are characterized by a broader than long cyst terrestrial component in the basal part of the
lacking apical horn, reduced or absent antapical horns succession are found to contain dinocysts in
and broad lateral horns. These cysts differ from moderate/low numbers and reworked Permian
known Apectodinium species in overall shape and palynomorphs. These are interspersed with levels rich
horn characteristics and are considered to represent in dinocyst assemblages (dominated by chorate cysts).
a new species of the genus. LM/SEM investigation Occurrence of Xenascus ceratoides in this assemblage
of selected samples from the Lakadong Sandstone to is significant as its LAD indicates Lower/Upper
study preservational status of dinoflagellate cysts/ Maastrichtian boundary.
organic matter in relation to the fluctuating anoxic R. Garg, Khowaja-Ateequzzaman & V. Prasad
bottom conditions indicated by Apectodinium-rich
assemblage is carried out. Evidences of bacterial Recorded additional marker nannofossil taxa
decay and pyrite-relic structures are noted on the from the Langpar Formation (Danian) to update age-
dinocyst walls and terrestrial organic matter. significant bioevents in the Upper Cretaceous-
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Annual Report 2000-2001
Palaeocene succession. Two biozones and three Glaphyrocysta group and Senegalinium group) is
subzones are identified in the upper part of the recorded for palaeoenvironmental interpretations.
formation. Field work in parts of the Khasi and Garo Hills was
R. Garg carried out to study and collect samples from selected
Upper Cretaceous–Tertiary sections. 336 samples in
Integrated dinoflagellate cyst data with larger all were collected from Weiloi–Mawsynram, Tura–
foraminifer data from Lakadong Limestone/ Barrengapara, and Siju–Rewak areas. Detailed
Sandstone succession of Cherrapunji Plateau and sampling was done from thin coal–bearing horizons
Therriaghat area for precise age determination and of Lakadong Sandstone in Jathang and Mahadek–
palaeoenvironmental interpretations. These evidences Langpar transition near Lawbah (Mawsynram area).
are further utilized to understand lateral facies Lower and upper contacts of the Siju Limestone with
development and relative sea level changes in the Tura and Rewak formations have been investigated
Upper Palaeocene succession of the Khasi Hills. and sampled in detail in Dilni River and Siju–Rewak
Apectodinium-rich dinoflagellate cyst assemblages area. Significant lateral facies changes in Siju
(Late Thanetian Ahy/Aau Biozones) recovered from Formation are documented.
sediments associated with coal-bearing strata of the R. Garg & Khowaja-Ateequzzaman
Lakadong Sandstone suggest that the deposition of
this coal unit was a short-lived event close to the Identified successive first appearance of some
Palaeocene-Eocene boundary. The predominance of additional marker dinoflagellate cyst taxa from the
Apectodinium indicating reduced salinity with anoxic Naredi Formation (Kachchh Basin) which are
bottom conditions supports estuarine to coastal significant for age determination and biozonation.
swamp environment of this coal-bearing sandstone. Occurrence of C. cornuta / K. nuda in the basal part
The studies have established close stratigraphic (below the “Venericardia beaumonti” Bed) indicates
correspondence between Apectodinium Acme (Aau definite Palaeocene age. M. fimbriatum, common
Biozone) and the larger foraminifer Ranikothalia through out the succession, ranges from Late
nuttali-Miscellania miscella Assemblage (Shallow Thanetian to early Lutetian in age. First appearance
Benthic Zones SBZ5-SBZ6). Based on this of A. multispinosum, G. exuberance/G. vicina above
correlation, it is concluded that the coal-bearing the ‘VB’ Bed suggests early Ypresian age as these
Lakadong Sandstone on the Cherrapunji Plateau is species have their FAD at or just above the
the synchronous lateral facies equivalent of the upper Palaeocene-Eocene boundary. Three informal
part of the Lakadong Limestone of the basinal biozones are proposed. Also documented dinocysts
Therriaghat section. The Lakadong Limestone/ recovered from the basal part of the Fulra Formation.
Sandstone succession represents a progradational Khowaja-Ateequzzaman & R. Garg
sequence developed during sea level highstand in Late
Palaeocene times. The Therria Sandstone-Lakadong
Limestone/Sandstone sequence of Khasi Hills is
interpreted as deposits of the transgressive and
highstand system tracts, representing a single
depositional sequence between post-Langpar and post
Lakadong sea level falls, corresponding broadly to
the 3rd order cycles TA 2.1 – TA 2.3. A paper is
finalized on this aspect. Also documented the
occurrence of stratigraphically significant dinocyst
taxa from the upper part of the Langpar Formation
and identified three informal biozones. Vertical
distribution of different cyst associations (viz. Apectodinium paniculatum — dinoflagellate cyst, Lakadong Sandstone,
Spiniferites group, Cordosphaeridium group, South Shillong Plateau
23
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Component 3: Neogene microfossils from Andaman and Nicobar Islands and their stratigraphical
significance
Recorded diatom and silicoflagellate assemblage annotated synopsis of the geological studies so far
from the mudstone and chalk beds of the Archipelago carried out in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is
Group (Neogene) exposed along North-South Road being prepared. It will include bibliographical details
in Great Nicobar Island. Morphotaxonomic study of and abstracts of papers published on all aspects of
this assemblage has been done and its biostratigraphic geology of the Islands.
potential is being assessed. Completed compilation A. Chandra & R.K. Saxena
of field data from the Great Nicobar Island. An
Component 4: Late Mesozoic-Tertiary nannofossils from Andaman and Nicobar Islands and their
biostratigraphical implications
Prepared data sets of all the investigated profiles enhancement with corresponding fall in nonarboreals,
from Himalaya for construction of global maps of resulted establishment of mixed oak forest with
biomes 6,000 and 18,000 yr. BP in consultation with change in climate towards more warm and humid
Dr. Sutra and Professor Sandy Harrison of Germany. conditions but the frequency of mixed oak forest did
C. Sharma not remain constant and faced phases of depression
and expansion, indicating fluctuating climatic
Completed pollen analysis of profile SRT-I (2 conditions during Late Holocene. Also carried out
m thick) from Saria Tal, Kumaun Himalaya and palaeontological investigation of lacustrine
constructed pollen diagram. Study has unrevealed sediments from Saria Tal and prepared 2 figures
palaeovegetation and corresponding climate of the which show specific distribution of Molluscs,
temperate zone of the region since Middle Holocene. supporting the results of pollen analytical
Around 4,950 yr. BP area had predominance of investigations. Undertaken geochemical analysis of
nonarboreals with pine forest. Quercus encountered sedimentary profile ST (3.5 m deep) from Sukha Tal
rarely but showed gradual increase onwards, and prepared a figure which shows inverse relation
indicating ameliorating trend of climate. At the onset in total organic matter (TOM) with total carbonate
of Late Holocene Quercus acquired marked contents (TCC) throughout the sequence. About
24
Annual Report 2000-2001
lower half part of profile contains fluctuating high TCC, showing restoration of earlier conditions. Also
TOM and low TCC, indicating existence of wet carried out chemical processing of profile ST from
climate at the region. The subsequent half part shows Sukha Tal. Prepared two manuscripts on the above
considerably low TOM and abruptly high TCC, aspects.
reflecting change in climate towards dry conditions. A. Gupta
The top of profile again contains high TOM and low
Carried out the pollen analytical studies of a 1.5 by the establishment of modern sal forests as
m deep sediment profile (12210 ±110 yr. BP at 80 evidenced from the expansion of Shorea robusta
cm level) from Aki forest Division in Mikir hills together with its associates, such as Madhuca indica,
(Assam). The study predicts that in the last 15,000 Terminalia, Holoptelea, etc. This significant change
yrs. there have been four stages of vegetation in the floristic pattern reflects the prevalence of moist
developments reflecting directly on brief phases of climate in the region.
climate such as very arid, arid, semi arid, warm and Pollen analysis of 5 surface samples was carried
humid. The abundance of grasses both cultivated as out from Dongar-Sarbar, Shahdol district to study
well as wild throughout the pollen diagram has modern pollen/vegetation relationship in the region.
revealed the existence of an open savannah forest. Among the recovered arboreal taxa, Madhuca indica
The arboreal vegetation is poor and represented by a and Shorea robusta are somewhat better represented,
few scattered tropical trees and shrubs. Both monolete whereas Emblica officinalis, Terminalia,
as well as trilete ferns are well documented in the Lagerstroemia, Buchanania, etc. are recorded
assemblage. Some degraded pollen and spores along sporadically. The poor representation of most of the
with fungal spores and hyphae are also found in the tree taxa could be inferred to their entomophilous
sediment. The low occurrence of few extra regional mode of pollination as well as poor preservation of
plant taxa like Pinus, Picea, Abies, Larix, Betula and pollen in the sediments. On the other hand, the good
Alnus are indicative of long distance transportation representation of herbaceous taxa, viz., grasses,
of pollen from high elevation. sedges, Chenopodiaceae/Amaranthaceae and
S.K. Bera Tubuliflorae exhibits a close coherence with their
actual composition in the ground flora. Pollen analysis
Completed pollen analytical investigation of 1.5 was done 10 samples from a 1.5 m deep core in
m deep sediment core from Barkullah Swamp, Dongar-Sarbar area. The pollen assemblage obtained
Shahdol district (M.P.) and prepared pollen diagram. has shown the presence of tropical deciduous sal
Three phases of vegetation development have been forests in the region. The analysis of the remaining
recognized in the region since prior to 3,000 yrs. BP— samples is in progress. Finalised a paper entitled
i) Phase I- indicates existence of the open tropical “Pollen record of vegetation and climatic changes in
deciduous forests composed of a few trees of northeastern Madhya Pradesh during last 1,600
Madhuca indica, Terminalia, Lagerstroemia, years”.
Emblica officinalis, etc. in warm and less moist M.S. Chauhan
climatic condition, ii) Phase II- indicates that mixed
deciduous forests became dense and diversified due Studied two sedimentary soil profiles from Adyar
to immigration of Shorea robusta (sal) as well as estuary. The geochemical data reveals the input of
increase in the frequencies of Madhuca indica, toxic concentration of heavy metals, especially
Lagerstroemia, Adina cordifolia and Holoptelea in arsenic (50 - 100 µg/g), lead (400 - 1000 µg/g) and
response to amelioration of climate which probably copper (80 - 400 µg/g) in surface soil as well as in
turned warm and moist, and iii) Phase III- is marked profiles. Most of the arsenic in soil is water-soluble.
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Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Accumulation of these in plants was also analysed. to pressure of aquacultutre and pisciculture practiced
The palynostratigraphical records show occurrence in large scale decreasing the biodiversity in the area.
of mangrove forest during Early Holocene in the Preliminary analysis shows high concentration of
estuary that declined during Late Holocene. The heavy metals (arsenic, lead, and copper) in surface
anthropogenic pressure from Chennai city is fast soil and sedimentary soil profile studied from
deteriorating the aesthetic value of the estuary. Pichavaram (TN). High concentration of these was
Palynostratigraphical studies from Kolleru Lake (AP) observed in the leaves of mangroves.
indicates the shrinking of lake in the present day due A. Farooqui
Carried out LM and SEM studies of palyno taxa Poaceae, Cyperaceae, Tubulifloreae, Brassicaceae,
of families Malvaceae, Capparidaceae and Convolvulaceae, Portulaca sp., Solanum
Sterculiaceae collected from Rajasthan in order to xanthocarpum amongst non-arboreal and Mimosa sp.,
facilitate the specific identification of the recovered Syzyzium sp., Holoptelea, Ephedra sp., etc. of
fossil pollen and to ascertain the affinities of the arboreal. Pollen of Pinus roxburghii, transported to
genera and species to determine possible evolutionary the site has also been recorded. Pollen of Dendropthoe
trends in these families. Completed the pollen falcata, the epiphyte Loranthaceae has also been
analytical investigations of 1.40 m deep sedimentary recovered. Completed pollen analytical investigation
profile from Pachpadra, an extinct salt lake in Barmer of 4.00 m deep sedimentary profile from Bagundi,
district. The pollen diagram has been divided into another extinct salt lake, situated 30 km from
three zones; each prefixed by the abbreviations PP, Pachpadra town towards Barmer. Studies have
signifying the investigated site. Pollen zone PP-I revealed the dominance of non-arboreal over arboreal
(125-140 cm) is palynologically barren and is mainly as witnessed in Pachpadra profile. Most of the
comprised of sandy material with very little clay. PP- samples turned out non-productive, except for the
II (70-125 cm) reflects poor occurrence of Poaceae, upper part (0-90 cm) with blackish clay sediment.
Cyperaceae, Tubulifloreae, etc. comprising sandy Finalized manuscript based on the studies of surface
surface and with little clay. Pollen zone PP-III (0-70 samples from Bagundi.
cm) revealed good frequency of palyno-taxa, viz. C. Sharma & C. Srivastava
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Annual Report 2000-2001
Component 5: Aerobiology in relation to pollen production, dispersal and preservation of pollen grains
Detailed information of 28 plant taxa was Cannabis sativa, Cassia fistula, Cynodon dactylon,
collected for an atlas of air borne pollen grains of Chenopodium album, Dactylactenium aegyptium,
Lucknow plants and their allergenic significance. It Delonix regia, Eragrostris tenella, Eucalyptus
includes data on their name, local identity, family, citriodora, Emblica officinalis, Grevillea robusta,
distribution, habit and habitat, flowering period, Holoptelea integrifolia, Kigelia pinnata, Moringa
pollen incidence in the air of Lucknow and other parts oleifera, Morus alba, Parthenium hysterophorus,
of country, duration, peak and percentage in annual Pithecolobium dulce, Prosopis juliflora, Putranjiva
pollen calendar, pollen morphology and allergenic roxburghii, Polyalthia longifolia, Ricinus communis,
significance. The recorded taxa are Ailanthus excelsa, Salmalia malabarica and Terminalia arjuna. The
Amaranthus spinosus, Argemone mexicana, Albizzia work is in progress.
procera, Azadirachta indica, Crataeva religiosa, A. Khandelwal
Component 6: Vegetational history and climate during Quaternary in Antarctica
Pollen analyses of the samples from Priyadarshini spore and insect scale, wings, plant fragments, algal
lake collected by Dr. Rajiv Sinha, IIT, Kanpur (50 and fungal filaments indicating the long distance
cm deep profile-II) and Dr. D.K. Upreti, NBRI, distribution of microbiota in the air.
