national mission on himalayan studies (nmhs)

NMHS Fellowship Grant Progress of 21

National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS) HIMALAYAN RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP

(PRO FORMA FOR THE ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT)

[Reporting Period: from April 2019 to March 2020]

Kindly fill the NMHS Fellowship Annual Progress Report segregated into the following 7 segments, as applicable to the NMHS Fellowship nature and outcomes.

1. Fellowship Grant Information and Other Details

2. Fellowship Description at Himalayan Research Associates (H-RAs) Level

3. Fellowship Description at Himalayan Junior Research Associates (H-JRFs) Level

4. Fellowship Description at Institutional/ University Level 5. Fellowship Concluding Remarks/ Annual Summary

6. Specific Research Question(s) Addressed with Succinct Answer(s) 7. Any other information

Please let us know in case of any query at: [email protected]

PRO FORMA

NMHS-Fellowship Annual Progress Report (APR)

1. Fellowship Grant Information and Other Details

NMHS Fellowship Grant ID: HSF2017-18_I-13/8

Ref. No. GBPNI/NMHS-2017-18/HSF-08, dated: 28.03.2018

Name of the Institution/ University: Botanical Survey of India, Sikkim Himalayan Regional Centre

No. of Himalayan Research/Project Associates: One (One was converted to Junior Project Fellow due to non-availability of suitable candidate, vide NMHS-PMU letter No. GBPNI/NMHS-2017-18/HSF/602/242 dated 26.02.2019)

No. of Himalayan Junior Research/Project Fellows: Six


2. Fellowship Description at H-RA Level

Himalayan Research Associates (H-RAs)

H-RAs Profile Description:

S. No. Name of RA Date of Joining

Research Title Name of the PI and Designation

Qualification

1A. Dr. SAMIRAN PANDAY

17.12.2018

(Resigned

on -

23.8.2019)

Systematics and Conservation of Indian Orchids with special emphasis to Himalayan species.

Allotted group: Sub-families Vanilloideae, Orchidoideae and Epidendroideae (22 genera 76 species).

Dr. D.K. AGRAWALA

Scientist-D

M.Sc., Ph. D. (BOTANY)

1B. Dr. RIJUPALIKA ROY Joined on 14.10.2019

M.Sc., Ph. D. (BOTANY)

Progress Brief (to be filled for each H-RA in separate row):

RA No.

Research Objective(s) Addressed Deliverables Achievements Research/ Experimental Work*

1. Project name: Systematics and Conservation of Indian Orchids with special emphasis to Himalayan species.

Allotted group: Sub-families Vanilloideae, Orchidoideae and Epidendroideae with 22 genera and 76 species.

Objectives:

• Inventurization in Indian Himalayan region and find the occurrence, distribution pattern and

• Complete inventory of

orchid species

• Digital database on

target orchid group

• Morpho-molecular

characterization of all

species

• Long standing

problems on many

species complex will

be solved.

• Inventory of Endemics

and less known

species.

• Morphological Characterization done for 24 species under 14 genera

• Generic description prepared for Corybas, Lecanorchis, Erythrorchis, Galeola,

Galearis, Pogonia. Comparative table based on morphological characters

prepared for the species under the above mentioned genera.

• Literature on selected species has been collected and studied.

• 38 protologues under 26 species of 12 genera have been collected and

translated for further study wherever required.

• Type specimens collected and studied for 50 allotted species.

• Taxon data-sheets of 54 taxa prepared for IUCN Red-list assessment.

• Assigned geo co-ordinates: 1267 herbarium sheets of 31 species under 11 genera

• 972 orchid taxa found in IHR was listed with distribution data in all states of

IHR.

• The altitudinal range for the allotted group is tabulated to study the range of

• Morphological

descriptions were

prepared by using

standard descriptors

for orchids.

• Herbarium specimen

images were studied

for their identity and

assigned with geo-

coordinates by using

google earth

software.

• Published literatures

and herbarium sheets


affinities.

• Morphological characterization.

• Solve the taxonomy, nomenclature and decode the species complex (if any) with evidence from morphology, molecular biology and cytology.

• Confirm the presence of endemics, near endemics and less known species in their known localities and predict the likely habitat with habitat modeling technique.

• Assess the threat status by applying IUCN criteria.

• Develop distribution and species richness map.

• Germplasm collection and ex-situ conservation.

distribution in altitudinal gradient.

• The phenology recorded for the allotted group from the herbarium data is

compiled to form a floral calendar segregating into three seasons.

• Distribution pattern and endemism has been analyzed for 972 orchid species

of IHR.

• 39 less known species have been identified in the allotted group.

