central tasar research and training … · thanked dr. mohd aslam, advisor, dbt for organizing the...

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CENTRAL TASAR RESEARCH AND TRAINING INSTITUTE

RANCHI – 335 303, JHARKHAND

MINUTES OF THE 41st MEETING OF

RESEARCH ADVISORY COMMITTEE (RAC) OF CTR&TI

HELD ON 9th & 10th JUNE 2016 AT CTR&TI, RANCHI

The forty first meeting of Research Advisory Committee (RAC) of CTR&TI, Ranchi

was held on 9th & 10th June 2016 under the Chairmanship of Prof. C.R. Babu. At the

outset, Dr. Ajit Kumar Sinha, Director, CTR&TI welcomed the Chairman and all the

Members of RAC, invitees, delegates and Scientists present in the meeting. The Director

highlighted the importance and outcomes of the National Seminar on Tasar Silkworm

Ecorace Conservation and DBT-CSB Brainstorming Session on Biotechnological

Applications in Tasar Culture held at CTR&TI, Ranchi on 7th & 8th June 2016,

respectively. He informed the house that the Experts expressed concern about the

extinction of tasar silkworm ecoraces, and that a concept note on the multi-disciplinary,

multi-institutional mega-project to address various issues of tasar culture including

ecorace conservation with holistic approach was formulated. He then requested the

Chairman to express his views.

The Chairman welcomed all RAC Members, State invitees and Scientists for the

41st RAC meeting and urged all the participants to give their valuable inputs so that

sound practical solutions for problems facing tasar sericulture can be evolved. He also

thanked Dr. Mohd Aslam, Advisor, DBT for organizing the Brainstorming session and

commended his professional ethics and affection for tasar industry. He read out the draft

of the decisions taken in the National Seminar organized by CTR&TI, Ranchi and

Brainstorming Session organized jointly by DBT and CSB, and explained the framework

for the formulation of mega-project on tasar culture for consideration of DBT. He urged

the RAC members and invitees present to express their views on recommendations/

decisions taken during two events organized at the Institute. Dr. P.K. Mishra, Director

(Tech.) observed that it is a realistic framework for the mega-project with very good

networking and sub-projects covering almost all the issues of tasar sector. He then

requested Dr. Aslam to give his opinion about the outcome of the Brainstorming Session.

Dr. Aslam appreciated the efforts and initiatives taken by the Institute and highlighted

the concept of Networking Mega-project proposed to be formulated. He stressed that the

suggested titles and components of the project/sub-projects are provisional. He

expressed that the DBT provides funding not only for molecular biology and genomic

works but also for other biotechnological studies. The pebrine disease and cocoonase

enzyme have to be thoroughly characterized, besides other critical issues to be identified

and included in the mega-project. The Institute should also identify collaborative

institutions for the mega-project and Institutes like IISER & NCL Pune, IIT Delhi, CDFD

Hyderabad, UAS Bengaluru, etc should be brought into the proposed network. The

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Institute should also have the partnership with best institutions for production of sericin

and value added products from wastes of tasar sericulture. The elements of collaboration

and budget components of each sub-project should be well-defined collaborator-wise so

that it will ensure synergy among them. After thorough discussion with the collaborators,

the Institute should prepare a draft of the mega project and other projects in R&D Project

format of DBT and submit to DBT for further action.

(ACTION: All the Sectional/Unit Incharges & Scientists)

The Chairman then requested Dr. V.P. Gupta, Scientist-D to take up the items for

consideration of RAC, as per the Agenda:

Agenda No. 1: Confirmation of minutes of 40th RAC meeting held on 20th – 21st

November 2015

The minutes of the 40th RAC meeting were confirmed, as no comments or

objections were received from any members and invitees.

Agenda No. 2: Discussion on follow-up action taken on the decisions made in the

40th RAC meeting

The follow-up action taken on the decisions of last RAC with respect to projects,

pilot studies and other programmes was discussed. The Committee took note of the

actions taken.

Agenda No. 3: Review of the Concluded Research Projects

PIs presented their findings in the concluded projects.

