Journal articles on the topic 'Eastern Sub-Himalayan Region'

The aim of the study is to understand trend or non-linearity along with a chaotic behaviour, if any, of Eastern and North Eastern sub-divisional rainfall, namely Orissa, Gangetic West Bengal, Sub Himalayan West Bengal, Assam and Meghalaya and also Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura based on rainfall data of 143 years (1871-2013). The analysis is performed for examining behaviour of rainfall in each of the seasons, namely, Pre monsoon, South West monsoon, North East monsoon and also Annual rainfall extracted from the monthly data. For that purpose, a trend analysis with Hurst Exponent and non-linearity analysis with Lyapunov Exponent are employed. The analysis revealed that rainfall of Orissa is persistent for all the seasons whilst the rainfall is persistent in Gangetic West Bengal in Pre monsoon and North East monsoon and Assam and Meghalaya along with Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura exhibit persistent behaviour in South West Monsoon and annually. Sub Himalayan West Bengal exhibit persistence in annual rainfall only. Chaotic tendency in low magnitude is located in many cases whilst non-chaotic situation has occurred when the persistence is found, mainly in pre-monsoon season. Moreover, the analysis of Hurst and Lyapunov Exponent revealed to identify two groups of sub-divisions with exactly similar region of every respect. Those two groups contain (i) sub-divisions Orissa and Assam and Meghalaya and also (ii) sub-divisions Sub Himalayan West Bengal and Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur and Tripura although those are at distances of hundreds of kilometers away. The behaviour of those subdivisions in a group has similar behaviour in all respects.

The western Himalaya represent an important and distinct botanical sub-region and biogeographic zone in the Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot. There is a long history of floral exploration in this region as compared to the eastern Himalaya; however, recent additions of several species to western Himalayan flora reveal remote areas yet to be explored intensively. The present reports on Anemone trullifolia and Berberis angulosa from the subalpine-alpine areas of western Himalaya also emphasize the need for further exploration. In this article, a brief description of these species is presented along with distribution, ecology, phytogeographical notes and photographs are provided for easy identification.

The eastern sub-Himalayan plain of India is a popular potato growing belt in which vast scope exists to introduce processing grade cultivars. The selection and introduction of a better quality processing grade cultivar in this region may pave the way for the processing industries. Keeping these in the backdrop, this study was conducted at Instructional Farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya (UBKV), Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India under eastern sub-Himalayan plains during winter seasons of 2016–17 and 2017–18 in which seven processing type potato cultivars (Kufri Chipsona-1, Kufri Chipsona-3, Kufri Chipsona-4, Kufri Frysona, Kufri Himsona, Kufri Surya and Kufri Chandramukhi) were evaluated in terms of different quality parameters pre-requisite for chips processing viz., dry matter content, specific gravity, starch content, chips colour score, crispiness and hardness of chips through randomised complete block design (RCBD). The study revealed wide variation in all quality parameters amongst the cultivars. Cultivar ‘Kufri Frysona’ showed the highest specific gravity (1.121) as well as dry matter content (23.35%) followed by ‘Kufri Chipsona-3’. The cultivar ‘Kufri Frysona’ showed the highest starch content (28.52%) too. Chips prepared from ‘Kufri Chipsona-1’ were recorded to be crispier with a relatively lower value of deformation before the first break and less hardness value. All processing type potato cultivar reflected the chips colour score <3 (evaluated, based on 1–10 scale, 10 being the darkest and least desirable) though ‘Kufri Frysona’ had the lowest chips colour score (1.50) signifying its superiority for the region. ‘Kufri Frysona’ cultivation could be recommended in this agro-climatic region particularly for chips manufacturing potato industries.

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Sporotrichosis is a chronic subcutaneous mycosis caused by a fungus, Sporothrix schenckii complex. The first case in India was reported by Ghosh in 1932. The disease is prevalent primarily in the sub-Himalayan region, North-eastern states, and parts of Karnataka. Mostly seen in adults, it uncommonly presents in children over the face and limbs either as fixed cutaneous or lymphocutaneous form. Here, we present a case of 3-years-old boy hailing from Southern Tamil Nadu with multiple nodular lesions in linear fashion over the right upper limb. It was diagnosed as a case of lymphocutaneous sporotrichosis that developed following cut injury over the right index finger. We publish this case as it is rare to occur in this geographic location.

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in the eastern range North-East (N-E) has the ‘seven sisters’—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura, along with a small and beautiful cousin in the Himalayan fringes, namely, Sikkim. Nearly ninety-eight per cent of N-E is surrounded by international boundaries and two per cent with the rest of India. Often known as ‘the ethnic cauldron’, this region is the home of extraordinarily diverse mosaic of ethnic groups having distinctive social, cultural and economic identity, more akin to their South Asia neighbours than mainland India. It is a habitat of a good number of ethnic rebel groups whose agendas vary from complete session from India to fighting for ethnic identities and home lands. The primary objective of the colonial rule in N-E was to ensure its administrative insulation which might have largely contributed to the continuation of the backwardness of the N-E region. It is probably the only political region in the country where every large state is a region unto itself within a sub-continental nation. This uniqueness is found reflected in the legislations and institutions like the North Eastern Council Act, 1971, setting a nodal agency for the economic development of the region with a secretariat of its own and a separate Union Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region created in 2001. In this article, an attempt has been made to analyse the background, context, content and significance of the Sixth Schedule in the Constitution of India which was incorporated to provide self-rule to the tribal population in the N-E India.

Tea is not only the most popular beverage in the world but also producing a large quantity untreated wastes product every year. In particular, the tea gardens of eastern Sub-Himalayan region cumulatively produce 15 million kg of crush, tear, curl (CTC)-factory tea waste (FTW) every year, which primarily includes discarded tea leaves, leaf fibers, buds and tender stems of tea plants. Beside that ~ 80% population of Indian subcontinent consume CTC tea regularly at their homes, tea stalls, market, cafe etc. and the waste produced from it, is called CTC domestic tea waste (DTW). Thus, not only factory tea waste but also a large quantity of domestic CTC tea waste (DTW) is exposed into the environment regularly. In present study, an attempt has been made for primary screening of the compounds in both the CTC-tea wastes. It has been shown that FTW sample contains greater amount of non-metal elements such as sulfur, calcium, phosphorus and metal elements like potassium and iron compared to DTW sample. Abundance of aromatic compounds has been seen to be higher in FTWs whereas, DTW primarily contains aliphatic compounds. Using Orbitrap-HRLCMS analysis allowed to make accurate predictions about the molecular structures of the likely organic chemicals found in tea trash. Thus, various bioactive organic compounds, micronutrients and trace elements from tea waste were found.

SummaryA breed of pig with distinctive productive and reproductive characteristics has been identified in the eastern Sub-Himalayan region of West Bengal state, India and adjoining Nepal. The breed is known as Ghoongroo (meaning anklet in the local language). The breed is most prevalent within 88° E to 90° E longitudes and 26.3° N to 27.3° N latitudes. Two distinct climates viz., cold moist and hot humid are observed during the year. Farmers manage the animals both under stall-feeding and stall-feeding-cum-grazing systems. Simple housing principally made up of bamboo and jute stick is used with an emphasis on giving protection from the rain.The population in the breeding tract varies depending on market demand. Generally, the population varies from 8 000 to 10 0000. Pigs are black in colour with a compact body, long thick coarse hair, a long tail and an upwardly curved snout. The face is broad and flattened with large, heart shaped ear resembling that of an elephant. Average litter size at birth is11.92±0.06 and a litter size of up to eighteen is not uncommon on a low to medium plane of nutrition. Body weights at birth, five months and one year of age are 1.08±0.22, 38.91± 1.49 and 106.3±0.31 kg respectively, irrespective of sex.This unique germ plasma has the potential to replace exotic breeds from temperate zones currently used in improved pig production programs. However the breed is under constant threat due to indiscriminate crossbreeding with other varieties. Thus the immediate implementation of conservation and improvement programs is essential to salvage the breed.

A Field experiment was conducted at the Department of Agriculture at Himalayan University, Jullang, Arunachal Pradesh, to assess the impact of composts and biofertilizers on plant growth. The available soil nutrient status were medium in N, High in P and medium in K in study soil.The treatments considered of T1- Control 100 % RDF, T2 - Vermicompost 0.5 Kg/ha + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria 0.5Kg/ha, T3 – Poultry manure 0.5 Kg/ha + Azotobacter 0.5Kg/ha, T4 – Compost 0.5Kg/ha + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria 0.5Kg/ha + Azotobacter 0.5Kg/ha, T5 – compost 0.5Kg/ha + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria 0.5 Kg/ha , T6 – Poultry manure 0.5Kg/ha+ Azotobacter 0.5Kg/ha, T7 – Vermicompost 0.5Kg/ha + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria 0.5Kg/ha + Azotobacter 0.5Kg/ha.The highest cob plant-1 recorded highest in treatment receiving Vermicompost 0.5 Kg/ha + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria 0.5 Kg/ha + Azotobacter 0.5 Kg/ha(T7) i.e 1.93. highest cob length recorded 13.80 cm receiving treatment Vermicompost 0.5Kg/ha+ Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria 0.5Kg/ha + Azotobacter 0.5Kg/ha (T7).The highest number of cob grain-1 is 394.47 receiving Vermicompost 0.5Kg/ha + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria 0.5Kg/ha + Azotobacter 0.5Kg/ha (T7) and 12.03 g of test weight were obtained with treatment (T7) receiving Vermicompost 0.5Kg/ha + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria 0.5Kg/ha + Azotobacte 0.5Kg/ha .