Lucknow (surface samples) was carried out. The C. Sharma & S.K. Bera
studies have unraveled Early Holocene vegetation
scenario. The studies corroborate more or less with Visited IIT, Kanpur to procure Gravity Corer
the earlier investigated profile (profile-I) from the (HYDROBIOS) and to discuss (with Dr. Sinha) about
lake. There is overall dominance of nonarboreal taxa the drilling methods in remote lake sites in Antarctica.
over arboreal. The arboreal pollen, viz. Larix, Pinus, Completed the detail work done during 19 th
Podocarpus, Betula, Myrtaceae, Oleaceae, etc., have Expedition. Visited NCAOR, Goa under 20 th
the origin in far off subtropical and temperate regions Expedition programme and engaged in the
and have been transported thousands of kilometers arrangement of equipment, chemicals and other items
through upthermic winds, whereas the nonarboreals for setting a laboratory at Antarctica. Procured a large
include mostly grasses and Caryophyllaceae having number of palynological samples including moss
local origin representing very few taxa growing in turfs, frozen soil, dry algal mat, moraine, lake water,
Antarctica. Cosmarium,
the most dominant alga
besides other algal and
fungal remains too are
present in most of the
samples. The analytical
work carried out on
surface samples from
Antarctica is finalised
and a manuscript is
completed. The study (by
Bera) of air samples
over southern ocean
records the low
occurrence of pollen/
Thick iceshelf, Indian Bay
27
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
snow and blue ice from different lake sites, valleys, smeared slides using Burkard air sampler starting
nunataks and Polar ice bed in and around Schirmacher from 40ºS of Capetown (South Africa) to Antarctica
oasis of East Antarctica. Recovered one lake sediment over Southern Ocean and on return voyage from
profile from ‘Long Lake’ (70º45’20" S & 11º4’ E), 3 Antarctica to Capetown respectively. A manuscript
km west of Priyadarshini Lake during 20th Expedition. is also finalised on this study (with A. Khandelwal).
Daily air sampling was done by exposing glycerin S.K. Bera
Continued study on the botanical remains from (UP), was carried out. From a wide range of cultural
the non-agrarian Mesolithic site of Early Holocene deposits dated from about 1800 to 800 BC, crop
times in Pratapgarh district (UP). In earlier examined remains homologies with the certain grains and seeds.
material, damage caused by water-sieving, however, Remains of some weeds and other wild taxa in highly
appeared to be considerable in the form of cracking mutilated condition were also encountered in
on the surface of highly fragile grains and seeds, association of the crop assemblage. Study of large
fortuitously preserved in carbonised state. In the number of wood charcoals revealed the presence of
current approach, retrieval of some exceedingly trees and shrubs of mahua, khair/babul, salai, palash,
carbonised seeds and fruits by scooping them from dhera, anwala, heens/jhiri, dahia, gular, chebulic or
the mudclods of Mesolithic habitation deposits was harra, bamboo, etc. Further studies are in progress.
an scrupulous task, but some poorly preserved An affluent annexation was also made in the plant
specimens are recovered in intact form. The species economy of ancient Imlidih-Khurd in Gorakhpur
of Rumex, Dactyloctenium, Setaria and Desmodium District, already worked out during 1998-99.
were of similar kinds as reported earlier. A few grains Voluminous quantities of ashy contents containing
of bristlegrass (Setaria cf. verticillata) and a small enormous, minute bits of carbonised material,
piece of rachilla of rice, however, made new recovered during excavation, were repeatedly
additions. A broken piece of rice grain with a small analysed. An embracive search led to the explicit
part of husk attached, provided certain conformity identification of a large number of seeds and fruits.
with domesticated form of Oryza sativa. A few small
pieces of wood charcoals, on being sectioned and The find of lichen (Everniastrum cirrhatum),
studied, were found belonging to those of Ziziphus from the cultural stratum datable between 1300 and
sp., Bambusa sp., Butea monosperma and Capparis 800 BC is to be reckoned with for its use as an
sepiaria/horrida. ingredient of spices and medicine. Vernacularly
known as ‘Chharila’, occurs on the bark of trees in
Study of the temperate forests of Himalayas, at the elevations
botanical remains of 1000-4000 m. the use of ‘Putranjeeva’ (Drypetes
recovered through roxburghii) nuts is also evidenced highly alluring one,
the archaeological in the cultural lexicon. A few nuts with holes made
excavation at an across them suggest to had been strung up in a
ancient mound in necklace. It is a unique evidence of a definite aspect
the village of human philosophical thought and activity, during
Malhar, situated 1300-800 BC at Imlidih-Khurd. The opulent data
‘Putranjeeva’ (Drypetes roxburghii) with holes
on the bank of generated would lend a hand in the reconstruction of
made across them from Imlidih-Khurd, Karamnasa River, ecological surroundings of this settlement, during
Gorakhpur (Ca 1300-800 B.C.) strung up in a
necklace form (scale in mm)
Chandauli district 1700-800 BC Not surprisingly, many plants recorded
28
Annual Report 2000-2001
do have economic uses and may be regarded to have include the remains of field-crops belonging to barley,
been manipulated for varied purposes by ancients. A rice, bread-wheat, dwarf-wheat, ragi/ African millet,
field work was undertaken to an ancient site in a Kodon, pigeon-pea, chick-pea, khesari/ grass-pea,
village Ojiyana, Bhilwara district, Rajasthan, where lentil, field-pea, aconite bean, cow-pea, black gram,
Rajasthan circle of Archaeological Survey of India green gram, kulthi/ horse-gram, linseed, sesame, and
carried out a systematic excavation to delve into an cotton. A seed of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is
indigenous, less known and lesser studied ‘Ahar also important to suggest its cultivation for its fruits.
Culture’ of Mewar region, flourishing during third Stones and fruits of jujube (Ziziphus sp.) and the seeds
and second millennia BC A large amount of of silk-cotton tree (Salmalia malabarica) and the
carbonised material was collected, from a wide range herbaceous species of Crotolaria, have also been
of cultural deposits at the site. encountered. Associated finds of weeds and other
K.S. Saraswat wild taxa have been identified. A field work to the
ancient site at Pirvitani Sariff in village Trilokpur,
Carried out investigation on a rich collection of district Sravasti, U.P. was made for the collection of
botanical remains retrieved through archaeological archaeobotanical remains through excavations, being
excavations at an ancient mound in Charda-Jamoga conducted by the Department of Ancient Indian
village, district Bahraich (UP). The remains of seeds History and Archaeology, Lucknow University,
and fruits, from a wide range of cultural deposits, Lucknow.
datable from about 800/700 BC to 1100 AD, reflect C. Srivastava
an advanced state of agricultural economy. The finds
Cross-dated the tree-core samples of Abies Analysed teak (Tectona grandis) core samples
spectabilis from Rargari, and Bugdyar in Munsiyari, from 23 trees and 13 discs from Parambiculum Forest
Pithoragarh. The ring-widths of dated samples were Division, Kerala. Tree-cores were mounted and
measured and chronologies prepared. The chronology polished for the analysis. Tree rings were counted
from Bugdyar (prepared from 24 tree-core) extends through Skeleton Plot technique. Number of ring
from AD 1778-1998, however the chronology from range from 31 to 246 years. Several tree-cores of
Rargari (22 tree-core) extends from AD 1721-1998. Pinus gerardiana from Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh
The chronology statistics such as mean sensitivity were also analysed. Tree rings have been counted.
inter-correlation between tree samples indicate that Number of rings range from72 to 579. Samples are
the tree growth is moderately sensitive to climatic found to have a large number of missing rings, which
variations. The detailed tree-growth/climate are identified and dated through ‘cross dating’
relationship study is being worked out. technique.
R.R. Yadav A. Bhattacharyya
29
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
A total of 160 samples were processed in the around that region and to link glacial fluctuations in
Radiocarbon Lab during the year, of these 152 were relation to 14C dates. Carbonaceous sediment samples
dated. The routine dating has been continued using from Bhojbas, Gangotri was also dated to understand
Quantulus Liquid Scintillation Counter. The spectral the climatic changes vis-à-vis glacial fluctuations.
quench parameter measured using the internal The sample at 0.50-0.54 m depth in the profile dates
standard of the Quantutlus system is being used to 5990 ±120 YBP and the one at 1.20-1.24 m depth
regularly to correct counting efficiency due to self dates to 8730 ±170 YBP. Interpretation of glacial
quenching while calculating results. The motor unit fluctuations on the basis of the palynological,
for vertical movement of the sample in the counting chemical and age data are being finalised.
chamber in the Quantulus became defective. This part Carbonaceous samples from Sukha Tal, Nainital were
was procured and replaced at the end of November, dated to reconstruct the palaeovegetation and climate
but the counting of samples was continued using the of the area. The age at depth 230-235 cm works out
less sensitive Rackbeta unit. Dating of high counting to 8260 ±170 YBP and at depth 335-340 cm it is
samples is being carried out using Rackbeta system. 3790 ±110 YBP.
Efficiency correction for counting due to self-
quenching has also been carried out in the same One Carbonaceous sediment sample (at 28.96 m)
manner as in Quantulus system. Nine different kinds from Mansar Lake, J&K was dated (8530 ±130 YBP)
of samples (carbonates, cellulose, barley, etc.) were for reconstruction of environment change with time
dated as a part of 4th International Radiocarbon inter- of that region. Carbonaceous clay samples from
comparison measurements conducted by University Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi was also dated. Dating
of Glasgow (UK). The results agree very well with of carbonaceous samples (at 1.0 m depth) from
measurements carried out at 83 laboratories world Sulurpet (AP) was undertaken to infer the chronology
over. of Holocene sea level and climatic changes, the age
is found to be 2310 ±140 YBP. Peat samples (at 3.0
A peat sample (depth at 80 cm) from Kukrail m) from Kasredinilam, Sulurpet was also dated (4800
was dated for reconstruction of climate and vegetation ±180 YBP) to study the neotectonic movement in
history around Lucknow. The age at was found to be the area and the data are being correlated with Pulicat
100 ±90 Yr. BP showing a high sedimentation rate. Lake and other East Coast regions. Peats (141-145
Deeper samples are needed to infer the past vegetation cm) from Adyar, Chennai was also dated (16680 ±280
changes. Organic mud samples from Jarbokho (at 90 YBP) to derive the history of mangrove vegetation
cm), Sidhi District and Barkullah (at 25 cm), Sahdol during Late Quaternary. Peats (1.25-1.35 m) from
District were dated (Jarbokho- 1360 ±90 YBP, Siro, Arunachal Pradesh was dated (>40,000 YBP)
Barkullah- 3020 ±90 YBP) for chronological to study the climatic changes in eastern Himalayas.
reconstruction of vegetation and climate in different Carbonaceous samples (at 21-60 cm depth) from Zub
regions of MP. Organic mud samples (130-150 cm) Lake, East Antarctica were dated (1310 ±140 YBP)
from Dongar Sarbar, Sahdol District were dated (9470 to understand the past climate of the region. Charcoal
±130 YBP) to reconstruct the temporal and spatial sample (at depth 2.75 m) from Dadupur, Lucknow
distribution of tropical deciduous forest in central was dated (3380 ±160 YBP) to understand the ancient
India. Silty clay samples (at 4.0 m) from Dokriani plant economy from Pre-historic and proto-historic
Bamak Glacier, Uttarkashi were dated (9050 ± 40 sites.
YBP) for the reconstruction of climatic changes G. Rajagopalan
30
Annual Report 2000-2001
Studied the diagnostic morphological characters patches with more precipitation or having more
of angiospermous pollen taxa under SEM in relation humid condition possess moist deciduous vegetation
to LM. The morphographical characters were noted with Sal forests. The vegetation of this area comprises
to supplement the preparation of pollen atlas. Further, of tree, shrubs and herbs. The trees, shrubs and woody
a detailed SEM study of pollen taxa Psudophoenix climbers are perennial. Almost all the herbaceous
vinifer, Phoenix sylvestris, P. tomentosa and plants are seasonal. Thus, the vegetation of the district
Plectocomia engleri belonging to Arecaceae was may be studied under two categories— i) permanent
carried out. It was found that the monosulcate pollen vegetation, and ii) seasonal vegetation. Floristic
grains of Psudophoenix resemble with the fossil survey of south Sahdol Forest Division was
pollen grains of Quilonipollenites. Also visited undertaken and plant specimens (800), polleniferous
Central National Herbarium, Howrah for the detailed materials (300 samples), wood blocks (10), and fruits
study of pollen type specimens. and seeds (200 samples) were collected.