1. [AIT-4702] Molecular cloning and heterologous expression of Antheraea mylitta cocoonase. (June 2013 to December 2015) – DBT funded [PI: Dr. J.P. Pandey, Scientist-C]

Dr. J.P. Pandey presented the final report of the project and informed the house

that based on the outcome of this project, another project, as Phase II, has been submitted

to DBT for consideration of financial approval and it was also presented during

Brainstorming session held on 08.06.2016 at CTR&TI, Ranchi. Dr. Mohd Aslam opined

that important ecoraces, which feed on different host plants, should be evaluated for

diversity in cocoonase and even mixture of the cocoonase of different ecoraces should be

evaluated for its activity. The Phase-II proposal should be revised on the lines of

suggestions given in the Brainstorming session and resubmit to DBT for consideration.

The Chairman suggested that the PI should incorporate the suggestions made by the

members and advised him to submit the revised proposal for funding to DBT.

(ACTION: Dr. J.P. Pandey, Scientist-C & PI)

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2. [PPA-4704] Development of package for cultivation of Lagerstroemia speciosa for

rearing of Tasar silkworm Antheraea mylitta D. (April 2014 to March 2016) [PI: Dr. Gargi, Scientist-D]

Dr. Gargi presented the final report of the project and proposed that the Phase II of the project should focus on grainage behaviour and comparative chemical analysis of all the three host plants. However, Dr. P.K. Mishra, Director (Tech.) suggested to incorporate the multilocational trials of the developed technology during the proposed Phase-II and asked the PI to submit the Phase-II project for a period of two-years. Dr. R.K. Mishra, Director, BTSSO pointed out that some recommendation should be given for field application of the technology based on the data generated out of Phase-I. The Director mentioned that one booklet/pamphlet be prepared on the recommended technology for distribution among farmers. The Chairman suggested to study the incidence of pest and diseases in silkworm reared on Lagerstroemia speciosa. The RAC approved the Phase-II proposal with the suggestions given by the members and recommended to CSB for approval. Meanwhile, the PI should prepare the booklet/ pamphlet on the developed package. (ACTION: Dr. Gargi, Scientist-D & PI)

Agenda No. 4: Review of the progress of Ongoing Research Projects.

The PIs presented the progress made in the projects during the period under

review.

1. [PIB-4697] Development of superior hybrids of Terminalia arjuna and T. tomentosa for higher leaf yield and quality. (May 2012 to Sept. 2018) [PI: Dr. Gargi, Scientist-D]

Dr. Gargi presented the progress of the project. The Chairman observed that since parents are highly heterozygous, the hybrids are also highly heterozygous. To study the heterosis, the saplings of hybrids should be compared with saplings of parents of the same age group. The Committee suggested that molecular markers may be used to identify hybrids and Dr. B. Surendra Nath (Scientist-D) may take up these studies as Co-I, with additional funds for chemicals used in DNA fingerprinting.

(ACTION: Dr. Gargi, Scientist-D & PI)

2. [PIC-4705] Development of in situ soil health and nutrient management in tasar growing areas. (April 2014 to March 2017) [PI: Mr. Shantakar Giri, Scientist-D]

Mr. S. Giri presented the progress made in the project. The Chairman pointed out that a technology package should be made available after completion of the project.

(ACTION: Mr. S. Giri, Scientist-D & PI)

3. [AIP-4711] Screening and vegetative multiplication of fast growing draught tolerant Terminalia arjuna accessions for raising block plantation (March 2016 – February 2018) [PI: Dr. M. Deka, Scientist- C]

Dr. M. Deka presented the progress of the project. It was pointed out that title of

the project should be “Screening of fast growing drought tolerant accessions Terminalia

arjuna for raising block plantation” and duration of the project is for a period of two years

as per the approved project. (ACTION: Dr. M. Deka, Scientist-C & PI)

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4. [ARP-4714] Identification of early sprouting and fast growing genotypes of Quercus serrata for raising block plantation in north-west India (March 2016 – February 2020) [PI: Mr. M.C. Joshi, Scientist-D]

Mr. M.C. Joshi presented the progress of the project. The Committee suggested

that the PI should undertake survey of the Oak forests for selection of early sprouters of

Q. serrata. (ACTION: Dr. M.C. Joshi, Scientist-D & PI)

5. [AIB-4706] Conservation of Andhra local ecorace Antheraea mylitta Drury through natural regeneration methods in Andhra Pradesh. (April 2014 to March 2019) [PI: Mr. K.V.S. Rao, Scientist-C]