Abstract The Gangetic Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) was once found in tens of thousands in the rivers of the Indian sub-continent, but the numbers have now dwindled abysmally throughout its geographical distribution. In northeastern India too, dolphins were seen in all the major rivers and also in certain wetlands during monsoon months till the early 1980s. However, the sighting of dolphins is rare now due to natural and human-induced factors. Three factors - adequate water cover, water quality, and abundance of prey food either individually or in combination- relate to River Dolphins’ existence. Variability of meteorological parameters also severely impacts on the limno-biological parameters of riverine habitats. Restoration of Gangetic Dolphins in their traditional habitats can boost ecotourism in the region. An extensive study is necessary to assess the cumulative impact of the proposed hydroelectric projects on the aquatic biodiversity of the entire eastern Himalayan region. The need of the hour is to adopt a holistic and participatory approach for maintaining riverine health and the prey base of the Barak and the Brahmaputra systems.

In continuation of our search for efficient pest control natural products from the flora of the South Eastern Sub-Himalayan biodiversity region, we have investigated wild edible Piper pedicellatum C. DC (Piperaceae) from Arunachal Pradesh, India against five important plant pathogenic fungi through an activity guided method, and a new compound, pedicellamide, was isolated. The structure was determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic studies and confirmed by X-ray crystallography. The compound exhibited antifungal activities against the phytopathogenic fungal organisms Rhizoctonia solani (MIC 38.4 ± 1.6 μg/mL), Fusarium oxysporum (MIC 29.7 ± 0.8 μg/mL), Aspergillus niger (MIC 48.6 ± 0.7 μg/mL), Puccinia gramini (MIC 46.8 ± 1.4 μg/mL) and Curvularia lunata (MIC 49.1 ± 0.1μg/mL). Additionally, the antioxidant potential of the compound was estimated by DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assay and found to be 2.87 ± 0.20, 2.19 ± 0.13 and 3.96 ± 0.17 VCEAC (μM/g), respectively.

In recent decades, carbon (C) management is an important point on the agenda to identify the best viable mitigation strategies for its reduction. The study was conducted at Jaldapara National Park located in the Eastern Himalayan region of India. The study quantified litter production, decomposition, periodic nutrient release, soil fertility status, and soil organic carbon (SOC) of five major forest stands i.e., Tectona grandis (TGDS), Shorea robusta (SRDS), Michelia champaca (MCDS), Lagerstroemia parviflora (LPDS) and miscellaneous stand (MS). A stratified random nested quadrate method was adopted for sample collection. Results reveal that the greatest amount of litter production and decomposition was under MCDS followed by MS, LPDS, SRDS, and the smallest under TGDS. The material annual turnover through litter decomposition in all the stands varies between 96.46% and 99.34%. The content and amount of the available nutrients in litter varied significantly among the stands. Moreover, release of these nutrients was nearly equal to the amount available in the initial litter mass. In general, the magnitude of the total nutrient return was in the same order as the total litter fall and the nutrient availability was more closely related to litter nutrient content and soil organic carbon. The range of pH (4.86–5.16), EC (0.34–0.50), soil moisture (27.01–31.03) and available primary nutrients (N: (0.21–0.26 Mg/ha), P: (0.09–0.12 Mg/ha), K: (0.13–0.14 Mg/ha)) also varied significantly among the stands. Significant positive correlations were observed between SOC, N and K. Both the fertility indices exhibited no definite pattern in the stands but a significant correlation between the two indicates the healthy soil fertility status of the stands. SOC varies significantly under different forest stands, but the greatest content was found under MS. The estimated SOC ranges between 75.9 and 107.7 Mg ha−1 up to 60 cm and is reported to be below the Indian average of 182.94 Mg ha−1. The present study strongly recommends that Tectona grandis, Shorea robusta, Michelia champaca, and Lagerstroemia parviflora should be the important commercial timbers of the Eastern Himalayan region because they may help further to increase the C sink in agricultural and degraded landscapes.

Physiography is a field of geography that studies the physical patterns and processes of the Earth, such as geomorphology, hydrology, soil, rocks, biogeography, and the effects of tectonic forces on landscapes. This paper aimed to discuss the physiographic characteristics of India due to its diverse geographical features by using a systematic search and collection of publications and secondary data. The characteristics of India's physiography were discussed descriptively and visually. This study highlights the fundamental physiographic divisions, sub-divisions, and socioeconomic functions of each type of terrain in India, including the northern mountain range, northern plains, peninsular plateau, coastal plains, and islands (the eastern and western coastal plains, Andaman and Nicobar islands). This overview concluded that the physiography of India is complex, heterogeneous and could be categorized into four divisions with distinct characteristics. In detail, the Himalayan Range is a mountainous region in the northern part of the country which produced by the fold mountain processes. Meanwhile, the Indo-Gangetic Plain was well recognised for its extensive agricultural activities contributed by the Ganges River. India's diverse landforms had a profound impact on the country's cultural and economical development. On the other hand, this study also demonstrated that the plateau region in the country's southern and central regions was geographically diversified. The different landscapes of India influenced the socioeconomic characteristics of the Indian society and consequently supported national development of India.

Crabs are significant invertebrates in the Subansiri River basin, one of the major sub-basins of the Brahmaputra valley in northeast India. They have immense ecological and economic value and provide an alternative source of income for the local inhabitants. Following thirteen sites in the Subansiri River basin were surveyed to determine the availability and diversity of crab species in this region: Hatinala, Kalma river, Dikrong river, Senki river, Poma river, Harmuti, Ranganadi river dam site, Diju stream, Lower Subansiri river, Downstream Ranganadi, Pani gaon wetlands, Bosa gaon beel, and Bhelamora beel. Crab samples were collected using a random sampling method and identified using standard taxonomic keys. Seven species from two families were identified and distinguished by their morphology and habitat preferences: Sartoriana spinigera, Sartoriana trilobata, Maydelliathelphusa lugubris, Maydelliathelphusa harpax, Liotelphusa laevis (Gecarcinucidae) Lobothelphusa woodmasoni, and Acanthopotamon horai (Potamidae). These crabs are thought to be endemic to the Eastern Himalayan region due to their limited dispersibility. This is the first study aimed at contributing to the documentation and conservation of freshwater crabs in North East India. Additionally, the economic relevance of freshwater crabs is highlighted.

The present study was conducted in the eastern sub-Himalayan plains of West Bengal, India, to evaluate 21 potato cultivars (including table- and processing-type) and assess their suitability in terms of improved physiological responses, yield performances, stability and profitability. A significant difference in various growth attributes, i.e., plant height, number of stems per plant, leaf area index (LAI), dry matter (DM) accumulation, and crop growth rate (CGR), was noted amongst different cultivars. Significant variation was also observed in net photosynthesis rate (NPR), transpiration rate (TR), and stomatal conductance rate (SCR) recorded at various stages of growth. Amongst all the cultivars, ‘Kufri Chipsona-4’ showed the highest SCR at both 60 and 80 days after planting (DAP), while ‘Kufri Pokhraj’ had the highest NPR at both 60 and 80 DAP. However, the highest TR was achieved with ‘Kufri Chipsona-3’and ‘Kufri Surya’ at 60 and 80 DAP, respectively. ‘Kufri Pukhraj’ and ‘Kufri Himsona’ achieved the maximum and minimum tuber bulking rate (TBR) values at initial growth stages (upto 60 days), respectively; however, ‘Kufri Arun’ and ‘Kufri Surya’ had significantly higher TBRs during the later part of growth (after 60 days to maturity), leading to higher tuber yields amongst the medium maturing cultivars. Among the 21 cultivars, ‘Kufri Arun’ showed the maximum total tuber yield (35.52 t/ha), followed by ‘Kufri Pukhraj’ (33.54 t/ha) with higher marketable grade tubers. In terms of production economics, ‘Kufri Arun’ achieved the maximum net return (USD 2137.4) and B:C (benefit:cost) ratio (2.17), suggesting the suitability of this cultivar in the eastern sub-Himalayan plains of West Bengal. The early maturing ‘Kufri Pukhraj’ and processing variety ‘Kufri Chipsona-3’ also showed their suitability in terms of net returns and B:C ratio. The heat-tolerant variety ‘Kufri Surya’ also achieved a tuber yield of 31 tha−1 with satisfying net return (USD 1596.9) and B:C ratio (1.88), suggesting the suitability of this cultivar in this region under terminal heat stress. However, the stability analysis showed that the cultivars ‘Kufri Khyati’ and ‘HPS II/67’ were the most stable in terms of additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) stability value (ASV) and yield stability index (YSI), respectively.

The climatology of major sources and pathways of moisture for three locales along the Hindu-Kush-Himalayan region are examined, by use of Lagrangian methods applied to the ERA-Interim dataset, over the period from 1980 to 2016 for both summer (JJA) and winter (NDJ) periods. We also investigate the major flooding events of 2010, 2013, and 2017 in Pakistan, Uttarakhand, and Kathmandu, respectively, and analyse a subset of the climatology associated with the 20 most significant rainfall events over each region of interest. A comparison is made between the climatology and extreme events, in the three regions of interest, during the summer monsoon period. For Northern Pakistan and Uttarakhand, the Indus basin plays the largest role in moisture uptake. Moisture is also gathered from Eastern Europe and Russia. Extreme events display an increased influence of sub-tropical weather systems, which manifest themselves through low-level moisture transport; predominantly from the Arabian sea and along the Gangetic plain. In the Kathmandu region, it is found that the major moisture sources come from the Gangetic plain, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Indus basin. In this case, extreme event pathways largely match those of the climatology, although an increased number of parcels originate from the western end of the Gangetic plain. These results provide insights into the rather significant influence of mid-latitudinal weather systems, even during the monsoon season, in defining the climatology of the Hindu-Kush-Himalaya region, as well as how extreme precipitation events in this region represent atypical moisture pathways. We propose a detailed investigation of how such water pathways are represented in climate models for the present climate conditions and in future climate scenarios, as this may be extremely relevant for understanding the impacts of climate change on the cryosphere and hydrosphere of the region.