K. Ambwani Ethnobotanical survey of Gond and Bagia tribal areas
was carried out and documentation of various uses
of about 100 plants was completed. Samples of 60
Carried out studies on the flora of Sidhi District, medicinal plants were also collected. Processing of
MP. The vegetation of the district is predominantly collected plant materials is being done. SEM
dry deciduous, with Teak forest, covering much of photograph of nuts of different species of genus
the area in the north and the northwest of Kaimur Fimbristylis (Cyperaceae) was taken to study detail
hills and Kehanjua hills. The hilly moist localities to morphology (with K. Ambwani).
the central and south and the other scattered localised D.C. Saini
31
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
32
Annual Report 2000-2001
Prepared a paper entitled “Morphotaxonomical Carried out taxonomic study of coralline algae
study on fossil leaves of Ficus from Late Holocene from Middle Pliocene sequence of Car Nicobar Island.
sediments of Sirmur District, H.P., India” (with M.P. Sah). Altogether 21 limestone samples (126 slides) have been
M. Prasad & M.S. Chauhan analysed and amongst these 10 samples (60 slides) are
productive. The assemblage comprises species of
Started work on a monograph including study Sporolithon, Lithothamnion, Mesophyllum,
of all the fungal remains known so far from the Indian Lithophyllum, Hydrolithon, Amphiroa, Corallina and
sediments. This will include morphotaxonomic restudy Arthrocardia. Further study and interpretation are in
of fungal taxa, their reallocation, wherever necessary, progress.
proposal of new genera and species, comments on their A. Chandra, R.K. Saxena & A.K. Ghosh
extant relationship, keys for identification of various
genera of fungal spores and fruit bodies, etc. The Studied dispersed organic matters (DOM) in
taxonomic part will consist of original diagnosis and Neogene-Pleistocene sediments of site- 218 of the DSDP
taxonomic and nomenclatural synonyms of each genus Leg 22, Bengal Fan Indian Ocean to assess depositional
and species; and holotype, type locality, horizon and characteristics and sedimentary environment. The lower
age, Indian records (with all relevant details) and present part of the core represents rich biodegraded terrestrial
status of each taxon and type. The detailed account of OM, while upper part exhibit rich structured terrestrial
each taxon will be accompanied by suitable illustrations. types and black debris. Spores and pollen grains are few.
R.K. Saxena & S.K.M. Tripathi Some recycled Mesozoic palynotaxa have also been
recorded throughout the sequence. The behaviour pattern
Worked on a catalogue, including all records of OM indicates gradual replacing of reducing condition
of spores and pollen from the Indian Tertiary from base to oxidizing condition towards upper part of
sediments published from 1989 to 2000. This will the sequence.
update the earlier catalogue on Indian Tertiary spores M. Kumar, A. Chandra & R.K. Saxena
and pollen (Saxena, 1991).
R.K. Saxena & G.K. Trivedi Compiled stratigraphic records of dinoflagellate
cysts reported from the Indian Mesozoic-Cenozoic
Listed all known pteridophytic spore taxa with sedimentary sequences (post 1989 period) to update the
their Indian geographic occurrence and stratigraphic existing computer database to prepare a revised version
range to review and synthesis present state of knowledge of the earlier Catalogue on the Indian Dinoflagellate
of some selected spores from the Indian Tertiary Cysts (Khowaja-Ateequzaman, 1991).
sediments in connection with the preparation of an atlas. Khowaja-Ateequzzaman & R. Garg
35 taxa have been selected for critical evaluation at
species level. Updated the draft of a proposed DST sponsored
J.P. Mandal & S. Sarkar collaborative project (BSIP & NIO) entitled
“Geochemical and palynological investigation to
Evaluated critically the palynological record of decipher variations in the intensity of oxygen minimum
angiosperms published from Indian Tertiary sediments along western margin of India during Late-Quaternary”
for identifying phytogeoprovinces and their to incorporate studies on pollen, dinoflagellate cysts and
development in time and space. Attempts have been marine palynomorphs (organic remains of marine
made to find out the extant analogue of the fossil forms zooplankton) emphasising their significance in
for better understanding of the development processes palaeoclimate related studies on the Arabian Sea
and evolutionary significance of different forest types. sediments.
A manuscript on this aspect has been prepared. G. Rajagoplan, C. Sharma, R. Garg &
S. Sarkar Khowaja-Ateequzzaman
33
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Carried out LM and SEM documentation of fragments of conifer woody tissues showing cross-field
nannofossil assemblage from the basal most level of pit areas have also been recorded.
Jara Dome section, Kachchh. The assemblage contains The study has recorded the sporadic occurrence
marker Ansulsphaera helvetica, Stephanolithion bigotii, of non-arboreal pollen grains belonging to Poaceae,
S.hexum, S.speciosum, Watznaeuria manivitae along Cyperaceae, Brassicaceae, Tubulifloreae (Asteraceae),
with other Jurassic nannoflora. The assemblage is Acanthaceae, Cheno/Ams and fungal spores of
assignble to NJ 12a A.helvetica zone. A manuscript on Ascospores, Nigrospores, Tiliospores, Helmintho-
the aspect is prepared. Another manuscript entitled “An sporium etc. indicating open type of vegetation. Besides,
overview of nannofossil records of India” has been the frequent encounter of large-sized Cerealia type of
completed. pollen along with other culture pollen taxa such as
J. Rai Plantago, Brassicaceae, Cheno/Ams and charcoal pieces
in good number through out the sequence implies that
Prepared the project proposal entitled “Forensic the area was under agricultural practices. Pollen of
palynology - A new research frontier for BSIP”. Asteraceae in appreciable number are of particular
C. Sharma & M.S. Chauhan significance to suggest that this area was being used as
pasture land by the local inhabitants through early time.
Finalised two papers entitled ‘Biodeterioration: Cedrus deodara pollen denotes its transportation from
An aerobiological approach’ and ‘Aeromycological Himalayan region. The fragmentary gymnosperm woody
studies in relation to biodeterioration of cultural tissues showing the cross-field pits of Pinoid, Piceoid and
properties’. Taxodioid types, suggest the economic use of soft-woods
Discussion and interaction were made with Prof. made available from Himalayan forests. Fern spores, leaf
Sandy Harrison and other members of INDSUBIO in cuticle showing stomata, Concentricystis and Acritarchs,
documentation of pollen and plant macrofossil data sets etc. have also been scantily found.
for 6,000 and 18,000 yr. BP during Workshop held in C. Srivastava
Germany. Also helped in construction of global maps
of biomes using a standard objective biomisation Submitted two revised write-ups— i) Radio ke
technique based on plant functional types (PFT). Also liye lekhan, and ii) Saakshatkar, to Indian Science
prepared Lucknow pollen data set of 48 surface samples Communication Society, Lucknow for the Distance
(mud, soil, water and moss-cushions) collected from Education Course on Science Journalism under NCSTC/
different parts of city and adjoining areas on the basis DST programme, initiated during the Workshop held at
of recognised plant functional types for inclusion in BSIP (in 1998).
BIOME 6000. C.M. Nautiyal
A. Khandelwal
Finalised the data on interpretation of climatic
Continued work from the garden plot area laid changes around Surinsar Lake (Jammu) based on
around historical site Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi to elemental analysis, 14 C dating of sediment samples and
have a know-how of the gardening activities during palynological study. Interpretation of glacial fluctuations
Mughal times. Pollen analytical investigations of soil on the basis of the palynological, chemical and 14 C age
samples (2.70 & 2.00 m deep profiles) have been data of sediment profile from an outwash plain at
completed. Three samples from trench-I, measuring 260- Bhojwasa near Gangotri Glacier, Garhwal Himalayas
270 cm, 160-170 cm and 80-100 cm, have been 14C have also been finalised. Holocene sea level changes
dated to 7970 ±220 Yrs. B.P., 2120 ±200 Yrs. B.P. and on the basis of palynostratigraphical and geochemical
1670 ±170 Yrs. B.P. respectively. Samples in the upper studies of Pichavaram, Tamil Nadu have also been
horizon only seem to date close to Mughal period. The finalised. The microwave digestion system MDS 2100
palynomorphs recovered are very low in frequency. is being used regularly for preparation of samples for
However, productivity in organic content is very high. chemical analysis and palynological studies.
Large number of wood charcoals and cuticle pieces, B. Sekar & G. Rajagopalan
34
Annual Report 2000-2001
Collaborative Work
Completed a monograph entitled “Precambrian (ranging from less than 50m to ~3000m depth) have
stromatolites of India and Russia” under Integrated been analysed to study distribution pattern of organic-
Long Term Program of Co-operation in Science and walled and calcareous dinoflagellates in westernmost
Technology (ILTP). sediments. While organic-walled dinoflagellate cysts
M. Sharma & A.K. Sinha (under ILTP: Indo- are observed to predominate in samples from
Russian) shallower depths, other marine palynomorphs
(organic remains derived from marine zooplankton-
Partially degraded pollen of Arenga pinnata, the primary consumers) have been found to occur in
Borassus flabellifer and Caryota urens were studied fairly good numbers (with dinocysts playing a
with the aim to observe the morphological changes. subordinate role) in samples of increasing depths in
Degradation was achieved in the three sets of some regions on the shelf. Among these microfossils,
experiments: i) pollen were treated with 2- copepod egg-envelopes and exoskeleton remains,
aminoethanol for a period(s) of 1, 2 and 3 days, tintinnid loricae, scolecodont remains foraminiferal
followed by ii) oxidation of pollen with the help of inner linings etc. have been identified. Some of these
1% dil. KMnO4 for a period of 24 hrs, and iii) pollen palynomorphs are known to constitute the relatively
grains treated with 2-aminoethanol were kept in labile component of the marine organic matter/
merkaptoethanol for 24 hrs. Pollen were separately palynodebris assemblages and are supposed to be
dissolved in 50% glycerine for 30 days to study the useful as proxy indicators of productivity and
nature of exine, intine and protoplasmic contents. preservability of organic matter in the marine realm.
Based on the features observed after these R. Garg & Khowaja-Ateequzzaman [& Dr.
experiments, four groups were identified in the Rajiv Nigam (NIO, Goa)]
studied pollen grains— A) unchanged monosulcate
pollen grains, B) open pollen grains with endexine A manuscript is completed on the
and protoplasm contained within the pollen, C) open stratigraphic and palaeoenvironmental significance
pollen with ectexine and without endexine and of Early Campanian nannofossils recovered from
protoplasm, and D) the endexine and protoplasm sandstone unit (? Lameta Formation), overlying
without the ectexine. Statistical data of pollen corraline limestone/marls of the Bagh Formation and
constituting each group was collected. Alteration and underlying the Deccan Traps, exposed in Chakrud,
variation in morphology of the studied pollen grain near Zeerabad, Bagh area.
are documented. J. Rai & R. Garg [& Prof. S. Kumar (Lucknow
S.K.M. Tripathi & M. Kumar [& University)]
Professor M. Kedves (Hungary)]
Work on stable carbon isotopic composition
Finalised a manuscript entitled “A fossil of Siwalik Paleosols and its relation to C3/ C4 plants
wood of Dryobalanops from Pliocene deposits of and climate has been carried out. About 60 paleosol
Indonesia”. samples from Siwalik sequences of Suraikhola
R. Srivastava [& Noriko Kagemori (Wood (Nepal) were analysed. The observation suggests a
Research Institute, Kyoto University, Japan)] major shift in the carbon and oxygen isotopic
composition at 6.5 Ma, which corroborates the
Dinoflagellate cysts from marine sediments existing record of, established Asian monsoon in
as indicators of past environmental changes along Indian subcontinent. In addition to climatic shift at
the Western Indian Coast— 35 surface samples 6.5 Ma the present result indicates a change in the
collected under the PAGES Programme from the climate at 3.5 Ma supported by shift in d13C and d18C
eastern Arabian Sea off the Karwar-Marmagao Coast values.
35
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
36
Annual Report 2000-2001
Sponsored Projects
Project : Search of palyno-event evidences for the Compiled and finalised the project report and
status of Jurassic sequence on Indian submitted to DST. Some of the important
Peninsula (Sponsored by DST, New Delhi, No. achievements under this project are— i) the oldest
DST/ESS/CA-17/96) record of fresh water diatoms (Melosira) from the
Deccan Intertrappean sediments was reported for the
Finalised the palynological studies carried out first time, ii) two unisexual flowers, Flosvirulis
and compiled the palyno-data for preparation of final deccenensis and Flosfemina intertrappea were
Project Report. Also revised the manuscript on the described from the beds of Mohgaon-Kalan,
age of Kota Formation, Pranhita-Godavari valley. Chhindwara District (MP), iii) re-description of
Vijaya Sahnipushpam Shukla was done to assess its correct
floral morphology, iv) two intertrappean sedimentary
Project : Deccan Intertrappean palynoflora and beds and three traps from the Padwar dug out well
its implication for the demarcation of K/T were reported for the first time, and v) the K/T
Boundary (Sponsored by DST, New Delhi, No. transition at Padwar well (MP) and Umshrongkew
DST/ESS/CA/A4—16/96) river section (Meghalaya) were demarcated for the
first time based on the palynological recovery.
MANSAR LAKE
37
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
However, further detailed work on the K/T boundary collected from various areas around Yamunotri to
is necessary to demarcate a precise transition. prepare tree-ring data network. Collection of samples
K. Ambwani [R.K. Kar & A. Sahni] for pollen analyses was also carried out from the
Valley of Flowers, Garhwal Himalaya.
Project : The transition of lacustrine fauna and R.R. Yadav, S.K. Bera & J. Singh
Floral Communities across Pleistocene-
Holocene in Jammu and Ladakh (Sponsored Project : Analysis of climatic changes vis a vis glacial
by DST, New Delhi, No. DST/ESS/CA/A4—22/ fluctuations using pollen and tree-ring data in
96) Gangotri glacier area, Garhwal Himalayas.
(Sponsored by DST, New Delhi, No. ES/91/018/
Continued the pollen analysis of the 38 m 97)
deep sedimentary profile from Surinsar Lake. The
studies have unraveled the vegetation history of Early Carried out a field work in and around
Holocene. Prepared the manuscript entitled Gangotri Glacier area and collected tree ring samples
“Holocene climatic inferences from lacustrine and subsurface sediments for dendrochronological
sediments from Surinsar Lake, Jammu”. Also and palynological studies. In all 325 tree-cores from
completed pollen analysis of part of another profile different conifer trees and one broad-leaved taxa were
from Mansar Lake. Undertook field trip to Jammu collected from diversified forests of the region. For
and collected large number of surface samples from the pollen analysis subsurface sediments were
Surinsar and Mansar lake sites. collected from twelve trial trenches at different
C. Sharma & A. Dixit (& M. A. Malik, Jammu) altitudes (9 from Bhujwasa outwash plain and 3 from
Tapoban palaeolake).