Dr. K.V.S. Rao presented the progress made under the project. The Committee

suggested the PI should also focus on the mortality rate at various stages in different

silkworm release methods and also the prevailing biotic and abiotic conditions of the

silkworm releasing sites during the silkworm release. Appropriate sites which are easy to

access should be selected for the release. (ACTION: Dr. K.V.S. Rao, Scientist-C & PI)

6. [AIB-4707] Bioecology of Raily - An endemic Sal based ecorace of Antheraea mylitta Drury in Bastar (Chhattisgarh). (April 2014 to March 2017) [PI: Dr. G.P. Mahobia, Scientist-D, RTRS, Jagdalpur]

Dr. G.P. Mahobia presented the progress of the project. He informed that high

percent of coupling was observed in dense forests whereas in open forest, coupling was

markedly lower. The Chairman suggested to find out the ways and means to increase

the coupling. The correlation study between ecorace characters and abiotic factors of

best eco-pockets should be conducted or that such conditions can be created in new eco-

pockets for releasing the moths. Similar niche conditions should also be created in block

plantations of host plants for moth release.

(ACTION: Dr. G.P. Mahobia, Scientist-D & PI)

7. [AIB-4708] Survey, collection, characterization and conservation of wild ecoraces Laria and Barf of tasar silkworm, Antheraea mylitta D available in different parts of Chhattisgarh. (April 2014 to March 2017) [PI: Dr. G.P. Mahobia, Sci-D, RTRS, Jagdalpur]

Dr. G.P. Mahobia presented the progress made under the project. He informed

the house that during last two years there was no collection of natural grown cocoons.

The Chairman suggested to find out the information from the tribals and the local

people about sites from which cocoons are collected and visit such sites to study the

niche conditions and the population dynamics, and then release the cocoons in such

niches and study the population dynamics. The PI along with technical staff should

conduct a social survey of tribal people and villagers and this information can also be

utilized for formulating the proposed mega-project. On the request for extension of the

project period, Dr. P.K. Mishra, Director (Tech.) suggested that this study can also form

a part of mega-project or alternatively a three-year project can be submitted to CSB, in

case of delay in mega-project. (ACTION: Dr. G.P. Mahobia, Scientist-D & PI)

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8. [AIB-4709] Assessment of conservation status of tasar ecoraces in Odisha and their characterization including genetic diversity for delineation of conservation areas. (November 2015 – October 2018) [PI: Dr. P.K. Kar, Scientist-D]

Dr. P.K. Kar presented the progress and informed the Committee that he took

the help of the local people and villagers in searching the cocoons and in regulating

collection of cocoons from the forest. The Chairman appreciated the idea and opined

that the local people can be trained for the conservation of ecoraces. The Committee

advised the PI for arrangement to provide some kind of incentives to the villagers for

conserving natural ecoraces. In this context, the Chairman urged the DOS Odisha to

come forward to conserve the silkworm ecoraces and also advised the PI to raise this

issue in DOS meeting. (ACTION: Dr. P.K. Kar, Scientist-D & PI)

9. [ARP-4713] Isolation of thermo-tolerant line(s) of tasar silkworm, Antheraea mylitta D. through molecular studies (March 2016 – February 2018) [PI: Dr. G. Lokesh, Scientist-C]

Dr. G. Lokesh presented the progress and informed the Committee that cocoons

were subjected to heat stress by incubating them at 45 - 50C in environmental chamber

for four hours (sub-lethal level). The Committee advised him to select the temperature

range similar to that found in field where cocoons are exposed to summer

temperatures. The Committee suggested to consult Dr. K.P. Arun Kumar of CDFD,

Hyderabad for fine-tuning the experimental design.

(ACTION: Dr. A.H. Naqvi, Scientist-D, Silkworm B&G)

10. [ARP-4712] Development of chemical based technology for easy detection of Nosema mylittansis, the causative pathogen of pebrine in tasar silkworm, Antheraea mylitta D. using light microscopy (March 2016 – October 2017) [PI: Dr. K.P. Kiran Kumar, Scientist-C]

The progress made in the project was noted by the Committee.

11. [ARE-4710] Studies on the seasonal incidence, biology and management of yellow fly, Xanthopimpla sp. in tasar cultivation. (March 2016 – February 2019) [PI: Ms. Sunita Mukherjee, Scientist-C] - Collaborative with NCL, Pune

Ms Sunita Mukherjee presented the progress made in the project. The Committee

advised her to study the most crucial stages of silkworm attacked by yellow fly and

supply those stages of silkworm to NCL, Pune for study.