A field experiment was conducted during rabi 2007-08 to 2008-09 at Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Cooch Behar situated at sub-Himalayan plains popularly known as terai region of West Bengal, India to study the productivity of yellow sarson under different nutrient management practices and seed priming methods. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with eight nutrient management practices and three seed priming methods. The results showed marked improvement in yield components, productivity and economics of yellow sarson due to integrated nutrient management and seed priming methods. Significantly highest seed yield (1374 kg ha-1) was recorded with combination comprising FYM + Azotobacter + PSB and 75% of the recommended fertilizers. The integrated nutrient management practice also had greater impact in production economics, sustenance in soil fertility and enrichment of soil nutrients. The crop receiving plant nutrients only from chemical sources showed poor productivity leading to less remuneration. Higher seed oil content (41.8% and 42.2%) was obtained with the application of 100% of the recommended dose (60:30:30 kg N:P2O5:K2O kg ha-1) along with sulphur (20 kg ha-1) but the oil yield was not impressive due to poor seed yield. Pre-sowing soaking of seeds with 100 ppm KH2PO4 also showed improvement in yield components, productivity and oil yield of the yellow sarson crop compared to seeds soaked with 100 ppm Na2HPO4 and water. Net returns and return/rupee invested were higher when the yellow sarson seeds were soaked with 100 ppm KH2PO4 over the other soaking methods. Variations in residual fertility were not discernible due to seed soaking. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sja.v12i1.21117 SAARC J. Agri., 12(1): 106-116 (2014)

As a vast and diverse linguistic grouping, Tibeto-Burman languages vary in their usage of time constructs, both morphologically and semantically. Even between genetically related languages within the Tibeto-Burman language family, approaches to elements such as suffixation vary widely, while vocabulary from Indo-Aryan and distantly related Sinitic languages is differently incorporated and borrowed. In this article, we identify trends that only become apparent through the process of data collation and the careful comparison of numerous grammatical sketches and dictionaries. We further expand this rich, if understudied, area through the incorporation of original fieldwork data from the Thangmi/Thami-speaking communities of Nepal undertaken by one of the co-authors, and supplemented by the researcher’s residence in the Himalayan region from 1996 to 2009. The literature review and linguistic scope of this survey includes multiple grammars of languages spoken across the Greater Himalayan region, with specific emphasis on the Rāī-Kiranti sub-branch of languages autochthonous to eastern Nepal. In our comparative analysis, we focus on apparent cognates and shared paradigms with an emphasis on systems of segmental time measurement (e.g. ‘two days hence,’ ‘this year’) rather than on relative ones (e.g. ‘now,’ ‘then’). Through this compilation, the relationship between Tibeto-Burman languages and their often-dominant regional Indo-Aryan counterparts becomes more visible, mediated by a better understanding of the shared yet conflicting epistemological, astrological, and organizational views of time held by the communities who speak Tibeto-Burman languages. Features of note include the assimilation of Chinese and Indian religious and spiritual systems, as well as imported vocabulary that does not always replace—but is in fact sometimes incorporated into—the lexicon of a given language by the speech community. It is our observation that in Tibeto-Burman languages, Indigenous concepts, categories and classifications of time are usually grammatically encoded in adverbial forms, while the influential Indo-Aryan languages of the region mostly make use of nominal morphology in order to express temporal concepts. In addition, reflexes of Proto-Tibeto-Burman (hereafter PTB) nouns are still evident across the language family. To conclude, we position this survey as a comparative and analytical contribution which focuses attention on the region’s rich linguistic variation and the importance of rigorous documentation, conservation and revitalisation programs for Indigenous languages of the Tibeto-Burman family, as the communities who speak these languages continue to grapple with severe socio-political challenges and face the hegemonic pressures of linguistic assimilation.

The species diversity of climber is found very high in the tropical region of the world. The tropical and sub tropical forests in the Eastern Himalayan state exhibit a good representation of climbing flora. A study on the taxonomic diversity and socio economic importance of climbing plants occurring in Papum Pare district, Arunachal Pradesh was carried out. A total of 187 climbing species were recorded amongst which 61 species distributed over 43 genera and 20 families are found having various economic applications. The detailed ethnobotanical uses and economic importance of all the species were evaluated and presented. Based on their end use, the species are grouped under six broad categories where the highest number of 29 species are found used as local medicines. Additionally, 22 other species were used as wild edibles, 7 species as construction and handicraft materials and 7 species for hunting and fishing. Among all, the species like Piper longum, Abrus precatorius, Calamus tenuis, Dioscorea spp. and Rubia cordifolia have good commercial and economic values. The study revealed that the climbing species are linked with the livelihood as well as for the socio economic support to the local communities. As the majority of the species are used for medicines, fruits and vegetables, the climbing species are found to be playing a vital role in the fulfilment of the medicinal and nutritional requirements of the local people.

Background: Due to excess metabolic demand of iodine in pregnancy, pregnant women and lactating mother and their neonates are most vulnerable of iodine deficiency disorder. Urinary iodine excretion is a good marker of recent dietary iodine intake. Thus, present study was conducted to assess the iodine status and median urinary iodine excretion (UIE μg/lit) among pregnant and non-pregnant women of Tripura.Methods: Tribal and Bengali pregnant and non-pregnant women from Bokafa and Jolaibari Block of South Tripura district were included in the study. Urinary iodine excretion was done using simple micro plate method. Salt iodine was estimated using iodometric titration. All the tests were performed at CNRT Lab, ICMR, India.Results: Total number of subjects included in this study was 1071. Total number of urine samples collected from pregnant and non-pregnant women was 538 and 533 respectively. Median value of UIE in pregnant and non-pregnant women of Tripura was 155.0µg/L and 130.0µg/L. In pregnant women percentage prevalence of severe (<20µg/L), moderate (20-49µg/L) and mild iodine deficiency (50-149µg/L) was found in 4.1%, 15.1% and 29.6% subjects. In case of non-pregnant women severe (<20µg/L), moderate (20-49µg/L) and mild iodine deficiency (50-99µg/L) was found in 0.6%, 9.6%, 27.8% subjects respectively. The overall prevalence of iodine deficiency was found in 48.8% pregnant women, compared to 38.0% non-pregnant subjects.Conclusions: Efforts towards universal salt iodization need to be stepped-up in Sub-Himalayan region (NE part of India) and pregnant and lactating mothers may be targeted with alternate iodine supplements (Colloidal Iodine).

Abstract. Global warming or the increase of the surface and atmospheric temperatures of the Earth, is increasingly discernible in the polar, sub-polar and major land glacial areas. The Himalayan and Tibetan Plateau Glaciers, which are the largest glaciers outside of the Polar Regions, are showing a large-scale decrease of snow cover and an extensive glacial retreat. These glaciers such as Siachen and Gangotri are a major water resource for Asia as they feed major rivers such as the Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra. Due to scarcity of ground measuring stations, the long-term observations of atmospheric temperatures acquired from the Microwave Sounding Unit (MSU) since 1979–2008 is highly useful. The lower and middle tropospheric temperature trend based on 30 years of MSU data shows warming of the Northern Hemisphere's mid-latitude regions. The mean month-to-month warming (up to 0.048±0.026°K/year or 1.44°K over 30 years) of the mid troposphere (near surface over the high altitude Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau) is prominent and statistically significant at a 95% confidence interval. Though the mean annual warming trend over the Himalayas (0.016±0.005°K/year), and Tibetan Plateau (0.008±0.006°K/year) is positive, the month to month warming trend is higher (by 2–3 times, positive and significant) only over a period of six months (December to May). The factors responsible for the reversal of this trend from June to November are discussed here. The inequality in the magnitude of the warming trends of the troposphere between the western and eastern Himalayas and the IG (Indo-Gangetic) plains is attributed to the differences in increased aerosol loading (due to dust storms) over these regions. The monthly mean lower-tropospheric MSU-derived temperature trend over the IG plains (dust sink region; up to 0.032±0.027°K/year) and dust source regions (Sahara desert, Middle East, Arabian region, Afghanistan-Iran-Pakistan and Thar Desert regions; up to 0.068±0.033°K/year) also shows a similar pattern of month-to-month oscillation and six months of enhanced and a statistically significant warming trend. The enhanced warming trend during the winter and pre-monsoon months (December–May) may accelerate glacial melt. The unequal distribution of the warming trend over the year is discussed in this study and is partially attributed to a number of controlling factors such as sunlight duration, CO2 trends over the region (2003–2008), water vapor and aerosol distribution.