Project : High altitude plant species response to
global climate change. (Sponsored by G.B. Pant Subsurface sediments at different depths of
Institute of Himalayan Environment and the sediment profiles have been processed for C-14
Development Kosi-katarmal, Almora, dating. So far four samples have been dated from two
Department of Environment, New Delhi, No. profiles. These are 600 +90 yr. BP (at 0.30-0.40 m)
GBPI/IERP/98-99/02/567) and 1590+200 yr. BP (0.80-0.90 m) of 1.25 m deep
BH/I profile. For the other 1.40 m deep profile, dates
Collected about 200 tree-core samples of Pinus are 5990+120 yr. BP and 8730+170 yr. BP at the
wallichiana from various sites around Gangotri. The depths of 0.50 to 0.54 m and 1.20 to 1.24 m
ring-widths of dated samples were measured. A 410- respectively. Pollen analysis of one profile has been
year (AD 1590-1999) long chronology has been completed. This study shows that there are three
prepared. The meteorological data of Shimla station climatic phases since around last 2000 years, i.e. cold
were correlated with the ring-width chronology. The and moist climate around 2000 to 1700 yr. BP, warm
study showed that the winter temperature (December- and moist 1700 to 850 yr. BP and towards aridity
February) is directly related, whereas June-July during 850 yr. BP to recent. Detailed palynological
temperature negatively related with the tree growth. studies of rest of the profiles are in progress. Besides,
Additional samples of Pinus wallichiana from five chemical analysis and loss on ignition test for organic
more sites distributed in tree-line zones near contents and carbonate contents of few profiles were
Bhaironghati and Harshil, Uttarkashi were collected made. All the tree-core samples were mounted in
to supplement the previous data for climatic studies. wooden frames and polished for analyses. The
The samples have been mounted and are being counting and dating of the tree rings are in progress.
processed for cross dating and ring width A. Bhattacharyya, R. Kar & P.S. Ranhotra
measurements. The tree core samples of Taxus
baccata, Abies pindrow and A. spectabilis were also
38
Annual Report 2000-2001
Project : Analysis of climate changes in Eastern District of Arunachal Pradesh. Total 473 cores from
Himalayan region using tree ring data. 236 trees were collected from three different conifer
(Sponsored by DST, New Delhi, No. DST/ (ESS/ species, viz. Pinus kesiya, P. wallichiana and Tsuga
44/01/98) dumosa. Besides, tree-core samples, two sediment
profiles were also collected. One 1.45 m deep section
Tree ring samples of Pinus kesiya, P. merkusii, was taken from the right bank of the river Kileii that
P. wallichiana, Tsuga dumosa were mounted and comes from the Ziro and goes upto Pynegro. Thick
polished. Dating of Pinus merkusii samples has been logs as well as pieces of wood are exposed on the
completed. Four chronologies of the species were either side of the river but are most prominent on the
developed for the four different sites. Longest right side only. At places, woods can be seen on the
chronology dates from AD 1705 to 1999. Tree river bed also. Total 11 samples at 10 cm interval
growth/climate relationship analysis is in progress. were collected from this profile for both pollen and
Dating of Pinus kesiya and Tsuga dumosa is in C-14 analysis. The other section, which is 5.64 m
progress. One of the sediment profiles was macerated deep, was collected from a place adjacent to Peak
and the pollen counting is in progress. C-14 date lodge, Ziro, along a roadside. Total 41 samples were
shows these sediments to be above 40, 000 yr. B. P. collected along with 2 wood samples (present inside
the peat).
A field trip was undertaken in Shillong and A. Bhattacharyya, V. Chaudhary & K.
adjacent areas of Meghalaya and the Lower Subansiri Verma (up to 17.11.2000)
39
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Recognition
A.K. Sinha R. Garg, J.S. Guleria, A. Tripathi & Vijaya
Presided over the 1st Session— Geology in Elected Fellows of The Palaeobotanical
the Himalayas at 15th Himalayas-Karakoram-Tibet Society, Lucknow.
Workshop held at Chengdu, China in April, 2000.
Unanimously elected the ‘Chairman’ of A. Khandelwal
National Committees of the International Lithosphere Co-chairperson, 34th National Convention of
Program by the General Body for the period of five the Indian College of Allergy & Applied Immunology
years (since August 2000) at 31 st International held at Lucknow from September 29-30, 2000.
Geological Congress, Brazil. Co-chairperson, Geoenvironmental studies:
Convened the Special Symposium F-1— Indian Scenario held at Jhansi from November 9-
Global Tectonic Zones at 31 st International 10, 2000.
Geological Congress held at Rio de Janerio, Brazil
in August, 2000. Elected ‘President’ of Earth C.M. Nautiyal
Sciences System for 89th Session of Indian Science Chosen for ‘UP Vigyan Sancharak Award’
Congress, Lucknow (2001-2002). for contribution to science communication by VICAS
and District Science Club, Allahabad. Co-chaired the
J. Banerji Valedictory Session of the Science Writing/
Co-chaired the first scientific session of the Journalism Workshop, Palampur (HP).
National Symposium on Recent Advances in Geology
and Resource Potential of the Kachchh Basin held S. Sarkar
at Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi during Chaired a session at 10 th International
December 2000. Palynological Congress held at Nanjing, China in
June 2000.
C. Sharma
Chaired Technical Session— Quaternary S.C. Srivastava
Palynology at 10 th International Palynological Chaired the one scientific session in Indian
Congress held at Nanjing, China in June 2000. Botanical Conference held at Meerut (UP) in October
2000. Received Mellennium Medal of CBEM
C. Sharma & A. Dixit Laboratory, Hungary.
Awarded Gold Medal for best Research Paper
entitled “Holocene climatic inferences from A. Gupta
lacustrine sediments from Surinsar Lake, Jammu” Chaired Technical Session “Quaternary
presented at the National Symposium on Ecophysical Palynology” at 10th International Palynological
Consequences of Environmental pollution held at Congress held at Nanjing, China in June 2000.
Narendra Deo University, Faizabad (UP) in
November-December, 2000.
40
Annual Report 2000-2001
41
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
42
Annual Report 2000-2001
Lectures Delivered
By Institute’s scientists outside M. Shukla
u Proterozoic carbonaceous mega-remains at DST
A.K. Sinha sponsored Winter School/Training Course
u The Geologic evolution of Himalayan Mountain “Precambrian Palaeobiology: Techniques and
System at Government Autonomous Science Methodology”, Department of Geology, Lucknow
College, Jabalpur (July 10, 2000). University (December 2000)
u Tectonic frame-work of Himalayas:
Palaeogeologic reconstruction and Plate R. Garg
tectonics at Southompton Oceanographic Centre, u Acritarchs and their geologic significance and
School of Ocean and Earth Sciences, European Dinoflagellate Ancestors, “Possible
Way, Southompton, UK (August 21, 2000). Dinoflagellates” and presumed Dinoflagellate
u Evolution of Himalayas through Geological Time Biomarkers in the Precambrian- Cambrian at
Scale at Refresher Course (for teachers) in Botany DST sponsored Winter School/Training Course
organised by Department of Botany, University “Precambrian Palaeobiology: Techniques and
of Lucknow (November 29, 2000). Methodology”, Department of Geology, Lucknow
u Geological evolution of Himalayas and the role University (December 2000)
of Precambrian stromatolites in Tectono-
stratigraphic interpretation at DST sponsored J.S. Guleria
Winter School/Training Course “Precambrian u Plant fossils and antiquity of some common
Palaeobiology: Techniques and Methodology”, angiospermous plants in India at Refresher
Department of Geology, Lucknow University Course in Botany organised by Department of
(December 2000). Botany, University of Lucknow (April 24, 2000).
u Himalayan mountain building and Plate
tectonics, invited lecture of Earth System U. Bajpai
Sciences at 88 th Session of Indian Science u Bio-deterioration of cuticular membrane:
Congress, New Delhi (January 2001). Ultrastructural studies— Plenary lecture at
u Implication of Plate tectonics in the enigmatic National Seminar on Bio-deterioration of
tectonic frame-work along the Himalayan- Materials at DRDO, Defence Materials and Stores
Karakoram transect, Key-note address at Seminar Research and Development, Kanpur (February
“Geology and Natural Environment of the Lesser 2001).
Himalaya: Present Status and Strategy for the next
two Decades”, Nainital (March 23, 2001). C.M. Nautiyal
u Selection of Topics for science Writing and
G. Rajagopalan various sources of Scientific Information and
u Two lectures on Dating Methods to M.Sc. Science Writing for Radio.
students at Lucknow University, Lucknow (April
2000). S.K. Bera
u Pollen grain and its role in Palaeoclimatic studies
G.P. Srivastava at Maitri Research Station, Antarctica. (January
u Angiosperm Taxonomy, series of twelve lectures 15, 2001).
to the M.Sc. Plant Sciences students at Botany
Department, Lucknow University.
43
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
44
Annual Report 2000-2001
45
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
46
Annual Report 2000-2001
Deputation to Conferences/Symposia/Seminars/Workshops
A.K. Sinha S.C. Srivastava
• 15th Himalayas-Karakoram-Tibet Workshop • 23rd Indian Botanical Conference held at Meerut
held at Chengdu, China from April 22-24, 2000. from October 14-16, 2000.
• 88th Session-Indian Science Congress held at A. Farooqui
New Delhi from January 3-7, 2001. • National Seminar on Coastal Evolution,
C. Sharma, S. Sarkar & A. Gupta Processes and Products and Annual Convention
of Indian Association of Sedimentologist held at
• 10th International Palynological Congress held
Cochin in October 2000.
at Nanjing, China from June 24-30, 2000.
O.S. Sarate & A. Dixit
S. Chandra
• National Symposium on Ecophysiological
• 6th International Organisation of Palaeobotany
Consequences of Environmental Pollution held
Conference held at Qinhuangdao, Hebei
at Faizabad (UP) from November 6-8, 2000.
Province, Republic of China from July 31-August
3, 2000. R. Tewari
A.K. Sinha & M. Sharma • 10 th RPP (Reuniao de Paleobotanicos e
Palinologos) Meeting held at University of
• 31st International Geological Congress held at
Guarulhos, Guarulhos, Sao Paulo, Brazil from
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from August 6-17, 2000.
December 11-16, 2000.
V. Prasad
J. Banerji, J.S. Guleria, J.P. Mandal, B.N. Jana,
• 2nd International Conference on Application of J. Rai & A.K. Ghosh
Micro- and Meio-organisms to Environmental
• National Symposium on Recent Advances in
Problems held at Winnipeg, Canada from August
Geology and Resource Potential of the Kachchh
28–September 1, 2000.
Basin held at Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
A. Bhattacharyya & V. Chaudhary from December 21-23, 2000.
• High Asia Dendrochronology Workshop held at M. Shukla, U. Bajpai, M. Kumar & N. Prakash
Lamont Doherty Earth Observatory, New York,
• 24th Annual Conference of Electron Microscope
USA from September 12-14, 2000.
Society of India on Electron Microscopy and
• Symposium-Neogene climate of Indian Ocean Allied Fields held at Chandigarh from February
and the Indian Subcontinent held at IIT, 9-11, 2001.
Kharagpur from March 28-29, 2001.
U. Bajpai & A. Khandelwal
A. Khandelwal
• National Seminar on Biodeterioration of Materials
• 34th National Convention of the Indian College held at Kanpur from February 17-18, 2001.
of Allergy and Applied Immunology held at
A.K. Sinha, S. Sarkar, S.K.M. Tripathi, R. Kar &
Lucknow from September 29-30, 2000.
P.S. Ranhotra
• National Seminar-Geoenvironmental studies:
• Seminar Geology and Natural Environment of
Indian Scenario held at Jhansi from November
the Lesser Himalaya: Present Status and Strategy
9-10, 2000.
for the next two Decades held at Nainital from
March 23-25, 2001.
47
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
48
Annual Report 2000-2001
Prakash N - Structural changes in biologically Bhima and the Kurnool basins of south India.
degraded leaf cuticles during diagenesis. 14th 31st Int. Geol. Congr. Brazil, August 2000.
EMSI Conf., Chandigarh, February 2001.
Shukla M, Bajpai U, Kumar M, Srivastava GP &
Prasad V & Sarkar S - Depositional environment Anand-Prakash - Nature of sedimentary
of the Subathu Formation (Late Thanetian- organic matter from Suket Shale Formation,
Early Ypresian) in the Garhwal Himalayas, Vindhyan Super Group, District Mandsaur,
India – Evidence from Cyanobacterial mats. Madhya Pradesh. XXIV Ann. Conf. EMSI,
2nd Int. Conf. Appl. Micro- & Meio-organisms Chandigarh, February 2001.
to Environmental problems, Canada, August-
September 2000. Sinha AK - Subduction and accretion tectonics of
Himalayan and Karakoram terranes and their
Rai J - Early Callovian nannofossils from Jara Dome, palaeogeological configuration. 15 th
Kutch, western India. Nat. Symp. Rec. Adv. Himalayas-Karakoram-Tibet Workshop,
Geol. & Res. Potent. Kachchh Basin, China, April 2000.
Varanasi, December 2000.
Sinha AK - Continental subduction of Indian margin
Rigby JF & Chandra S - Permian flora of the in Himalayan orogens leading to
Mersey Coal Measures, Tasmania. 6th IOP development of ultrahigh pressure
Conf., China, July-August 2000. metamorphic (UHPM) regim. 31st Int. Geol.
Congr., Brazil, August 2000.
Sarkar S - Diversification of angiosperms in India
through ages (Palaeocene–Pliocene). 10th Sinha AK, Chandra R & Upadhyay R - Tectonic
IPC, China, June 2000. framework of Himalayas-Karakoram
orogenic subduction zones in Ladakh and
Sarkar S & Prasad V - Palynological evidences of eastern Karakoram. 31st Int. Geol. Congr.,
sea level changes during Early Eocene in the Brazil, August 2000.