(ACTION: Ms. Sunita Mukherjee, Scientist-C & PI)

12. [AIE-3555] Cryopreservation of tasar silkworm, Antheraea mylitta semen and its artificial insemination. (February 2016 – January 2019) [PI: Dr. J.P. Pandey, Scientist-C] - Collaborative with CSGRC, Hosur)

Dr. J.P. Pandey presented the progress made in the project. The Chairman

observed that this aspect should also be covered under the proposed mega-project.

(ACTION: Dr. J.P. Pandey, Scientist-C & PI)

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13. [CYF-7077] Grading of tasar raw silk yarn - Development of method and procedures (February 2016 – January 2019) [PI: Mr. N.S. Gahlot, Scientist-C] - Collaborative with CSTRI, Bengaluru

Mr. N.S. Gahlot presented the progress made in the project and the Committee

took note of it.

Agenda No. 5: Review of the Concluded & On-going Pilot Studies / Programme

of Work

CONCLUDED PROGRAMME OF WORK / PILOT STUDY

The findings of two concluded Pilot Studies, as detailed below, were reported to

the RAC.

1. [CTR&TI/PCT/POW-18] Demonstration of technology for softening and cooking

of tasar cocoons for better quality yarn (April 2014 – March 2016) [PI: Mr. N.S. Gahlot, Scientist-C]

Mr. N.S. Gahlot presented the progress. The Committee expressed that the Pilot

Study undertaken has application value and suggested to work-out the economics and

prepare a pamphlet on the technology developed for its popularization and

dissemination. (ACTION: Mr. Z.M.S. Khan, Scientist-D, PCT)

ONGOING PROGRAMME OF WORK / PILOT STUDY

The concerned PIS appraised the progress made under the following Pilot Studies / Programmes of Work.

1. [CTR&TI/SWI/PS-20] Studies on genetic diversity among A. mylitta physio-eco-variants by using modern molecular biology tools [Dr. J.P. Pandey, Scientist-C]

2. [CTR&TI/HPP/POW-02] Farm Management & Developmental works. [PI: Ms Shova Beck, Scientists-D]

3. [CTR&TI/SWPT/POW-08] Application of disease management module (At CTR&TI Field) [PI: Dr. G.P. Singh, Scientist-D]

4. [CTR&TI/SWPT/POW-09] Laboratory production and supply of LSM [PI: Dr. K.P. Kiran Kumar, Scientist-C]

5. [CTR&TI/HPP/POW-14] Development of package of practices and protocol for production of organic silk. [PI: Dr. J. Tirkey, Scientist-D]

6. [CTR&TI/SWP/POW-16] Fine tuning and continual evaluation of tasar silkworm rearing on semi-synthetic diet (Tasar Amrit) [PI: Dr. J.P. Pandey, Scientist-C]

7. [CTR&TI/SWPT/POW-17] Tasar silkworm disease management and monitoring system [PI: Dr. G.P. Singh, Scientist-D]

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Agenda No. 6: Evaluation of the New Research Proposals

Ten research projects, which were approved by Research Council during its 51st

meeting held on 5th February and 19th & 30th March 2016 and cleared by the Central Silk

Board, were presented in the RAC with referees’ comments.

A. RESEARCH PROPOSALS

1. Development of tropical tasar silkworm breed for high silk yield through selection. [PI: Dr. G. Lokesh, Scientist-C]

Dr. Lokesh presented the proposal along with the referees’ comments. The PI

was asked to refer to the concluded project of RTRS, Jagdalpur and modify the

proposal. The survivability should be taken into consideration along with the

commercial characters for evaluation of the performance of progenies. The project

should be focused first on developing the breed, and the multilocational trials should be

taken up in phase-II. As the project is focused on hybridization the title need to be

modified. The Chairman suggested that the project should be revised in consultation

with the Director, CTR&TI. The project is approved for submission to CSB for obtaining

final approval and coding after revision as per the suggestions given by the members.