Abstract The space–time structure of the active and break periods of the Indian monsoon has been studied using 70-yr-long high-resolution gridded daily rainfall data over India. The analysis of lagged composites of rainfall anomalies based on an objective categorization of active and break phases shows that the active (break) cycle, with an average life of 16 days, starts with positive (negative) rainfall anomalies over the Western Ghats and eastern part of central India and intensifies and expands to a region covering central India and parts of north India during the peak phase, while negative (positive) anomalies cover the sub-Himalayan region and southeast India. During the final stage of the active (break) period, the positive (negative) rainfall anomalies move toward the foothills of the Himalayas while peninsular India is covered with opposite sign anomalies. The number of days on which lows and depressions are present in the region during active and break periods is consistent with the rainfall analysis. The number of depressions during the active phase is about 7 times that during the break phase. Using multichannel singular spectrum analysis of the daily rainfall anomalies, the seasonal monsoon rainfall is found to consist of two dominant intraseasonal oscillations with periods of 45 and 20 days and three seasonally persisting components. The 45- and 20-day oscillations are manifestations of the active and break periods but contribute very little to the seasonal mean rainfall. The seasonally persisting components with anomalies of the same sign, and covering all of India, have a very high interannual correlation with the total seasonal mean rainfall. These results support a conceptual model of the interannual variability of the monsoon rainfall consisting of seasonal mean components and a statistical average of the intraseasonal variations. The success in the prediction of seasonal mean rainfall depends on the relative strengths of the seasonally persisting components and intraseasonal oscillations.

प्रस्तुत लेखमा दर्शनका बारे सामान्य परिचय दिंदै पूर्वीय सभ्यताअन्तर्गत भारतीय खण्ड वा हिमाली क्षेत्रबाट प्रवर्तित प्राचीन दर्शनहरूको उल्लेख गरिएको छ । यसक्रममा षड्दर्शन अन्तर्गत पर्ने साङ्ख्य,योग,न्याय,वैशेषिक,मीमांसा र वेदान्तदर्शनएवम् वेदको अस्तित्वलाई अस्वीकार गर्ने चार्वाक,जैन र बौद्घदर्शनको पहिचान गरिएको छ । तत्वमीमांसा र ज्ञानमीमांसा भनेको के हो ? भन्ने विषयमा संक्षिप्त रुपले विश्लेषण गरिएको छ । पूर्वीय क्षेत्रबाट प्रवर्तित प्राचीन नौवटा दर्शनको सामान्य परिचय दिदै तिनीहरूमा पाइने तत्वमीमांसा र ज्ञानमीमांसाका बारे संक्षेपमा उल्लेख गरिएको छ । यसक्रममा तत्वमीमांसाका बारे छलफल गर्दा साङ्ख्यदर्शनमा प्रकृति र पुरुषसहित पच्चीस तत्त्व, योगदर्शनमा छब्बीस तत्त्व, न्यायदर्शनमा सोह्र पदार्थ, वैशेषिकदर्शनमा सात पदार्थ, मीमांसा दर्शनमा पञ्चकर्म, वेदान्तदर्शनमा अद्वैतवाद(ब्रह्मवाद), चार्वाक दर्शनमा भौतिकवाद, जैन दर्शनमा बहुतत्ववाद र बौद्घदर्शनमा शून्यवाद मुख्य तत्वका रुपमा आएका छन् भनेर उल्लेख गरिएको छ । त्यसैगरी ज्ञानमीमांसाका बारे छलफल गर्दा साङ्ख्यदर्शनमा कार्यकारण सिद्घान्त र सत्कार्यवाद, योग दर्शनमा चित्तको व्याख्या र अष्टाङ्ग योग, न्यायदर्शनमा प्रमा, प्रमाता, प्रमाण र प्रमेयकाबारे वृहत् छलफल, वैषेशिकदर्शनमा परमाणुवाद, मीमांसादर्शनमा धर्मफल(कर्मफल सिद्घान्त÷कर्मवाद), वेदान्तदर्शनमा ज्ञानका प्रकार र मोक्षप्राप्तिका साधन, चार्वाक दर्शनमा प्रत्यक्ष प्रमाणका आधारमा लौकिक संसारको व्याख्या, जैन दर्शनमा अनेकान्तवाद, स्याद्वाद र सप्तभङ्गीनयको व्याख्या गर्दै ज्ञानका प्रकार एवम् विधि र बौद्ध दर्शनमा प्रतीत्यसमुत्पाद, कर्मवाद, अनित्यवाद, अनात्मवाद, क्षणिकवाद, शून्यवाद मुख्य ज्ञानका रुपमा आएका छन् भनेर उल्लेख गरिएको छ । [This article briefly introduces philosophy focusing on eastern philosophy specifically based on the ancient philosophies originated in Indian sub-continent or Himalayan region. It discusses the philosophies like Sankhya, Yog, Nyaya, Vaiseshik, Mimamsa and Vedanta that fall under six basic philosophies and three other philosophies like Charvak, Jain, and Bauddha which discard the existence of Veda. This essay briefly analyses metaphysics and epistemology, and discusses the metaphysics and epistemology of those nine different philosophies originated in the eastern landscape. Talking about metaphysics, this article has mentioned twenty-five Tatwa including Prakriti and Purush under Sankhya philosophy. Under Yog philosophy, there are twenty-six Tatwa, sixteen matters in Nyaya philosophy, seven matters in Vaiseshik philosophy, Panchakarma in Mimamsa philosophy, Bramhaism in Vedanta philosophy, materialism in Charvak philosophy, multi-physicalism (Bahutatwabad) in Jain philosophy and zeroism (Sunyabad) in Buddhist philosophy as discussed in the article. Regarding epistemology, there is discussion of the philosophy of good deed (Satkaryabad) in Sankhya philosophy, description of Chitta and eight folded yoga in Yog philosophy, discussion of Prama, Paramata, Praman and Prameya under Nyaya philosophy, atomism (Paramanubad) in Vaiseshik philosophy, Dharmaphal in Mimamsa philosophy, types of knowledge and ways of achieving salvation in Vedanta philosophy, description of physical world in Charvak philosophy, types of knowledge and their methods in Jain philosophy, and lastly, Karmabad, Anityabad, Anatmabad, Sunyabad, kshanikbad in Buddhist philosophy.]

Scrub typhus, an arthropod borne infection caused by the rickettsial organism Orientia tsutsugamushi, is a fairly common disease in north-eastern sub-Himalayan India, particularly the forest areas, and is known to manifest with varied presentations ranging from non-specific fever to severe multi-organ complications. Hemorrhagic manifestations described in the literature are mostly gastrointestinal and genitourinary, secondary to vasculitis and/or thrombocytopenia, but reports of cerebral hemorrhage have been extremely rare. We report a case from sub-Himalayan eastern India where a 23 years old male tea plantation worker presented with recurrent convulsions with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain showing multiple parenchymal hemorrhages with encephalitis involving both the cerebral hemispheres. Although patient developed fever and acute kidney injury later in the course, these were not the presenting complaints despite fever being the most consistent sign of a scrub typhus infection. We suggest consideration of scrub typhus as a differential diagnosis of a cerebral hemorrhage in endemic regions.

Abstract The waterbird community structures of two sub-Himalayan wetlands (Nararthali and Rasomati) situated in forested areas were compared during the wintering period. These wetlands had similar geophysical features but were subject to different conservation efforts. Sixty species of waterbirds, including four globally threatened species, were recorded during the study. Nararthali was found to be more densely inhabited (116.05±22.69 ind./ha) by birds than Rasomati (76.55±26.47 ind./ha). Density increased by 44.6% at Nararthali and by 59% at Rasomati over the years of the study, from 2008 to 2015. Winter visitors increased considerably at Nararthali (66.2%), while a 71.1% decrease at Rasomati clearly indicated degradation of habitat quality at that site during the later years. Luxuriant growth of Eichhornia crassipes, siltation, poor maintenance and unregulated tourist activities were the key factors leading to the rapid degradation of Rasomati. Nararthali, on the other hand, a well-managed wetland habitat, showed an increasing trend in bird densities. Therefore, poor habitat management and rapid habitat alterations were observed to be the main reasons for depletion of bird density in the wetlands of eastern sub-Himalayan forest regions.

An experiment was conducted on paddy crop (Shahsarang 1 variety) for the estimation of nitrogen and phosphorus uptake in grain and straw when applied through different treatments of chemical and biofertilizers. The experiment was conducted in Kharif season of the year 2016, at ICAR complex for NEH, Meghalaya, in a split-plot design comprising 3 main plot treatments viz. 1. 100% organic, 2. 100% inorganic (recommended dose of fertilizer) and 3. INM (75% RDF with 25% FYM) and 4 subplot treatments viz. Control, Azospirillum, Azospirillum with PSB and Azospirillum with PSB and ZnSB in sub plots. Each treatment was replicated thrice. The results showed that highest concentration of N and P in both grains and straw were observed in inorganic followed by INM management practices when combined with Azotobactor + PSB + ZnSB and highest grain yield obtained with inorganic.

India is home to 70% of the global Tiger Panthera tigris population, resident in five major areas: Shivalik Gangetic Plains, Central & Eastern Ghats, Western Ghats, the Sundarbans, and the northeastern Hills and Brahmaputra flood plain. Information about tiger ecology in temperate forests is limited. During January–May 2017, two male tigers were photo-captured in the Mishmi Hills at altitudes of 3,246m and 3630m, where vegetation ranges from temperate mixed forest to sub alpine forest. The landscape with newly-discovered tigers merits priority protection, and other likely tiger habitats in this region should be surveyed for their presence.