Morni Hills, Lesser Himalaya, India, 10th
IPC, China, June 2000. Srivastava SC & Prakash N - Reconstructed
pteridophytic fossils and palaeogeographic
Sharma C, Chauhan MS, Bera SK, Sinha R & distribution. 23rd Indian Bot. Conf., Meerut,
Upreti DK - Early Holocene October 2000.
sedimentological and palynological studies
from lake Priyadarshini, Eastern Antarctica. Tewari R - Megaspores from Late Palaeozoic of
10th IPC, China, June 2000. India- Structural trends and stratigraphic
correlation. 10 th RPP Meeting, Brazil,
Sharma C, Dixit A & Sekar B - Holocene climatic December 2000.
inferences from lacustrine sediments from
Surinsar lake, Jammu based on pollen and Tripathi SKM & Shukla U - Palynological and
chemical analysis. Nat. Symp. Eco-physiol. sedimentological studies on Middle Siwalik
Consequ. Envir. Poll., Faizabad, November sediments exposed in Jammu area. Sem.
2000. Geol. & Nat. Envir. Lesser Himalaya: Present
Status and Strategies for the Next Two
Sharma M & Shukla M - Gigantism in Decades, Nainital, March 2001.
Neoproterozoic carbonaceous mega-remains,
a possible marker event: evidences from the
49
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
50
Annual Report 2000-2001
Units
Publication
Journal - The Palaeobotanist Annual Report
Volume 49(1) and 49(2) of the Journal were Bilingual (English/Hindi) Annual Report—
published incorporating research papers on various 1999-2000 was published consisting of Research
topical aspects. The latter volume was a collection reports, Conference participation, Awards, Research
of research papers on the palaeobotanical papers published, Foundation/Founder’s Day
contributions of BSIP in North-East India. It was function, Annual Accounts and related matters with
released on Founder’s day (14th November) by Shri relevant graphics and photographs. It was released
B.C. Bora, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, on Founder’s Day (14th November) by Prof. Ashok
ONGC. Papers for the Volume 49(3) have been Sahni, Chairman, Governing Body.
processed and edited.
Hand-outs
Monograph
Biographical sketches and lecture themes of
Galley proof of the text of “Monograph - An talks delivered on Foundation Day and Founders Day
introduction to Gymnosperms, Cycads and by the guest speakers Prof. K.B. Powar, Shri B.C. Bora
Cycadales” by Professor D. D. Pant has been and Late Prof. S.S. Raghuvanshi were published.
processed and necessary corrections were
incorporated. Relevant figures were processed for Invitation / Greeting Cards
resketching and retouching.
Invitation cards of the Foundation Day and
Newsletter Founders Day celebrations were published. Two
colourful Greetings—2001 depicting fossil Mosquito
Newsletter (June 2000) was published with recovered from an Amber and another showing logo
information on important activities of the Institute of the Institute were printed.
including participation in exhibitions, conferences,
Hindi Pakhwara (fortnight), new additions to library, Sale of Institute Publication
new administra-
tive measures This year the
and related infor- publication
mation along of the Insti-
with pertinent tute netted an
photographs. It income of Rs.
was released on 2,38,281/-.
Foundation Day
(10th September)
by Prof. K.B.
Powar, Secretary
General, Associ-
ation of Indian
Universities.
Chairman, Governing Body, Prof. Ashok Sahni releasing Annual Report 1999-2000.
51
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Library
The infrastructure facilities specially of journals continued through dBase III+ package.
computer hardware has been updated and Library is Current Awareness Service:
disseminating the information about new arrival on Current Awareness Service (CAS) completed
Institute Website. The contents of Current Awareness one year in its revised form. Library has been sending
Service have also been incorporated on web page bimonthly CAS bulletin to renowned institutions and
(http//www.bsip.res.in). scientists throughout India who are interested in
The current holdings of Library are as under: palaeobotany, earth sciences and related fields.
Particulars Additions Total Lamination and Xeroxing:
during 2000-2001 Lamination and xeroxing of old and rare
Books 28 5,319 publications are in progress. Xeroxing facility is
Journals 09 10,830 provided to institute scientists and also to scientists
Reprints 135 36,181 of other organisations.
Reference Books — 317 The following Institutions/organisations availed
Hindi Books — 153 the Library facilities:
Ph.D Thesis — 89 Department of Physical Geology and Mining,
Reports — 46 Tehran University, Iran
Maps & Atlases — 61 Department of Botany, Lucknow University,
Microfilm/Fisches — 294 Lucknow
CD 19 34 Department of Botany, CIMAP, Lucknow
Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University,
Currently the Library is receiving 159 journals, Lucknow.
(81 are subscribed and 78 are in exchange). There are Institute of Mass Communication in Science and
155 registered card holders for use of the Library. Technology, Lucknow University
Exchange Unit: Department of Geology, University of Delhi,
Journals received on exchange basis 78 Delhi
Reprints of research papers purchased 47 D.A.V. College, Kanpur
Reprints sent out in exchange 1,520 Department of Geology, Banaras Hindu
Institutions on exchange list 65 University, Varanasi
Individuals on exchange list 165 Department of Botany, University of Burdwan,
Computer Aided Library: Burdwan
Computerisation of Library assets being done Department of Botany, University of Allahabad,
through LAN Allahabad
under UNIX O/S Department of
continues. Earth Sciences,
S o f t w a r e Kurukshetra
employed is U n i v e r s i t y,
UNIFY RDBMS Kurukshetra
and the utilities and Kumaun
are programmed U n i v e r s i t y,
in ‘C’ giving Nainital.
different levels
of securities.
Data-base of
library holdings
Late Prof. S.S. Raghuvanshi releasing the Current Awareness Service Bulletin.
52
Annual Report 2000-2001
Museum
53
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Herbarium
During the period about 900 plant specimens, uting air borne pollen in Lucknow.
30 wood blocks, 400 polleniferous materials and 400 Photographs of Antarctica Expedition—1999-2000.
samples of fruits and seeds were addedd in the Her-
barium from east Sidhi Forest Division (MP). All Herbarium facilities provided to
these plant materials were processed, identified, Mr. Praveen Sarkar, Department of Environmental
registered and incorporated in their respective Science, Gurukul Kangri University,
sections and families. Correction in inventory of Haridwar (UP).
Carpothek is being done. Preparation of cards and Dr. H.O. Sharma, Government KRG College,
data feeding work for preparation of inventory of Gwaliar (MP)
Sporothek and Xylarium are in progress. Dr. Rakesh Kumar, F.G.P.G. College, Rai Bareili (UP)
Dr. R.B. Srivastava, Department of Botany, M.S.P.G.
Holdings:— College, Muzafferpur (Bihar)
Particulars Additions during Total Dr. M.P. Verma, Department of Botany, L.N.T. Col-
2000-2001 lege, Muzafferpur (Bihar)
Herbarium Dr. K.L. Meena, Silviculturist, Sal Region, Haldwani
Plant specimens 900 17,821 Forest Division, Nainital (Uttarakhand)
Leaf specimens 50 570 Mr. C.B. Chhimwal, Silviculture Research Office, Sal
Laminated mounts Region, Haldwani, Nainital (Uttarakhand)
of venation pattern 10 50 Mr. R.K. Singh, St. Andrew’s College, Gorakhpur
(UP).
Xylarium
Wood blocks 30 4,089 Distinguish visitors
Wood discs 5 65 Dr. Dorian Q. Fuer, Institute of Archaeology,
Wood cores 438 1,470 University College, London.
Wood slides - 4,146 Mr. Pierre Bourgue, Mayor of Montreal, Canada.
Palm slides Mr. Robert Smith, Advisor of the Mayor, City of
(Stem, leaf, petiole, root) - 3,195 Montreal, Canada.
Mr. U. Srivastava, President, Board of Trustees,
Sporothek Bharat Bhawan Foundation, Montreal,
Polleniferous materials 400 1,790 Canada.
Pollen slides 25 11,739 Mr. C.B. Singh, Motri Dom, West Montreal, Bharat
Bhawan Foundation, Montreal, Canada.
Carpothek Mr. S.C. Rai, Mayor of Lucknow, India.
Fruits/Seeds 432 3,358 Prof. S.N. Bhatacharya, Department of Museology,
University of Calcutta, Kolkata, (WB).
Show Cases installed
Display of herbarium sheets of Professor Birbal Institutional Visitors
Sahni’s collection, 1941 Students of Botany Department, L.N.T. College,
Display of specimens of Professor K.N. Kaul’s Muzafferpur, Bihar.
gift, 1934-1961 Team of Silviculture Scientists, Sal Region Haldwani
Display of herbarium sheets representing Indo- Forest Division, Nainital.
Japanees Expedition, 1960 Students of J.K.M. Inter College, Kanpur.
Display of Photographs Teachers attending Refresher course, Academic Staff
Photographs bearing the dominant taxa contrib- College, Lucknow University, Lucknow.
54
Annual Report 2000-2001
Proxy, Mail, DNS and Backup Servers are Menu driven Software package using dBase–
successfully configured on Windows NT platform. III+ has been developed for inventory management
Proxy Server provides the Internet security from of the store. It will keep record of consumable and
unauthorized access and it will also control the non-consumable items and will facilitate the issue-
access authority at the workstation. External hosts return system of the stores. Through it, we can get
do not connect directly to clients in Institute status of any items, current holding of any individual
Network. The client communicates with the proxy or section and we generate several reports like total
server, which in term relays approved client requests issue/return from an individual or section, re-order
to servers and then relays responses back to clients. an item, generate “no dues certificate” etc. A
E-mails accounts for scientists, units/sections have windows based software package in Visual Basic 6.0
been opened through Mail Server using Institute with MS-Access RDBMS for Museum is being
Domain Name( i.e. BSIP.RES.IN). The cabling prepared. It will keep the computerized data of fossil
work of Local Area Network (LAN) completed and specimens. This will help in generating various
it provides the Internet Connectivity in the Institute reports like photography slips for details of type and
at the 60 nodes. At present 29 Pentium Computers figured specimens, locality data forms and the status
are connected through LAN which Provides 24 hrs. of restricted toposheets.
Internet facility to the Institute employees through
64 KBPS leased line internet connection. This year Payroll / pension packages developed for
Institute procured six Pentium-III 866 MHz accounts section have been modified as per their
computers, six inkjet printers, six 500VA offline latest requirements and the yearly report/ audit report/
UPS, three HP laser Jet printers and one internal balance sheet for the Year 2000-2001 have been
CD-writer. prepared. The Unit has provided constant support to
the scientific staff of the Institute in preparing charts,
tables, graphic presentations, manuscripts etc.
Section Cutting Unit is one of the impor- An automatic polishing machine with
tant units of the Institute where fossil and rock hydraulic vacuum system was added to the unit. The
samples are cut and their thin sections are made. machine was designed and fabricated indigenously.
During the year about 400 slices and 600 slides of A number of scientists and students who visited the
thin sections of fossil material were prepared for Institute also visited the Unit. They were briefed
detailed investigation as per requirements of the about various machines available and steps involved
scientists. in preparation of thin sections.
55
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
On September 10, 2000 the Foundation Day of rector, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited, New
the Institute was celebrated. On this occasion Delhi delivered the ‘30th Birbal Sahni Memorial Lec-
Professor K.B. Powar, Secretary General, Association ture’ on the topic “Fossil fuels and energy security”.
of Indian Universities, New Delhi delivered ‘Fourth
Golden Jubilee Commemoration Lecture’ on the topic †Dr. S.S. Raghuvanshi, Ex-Professor of
“Research in the Universities and linkages with Na- Botany, Lucknow University, Lucknow delivered the
tional Institutions”. Professor Ashok Sahni, FNA, ‘46th Sir Albert Charles Seward Memorial Lecture’
Chairman, Governing Body of the Institute presided entitled “Some frontline areas in Biology”. The
over the function. Many guests and scientists from Chairman, Governing Body of the Institute presided
and outside Institute attended the function. over the function.
56
Annual Report 2000-2001
Distinguished Visitors
Mr. Pierre Bouraque
Mayor of Montreal, Mr. B.C. Bora
Canada CMD,
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation,
Dr. S.C. Rai New Delhi
Mayor of Lucknow,
India †Dr. S.S. Raghuvanshi
Ex Professor of Botany,
Mr. Robert Smith Lucknow University,
Advisior to the Mayor of Montreal, Lucknow
Canada
Professor M. Kedves
Mr. C.B. Singh J.A. University,
Bharat Bhavan, Szeged,
Montreal, Hungary
Canada
Professor B.B. Lal
Prof. K.B. Powar Ex-DG,
Secretary General, Archaeological Survey of India,
Association of Indian Universities, New Delhi
New Delhi.
57
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
58
Annual Report 2000-2001
59
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
60
Annual Report 2000-2001
The Staff
Director Scientist ‘C’
Professor Anshu K. Sinha Dr Rupendra Babu
Dr Samir K. Bera
Scientists Dr Amalava Bhattacharyya
(The names are in alphabetical order according to ‘surnames’)
Dr Anant P. Bhattacharyya
Dr Mohan S. Chauhan
Scientist ‘G’ Dr (Ms) Asha Gupta
Dr Govindraja Rajagopalan Dr Brijendra N. Jana
Dr Khowaja Ateequzzaman
Scientist ‘F’ Dr Madhav Kumar
Dr (Ms) Jayasri Banerji Dr Bhagwan D. Mandaokar
Dr Anil Chandra Dr Kindu L. Meena
Dr (Mrs) Shaila Chandra Dr Rakesh C. Mehrotra
Dr Kripa S. Saraswat Dr (Mrs) Neeru Prakash
Dr (Mrs) Chhaya Sharma Dr Mahesh Prasad
Dr (Mrs) Jyotsana Rai
Scientist ‘E’ Dr Annamraju Rajanikanth
Dr Krishna Ambwani Dr Dinesh C. Saini
Dr Rahul Garg Dr Omprakash S. Sarate
Dr Jaswant S. Guleria Dr Mukund Sharma
Dr Ramesh K. Saxena Dr (Mrs) Alpana Singh
Dr Manoj Shukla Dr Bhagwan D. Singh
Dr Ashwini K. Srivastava Dr Kamal J. Singh
Dr Gajendra P. Srivastava Dr (Mrs) Rashmi Srivastava
Dr (Mrs) Archana Tripathi Dr (Mrs) Rajni Tewari
Dr (Ms) Vijaya Dr Gyanendra K. Trivedi
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Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
62
Annual Report 2000-2001
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Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
64
Annual Report 2000-2001
Agarwal A & Ambwani K 2000. Canariocarpon Banerji J 2000. Occurrence of angiosperm remains
ratnagiriensis gen. et sp. nov. from in an Early Cretaceous Intertrappean bed,
Sindhudurg District, Maharashtra, India. Rajmahal Basin, India. Cret. Res. 21: 781-
Palaeobotanist 49: 93-100. 784.