FIELD TOURS :

29/03/19 to 12/04/19: Field tour to North Regu, South Regu, Rongli, Rolep,

Agamlok, Pangolakha WLS, Aritar of East district of Sikkim Germplasm

collected for 79 specimens

15/06/2019: Field tour to Lingzey-Fambonglho area

22 specimens were collected.

WORKSHOP/ SYMPOSIUM ATTENDED:

• Participated in “Two days (16.05.19-17.05.19.) 3rd Himalayan Researchers

Consortium-2019” at GBPNIHESD, Almora, Uttarakhand from 12.05.19 to

20.05.19 (including journey period).

• Participated in “International Day on Biological Diversity” on 22.05.2019,

organized by Botanical Survey of India, Sikkim Himalayan Regional Centre,

Gangtok.

• Participated in “World Environment Day” on 04.06.2019, organized by

Botanical Survey of India, Sikkim Himalayan Regional Centre, Gangtok.

• Participated in “World Environment Day” on 05.06.2019 at Chintan Bhavan, Gangtok, organized by Govt. of Sikkim.

• Attended International Workshop on “Preservation and promotion of Sowa

Rigpa in Asia” organized by Regional Ayurveda Research Institute, Gangtok on

28.2.2020 - 29.2.2020 at Chintan Bhawan.

• Participated in the “International Symposium on Plant Taxonomy and

Ethnobotany” organized by Botanical Survey of India at Kolkata from

13.2.2020 – 14.2.2020.

• Presented the poster entitled ‘Orchid diversity in the Indian Himalayan Region

(IHR) and their response to climate change’ in ISPTE2020 on 14.2.2020

PUBLICATIONS:

• Agrawala, D.K., Panday, S., Bhaumik, M. & Bhattacharjee, A. 2019. Occurrence

and Red List Assessment of Hemipilia purpureopunctata (Orchidaceae) in

studied to note the

altitudinal range

• Herbarium sheets

studied to note the

phonological data

• Online database of

different herbaria

both within the

country and abroad

has been checked to

gather information

on type materials of

the allotted group.

• Field survey

conducted with

standard procedure

as laid down in Jain &

Rao (1977). Field and

GPS data collected

along with

germplasm collection.

(DETAIL PROVIDED IN

ANNEXURE-1)


India. Richardiana 4: 1-8.

• Agrawala, D.K., Samiran Panday & Manas Bhaumik. Extended distribution of

Peristylus orbicularis (Orchidaceae) in Arunachal Pradesh, India. (Accepted)

Indian Journal of Forestry.

• Abstract on ‘Orchid diversity in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) and their response to climate change’ published in Proceedings of “International Symposium on Plant Taxonomy and Ethnobotany”

*Experimental work giving full details (in separate sheet, within 300 words) of experimental set up, methods adopted, data collected supported by necessary table, charts, diagrams & photographs. Note: Data, table and figures may be attached as separate source file (.docx, .xls, jpg, .jpeg, .png, .shp, etc. ).

3. Fellowship Description at H-JPF Level

Himalayan Junior Research Project Fellows (H-JPFs)

H-JRFs Profile Description:

S. No.

Name of JRF Date of Joining Research Title

Name of the PI Qualification

1. MR. AAZHIVAENDHAN G. 13.07.2018 Systematics and Conservation of Indian Orchids with special emphasis to Himalayan species.

Allotted group: Tribe Malaxideae (5 genera and 87 species). Dr. D.K. AGRAWALA

M.Sc. (BOTANY)

2. MS. SHREYASI NAYAK 27.07.2018 Systematics and Conservation of Indian Orchids with special emphasis to Himalayan species.

Allotted group: Genus Bulbophyllum with 137 species. Dr. D.K. AGRAWALA

M.Sc. (BOTANY)

3. MS. SANCHAYITA SENGUPTA

01.08.2018 Systematics and Conservation of Indian Orchids with special emphasis to Himalayan species.

Allotted group: Sub-tribes Vandinae, Decetorineae and Phalaenopsidineae (19 genera, 94 species).

Dr. D.K. AGRAWALA

M.Sc. (BOTANY)

4. MR. SAYAK CHAKRABORTY 01.08.2018 Systematics and Conservation of Indian Orchids with special emphasis to Himalayan species.

Allotted group: Tribes Arethuseae, Nervilieae, Gastrodieae, Tropideae and Neottieae (18 genera, 75 species).

Dr. D.K. AGRAWALA

M.Sc. (BOTANY)

5. MR. SHUVADIP SARKAR 01.08.2018 Systematics and Conservation of Indian Orchids with special emphasis to Himalayan species.

Allotted group: Tribes Cymbidieae, Epidendreae, Collabieae and Podochileae (29 genera, 77 species).