Estimation of soil overburden and depth of competent strata for construction of infrastructures in hilly terrain is a challenging job for engineers. Modern technologies like Electrical Resistivity Survey (ERS) techniques with site geological mapping have been carried out at the ridge area near Palace, Gangtok. Two independent 2D-electrical resistivity surveys profile sections using hybrid Schlumberger-Wenner method were conducted along the ridge line trending in the North-South direction. The ERS profile sections were taken on both the slopes of the ridge along its eastern and western flanks. With the collective information from field and geo-technical data, a comparatively stable slope has been identified with respect to geological conditions in the present work, which focuses on the vulnerable slope failure with respect to slope direction, local geological condition, depth of competent strata, thickness of soil overburden, water saturation zones and resistivity of the materials. Diamond core drilling of 15meters each was carried out at both the flanks of the slope to understand the sub-surface strata and correlate it with resistivity data generated by ERS survey. The result indicates that Sandy/silty soil with flakes of mica having resistivity of 107 ohm-m and weathered mica schist having resistivity more than 300 ohm-m in the present study area. Geological mapping in 1:3000 scale was carried in the area demarcation with various litho-units and rock type. The area is characterized by medium grade metamorphic rock sequence represented in the area by mica schist having dip of foliations towards NE direction and three sets of joint planes. The geometry of the rock orientation and slope direction plays a vital role for determining the overall stability condition of the area. The present study will provide technical input for structural engineers to design the structures in such geological conditions. Further, the thickness of overburden estimated from ERS has been validated by drilling data.

The spatio-temporal variations of long-term rainfall over Assam in the North Eastern part of India were analyzed using data from twenty-six locations during the period 1981-2017. The annual, monthly, and seasonal rainfall trends are assessed by using Mann-Kendall and Sen slope tests over different sub regions. September, December, January, and February months recorded decreasing trends, while May, June, and August exhibited statistically substantial increasing trends. Similarly, annual, pre monsoon season and monsoon seasons exhibited increasing trends, but post monsoon and winter seasons recorded statistically non-significant decreasing rainfall trends. The locations of Demaji, Dibrugarh, Karimganj, and North Lakhimpur were recorded with above 2000 mm annual rainfall. On seasonal time scales, pre monsoon and monsoon rainfall over Assam witnessed increasing trends with statistically notable trends. The post monsoon and winter rainfall recorded decreasing trends, but the trends were statistically non-significant. In the monsoon season, a declining trend was recorded during the first decade (2001-2010). The southern and northeastern portion of the state received the maximum average annual rainfall when compared to the central portion of the Brahmaputra valley of Assam state. The maximum variations in rainfall have been recorded in the Karimganj (36.8%), Hailakandi (31.9%), Silchar (31.9%), and Dhuburi (26.5%) regions. Any slight variations in the rainfall trend could certainly be vulnerable as the state of Assam which comprises valley flood plains and sub-Himalayan boundaries, also supports a large chunk of human as well as ecosystem populations. In the present scenario, extreme and unprecedented rainfall events can affect agricultural activities, stream flow, the availability of food, etc., which may lead to disparities in the socio-economic conditions of the area. The results would be beneficial to policymakers in understanding the impact of changing climates and assessing the climatic vulnerability of natural and human resources.

The Central Himalayan Region (Nepal Himalayas), comprised of two clear sub-parallel mountain ranges, is atypical location for studying the impact of rugged topography on spatio temporal variations of precipitation. The relationship between topography and diurnal cycles of rainfall have been investigated utilizing 13-year (1998–2010) high resolution (0.05° × 0.05°) Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Precipitation Radar (PR) data. An investigation of diurnal cycle of precipitation revealed an afternoon maximum during the pre-monsoon season (March–May) and midnight–early morning maximum during the summer monsoon season (June–August)over the southern slopes of the Himalayas. The summer monsoon exhibited a robust spatial variation of diurnal cycle of precipitation, during afternoon-evening time, primary rainfall peak appeared along the Lesser Himalayas (~2,000–2,200 m above mean sea level), while early-morning rain in contrast showed maximum concentration along the southern margin of the Himalayas (~500–700 m above MSL). An afternoon-evening rainfall peak was attributed to higher rain frequency, whereas early-morning rainfall peak was attributed to fewer but rather intense rainfall. It is suggested that, confluence between down slope and moist south easterly monsoon flow triggers convection near the foothills of the Himalayas during early morning period. The results further suggested the morning precipitation moves southward in the mature monsoon season.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/njst.v15i2.12116Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 15, No.2 (2014), 57-64

Abstract. We identify sources (fossil fuel combustion versus biomass burning) of black carbon (BC) in the atmosphere and in deposition using a global 3-D chemical transport model GEOS-Chem. We validate the simulated sources against carbon isotope measurements of BC around the globe and find that the model reproduces mean biomass burning contribution (fbb; %) in various regions within a factor of 2 (except in Europe, where fbb is underestimated by 63 %). GEOS-Chem shows that contribution from biomass burning in the Northern Hemisphere (fbb: 35±14 %) is much less than that in the Southern Hemisphere (50±11 %). The largest atmospheric fbb is in Africa (64±20 %). Comparable contributions from biomass burning and fossil fuel combustion are found in southern (S) Asia (53±10 %), southeastern (SE) Asia (53±11 %), S America (47±14 %), the S Pacific (47±7 %), Australia (53±14 %) and the Antarctic (51±2 %). fbb is relatively small in eastern Asia (40±13 %), Siberia (35±8 %), the Arctic (33±6 %), Canada (31±7 %), the US (25±4 %) and Europe (19±7 %). Both observations and model results suggest that atmospheric fbb is higher in summer (59 %–78 %, varying with sub-regions) than in winter (28 %–32 %) in the Arctic, while it is higher in winter (42 %–58 %) and lower in summer (16 %–42 %) over the Himalayan–Tibetan Plateau. The seasonal variations of Atmosphericfbb are relatively flat in North America, Europe and Asia. We conducted four experiments to investigate the uncertainties associated with biofuel emissions, hygroscopicity of BC in fresh emissions, the aging rate and size-resolved wet scavenging. We find that doubling biofuel emissions for domestic heating north of 45∘ N increases fbb values in Europe in winter by ∼30 %, reducing the discrepancy between observed and modeled atmospheric fbb from −63 % to −54 %. The remaining large negative discrepancy between model and observations suggests that the biofuel emissions are probably still underestimated at high latitudes. Increasing the fraction of thickly coated hydrophilic BC from 20 % to 70 % in fresh biomass burning plumes increases the fraction of hydrophilic BC in biomass burning plumes by 0 %–20 % (varying with seasons and regions) and thereby reduces atmospheric fbb by up to 11 %. Faster aging (4 h e-folding time versus 1.15 d e-folding time) of BC in biomass burning plumes reduces atmospheric fbb by 7 % (1 %–14 %, varying with seasons and regions), with the largest reduction in remote regions, such as the Arctic, the Antarctic and the S Pacific. Using size-resolved scavenging accelerates scavenging of BC particles in both fossil fuel and biomass burning plumes, with a faster scavenging of BC in fossil fuel plumes. Thus, atmospheric fbb increases in most regions by 1 %–14 %. Overall, atmospheric fbb is determined mainly by fbb in emissions and, to a lesser extent, by atmospheric processes, such as aging and scavenging. This confirms the assumption that fbb in local emissions determines atmospheric fbb in previous studies, which compared measured atmospheric fbb directly with local fbb in bottom-up emission inventories.