[ACTION: Dr. A.H. Naqvi, Scientist-D, Silkworm B&G]

2. Non-PCR DNA based technique to screen pebrine infected tasar silkworm, Antheraea mylitta. [PI: Ms Neha Nancy Toppo, Scientist-B]

Ms N.N. Toppo presented the proposal. Dr. Mohd Aslam observed that this is a

good work as there are three parameters for developing the diagnostic method i.e., i)

sensitivity ii) specificity and iii) field application. He suggested that as the proposed

Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) method has field applicability, it can

be compared with the existing methods with respect to sensitivity. Dr. P.K. Mishra,

Director (Tech.) asked the PI to go for extensive literature survey and the duration of

the project should be two years instead of 18 months. The Chairman observed that after

two years, the RAC will review the progress, and if required extension can be granted

further. With these suggestions, the RAC strongly recommended the project for a

period of two years and submit it to CSB for final approval after following the set

procedure. [ACTION: Ms. N.N. Toppo, Scientist-B]

3. Gut-symbiont associations in Antheraea mylitta feeding on Sal flora and their

physiological implications. [PI: Mr. M.M. Baig, Scientist-B]

Mr. M.M. Baig presented the proposal along with referees’ comments. The

Committee observed that this is a good project; however, it was suggested that along

with bacterial symbionts, the endophytes may also be tested for their possible role in

symbiosis. With these suggestions, the project was approved by RAC for final approval

and allotment of code number from CSB. [ACTION: Mr. M.M. Baig, Scientist-B]

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4. Effect of plant growth promoting rhizosphere microorganisms on leaf nutrient content of primary tasar host plants in forest and block plantation. [PI: Manjappa, Scientist-B]

Mr. Manjappa presented the proposal along with referee’s comments. Dr. S.A.

Ansari and Dr. S. Chattopadhyay suggested to collect the soil samples from the

rhizosphere of tasar host plants from block plantations and from the forests located at

rearing and non-rearing sites. The work should be restricted to one specific functional

group of bacteria or fungi. The consortium of microorganisms may also be studied. The

Chairman observed that it is a good proposal and advised to take the suggestions of Dr.

Ansari and Dr. Chattopadhyay and revise the proposal. He suggested to concentrate on

the consortium of either bacteria or fungi and avoid taking rhizobium. There should be

two controls, one non-inoculated sterilized soil and other non-sterilized soil. With these

suggestions, the RAC approved the project for submission to CSB for final approval and

coding. [ACTION: Mr. Manjappa Scientist-B]

5. Web enabled - weather based decision support system for forewarning and management of pest and diseases in tasar food plant and silkworm. [PI: Dr. Jitendra Singh, Scientist-B]

Dr. Jitendra Singh presented the proposal along with referees’ comments. The

house observed that forewarning and prediction system need a strong database support,

and therefore suggested that the PI should concentrate only on two or three major pests

of host plant and silkworm instead of taking many pests, and subject the data for

statistical analysis for prediction of outbreak. The Committee appreciated good beginning

made in this direction, and suggested to concentrate on few pests which are specific to

tasar host plants as well as nearby agricultural crops. If the pests are common with

agricultural crops, information of their life cycles and predisposing/climatic factors can

be collected from the available literature. Published secondary data on these pests from

agriculture sector can be utilized to develop a crude model which can be further fine-

tuned with the primary data generated through this project. The Chairman observed that

the project has practical importance in the field and there is an urgent need for accurate

forecasting system of pest and disease outbreaks. As the funding from DST/DBT may

take a very long time, it is advisable that the project should be submitted to CSB itself. He

suggested to make it a collaborative project with RTRSs and RECs with strong

involvement of local Meteorological Department and local agricultural Entomologists

and asked to recast the project with the help and guidance of Dr. R.D. Gautam. The

Statistician should also be the part of the project as lot of statistical work needs to be done

for developing prediction model. With these suggestions, the RAC approved the project

in principle. [ACTION: Dr. Jitendra Singh, Scientist-B]

6. Utilization of secondary metabolites from soil and phylloplane microflora for the control of AmCPV infecting tropical tasar silkworm, Antheraea mylitta D. [PI: Dr. Deepak Pandey, Scientist-B]

Dr. Deepak Pandey presented the proposal along with the referee’s comments.

The Chairman suggested to study the components (may be a protein, an enzyme or the

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secondary metabolites) produced by the bacterium isolated from either rhizosphere or

phylloplane and how these component(s) act (mechanism of action) to control the

AmCPV. The project title should be revised as “Studies and use of selective metabolites

extracted from the rhizosphere and phylloplane bacterium in control of AMCPV infecting the

tropical tasar silkworm”. The Committee approved the project with a suggestion that PI

should consult Dr. S. Chattopadhyay for finding a Soil Biochemist, from BAU, to get

associated with the project and revise the project before submission to CSB for approval.