Agarwal A, Ambwani K, Saha SK & Kar RK Banerji J & Jana BN 2000. Early Cretaceous
2000. Fossil wood of Barringtonia megaflora of Bartala Hill, Rajmahal Basin,
(Lecythidaceae) from Ramgarh, Chittagong India. Palaeobotanist 49(1): 51-56.
Hill Tract, Bangladesh. Phytomorphology
50(3-4): 333-336. Bera SK 2000. Modern pollen deposition in Mikir
Hills, Assam. Palaeobotanist 49: 325-328.
Ahmad SM, Patil DJ, Rao PS, Nath BN, Rao BR
& Rajagopalan G 2000. Glacial-interglacial Bera SK & Farooqui A 2000. Mid Holocene
changes in the surface water characteristics vegetation and climate of South Indian
of the Andaman Sea: Evidence from montane. J. Palaeontol. Soc. Ind. 45: 49-56.
stable isotopic ratios of planktonic
foraminifera. Proc. Indian Acad. Sci. (Earth Chaudhary V & Bhattacharyya A 2000. Tree ring
& Planet Sci.) 109(1): 1-4. analysis of Larix griffithiana from the Eastern
Himalayas in the reconstruction of past
Ambwani K & Kar RK 2000. Occurrence of temperature. Curr.Sci. 79: 1712-1716.
Anonidium - like pollen in the Tura Formation
(Palaeocene) of Meghalaya, India. Chauhan MS, Mazari RK & Rajagopalan G 2000.
Palaeobotanist 49: 219-223. Vegetation and climate in upper Spiti region,
Himachal Pradesh during late Holocene.
Anderson JM, Anderson HM, Archangelsky S, Curr. Sci. 79(3): 373-377.
Bamford M, Chandra S, Dettman M, Hill
R, Mcloughlin S & Rosler O 1999. Patterns Farooqui A 2000. Leaf cuticular and epidermal traits
of Gondwana plant colonisation and and elemental status in Rhizophora species
diversification. Alex Du-toit Symp. 10 th in a coastal wetland ecosystem.
Gondwana, South Africa, J. African Earth Phytomorphology 50(3&4): 317-325.
Sci. 28(1): 145-167.
Farooqui A & Rai V 2000. Heavy minerals and
Arya R, Guleria JS & Srivastava R 2001. New coastal vegetation during Late Holocene in
records of plant fossils from the Kasauli Pichavaram, Tamil Nadu, India. In: V.
sediments of Himachal Pradesh, North-West Rajamanickam (ed.) A handbook of Placer
India. Phytomorphology 51(1): 63-69. Mineral deposits, Tamil University,
Thanjavur: 151-158.
Bajpai U 2000. Ultrastructure of the sporoderm in
megaspores of some Indian Selaginellas. Farooqui A & Vaz GG 2000. Holocene sea level
Palaeobotanist 49(1): 17-21. and climate fluctuations: Pulicat lagoon – A
case study. Curr. Sci. 7(10): 1484-1488.
Banerji J 2000. Megafloral diversity of the Upper
Gondwana sequence of the Rajmahal Basin, Garg R & Khowaja-Ateequzzaman 2000.
India. J. African Ear. Sci. 31: 133-144. Dinoflagellate cysts from the Lakadong
65
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
66
Annual Report 2000-2001
Manmao Triap District, Arunachal Pradesh, Lutetian) of Koshalia Nala section, Shimla
India. Palaeobotanist 49: 311-315. Hills, India. Him. Geol. 21(1& 2): 167-176.
Misra BK 2000. Petrography, genesis and deposition Sarkar S & Prasad V 2000. Palynostratigraphy and
of Tertiary coals from Northeastern India. depositional environment of the Subathu
Palaeobotanist 49: 177-195. Formation (Late Ypresian-Middle Lutetian),
Morni hills, Haryana, India. J. Palaeontol.
Pokharia AK & Saraswat KS 2000. Wood charcoal Soc. India 5: 137-149.
remains from ancient Sanghol, Punjab (Ca.
100-300 AD). Pragdhara 10: 149-171, plates Saxena RK 2000. Palynology of the Neogene
119-134. sediments of Northwestern India. Misc. Publ.
GSI 64: 11-22.
Prakash N 2000. Floral diversity of two fossils sites
(Dudhkol and Sitalpur) of Rajmahal Saxena RK 2000. Palynostratigraphy of the Tertiary
Formation, Bihar, India. Palaeobotanist sediments of Meghalaya, Northeastern India
49(1): 57-64. – present status and gaps. Palaeobotanist
49(2): 163-175.
Prasad M & Tripathi PP 2000. Plant megafossils
from the Siwalik Sediments of Bhutan and Saxena RK & Sarkar S 2000. Palynological
their climatic significance. Biol. Mem. 26 (1): investigation of the Siju Formation (Middle
6-19. Eocene) in the type area, South Garo Hills,
India. Palaeobotanist 49(2): 253-267.
Rajanikanth A, Venkatachala BS & Ashok
Kumar 2000. Geological age of the Shukla M, Kumar P, Anand-Prakash, Srivastava
Ptilophyllum flora - A critical reassessment. GP & Kumar M 2000. Resin embedded
Mem. Geol. Soc. 46: 245-256. insects and other organic remains from
Warkali Formation, Kerala Coast, India. J.
Rao MR 2000. Palynological investigation of the Geol. Soc. India 56: 315-319.
Kherapara Formation (Oligocene) exposed
along Tura-Dalu Road near Kherapara, West Singh J & Yadav RR 2000. Tree-ring indications
Garo Hills District, Meghalaya. of recent glacier fluctuations in Gangotri,
Palaeobotanist 49(2): 293-309. western Himalaya. Curr. Sci. 79(11): 1598-
1601.
Sarate OS 2000. A distribution pattern of the
microconstituents in the coals of Kondha and Singh KJ 2000. Plant biodiversity in Mahanadi
Nandori blocks, Wardha Valley Coalfield, Basin, India, during the Gondwana period.
Maharashtra, India. Minetech 21(5&6): 33- J. African Earth Sci. 31(1): 145-155.
47.
Singh KJ & Chandra S 2000. Additional
Sarkar S 2000. Occurrence of algal zygospore palaeobotanical information from Madhupur
Debarya (Zygnemataceae) from Miocene Village, Talcher Coalfield, Orissa.
rocks of Western Nepal. Sci. & Cult. 66(3- Palaeobotanist 49(3): 385-398.
4): 157-158.
Sinha R, Sharma C & Chauhan MS 2000.
Sarkar S & Prasad V 2000. Palaeoenvironmental Sedimentological and pollen studies of Lake
significance of dinoflagellate cysts from the
Subathu Formation (Late Ypresian–Middle
67
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Priyadarshini, Eastern Antarctica. Tewari R & Srivastava AK 2000. Plant fossils from
Palaeobotanist 49 (1): 1-8. Bhareli Formation of Arunachal Pradesh,
North east Himalaya, India. Palaeobtanist 49:
Srivastava AK, Abbas SR, Mehrotra RC & 209-217.
Srivastava R 2000. Cecidomyiid leaf galls
from Palaeocene leaf of Northeast India. Acta Tewari R, Srivastava RK, Saraswat KS & Singh
Palaeobotanica 40 (1): 43-47. KK 2000. Excavations at Malhar, District
Chandauli (U.P.)-1999: A Preliminary
Srivastava R & Suzuki M 2001. More fossil woods Report. Pragdhara 10: 69-98, plates 65-91.
from the Palaeogene of Northern Kyushu,
Japan. IAWA Journal 22: 85-105. Tiwari RP & Mehrotra RC 2000. Fossil woods
from the Tipam Group of Mizoram, India.
Srivastava SC 2000. Genus Krauselitheca Ter. Res. 20: 85-94.
Srivastava, a detached microsporangium
from Middle Triassic (Nidpur) of India Tripathi A 2001. Permian, Jurassic and Early
displaying pteridophytic affiliation Indian Cretaceous palynological assemblages from
Fern J. 17: 202-208. subsurface sediments in Chuperbhita
Coalfield, Rajmahal Basin, India. Rev.
Srivastava SC & Banerji J 2001. Pentoxylon plant: Palaeobot. Palynol. 113: 237-259.
A reconstruction and interpretation. Cell Biol.
Devel., Hungary 13: 11-18. Tripathi SKM, Saxena RK & Prasad V 2000.
Palynological investigation of the Tura
Srivastava SC, Manik SR & Prakash N 2001. Formation (Early Eocene) exposed along
Observation on Triassic seeds with remarks Tura-Dalu Road, West Garo Hills,
on their morphology in fossil state. Bot. Meghalaya, India. Palaeobotanist 49(2): 239-
Essays, Jaipur: 183-216. 251.
Srivastava SC, Manik SR & Prakash N 2001. Trivedi GK & Saxena RK 2000. Palynofloral
Chaturvedeacarpon chauhanii, a new seed investigation of the Kopili Formation (Late
associated with other seed genera from two Eocene) exposed near Umrongso in North
hundred million years old (± 225 MY Cachar Hills District, Assam, India.
Triassic) rocks of India. Plant Cell Palaeobotanist 49(2): 269-280.
Incompatibility News Letter 30: 98.
Upadhyay R, Chandra R, Sinha AK, Kar RK,
Srivastava SC & Prakash N 2000. Climatic Chandra S, Jha N & Rai H 2000. Discovery
fluctuation based on two hundred million of Gondwana plant fossils and palynomorphs
years old (± 225 M.Y. Triassic) plants in India of Late Asselian (Early Permian) age in the
Peninsula: A significant advance in Botany. Karakoram Block. Terra Nova, Oxford 11:
Glimpses in Botany: G.S. Paliwal Sests Chrift 278-283.
Vol., APH Publishing Corporation, New
Delhi. Valdiya KS & Rajagopalan G 2000. Large
palaeolakes in Kaveri basin in Mysore
Tewari R & Srivastava AK 2000. Plant fossil Plateau: Late Quaternary fault reactivation.
assemblage from the Talchir Formation, Curr. Sci. 78: 1138-1142.
Auranga Coalfield, Bihar, India.
Palaeobotanist 49: 23-30.
68
Annual Report 2000-2001
Valdiya KS, Rajagopalan G, Nanda AC, Suresh Vijaya & Roy A 2000. Late Lower Jurassic
GC & Upendra T 2000. Neotectonic lake palynomorph assemblage in the Dubrajpur
and vertebrate fossils in Hemavati sediments, Birbhum District, W.B. India.
Catchment, Hassan District, Karnataka. J. Palaeobotanist 49: 43-49.
Geol. Soc. India 55: 229-237.
Yadav RR & Park WK 2000. Precipitation
Vijaya 2000. Recognition of Potential palyno-events reconstruction using ring-width chronology
in the Jurassic Sequence of India and their of Himalayan cedar from western Himalaya:
correlation in Australia, Proc.5th Int. Symp. preliminary results. Proc. Indian Acad. Sci.
Jurassic System: 237-248. (Earth Planet. Sci.) 109(3): 339-345.
69
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Abstracts published
Anil Kumar, Gopalan K & Rajagopalan G 2000. Kachchh. Nat. Symp. Rec. Adv. Geol. & Res.
Mesoproterozoic age of the Vindhyan Pot. Kachchh Basin, Varanasi: 41.
sediments, Central India from Glauconite Rb-
Sr Systematics. Goldschmidt J. Conf., Guleria JS 2000. Two fossil woods from Piram, a
Cambridge Publ. 5(2): 606. coastal island off the coast of Bhavnagar,
Gujarat. Nat. Sem. Coastal Evol. Processes &
Bajpai U 2000. Glossopterid fructifications and their Products and XVII Conv. IAS, Cochin: 42-43.
stratigraphical distribution in India. X
Reuniao de Paleobot. e Palinologos, Guleria JS 2000. Endogenous fungi in silicified woods
Guarulhos, Sao Paulo, Brazil: of Kachchh, Gujarat. Nat. Symp. Rec. Adv. Geol.
& Res. Pot. Kachchh Basin, Varanasi: 9.
Bajpai U 2001. Ultrastructure of cuticular membrane
of extinct and extant taxa of gymnosperms Gupta A 2000. Palaeovegetation and past climate
from India. 24 th Ann. Conf. EMSI, of Late Holocene from Temperate Zone in
Chandigarh: Nainital District, Kumaun Himalaya. 10th
IPC, China: 58.
Bajpai U, Kumar M & Singh VK 2001.
Morphology, size and EDAX analysis of Jana BN 2000. Palaeopalynology of Kachchh: I
pyrite framboids on degraded plant tissues Mesozoic megaspores. Nat. Symp. Rec. Adv.
in coal and shales of Ledo Coalfield, Assam. Geol. & Res. Pot. Kachchh Basin, Varanasi: 5.
XXIV Ann. Conf. EMSI, Chandigarh: 70.
Jana BN 2000. Palaeopalynology of Kachchh: II
Banerji J 2000. Mesozoic megaflora of Kachchh Mesozoic spores and pollen. Nat. Symp. Rec.
Basin and its palaeoecological interpretation. Adv. Geol. & Res. Pot. Kachchh Basin,
Nat. Symp. Rec. Adv. Geol. & Res. Pot. Varanasi: 6.
Kachchh Basin, Varanasi: 3.