Tulip (Tulipa gesneriana L.) is an important and highly valuable flower of the cut flower industry. The most critical step in its cultivation is to break dormancy in order to initiate the growth, especially in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world. Therefore, the current research was conducted to break bulb dormancy and foster the growth of tulip in Potohar region with the help of different primers. The objective of this study was the selection of best primer at appropriate concentration level to enhance growth, yield and vase life of the flower. Tulip bulbs were treated with different primers: T0 (distilled water), T1 (chitosan @ 5 g/L), T2 (gibberellic acid @ 0.15 g/L), T3 (humic acid 160 g/L), T4 (imidacloprid 19 g/L) and T5 (salicylic acid 0.1 g/L) for 24 hours, respectively. The experiment was laid out using Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications. Statistical results revealed that characteristics including early germination, plant height, number of leaves, stalk length, fresh and dry weight of flower, weight of bulbs, diameter of bulbs and number of daughter bulbs were significantly increased in T2. Whereas, leaf area, diameter of stem and flower was maximum in T0. Plants under T3 showed an increase in chlorophyll content of leaves. While floral characteristics like early formation and opening of flower bud, more number of flowers and vase life were improved in T1. Thus, statistical results showed that priming can effectively help to improve morpho-physiological attributes of tulip.Key wordTulip, primers, dormancy, chitosan, gibberellic acid, humic acid, imidacloprid, salicylic acid.INTRODUCTIONTulip (Tulips gesneriana L.) is the most popular and lucrative spring blooming bulbous plant of Liliacae family. It is famous for its distinctive flower shape; size and vibrant color range that make it stand out aesthetically among other ornamental flowers. There are about 150 to 160 species of tulip that can be grown in gardens. In addition to this, they are also used as cut flowers. In cut flower industry, it is ranked as 3rd most desirable flower after rose and chrysanthemum (Singh, 2006; Ahmad et al., 2014). This flower holds a significant importance on societal events like Valentine’s Day, Easter, New Year and Mother’s Day. Along with ornamental uses, its bulb can be used for cooking purposes in place of onions and petals can be used to treat rough skin. As a result of its immense beauty and multiple uses, it is day by day becoming more eminent and favorite among people globally (Buschman, 2004; Jhon and Neelofar, 2006). The demand for cut flowers in Pakistan is also gaining popularity. In Pakistan, where floriculture industry is still struggling to make its way towards development, the annual production of cut flowers is estimated to be 10,000 to 12,000 tons per annum (Younis et al., 2009). Main cut flower crops produced includes: rose, carnation, gerbera, statice, tuberose, narcissus, gladiolus, freesia and lilies (Ahsan et al., 2012). Despite of tulip’s high demand, it is not among the few cut flowers that are produced at commercial level in Pakistan. However, some of the wild species of tulip (Tulipa stellate) are found in the country, as they wildly grow in West and North West Himalayan region of the world. (Nasir et al., 1987). This perennial plant needs several weeks of low temperature (temperature < 50C) to break its dormancy for producing beautiful flowers, as a result, its cultivation is restricted to temperate areas (Koksal et al., 2011). It is widely grown in areas with 5-100C night and 17-200C day temperature throughout the growing season (Singh, 2006). Although, it has high demand worldwide but there are only 15 tulips producing countries in the world. Among few tulip producing countries, Netherlands tops the list due to her favorable climatic conditions. The total production area of tulips in Netherlands is 10,800 hectares that contributes 60% of the world’s total production. The reason behind its limited production in the world is the inability of tulip bulbs to break dormancy under unfavorable climatic conditions. Dormancy is a state in which flower bulbs do not show any physical growth due to physical and physiological barriers. Therefore, dormancy breaking is the utmost important step while growing tulips anywhere in the world (De Klerk et al., 1992). Thus, aforementioned restrictions and sensitivity of crop towards its growth requirements has also affected its production in Pakistan. Its cultivation is restricted to Murree, Abottabad and Swat only. Some other parts of the country, including the Potohar region have great potential to grow tulip by putting in a little effort to cope with the challenge of dormancy breaking due to relatively high temperature. The winter period in Potohar region is from November to March. Moreover, December, January and February are the coldest months with a mean annual temperature between 100C to 150C. As a result, the time of planting is very critical for dormancy breaking and fast growth in such areas, as late planting would cause an abortion of flowers due to a raised field temperature at the time of flowering. In order to grow tulips in areas with mild winters different techniques are adopted that includes: pre- chilling, seed priming and protected cultivation method to achieve early growth and high yield of flowers before the temperature rises. Out of all additional efforts, seed priming can be an effective method for growing tulips in open fields because it promotes early growth and good yield (Anjum et al., 2010; Benschop et al., 2010; Kumar et al., 2013; Ramzan et al., 2014; Sarfaraz et al., 2014; Khan, 2019). Seed priming is a method of soaking seeds in solution with high osmotic potential which provides optimum level of hydration and aggravates the germination process, but don’t show the radical emergence by prolonging the lag phase. Lag phase makes the seed metabolically active and helps to convert the stored food reserves into the available form to be used during germination (Taylor et al., 1998; Reid et al., 2011; Nawaz et al., 2013). Application of different chemicals as primmer including salts (chitosan), growth regulator (gibberellic acid), plant hormone (salicylic acid), organic compounds (humic acid) and insecticides (imidacloprid) can result in a reduced forcing period, enhanced growth, early flowering and high flower yield. Therefore, careful selection of variety and use of priming as dormancy breaking technique is the essential step of Tulip cultivation in the Potohar area (Horii et al., 2007; Shakarami et al., 2013; Nakasha et al., 2014; Baldotto et al., 2016).OBJECTIVES Keeping in view that tulip is an excellent cut flower and its demand is increasing globally, present study was designed to analyze and study the effects of best concentration of different primers on early growth (vegetative and reproductive), yield and vase life of tulip in the Potohar region of Northern Punjab, Pakistan. MATERIALS AND METHODSExperimental site and planting material: The experiment on Tulipa gesneriana L. was conducted at the experimental area, Department of Horticulture, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi with longitude 73.070 E and latitude 33.60 N, during the year 2017-2018. Tulipa gesneriana L. was established through bulbs. Tulip bulbs were purchased from reliable sources and were planted by the end of November in pots after priming treatment in open field conditions.Maintenance practice: Regular watering and fortnightly fertilizer application of NPK (Grow more (17:17:17) @ 10g/m2 was done to maintain plant health.Priming treatments: Tulip bulbs were treated with different primers including: T0 (distilled water), T1 (chitosan @ 5 g/L), T2 (gibberellic acid @ 0.15 g/L), T3 (humic acid 160 g/L), T4 (Imidacloprid 19 g/L) and T5 (salicylic acid 0.1 g/L) for 24 hours, respectively.Parameters: Both vegetative and reproductive parameters were analyzed to determine the efficacy of primers including days to sprouting of bulbs (days), plant height (cm), leaf area (cm2), number of leaves, diameter of flower stem (mm), days to flower bud formation (days), days to flower opening stage (days), diameter of flower (mm), number of flowers per plant, stalk length (cm), fresh weight of flower (g), dry weight of flower (g), diameter of bulbs (mm), weight of bulbs (g), number of daughter bulbs per plant and vase life (days).Statistical analysis: Experiment was laid out randomly using Complete Randomized Design (CRD).The collected data was analyzed through appropriate statistical package i.e. MSTAT-C. Statistical significance was compared with LSD test at 5% level of significance (Steel et al., 1997).RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONEffect of priming on vegetative growth attributes: Results were exhibiting significant difference among vegetative growth attributes of the treated plants (table 1). The 0.15 g/L of gibberellic acid treated plants showed early sprouting (25 days) and maximum increase in plant height (33cm), number of leaves (6), stalk length (29.05cm) and diameter of flower stem (9.66mm), followed by 5 g/L of chitosan, 160g/L of humic acid and 19 g/L of Imidacloprid, respectively. Minimum plant height (15.6cm), number of leaves (4), stalk length (12.33cm) diameter of flower stem (6.04mm) and delayed bulb sprouting (31 days) was observed in 0.1 g/L of salicylic acid. Improvement in vegetative characteristics shown by T2 plants revealed that gibberellic acid helped in dormancy breaking, cell division and elongation in actively growing plant parts (Kumar et al., 2013). As further result confirmed that the maximum leaf area (39.07cm2) was observed in control plants and treated plants didn’t show significant increase in leaf area, because of the use of energy in increasing plant height and number of leaves. Previous studies also showed that plants with more number of leaves had a less leaf area and color of the leaves was also lighter (Khangoli, 2001; Janowska and Jerzy, 2004). Moreover, the maximum amount of chlorophyll content (62) was observed in 160 g/L of humic acid followed by 5 g/L of chitosan, 0.15 g/L of gibberellic acid and 19 g/L of Imidacloprid, respectively. Whereas, minimum amount of chlorophyll content was observed in 0.1 g/L of salicylic acid (58). Tulip bulbs treated with Humic acid effectively increased photosynthetic activity of the plant which in result increased the chlorophyll content of the leaves and produced more plant food. Leaf area of the humic acid treated plants was also increased as compared to other treatments that also caused an increase in the chlorophyll content of the leaves (Chanprasert et al., 2012; Salachna and Zawadzińska, 2014). Furthermore, bulb characteristics were also improved under the influence of priming. Maximum diameter (41mm) and weight of bulbs (26g) was observed in 0.15g/L of Gibberellic acid followed by 0.1g/L of salicylic acid, 5 g/L of chitosan, 19 g/L of Imidacloprid and 160 g/L of humic acid respectively. Whereas, minimum diameter (36mm) and weight (21g) of bulbs was observed in control treatment which proved the efficacy of primers in enhancing characteristics of tulip bulbs. Bulb diameter and weight was increased because of the presence of good amount of food in the bulb which helped in its growth (Arteca, 2013). Furthermore the number of daughter bulbs were maximum in 0.15 g/L of gibberellic acid (4.22) and 5 g/L of Chitosan (4.22) followed by 0.1 g/L of salicylic acid and 160 g/L of Humic acid respectively. Minimum number of bulb-lets was observed in 19 g/l of Imidacloprid (3.11). Increased rate of cell division and multiplication, plus availability of good nutrition in bulbs helped to increase the number of daughter bulbs in the treated plants (Shakarami et al., 2013). Thus, results confirmed that 0.15 g/L of gibberellic acid effectively improved both plant (figure 1) and bulb (figure 2) characteristics. Effect of priming on reproductive growth attributes: Results showed significant differences in plants for reproductive growth attributes in response to priming (table 2). Minimum days of bud formation (122 days) and flower opening stage (124 days) were showed by 5 g/L of chitosan followed by 0.15 g/L of gibberellic acid, 160g/L of humic acid and 19 g/L of Imidacloprid, respectively. Whereas, 0.15 g/L of salicylic acid took maximum days in the formation (127 days) and opening (129 days) of flower buds. Chitosan helps plant in maintaining its vegetative and reproductive growth under stress conditions like drought and high temperature. As a result, the plant maintains its growth under stress conditions and give early flowers, because its reproductive growth attributes remain unaffected under any abiotic stress, as previously studied in orchid as well (Saniewska, 2001; Uthairatanakij et al., 2007). Moreover, the number of flowers per plant were maximum in 5 g/L of Chitosan (3.33) and 0.15 g/L of gibberellic acid (3.33), followed by 160 g/L of humic acid. Whereas, 19 g/L of Imidacloprid (2.33) and 0.1 g/L of Salicylic acid (1.44) gave minimum flower yield. Along with enhancing the defense mechanism, chitosan also helped in increasing flower number in Freesia and other flowers, previously (Salachna and Zawadzińska, 2014). Furthermore, maximum fresh weight (33g) and dry weight of flower (2g) were observed in 0.15 g/L, of gibberellic acid followed by 5 g/L of chitosan, 160 g/L of humic acid and 19 g/L of imidacloprid, respectively. Minimum fresh weight of flower (12 g) and dry weight of flower (0.98 g) was observed in 0.1 g/L of salicylic acid. Gibberellic acid effectively increases plant height and diameter of stem that caused an increase in fresh and dry weight of flower due to presence of more plant nutrients and maintenance of turgidity. Diameter of the flower was maximum (40mm) in control plants, this showed priming of tulip bulbs didn’t have any effect on increasing flower size due to increase in flower number (Rashad et al., 2009; Hashemabadi, 2010). Thus, the aforementioned results confirmed that 5 g/L chitosan was most effective in improving floral attributes (figure 3) of tulip.Effect of priming on vase life: According to results (table 3), 5 g/L of Chitosan and 0.1 g/L of salicylic acid showed maximum vase life (8 days) followed by 19 g/L of imidacloprid, 0.15 g/L of gibberellic acid and 160 g/L of humic acid, respectively. Flowers under control treatment showed minimum vase life (6) as compared to treated plants. Chitosan improved the quality of flower by maintaining its size, color and freshness, but most importantly, it provided protection against many pathogenic fungi that can attack tulip and cause senescence of the flower. As a result of fungal protection and resistance against abiotic stresses, Tulip flower showed increased post-harvest quality and vase life (Saniewska, 2001). In Lilium flower it helped to decrease the production of ethylene and respiration rate and helped in increasing its vase life (Kim et al., 2004).CONCLUSIONPresent research proved that treatment of tulip bulbs with different primers at their best selected concentration levels was an effective method of enhancing early growth and yield in an area with relatively high temperature as compared to temperate region. The Tulip plants showed improvement in sprouting, plant height, number of leaves, chlorophyll content of leaf, leaf area, early flowering, flower size, number of flowers, stalk length, stem diameter, bulbs weight and diameter, number of bulb-lets and vase life. Thus, this method can be used in future for the production of Tulips under tropical and sub-tropical areas.CONFLICT OF INTERESTAuthors have no conflict of interest.REFERENCESAhmad, A., H. Rashid, R. Sajjad, S. Mubeen, B. Ajmal and M. Khan, 2014. 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The Himalayan Main Frontal Thrust (MFT) currently accommodates approximately half, i.e., 12−23 mm/yr, of the convergence between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates by uplift and deformation of the Sub-Himalayas. While deformation is well documented at modern and million-year time scales, almost no quantitative data are available that constrain Quaternary time scale deformation rates along and within this key tectonic unit. Filling this knowledge gap is crucial to better understanding tectonics and the seismic cycle in this densely populated Himalayan region. We quantify exhumation rates in the Sub-Himalayas using the recently established luminescence thermochronometry technique over time scales of 105 yr, which documents exhumation over the final few kilometers of Earth’s crust. The ultra-low closure temperature of luminescence thermochronometry enables us to resolve thermal histories from the Siwalik Group (Nepal) rocks, which have experienced maximum burial temperatures of ∼120 °C. An extensive set of 33 samples was collected from western Nepal to eastern Bhutan, from which 22 yield exhumation rates of ∼3−11 mm/yr over the past ∼200 k.y. We converted these values to minimum cumulative thrust slip rates of ∼6−22 mm/yr, assuming a thrust dip angle of 30°. Our luminescence thermochronometry results show that the Sub-Himalayan fold-and-thrust belt, particularly the MFT, accommodates at least 62% of Himalayan convergence since at least 200 ka. Our data also show activity of some intra-Siwalik thrusts throughout this period, implying that internal deformation of the orogenic wedge and strain partitioning may have occurred.