[ACTION: Dr. Deepak Pandey, Scientist-B]

7. Prevalence and identification of stem borer(s) of tasar host plants and their management [PI: Ms Sunita Mukherjee, Scientist-C]

Ms Sunita Mukherjee presented the proposal along with referees’ comments. The

Chairman pointed out that identification word should be deleted from the title and

suggested that the title of the project should be “Studies on population dynamics of stem

borers in tasar host plants and their management through IPM approach”. The objective

should also be revised as “To study the population dynamics of stem borer and their

natural enemies”. He observed that at present, the only method to control borer is the

tree trap method, for which one has to study the mating or egg laying behaviour of the

pest. He suggested to study the stem borer infestation in relation to age of the plants.

He suggested to revise the project in a way that it includes survey of different types of

stem borers in tasar host plant, their population dynamics study and their management.

With these suggestions, the RAC approved the project for further processing to obtain

approval and coding from CSB. [ACTION: Ms. Sunita Mukherjee, Scientist-C]

8. Screening of pesticides for their effectiveness in controlling the Gall fly, Trioza fletcheri Minor. [PI: Dr. A.S. Aruna, Scientist-C]

Dr. A.S. Aruna presented the proposal along with referees’ comments. The house

suggested to restrict the studies only on two or three botanicals such as Neem and its

extracts used. The PI was advised to modify the title as suggested by the referee and

include one additional objective i.e., to find some natural enemy of gall fly if any, during

course of study. With these suggestions, the house approved the project for submission to

CSB to obtain final approval and coding. [ACTION: Dr. Vishal Mittal, Scientist-C]

9. Mechanization of tasar silkworm eggs collection process towards drudgery reduction [PI: Dr. K.P. Kiran Kumar, Scientist-C]

Dr. K.P. Kiran Kumar presented the proposal along with referees’ comments. The

house asked the PI to first concentrate on developing appropriate egg laying devices for

one year. The Chairman advised the PI to look for the leaf like surface architecture for the

device and find out the most suitable and economical material. The work on

mechanization can be taken up subsequently after succeeding on the development of egg

laying device. He suggested to modify the title as “Development of tasar silkworm egg laying

and collection device”. With these suggestions, the house approved the project for obtaining

final approval and coding from CSB. [ACTION: Dr. G.P. Singh, Scientist-D]

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10. Development of ecorace specific package for production of quality tasar yarns [PI: Mr. N.S. Gahlot, Scientist-C]

Mr. N.S. Gahlot presented the proposal along with referees’ comments. The

house observed that the proposal has a merit and approved the same for a period two

years. However, the PI should revise the project in light of the comments made by CSB

and referees before submission to CSB for final approval and coding.

[ACTION: Mr. Z.M.S. Khan, Scientist-D, PCT]

Agenda No. 7: Technologies under trial and demonstration & their impacts

The Director informed the Committee about the trials and demonstrations of

following technologies conducted at nested Units of the Institute.

1. Multilocational trials of improved tasar silkworm line, CTR-14 for higher fecundity were conducted at RTRS Baripada, REC Kapistha, Hatgamharia, Kathghora & Jhansi, P4 Chakradharpur & Kargi Kota and CTR&TI.

2. Multilocational trials of Semi-Synthetic Diet for young age tasar silkworm rearing were conducted at RTRS Baripada, REC Kapistha, Kathghora & Bangriposi.

3. Multilocational trials of AmCPV tolerant tasar silkworm line were conducted at RTRS Baripada, REC Kapistha, Robertsganj & Jhansi.

Agenda No. 8: Progress under Training Programme and HRD

The progress made under Training & HRD was appraised to the house. During

the period under report, a total of 847 persons were imparted training under in-house

and on-field training programmes organized at the Institute and its nested units.