Jha N 2000. Permian palynoflora of India and
Chandra S 2000. Distribution of Late Devonian- Antarctica: Phytogeographic evidence for
Permian plant sequences in India. 6th IOP palaeoposition of India in Gondwana. 10th
Conf., Qinhuangdao, China: IPC., China :
Farooqui A 2000. Late Holocene sea-level climate Kar R, Ranhotra PS, Bhattacharyya A & Sekar
and anthropogenic record from Pichavaram, B 2001. Palynological studies around
Tamil Nadu. Workshop Geoenvironmental Gangotri Glacier, Garhwal Himalayas. Nat.
studies- Indian Scenario, Jhansi: 9-11. Sem. Geol. Nat. Envir. Lesser Himalaya:
Present Status and Strategy for the next two
Farooqui A 2000. Potentials of multi-proxy data in decades, Nainital:
analyzing estuarine depositional environ-
ment. Nat. Sem. Coastal Evol. Proc. & Prod. Kedves M, Priskin K, Tripathi SKM & Kumar
: 15-16. M 2001. Experimental LM studies on recent
Palm pollen grains. Congr. Tropical &
Ghosh AK 2000. Palaeoecology and taxonomy of Subtropical Palynology (America-Africa),
the Tertiary coralline algae from southwestern Jardian Botanico Nacional, Havana, Cuba: 32.
70
Annual Report 2000-2001
Khandelwal A, Kohli D & Gupta HP 2000. A Ram-Awatar 2000. Late Jurassic/Early Cretaceous
palynological record of mangrove vegetation palynofossils from Parsora Formation, South
at Chandrapur, Chilka Lake, India. Workshop Rewa Basin, M.P. 10th IPC, China: 136.
Geoenvironmental studies: Indian Scenario,
Jhansi: 17. Ram-Awatar 2000. Recent development on the
palynological studies of the Supra- Barakar
Khandelwal A, Tewary R, Misra L, Saxena R, sediments in South Rewa Basin, M.P. 27th
Srivastava A & Chatterji S 2000. Conv. IAS, Cochin: 43-44.
Comparative account of air-borne pollen
grains at five different places in Lucknow, Rao MR & Patnaik R 2000. Palynology of Pliocene
India. 10th IPC, China: 83. sediments of Pinjor Formation, Haryana. 10th
IPC, China: 136-137.
Kumar M, Bajpai U, Prakash N, Shukla M,
Anand-Prakash & Srivastava GP 2001. Rigby JF & Chandra S 2000. Permian flora of the
Structural changes in biologically degraded Mersey Coal Measures, Tasmania. 6th IOP
leaf cuticles during early diagenesis. 14th Ann. Conf., Qinhuangdao, China:
Conf. EMSI, Chandigarh: 66.
Sarkar S 2000. Diversification of angiosperms in
Mandal J 2000. Depositional environment and India through ages (Palaeocene–Pliocene).
palynomorphs from the lignite mines of 10th IPC, China: 146.
Kachchh. Nat. Symp. Rec. Adv. Geol. & Res.
Pot. Kachchh Basin, Varanasi: 7. Sarkar S & Prasad V 2000. Palynological evidences
of sea level changes during Early Eocene in
Park W-K, Seo JW, Kim YJ, Yadav RR & the Morni Hills, Lesser Himalaya, India. 10th
Pumijumnong N 2000. Relationship IPC, China: 146.
between El-Nino events and tree-ring
71
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Sarkar S & Prasad V 2001. Significance of Sinha AK 2000. Continental subduction of Indian
reworked Permian and Cretaceous margin in Himalayan orogens leading to
palynofossils in the Subathu Formation (Late development of ultrahigh pressure
Thanetian-Middle Lutetian) of Lesser metamorphic (UHPM) regime. 31st Int. Geol.
Himalayas. Sem. Geol. & Nat. Envir. Lesser Congr., Brazil:
Himalayas: present status and strategy for
the next two decades, Nainital: 78. Sinha AK, Chandra R & Upadhyay R 2000.
Tectonic framework of Himalayas-
Sharma C, Chauhan MS, Bera SK, Sinha R & Karakoram orogenic subduction zones in
Upreti DK 2000. Early Holocene Ladakh and eastern Karakoram. 31st Int. Geol.
sedimentological and palynological studies Congr., Brazil:
from lake Priyadarshini, Eastern Antarctica.
10th IPC, China: 151-152. Srivastava R & Guleria JS 2000. Leaf impressions
from the Kasauli sediments of Himachal
Sharma C, Dixit A & Sekar B 2000. Holocene Pradesh, and their palaeoenvironmental and
climatic inferences from lacustrine sediments climatic significance. Nat. Sem. Coastal Evol.
from Surinsar Lake, Jammu based on pollen Processes and Products & XVII Conv. IAS,
and chemical analysis. Nat. Symp. Eco-phys. Cochin: 44-45.
Consequ. Envir. Poll., Faizabad : 70-71.
Srivastava SC, Prakash N & Banerjee R 2000.
Sharma M & Shukla M 2000. Gigantism in Reconstructed pteridophytic fossils and
Neoproterozoic carbonaceous megaremains, palaeogeographic distribution. 23rd Indian
a possible marker event: evidences from the Bot. Conf, Meerut: 41.
Bhima and the Kurnool basins of south India.
31st Int. Geol. Congr., Brazil: 104. Tewari R 2000. Megaspores from Late Palaeozoic of
India- Structural trends and stratigraphic
Shukla M, Bajpai U, Kumar M, Srivastava GP & correlation. Revista Geosciencias, Brazil: 233.
Anand-Prakash 2001. Nature of
sedimentary organic matter from Suket Shale Tripathi A 2000. Palynology evidences for the
Formation, Vindhyan Super Group, District palaeoposition of India during Early
Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh. 14th Ann. Conf. Cretaceous. 10th IPC, China: 169.
EMSI, Chandigarh: 97.
Tripathi SKM & Shukla U 2001. Palynological and
Sinha AK 2000. Subduction and accretion tectonics sedimentological studies on Middle Siwalik
of Himalayan and Karakoram terranes and sediments exposed in Jammu area. Sem.
their palaeogeological configuration. 15th Geol. & Nat. Envir. Lesser Himalaya: Present
Himalayas-Karakoram-Tibet Workshop, Status and Strategies for the next Two
China : 86-87. Decades, Nainital: 71.
72
Annual Report 2000-2001
Bera SK 2000. Conference report— An Expedition Rai J 2000. Urja ke pramukh srotra: Koyala evam
to Antarctica (1999-2000). Palaeobotanist Methane Gas. Gyan Vigyan Ank, CDRI,
49: 133-135. Lucknow 12: 27-29. (in Hindi)
Bhattacharyya A 2000. Conference report— Rajanikanth A 2000. Environmental degradation-
International Symposium on Multifaceted A threat to human survival. Newsletter PWA:
Aspects of Tree ring analysis, Lucknow 14-15.
(November 15-19, 1999). Palaeobotanist 49: Rajanikanth A 2000. Shell syndrome. Newsletter
137-138. BSIP: 11-12.
Bisaria P 2000. Saraswati Nadi— Bhartiya sanskriti Rao MR 2000. Conference report— 10th National
ka swarnim itihas. Vigyan. (in Hindi). Conference on Aerobiology and its
Farooqui A 2000. Holocene sea-level fluctuatiom: application, Vishakhapatnam (December 20-
Pulicate lagoon. BSIP Newsletter (June): 10. 22, 1999). Palaeobotanist 49: 139-140.
Jha N 2000. Dak Tikaton mein Puravanaspathi Saraswat KS & Srivastava C 2000. Conference
vigyan. Avishkar. (in Hindi) Report— Joint Annual Conference of Indian
Archaeological Society, Indian Society for
Jha N 2000. Conference report— 17 th Indian
Pre-Historic and Quaternary Studies and
Colloquium on Micropalaeontology and
Indian History and Culture Society
Stratigraphy, Ujjain (January 27-29, 2000).
(December 27-30, 1999), Pune, India.
Palaeobotanist 49: 142-143.
Palaeobotanist 49: 140-141.
Khandelwal A 2000. Five decades of Aerobiology
Saraswat KS, Srivastava C & Pokharia AK 2000.
at Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany,
Palaeobotanical and palynological
Lucknow. BSIP Newsletter (June): 9.
investigations. Indian Archaeology 1993-94:
Khandelwal A 2000. Technical Report (Part 1&2) A Review, pp. 143-145, plates 32-33.
AICP Aeroallergens and Human health: Archaeological Survey of India, New Delhi.
aerobiological studies (Lucknow region).
Saraswat KS, Srivastava C & Pokharia AK 2000.
Ministry of Environment & Forests, Govt. of
Palaeobotanical and palynological
India, New Delhi: 1-20.
investigations. Indian Archaeology 1994-95:
Khandelwal A 2001. Conference report— A Review, pp. 96-97, plates XLII-XLV.
INDSUBIO Workshop, Max Plank Institute Archaeological Survey of India, New Delhi.
for Biogeochemistry, Jena, Germany (July
Sarkar S 2000. Manav jeevan me Paragkan ki
20-22). Palaeobotanist 49: 540.
bhumika. Vigyan Garima Sindhu, New Delhi
Khandelwal A 2001. Conference Report- National 30: 39-40. (in Hindi)
Seminar on Geoenvironmental studies:
Saxena RK 2000. Uttar-pashchimi Bharat ke Upari
Indian Scenario Jhansi. Palaeobotanist 49:
Shiwalik avasadon kaa Puravanaspatik
545.
adhyayan. In: J.K. Johri et al. Arthik
Misra BK, Singh A & Singh BD 2000. Conference Udaarikaran Neetiyon ke Paripekchhya mein
report— International Conference on Coal Swadeshi Prodyogiki kee Prasangikta: 208-
Bed Methane: Prospects and potentialities, 212. (in Hindi)
Calcutta (December 3, 1999). Palaeobotanist
49: 138-139.
73
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Sinha AK, Singh BD & Srivastava SC 2000. Srivastava R 2000. Kitne purane Aam, Kela, Jamun,
Palaeobotanical contributions of BSIP in Laung, Kathal aur Nariyal. BSIP Newsletter,
North-East India: A status report. June 2000: 18 (in Hindi).
Palaeobotanist 49: 151-162. Tewari R 2000. Vigat pachas varshon men Bharat
Srivastava AK 2000. Glossopteris flora: The source ki Vaigyanik uplabdhiyan. . BSIP Newsletter
material for the formation of Indian coal. (June): 15-17.
Minetech 21: 28-31. Tripathi A 2000. Jeevashm. Newsletter LUBDDA
Srivastava R 2000. Bhartiya vano ka udbhav evum 3: 4. (in Hindi)
vikas: Puravanaspatik vishleshan. Vigyan
Garima Sindhu 30: 49-53. (in Hindi).
74
Annual Report 2000-2001
75
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Kedves M, Priskin K, Tripathi SKM & Kumar Prasad M &Tripathi PP—Plant megafossils from
M—Variations in LM morphology of the Siwalik Sediments of Bhutan and their
partially degraded Palm pollen grains from climatic significance. Biol. Mem.
India. Plant Cell Biol. Devel., Hungary.
Rao MR—Palynostratigraphic zonation of the
Khare EG, Prasad M &Awasthi N—Contribution Tertiary sediments of the Kerala Basin, India.
to the Deccan Intertrappean flora of In: DK Goodman and RT Clarke (eds.) Proc.
Nawargaon, Wardha, District, Maharashtra, 9th Int. Palynol. Congr., Texas, USA.
India. Palaeobotanist.
Saini DC—Flora of Bahraich District, Uttar Pradesh-
Kumar M, Mandal JP, Dutta SK, Bhuyan D, Das IV. J. Econ. Taxon. Bot.
B, & Saikia B—Palynostratigraphy of the
subsurface sediments of Upper Assam Basin, Saini DC—Flora of Bahraich District, Uttar Pradesh-
India. Geobios. V. J. Econ. Taxon. Bot.
Mandaokar BD—Palynology and palaeoecological Saini DC—Flora of Bahraich District, Uttar Pradesh-
interpretation of Dulte Formation (Surma VI. J. Econ. Taxon. Bot.
Group) Early Miocene, Aizawl, Mizoram,
India. Palaeobotanist. Sarate OS—Petrological investigations on the coals
of from Durgapur Open Cast Mine, Wardha
Mandaokar BD—Palynoflora from the Keifang Valley Coalfield, Maharashtra, India.
Formation (Early Miocene) Aizawl, India and Minetech.
its environmental significance. J. Palaeontol.
Soc. India. Sarate OS—Biopetrology of the coals from
Krishnavaram area, Chintalapudi sub-basin.
Meena KL—Palynostratigraphic studies of Late Godavari Valley Coalfields, Andhra Pradesh,
Permian sediments from Tangadih Area, Ib- India. J. Geol. Soc. India.
Himgir Basin, Orissa, India. Palaeobotanist.
Saxena RK—Palynological investigation of the
Meena KL—Raniganj–Barakar flora recovered from Sindhudurg Formation in the type area,
surface samples exposed in Basundhara Nala Sindhudurg District, Maharashtra, India.
section, Ib-River Coal Field, Sundergarh, Proc. 16th Indian Colloq. Micropalaeont.
Orissa. Palaeobotanist. Stratigr. Goa, (1998), ONGC Bull.
Mehrotra RC, Mandaokar BD, Tiwari RP & Rai Sekar B—Interpretations of climatic changes around
V—Teredolites clavatus from the Upper Tsokar Lake, Ladakh during the last 33 kyrs
Bhuban Formation of the Aizawl District, YBP on the basis of chemical data.
Mizoram, India. Ichnos. Palaeobotanist.
76
Annual Report 2000-2001
Singh A—Rank assessment of Panandhro lignite Srivastava C—Ancient plant economy at Charda-
deposit, Kutch Basin, Gujarat. J. Geol. Soc. Jamoga, District Bahraich, U.P. (ca. 800 B.C.-
India. A.D. 1100). Book “Excavations at Charda”,
Dept. of Ancient Indian History and
Singh A—On a striking fluorescing microcomponent Archaeology, Lucknow University.
from Indian Tertiary lignites. Int. J. Coal
Geol. Tewari R—Glossopteris ashwinii a new name for
Glossopteris schopfi Maheshwari and Tewari
Singh A & Singh BD—Petrology of Kanhan coals, 1992. Palaeobotanist.