A balanced cross-section has been constructed across the eastern Nepal Siwalik Hills along the Bagmati River in order to determine the structural geometry of the Himalayan foreland fold- thrust belt and to estimate tectonic shortening. The Siwalik Hills are underlain by a basal detachment, the Main Detachment Fault, at a depth of about 6.9km to 8km. The Main Boundary Thrust, the Chaura- Marin Thrust and the Main Frontal Thrust are splay thrusts off the Main Detachment Fault which ramp directly up-section to the surface through 6.8 to 7.7km of Siwalik Sediments with no major intervening thrust flats; the Sub-Himalayan foreland fold thrust belt displays an emergent imbricate- fan geometry. Shortening across the Bagmati section of the Siwalik Hills has been 20km, or 40%, while thrusting along the Main Boundary Thrust has resulted in a minimum of another 25km of shortening.

Abstract Background Flea-borne rickettsioses have been limitedly explored in the Indian sub-Himalayan belt, including the North Eastern Region (NER) of India. This study investigates the presence of rickettsiae hosts and their probable pathogens in the disease-endemic hilly state of the NER of India. Methods Entomological surveys were carried out in disease-reporting localities in a hilly state in India. Fleas collected from domesticated animals were processed for detection of a Rickettsia-specific 17-kDa gene. Results Sequence analysis revealed Rickettsia felis in six flea pools (40%), Candidatus Rickettsia senegalensis in two pools (13.3%) and Rickettsia asembonensis in one pool (6.6%). Conclusions Our findings suggest Ctenocephalides felis, Ctenocephalides canis and Pulex irritans as potential carriers of R. felis and R. felis–like organisms in India.

Abstract Recent studies emphasize that in addition to climate-driven forces, sediment grain size and depositional setting with respect to mountain front significantly influenced the abundance of late Neogene C 3 -C 4 plants in the Himalayan Foreland Basin (HFB). The contrasting depositional settings of the Siwalik Group exposed across the western, central and eastern HFB therefore provide an ideal opportunity to understand the influence of sedimentary architecture on the distribution of C 3 -C 4 plants in paleolandscapes. Towards this end, we generate new δ 13 C soil carbonate data from Siwaliks of the Katilukhad region (12 Ma to 6 Ma) of Kangra sub-basin and synthesize these data with compiled sedimentological data and δ 13 C values of organic matter, soil carbonate and n -alkane data from western to eastern HFB Siwalik Group. Our comparison suggests that the rate and magnitude of positive shift in the 13 C/ 12 C ratios were higher in the floodplain-dominated Siwaliks. Despite an existing conducive climate in the late Neogene for the growth of C 4 plants, the channel-fill-dominated Siwaliks favored C 3 over C 4 plants in the eastern HFB. Supplementary material at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.7168691

AbstractThe Early Miocene witnessed major tectonic, palaeoceanographic and climatological reorganizations over the Asian realm. The Himalayan and Tibetan plateau upliftment influenced monsoon intensity during this age. Contemporary high‐resolution tropical hydroclimate records are limited. Here, we present an early Miocene sub‐annual stable isotope record from the growth bands of well‐preserved Turritella sp. from the Kachchh basin, Western India. It showed δ13C and δ18O variabilities from −4.83‰ to −1.80‰ and − 7.06‰ to −2.66‰ (in VPDB) respectively. Conventional oxygen isotope thermometry showed an apparent temperature seasonality from 9.3° to 28.1°C. A comparison of the present early Miocene δ18O record with the modern δ18O records in the carbonates from coastal‐estuarine environments of the Indian Ocean confirmed a high freshwater influx into the NE Arabian Sea during the early Miocene, similar to the modern‐day freshwater plume events observed in the coastal region.

Summary In this study, the focal mechanism solutions and source parameters of recent earthquakes that occurred in the northeastern region of India have been determined. The region has very complex tectonics as it is subjected to the compressional forces from all sides, due to the collision of the Indian Plate with the Eurasian, Burma, and Tibetan plates. Waveform data from deployed broadband seismographs (BBS) and strong motion accelerographs (SMA) in the northeastern India are used to determine the focal mechanism solutions and source parameters of moderate earthquakes respectively. The estimated focal mechanisms are used to understand the existing stress field in the region. It is found that the Shillong-Plateau as well as the Indo-Burma subduction zone is dominated by the compressional tectonic regime, Mikir-Hills and Bengal basin are dominated by the trans-tension tectonic regime, and the easternmost Himalayan region is dominated by the strike-slip tectonic regime. The maximum horizontal stress direction Shmax is also determined for above sub-regions. The direction of Shmax is southeast in the Bengal basin, northeast in Mikir-Hills, and Indo-Burma subduction zone whereas it is NNE in Shillong Plateau and SSW in the eastern Himalayas. The estimated stress drop value of the earthquakes in the region ranges from 2.11 to 23.89 MPa. The relationship between the source parameters and focal mechanisms is also explored. It is found that the earthquakes with a strike-slip mechanism have the highest average stress drop (7.05 MPa) followed by reverse (6.82 MPa) and normal (5.12 MPa) in the northeastern region of India. According to the examined data set, the stress drop is found to be dependent on the type of focal mechanism, seismic moment, and hypocentral depths. The comparison of the results with the Kachchh intraplate region in western India shows earthquakes in Kachchh have larger mean stress drop for all types of mechanisms. In both intraplate and interplate regions of India, the stress drop of earthquakes depends on the type of focal mechanism solution.

Mountainous watersheds are constantly under pressure of huge amount of soil loss due to soil erosion. Pare watershed is situated in the eastern Himalayan ranges of Arunachal Pradesh, India, which is subjected to such soil losses and its sub-watersheds are being degraded in many places. Watershed management programs are required in the area in which prioritization of sub-watersheds is one of the first steps. A study has been carried out to address this issue in the area to prioritize 26 sub-watersheds of Pare through morphometric analysis. The study used digital elevation model (DEM) to determine several morphometric parameters of the watershed. The analysis revealed that Pare river is of the 7th order comprising of 6127 stream segments running over the watersheds for about 2448 km. Based on the results obtained, the study area is an elongated well dissected watersheds with high relief and great presence of streams all over the watershed indicating faster runoff peak attainment which is synonymous to rapid transportation of sediment load. The analysis also revealed that SW25 required the top priority in dealing with soil, land and water management measures while least priority could be given to SW7 among all the sub-watersheds in the Pare basin. We suggest various stakeholders who are involved in watershed development programs in the region to take cues from the results obtained in this paper. The results of this study are quite satisfactory in understanding the various morphological aspects of the watershed. Nonetheless, efforts to improve the results can always be made through incorporation of land-use and soil information to enhance the prioritization process so that purpose utilization of the watershed may be reflected in the results.