Agenda No. 9: Any other subject with permission of the Chair

The Director, CTR&TI, Ranchi expressed his deep satisfaction over the successful

completion of three events in a row at the Institute. He pointed out that that the Officers

from the Forest Department participated for the first time in the National Seminar on

Silkworm Ecorace Conservation held on 07.06.2016 and they expressed full support in

the conservation of ecoraces. He congratulated the Scientists and staff of the Institute for

recognition of the Institute as Centre of Excellence by Ministry of Textiles. He thanked

Dr. Mohd Aslam and DBT Task Force for a meaningful discussion during the

Brainstorming Session. Dr. Aslam complemented all the Scientists of the Institute as

well as the nested units for their commendable efforts and active participation in the

Brainstorming Session. He observed that many interesting research leads have been

emerging and asked the Scientists to discuss internally and draw a roadmap to seek

help and support from DBT or other such agencies to convert them into reality. The

Chairman asked the members to express their views on various issues.

Dr. R.D. Gautam expressed his satisfaction on the results obtained under various

projects and suggested that more importance should be given for popularization of new

host, Lagerstroemia speciosa. The Scientists should be brief in their presentations, and 5-6

slides are adequate enough for highlighting 6-7 month progress achieved in the project.

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Dr. Suryanarayana observed that titles of Project should reflect the text presented in the

project and the presentation should be crisp. Dr. P.K. Mishra, Director (Tech.) assured the

Director, CTR&TI that all possible help and support from the CSB would be available to

him for implementation of different programmes. He requested him to encourage the

young scientists to formulate R&D projects. Dr. R.P. Singh Ratan, Director (Extension),

BAU suggested that the R&D projects need to be prepared keeping the farmers interest at

the centre of the planning and with holistic approach by integrating three major issues (i)

Deterioration in commercial character of silkworms (ii) Nutritional status of food plants

and (iii) Insect pest attack. He suggested to keep one-page note or gist of the R&D

findings/activities with RAC Agenda. Dr. K.K. Sharma, Director, IINRG suggested that

projects should be formulated in three broad areas: soil-plant interaction, plant–silkworm

interaction and silkworm–pest interaction.

The Chairman expressed his concern for the transfer of many Scientists, whose

projects were recently approved by the CSB after clearance from the RAC, from the

CTR&TI. Owing to these transfers, there are no experienced Scientists left out to run the

approved projects in some of the sections. For example, in Post-cocoon Technology,

there are three projects but only one Scientist. He further observed that in most of the

RTRSs and RECs, there is only one Scientist and one Technical Assistant (TA). He

requested the CSB to look into the transfer of Scientists and shortage of Scientists and

Technical staff. For smooth running of R&D projects, it is equally important to have one

JRF or TA and he requested CSB to sanction these positions while approving the

projects. He stressed that if any investigator has any technical, financial and

management problem in running the project, the RAC would be very happy to address

such issues. He again advocated that there is need to compensate those villagers/local

committees who are associated in protecting the endangered ecoraces of tasar

silkworm, and stressed that the Director, CTR&TI should write to the Chief Ministers of

the concerned States for providing such support through one of the schemes.

[ACTION: Director & Scientists of CTR&TI]

The Chairman, RAC expressed his happiness over the recognition of the Institute

as Centre of Excellence and for the formulation of a concept note on a multidisciplinary,

multi-institutional, long-term megaproject on ecology, genetics and conservation of

threatened ecoraces/species of Tropical and Temperate silkworms with the help of Dr.

Aslam and DBT Task Force. He further expressed that this RAC will be remembered for

three consecutive events that took place at the Institute and recognition of the Institute

as Centre of Excellence. He thanked the RAC members, invitees and the Director and all

the Scientists of CTR&TI for their active participation and making the RAC successful.

The meeting ended with a vote of thanks to the Chair. The Director expressed his

special gratitude to the Chairman and the members for their significant participation in

three events i.e., National Seminar, Brainstorming Session and RAC during last four days.

sd/- (PROF. C.R. BABU) Chairman, RAC

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LIST OF PARTICIPANTS

CHAIRMAN:

1. Prof. C.R. Babu, Chairman

MEMBERS:

1. Dr. Mohd Aslam, Adviser, DBT, New Delhi.

2. Prof. R.D. Gautam, Principal Scientist (Retd.), IARI, New Delhi.

3. Dr. N. Suryanarayana, Former Director, CSB

4. Dr. K.K. Sharma, Director, IINRG, Namkom, Ranchi

5. Prof. Shailesh Chattopadhyay, BAU, Ranchi

6. Prof. B. Mukherjee, Ranchi University

7. Dr. S.A. Ansari, Director, IFP, Ranchi

8. Dr. A.K. Singh, Director, HARP, Palandu

9. Dr. R.P. Singh Ratan, BAU, Ranchi

10. Dr. P.K. Mishra, Director (Tech.), CSB, Bengaluru

11. Dr. R.K. Mishra, Director, BTSSO, Bilaspur

12. Dr. Alok Sahay, Director, CSGRC, Hosur

13. Dr. Umapati Sahay, Professor (Retd.), Ranchi University (Invitee)

14. Dr. N. R. Singhvi, Scientist-D, CSB, Bengaluru

15. Mr. S. Majumdar, Scientist-C, SCTH, Malda - Representative, CSTRI, Bangalore

16. Dr. R.N. Sarangi, Representative, DOS, Odisha

17. Mr. Anil Kumar - Representative, DOS, Jharkhand

18. Mr. A.K. Yadav, Dy. Director – Representative, DOS Uttarakhand

19. Mr. Natheshwar Sah, Asstt. Director - Representative, DOS, Bihar

20. Mr. G.N. Rathod, Asstt Director - Representative DOS, Maharashtra

21. Md. Firoj Ansari, Weaver, Ranchi, Jharkhand

22. Mr. Rammohan Pramanik, Assistant (Tech) - Representative, RO, Kolkata

23. Dr. Ajit Kumar Sinha, Director, CTR&TI, Ranchi - Member Convenor

SCIENTISTS- INSTITUTE:

1. Mr. S.K. Sinha, Scientist-D

2. Dr. Gargi, Scientist-D

3. Dr. J. Tirkey, Scientist-D

4. Mr. Z.M.S. Khan, Scientist-D

5. Ms. Shova Beck, Scientist-D

6. Dr. V.P. Gupta, Scientist-D

7. Dr. G.P. Singh, Scientist-D

8. Dr. A.H. Naqvi, Scientist-D

9. Mr. Suresh Rai, Scientist-D

10. Dr. B. Surendranath, Scientist-D

11. Dr. P.P. Shrivastava, Scientist-D

12. Mr. M.D. Tiwari, Scientist-D

13. Mr. Shantakar Giri, Scientist-D

14. Ms. S. Mukherjee, Scientist-C

15. Dr. Ram Kumar, Scientist-C

16. Mrs. S. Nagendra, Scientist-C

17. Ms. Susmita Das, Scientist-C

18. Dr. J. P. Pandey, Scientist-C

19. Dr. K.P. Kiran Kumar, Scientist-C

20. Dr. K.N. Madhusudan, Scientist-C

21. Dr. G. Lokesh, Scientist-C

22. Mr. N.S. Gahlot, Scientist-C

23. Dr. P.M. M. Reddy, Scientist-C

24. Mr. S. Kamraj, Scientist-C

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25. Dr. A.S. Aruna, Scientist-C

26. Dr. M. Deka, Scientist-B

27. Dr. Harendra Yadava, Scientist-B

28. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Scientist-B

29. Dr. Deepak Pandey, Scientist-B

30. Dr. D.I.G. Prabhu, Scientist-B

31. Dr. Neha Nancy Toppo, Scientist-B

32. Dr. T. Pandiaraj, Scientist-B

33. Md. Muzeruddin Baig, Scientist-B

34. Dr. B.M Dinesh, Scientist-B

35. Mr. Manjappa, Scientist-B

SCIENTISTS - NESTED UNITS:

1. Dr. P.S. Sinha, Scientist-D, P-4 Station, Kargi Kota

2. Dr. Niranjan Kumar, Scientist-D, P-4 Station, Chakardharpur

3. Mr. M.C. Joshi, Scientist-D,RTRS, Bhimtal

4. Dr. P.K. Kar, Scientist-D, RTRS, Baripada

5. Dr. G.P. Mahobia, Scientist-D, RTRS, Jagdalpur

6. Ms. L. Bidyapati Devi, Scientist-D, RTRS, Imphal

7. Dr. T. James Keisa, Scientist-C, RTRS, Imphal

8. Dr. S. Subharani Devi, Scientist-C, RTRS, Imphal

9. Mr. K.V.S.N. Rao, Scientist-C, RTRS, Warangal

10. Dr. Tushar R. Khare, Scientist-B, RTRS, Bhandara

central tasar research and training … · thanked dr. mohd aslam, advisor, dbt for organizing the...

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