Satpura Gondwana Basin (India) vis-à-vis
coal bed methane. Proc. Int. Conf. Coal Bed Tripathi A—Palynological events during the Late
Methane, Kolkata. Triassic-Early Jurassic time in India.
Palaeobotanist.
Singh RS & Kar RK—Palaeocene palynofossils
from the Lalitpur Intertrappean beds, Uttar Tripathi A—Role of pteridophytic spores in Early
Pradesh, India. J. Geol. Soc. India. Cretaceous stratigraphy and in demarcating
Jurassic-Cretaceous boundary in India. In:
Singh RS & Rajanikanth A—Occurrence of Azolla Advances in Pteridology, University of
cretaceae Stanley from Meghalaya, North- Rajasthan.
Eastern India. Palaeobotanist.
Vijaya—Search for Jurassic in subsurface Mesozoic
Srivastava C—Plant economy at ancient Mahorana, sediments, Birbhum District, West Bengal,
District Sangrur, Punjab (ca. 2300 B.C.-A.D. India. Bull. ONGC.
200). Proc. Joint Ann. Conf. of IAS, ISPQS
& IHCS, Pune. Vijaya & Prasad GVR—Age of Kota Formation,
P–G Valley, India. J. Palaeont. Soc. India.
77
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
AUDIT REPORT
to the Governing Body of the
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow
We have audited the attached Balance Sheet of Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow, as at
31st March, 2001, Income and Expenditure Account and Receipt & Payment Account for the year ended on
that date and subject to our comments and observations as given in attached Annexure ‘A’, we report that :-
In our opinion and to the best of our information and according to the explanations given to us the said
accounts give a true and fair view :
(i) In the case of Balance Sheet, of the State of affairs of the Institute as at 31st March, 2001.
(ii) In the case of Income and Expenditure Account, of the excess/deficit of income over expenditure
for the year then ended, and
(iii) In the case of Receipt and Payment Account, of the receipts and payments of Institute for the
year then ended.
Sd/-
Date : 26.06.2001 Mukesh K. Agarwal
Place : Lucknow (Partner)
78
Annual Report 2000-2001
ANNEXURE - ‘A’
(Annexed to and forming part of the Audit Report for the year ended 31st March, 2001)
Comments/Audit Observations on Accounts of Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow
for the year ended 31st March, 2001
ACCOUNTS
1. The Institute is getting separate grants for Plan & Non-Plan expenses based on the budgets approved
by the DST. During the year under report, the institute has utilised Rs. 1,48,10,000/= relating to non-plan
head, from Plan head budget with the approval of its Governing Body. It seems that DST grant is not
commensurate with the requirement of the Institute under non-plan.
2. Unsettled advances (capital head) pending for recovery/adjustment as on 31/3/2001 is that of Rs.
1,33,18,359/=. Out of this old unsettled advances, under the head “Research Apparatus & Equipment” and
“books & journals” are to be properly taken care of at the Institute level for early adjustment.
LIBRARY
3. No physical verification of the library books was carried out by the management during the year under
audit. It was explained to us, that as per Central Government Rules, the library stocks are physically verified
after a time-gap of 5 years. Last physical verification was done in April,1997 and the next is due in April,
2002. The periodicity of verification should be changed to a practical one.
PUBLICATIONS
4. On scrutiny of records of the priced publications of the Institute, it has been observed that during the
last several years, the Institute had brought-out publications on different subjects with an objective to sell-
out the same, in the market. The stock position of these priced publications as on 31.03.2001 was Rs.28.76
lacs apart from the reserved stock of Rs. 4.65 lacs. Thus the total stock of the publications stood at Rs. 33.41
lacs at the close of the year, which seems to be on higher side. Practical assessment has to be made for the
quantity to be got printed together with its economics etc, so that wastage and blockage of funds can be
avoided.
STORES
5. The Fixed Assets register & stores register is being maintained properly. Physical verification was last
carried-out in 1999 but no authentication, in the form of signatures/ initials etc, was visible on the registers.
6. The Institute, being a non-profit earning organisation, no depreciation on fixed assets has been provided.
RESERVE FUND & PENSION FUND
7. Reserve Fund amounting to Rs. 126.51 lacs was utilised during the year with the approval of Governing
Body. Pension Fund of Rs. 49.73 lacs is still not invested & continues to appear in the books as on 31.03.2001.
EMPLOYEES PROVIDENT FUND
8. As against the total reserves of Rs. 286.21 lacs against the Employees Provident Fund as on 31.03.2001,
a sum of Rs. 255.37 lacs was invested with Nationalised Banks and other organisations as prescribed under
the provisions of the Bye-Laws of the Institute.
Sd/-
Date : 26.06.2001 Mukesh K. Agarwal
Place : Lucknow (Partner)
79
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
LIBRARY
3. The Library is holding more than 50,000 publications. For physical verification of Library books, the
Institute follows the rules as applicable in other Government Organisations. As per these rules, next physical
verification of Library books is due in April 2002.
PUBLICATIONS
4. As per the revised publications policy, the print order for the journal “The Palaeobotanist” has been
reduced from 400 copies to 300 copies. Similarly, the copies of other publications to be printed are critically
reviewed before giving print orders. The Institute is giving wide publicity to sell the old stock of publications.
The stock of publications in future years will be considerably reduced.
STORES
5. The authentication was made by the Officer who conducted the physical verification as per normal
practice.
6. No depreciation on fixed assets has been provided as per normal practice so far.
80
Annual Report 2000-2001
1. Fixed Assets
84438618 I) Owned Assets 87660155
671075 II) Donated Assets 671075
192000 2. Investments 151000
13387481 3. Excess of Expend. over Income 0
14833297 4. Loans and Advances/Deposits 18542085
12650889 5. Reserve Fund 0
4942816 6. Pension Fund 4942816
26096917 7. General Provident Fund 28620765
157213093 Total 140587896
CERTIFICATE
Certified that the figures of Assets as shown in the Balance Sheet have been reconciled with the total
figure of Assets shown in the relevant Registers of the Institute.
Sd/- Sd/-
J.C. Singh Anshu K. Sinha
(Accounts Officer) (Director)
81
82
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow
Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending March 31, 2001
Fig. in Rupees
3
1
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow
Receipts and Payments Account for the year ending March 31, 2001 Fig. in Rupees
Compiled by
Research Planning and Coordination Cell
Produced by
Publication Unit
Published by
The Director
Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany
Lucknow 226 007
INDIA
Phone : 91-522-/324291/323206/
325822/325945
Fax : 91-522-381948/374528
E-mail : director@bsip.res.in
publication@bsip.res.in
Website : http://www.bsip-india.org
Back Cover : In situ Petrified Wood in Rajmahal Hills, Jharkhand (Courtesy-Prof. A.K. Sinha).
Printed at :Dream Sketch, 29 Brahm Nagar, Lucknow 226 020 Ph: 368630
November 2001
Acknowledgements
Anshu K. Sinha
Director
(i)
ANNUAL REPORT
2000-2001
1946
(ii)
deposited in sea level highstand. Siju Formation Rajmahal Basin, India. Cret. Res., United
was deposited in tropical warm-humid climate Kingdom 21: 781-784.
with mangrove vegetation in the coastal zone of
the shallow sea. Garg R & Khowaja-Ateequzzaman 2000.
Dinoflagellate cysts from the Lakadong Sandstone
• Pollen data set of the Himalaya has been utilized from Cherrapunji area: biostratigraphical and
to prepare global maps of biomes at 6000 and palaeoenvironmental significance and relevance
18000 years B.P. to sea level changes in the Upper Palaeocene of
Khasi Hills, South Shilong Plateau, India.
• In Shahdol district (M.P.) the establishment of Palaeobotanist 49 : 461-484.
modern Sal forest has been dated around 3000
years BP. Tripathi A 2001. Permian, Jurassic and Early
Cretaceous palynological assemblages from
• Concentration of heavy metals, particularly subsurface sediments in Chuperbhita coalfiled,
arsenic (50 - 100 µg/g), lead (400 - 1000 µg/g) Rajmahal Basin, India. Rev. Palaeobot. Palynol.,
and copper (80 - 400 µg/g) have been found in Amsterdam 113 : 237-259.
the sediments of Adyar estuary. Anthropogenic
factors are decreasing the biodiversity in the area. Upadhyay R, Chandra R, Sinha AK, Kar RK, Chandra
S, Jha N & Rai H 2000. Discovery of Gondwana
• Record of lichen (Evermiastrum cirrhatum) from a plant fossils and palynomorphs of Late Asselian
cultural horizon of 1300–800 B.C. indicates its use (Early Permian) age in the Karakoram Block.
in spices and medicines in ancient time. There is Terra Nova, Oxford 11: 278-283.
evidence for use of Putranjeeva (Drypetes
roxburghii) nuts in necklace during the same period. Vijaya 2000. Palynology of the Jurassic-Cretaceous
transition in the Rajmahal Formation, W.B.,
• Tree-ring chronology has helped in establishing India. Alcheringa, Australia 24: 125-133.
chronology and climate variation dating back to
AD 1721-1998 in different parts of the Himalaya. Yadav RR & Park W-K 2000. Precipitation
reconstruction using ring-width chronology of
• Pollen analysis of the sediments of Priyadarshini Himalayan cedar from western Himalaya:
Lake, Antarctica revealed existence of Early preliminary results. Proc. Indian Acad. Sci.
Holocene vegetation in the region. Presence of (Earth Planet. Sci.) 109(3): 339-345.
arboreal pollen indicates long transport through
upthermic winds. Important Achievements
• Determination of radiocarbon dates along with Antarctica Expedition— One scientist participated
pollen studies has helped in understanding in 20th Indian Antarctica Expedition from December
changes in vegetation history of Holocene. 23, 2000 to March 22, 2001. Collected a large number
of palynological samples including moss trufs, frozen
• The finding of resin embedded insect fossils soil, dry algal mat, moraine, lake water, snow and
discovered by Institute’s scientists was blue ice from different lake sites, valleys, nunataks
highlighted by Nature News India. and Polar ice bed in and around Schirmacher oasis
of East Antarctica. A lake sediment profile from
Some significant research publications ‘Long Lake’, 3 Km west of Priyadarshini lake was
also procured. During the expedition, daily air
Banerjee J 2000. Occurrence of angiosperm remains sampling was done by exposing glycerine smeared
in an Early Cretaceous Intertrappean bed, slides using Burkard air sampler.
(iii)
Forensic Palynology— A draft paper on the Consultancy Services— The Institute has provided
objectives and the setting of Forensic Palynology Lab consultancy services to various organizations, viz.,
in the Institute is prepared. Prof. Mildenhall – an Geological Survey of India; Anna University,
internationally reputed expert in Forensic Palynology Chennai; Kumaoun University, Nainital; National
who presently heads the Institute of Geology and Institute of Oceanography, Goa; Deccan College,
Nuclear Sciences at Lower Hutt, New Zealand when Pune; Centre for Earth Science Studies,
approached for his advice and help in our new Thiruvanantapuram and other organisations.
endeavour to organize and setting Forensic
Palynology Laboratory commented the “much of the Library— Library is disseminating the information
excellent palynological research coming out of BSIP about the latest literature on palaeobotany through
is directly applicable to forensic palynology and BSIP Current Awareness Service Bi-monthly Bulletin as
has a very strong background to build on”. well as on web-site http://www.bsip.res.in. The
Library is well connected with all the leading libraries
Integrated Long Term Programme between BSIP of the world through Internet.
and Russian Academy of Sciences— Under the
project entitled ‘Floral and climatic evolution based K-Ar Geochronological Laboratory— The MS-10
on Geologic and Biotic events during Precambrian Mass Spectrometer donated by the Director, National
and Phanerozoic Time’ under ILTP co-operation in Geophysical Research Institute as a mark of good-will
Science and Technology between India and Russia, gesture is being installed, and process is on to restart
Dr. Mukund Sharma, visited Geological Institute, the K-Ar Lab.
Moscow from January 17 to February 16, 2001. A
comparative study on the Russian and Indian Memorial Lectures
Stromatolites has been finalized. A study has been
initiated with Dr. V.N. Sergeev on comparative study Fourth Jubilee Commemoration Lecture on
th
of microbial remains of Anabar Uplift and Turukhan 10 September 2000 was delivered by Professor K.B.
Uplift of Siberia. Dr. V.N. Sergeev and Dr. S. Powar, Secretary General, Association of Indian
Naugholnykh were awarded the ILTP Fellowship by Universities on Foundation Day. Shri B.C. Bora,
DST, Government of India to work at Birbal Sahni Chairman-cum-Managing Director, ONGC Ltd.
Institute of Palaeobotany. delivered the 30th Birbal Sahni Memorial Lecture on
the topic ‘Fossil Fuel and Energy Security’ and
Monograph— A monograph entitled “Precambrian Professor S.S. Raghuvanshi, Ex-Professor of
Stromatolites of India and Russia” is being finalized Lucknow University delivered the 46th Sir Albert
under the Integrated Long Term Programme of co- Charles Seward Memorial Lecture on “Some
operation in Science & Technology (Indo-Russian). Frontline areas in Biology” to mark the Founder’s
In the present monograph 90 form genera are Day Function on 14th November 2000.
systematically described. An extensive photo-
documentation and line-diagrams of these forms have Web Site and Internet Access
been provided. There are fourteen plates of
stromatolite taxa showing three-dimensional pictures The contents of the Institute Web-Site is available at
and the morphological details in the outcrops and in www.bsip-india.org and is regularly updated. The
polished slabs. detailed information about the vacancies and the
Training Course being conducted by the Institute are
Monograph entitled “An introduction to incorporated on the Web-site. Proxy, Mail, DNS and
Gymnosperms, Cycas and Cycadales” of late Prof. Backup Servers are successfully configured on
D.D. Pant, Allahabad, is ready for publication. Windows NT platform. Proxy Server provides the
Internet security from unauthorized access and it will
also control the access authority at the workstation.
(iv)