Abstract The Ladakh Himalayan ophiolites preserve remnants of the eastern part of the Neo-Tethyan Ocean, in the form of Dras, Suru Valley, Shergol, Spongtang and Nidar ophiolitic sequences. In Kohistan region of Pakistan, Muslim Bagh, Zhob and Bela ophiolites are considered to be equivalents of Ladakh ophiolites. In western Ladakh, the Suru–Thasgam ophiolitic slice is highly dismembered and consists of peridotites, pyroxenites and gabbros, emplaced as imbricate blocks thrust over the Mesozoic Dras arc complex along the Indus Suture Zone. The Thasgam peridotites are partially serpentinized with relict olivine, orthopyroxene and minor clinopyroxene, as well as serpentine and iron oxide as secondary mineral assemblage. The pyroxenites are dominated by clinopyroxene followed by orthopyroxene with subordinate olivine and spinel. Gabbros are composed of plagioclase and pyroxene (mostly replaced by amphiboles), describing an ophitic to sub-ophitic textural relationship. Geochemically, the studied rock types show sub-alkaline tholeiitic characteristics. The peridotites display nearly flat chondrite-normalized rare earth element (REE) patterns ((La/Yb)N = 0.6–1.5), while fractionated patterns were observed for pyroxenites and gabbros. Multi-element spidergrams for peridotites, pyroxenites and gabbros display subduction-related geochemical characteristics such as enriched large-ion lithophile element (LILE) and depleted high-field-strength element (HFSE) concentrations. In peridotites and pyroxenites, highly magnesian olivine (Fo88.5-89.3 and Fo87.8-89.9, respectively) and clinopyroxene (Mg no. of 93–98 and 90–97, respectively) indicate supra-subduction zone (SSZ) tectonic affinity. Our study suggests that the peridotites epitomize the refractory nature of their protoliths and were later evolved in a subduction environment. Pyroxenites and gabbros appear to be related to the base of the modern intra-oceanic island-arc tholeiitic sequence.

Societal Impact StatementPreserving and conserving crop landraces, tended by indigenous farming communities, is crucial for future food security. This research focused on rice landrace diversity in the north‐eastern Himalayan region of Nagaland, India, where Naga communities cultivate rice according to their dietary and cultural preferences. Rice diversity is closely linked to the region's ethnolinguistic and ecological variety. On‐farm conservation, in collaboration with indigenous communities, is imperative to protect these germplasm resources. Involving these communities actively in conservation efforts will safeguard their traditional knowledge, endorse sustainable farming practices, and enhance the resilience of local agricultural systems.Summary Understanding the genetic diversity and cultural significance of crop landraces is crucial for their conservation and sustainable utilization. This study focused on rice landraces from Nagaland in north‐eastern India to assess their genetic diversity and explore their associations with ethnolinguistic groups. We collected 78 rice landraces from Nagaland and a small part of Manipur and conducted microsatellite genotyping for genetic analysis. We integrated social anthropology and population genetics analyses of rice landraces to glean insights into the genetic diversity, population structure, and ethnolinguistic history of rice cultivation in Nagaland. The study revealed the rich cultural significance of rice landraces among the Nagas. Farmers practiced small‐scale subsistence farming, maintaining diverse rice landraces. Naming conventions were based on factors such as seed source, color, grain type, and ecological suitability. Rice landraces played important roles in ethnic cultures, festivals, and religious ceremonies. Genetic analysis identified significant diversity, with 277 alleles across 69 loci and a moderate gene diversity of 0.57. Two distinct sub‐populations were identified, with one dominated by Chakhesang and Angami Nagas and the other by Sümi and Lotha accessions. Differentiation was observed between lowland and upland cultivars, with one sub‐population comprising exclusively lowland varieties. Cultural factors and cultivation practices influenced population differentiation, with ethnicity and ecotype having a significant impact. The study also highlighted the correlation between ethnolinguistic differentiation and the indica–japonica structuring of rice landraces. Different ethnic groups in Nagaland had distinct cultivation practices, contributing to genetic differentiation. Overall, this research emphasizes the need to preserve rice landraces and associated traditional knowledge for future improvements and cultural heritage conservation. It provides insights into genetic diversity, cultural significance, and the relationship between genetic diversity, cultural practices, and agricultural traditions.

Agroforestry systems (AFSs) have potential to combat climate change and to ensure food security. AFSs can sequester carbon and amend the organic matter, thereby enhancing the crop productivity. Carbon sequestration depends on the type of AFSs, climate, cropping pattern, and management practices. The aim of this study was to evaluate different AFSs for their potential to sequester carbon and impact on soil organic matter (SOM) in the eastern sub-Himalayas, India. Hedge-, alder-, and guava-based AFSs were established along with control (without any tree), and the maize–mustard–potato cropping pattern was followed in each AFS. Soil samples were collected after the fifth crop cycle and further analyzed. The results showed that crop productivity was significantly higher in all the AFSs than control. On average, soil organic carbon (SOC) was found to be significantly higher by 62 and 64% in hedge-based AFSs as compared to guava-based AFSs and control, respectively, and at par with alder-based AFSs. Particulate organic carbon (POC) was higher in all the three AFSs than in the control. For microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN) contents, the trend of AFSs was expressed as alder-based AFS &gt; hedge-based AFS &gt; guava-based AFS &gt; control. Hedge- and alder-based AFSs had higher SOC stocks than guava-based AFSs and control. Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2 eq.) emissions were greater in control than hedge-based AFSs (35.2 Mg ha−1), followed by alder-based AFSs (28.6 Mg ha−1), and the lowest was observed in guava-based AFSs. On an average, hedge species accumulated more nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), which were 60, 12, and 28 kg ha−1 yr−1, respectively. This conclusively proved that AFSs were significantly affecting SOM pools and crop productivity and had a significant role in carbon retention in the soil. Overall, hedge- and alder-based AFSs retained higher soil carbon, and hence, hedge- and alder-based AFSs may be promoted to achieve climate-smart agriculture practices in the acid soils of the Indian sub-Himalayan region.

The continental collision process has made a large contribution to continental growth and reconfiguration of cratons throughout Earth history. Many of the mountain belts present today are the product of continental collision such as the Appalachians, the Alps, the Cordillera, the Himalaya, the Zagros, and the Papuan Fold and Thrust Belt. Though collisional mountain belts are generally elongate and laterally continuous, close inspection reveals disruptions and variations in thrust geometry and kinematics along the strike of the range. These lateral variations typically coincide with cross structures and have been documented in thrust fault systems with a variety of geometries and kinematic interpretations. In the Himalaya, cross faults provide segment boundaries that, in some cases separate zones of differing thrust geometry and may even localize microseismicity or limit areas of active seismicity on adjacent thrust systems. By compiling data on structural segmentation along the length of the Himalayan range, we find lateral variations at all levels within the Himalaya. Along the Gish fault of the eastern Indian Himalaya, there is evidence in the foreland for changes in thrust-belt geometry across the fault. The Gish, the Ganga, and the Yamuna faults all mark boundaries of salients and recesses at the mountain front. The Benkar fault in the Greater Himalayan sequence of eastern Nepal exhibits a brittle-ductile style of deformation with fabric that crosscuts the older thrust-sense foliation. Microseismicity data from several regions in Nepal shows linear, northeast-striking clusters of epicenters sub-parallel to cross faults. The map pattern of aftershock data from the 2015 Nepal earthquakes has an abrupt northeast-trending termination on its eastern side suggesting the presence of a structure of that orientation that limited slip. The orientations of the recognized cross faults and seismic patterns also align with the extensional zones to the north on the Tibetan Plateau and the Indian basement structures to the south. Results from multiple studies are consistent with a link between cross faults and either of these structural trends to the north or south and suggest that cross faults may play a role in segmenting deformation style and seismic activity along the length of the Himalaya.

Kinema is a popular sticky fermented soybean food of the Eastern Himalayan regions of North East India, east Nepal, and south Bhutan. We hypothesized that some dominant bacteria in kinema may contribute to the formation of targeted and non-targeted metabolites for health benefits; hence, we studied the microbiome–metabolite mining of kinema. A total of 1,394,094,912 bp with an average of 464,698,304 ± 120,720,392 bp was generated from kinema metagenome, which resulted in the identification of 47 phyla, 331 families, 709 genera, and 1,560 species. Bacteria (97.78%) were the most abundant domain with the remaining domains of viruses, eukaryote, and archaea. Firmicutes (93.36%) was the most abundant phylum with 280 species of Bacillus, among which Bacillus subtilis was the most dominant species in kinema followed by B. glycinifermentans, B. cereus, B. licheniformis, B. thermoamylovorans, B. coagulans, B. circulans, B. paralicheniformis, and Brevibacillus borstelensis. Predictive metabolic pathways revealed the abundance of genes associated with metabolism (60.66%), resulting in 216 sub-pathways. A total of 361 metabolites were identified by metabolomic analysis (liquid chromatography-mass spectrophotometry, LC-MS). The presence of metabolites, such as chrysin, swainsonine, and 3-hydroxy-L-kynurenine (anticancer activity) and benzimidazole (antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-HIV activities), and compounds with immunomodulatory effects in kinema supports its therapeutic potential. The correlation between the abundant species of Bacillus and primary and secondary metabolites was constructed with a bivariate result. This study proves that Bacillus spp. contribute to the formation of many targeted and untargeted metabolites in kinema for health-promoting benefits.