Dr. D.K. AGRAWALA

M.Sc. (BOTANY)

6. MS. OINDRILA CHAKRABORTY

19.03.2019 Systematics and Conservation of Indian Orchids with special emphasis to Himalayan species.

Allotted group: Tribe: Vandeae (Sub-Tribe: Aeridinae) (21 genera, 86 species). Dr. D.K. AGRAWALA

M.Sc. (ENVS)


Progress Brief (to be filled for each JPF in separate row):

JPF No.

Research Objectives Deliverable Achievements Research/ Experimental Work*


MR. AAZHIVAENDHAN G.

Allotted group: Tribe Malaxideae (5 genera and 87 species).

Objectives:

• Inventurization in Indian Himalayan region and find the occurrence, distribution pattern and affinities.








orchid species


target orchid group



species

• Long standing problems

on many species

complex will be solved.


and less known species.

• Complete morphological characterization has been done for 33 species.

• 13 species have been illustrated with digital macro micrographic

photos of live specimens. Altogether 20 species have been completed

so far.

• Protologues were collected for 450 names (including synonyms) and

studied.

• Types & images of herbarium specimens were collected and studied for

33 species under 4 genera.

• Distribution and Endemism have been analyzed for allotted 86 species.

• Ten species complex have been identified and two of them are solved.

• Methodology for molecular studies has been standardized. Leaf and

root samples were collected from 20 species and preserved for DNA

extraction.

• Taxon data sheets of 57 taxa prepared for IUCN red list assessment.

FIELD TOURS:

• 29/03/2019 to 12/04/2019: Rongli, North Regu, South Regu, Agamlok,

Lunchuk, Talkharka, Sysne, Rolep, Haticheri & Pangolakha WLS, East

district of Sikkim. C. 80 km2 were covered, 79 species were collected

and introduced in BSI SHRC campus for further studies and ex situ

conservation.

• 15/06/2019: Pangthang, Tintek, Tumin, Simik, Lingzey, Singtam, East

Sikkim. c.60 km2 were covered, 64 species were collected and

introduced in BSI SHRC campus for further studies and ex situ

conservation.

• 22/06/2019 to 30/06/2019: Chungthang, Khedum, Lachung, Lachen

North Sikkim. c.120 km2 were covered, 49 species were collected and


conservation.

• Morphological

descriptions were

prepared based on the

study of live and

herbarium materials

along with type

specimen.

• Taxonomic photo plates

were prepared using

Adobe Photoshop CS.

• Protologues and types

were collected and

studied to fix the identity

of species.

• Endemic and less known

species were listed out to

prepare habitat model.

• Species complex have

been solved based on

critical study of

Protologue, type and live

specimens.

• Samples from live

specimens were collected

and stored in aseptic vials

for DNA extraction as per

Doyle and Doyle (1987).

• IUCN redlist data sheets

were prepared with the


• 16/07/2019 to 21/07/2019: Cherrapunjee, Mawsmai, Jowai, Nongpoh

(Meghalaya). C. 500 km2 were covered, 28 species were collected and


conservation.

• 27/07/2019 to 30/07/2019: Nongstoin, Mawsynram, Dwaki

(Meghalaya). C. 600 km2 were covered and 20 species were collected

and introduced in BSI SHRC campus for further studies & ex situ

conservation. During this field trip many epiphytic orchid species were

rescued from fallen tree logs.

HERBARIUM CONSULTATION:

• 22/07/2019 to 26/07/2019: Botanical Survey of India Eastern Regional

Centre herbarium (ASSAM) Shillong, Meghalaya. Total of 530 herbarium

sheets of respective groups has been studied for complete

morphological characters.


• Participated in “3rd Himalayan Researchers Consortium from 16.05.19

to 17.05.19” at GBPNIHESD, Almora, Uttarakhand.

• Participated in “International Day on Biological Diversity” on

22.05.2019, organized by Botanical Survey of India, Sikkim Himalayan

Regional Centre, Gangtok.

• Participated in “World Environment Day” celebration on 04.06.2019,

organized by Botanical Survey of India, Sikkim Himalayan Regional

Centre, Gangtok.

• Participated in “World Environment Day’ celebration on 05.06.2019,

organized by Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management

Department, Government of Sikkim.

• Participated and presented a poster in International Symposium on

“Plant Taxonomy and Ethno botany” organized by Botanical Survey of

India, Kolkata from 13.02.2020 to 14.02.2020.

• Participated in one day state level workshop on “Building Resilient

Himalayan Environment and Community” organized by IUCN, NMHS &

GBPNIHESD on 21.02.2020.

data of citation,

synonym, description,

phenology, distribution,

importance and threats.

• Field survey conducted

with standard procedures


Rao (1977). Field and GPS

data collected along with

Germplasm collection.

(DETAIL PROVIDED IN

ANNEXURE – 2)


PUBLICATION:

• Abstract on ‘Synopsis of the genus Dienia Lindl. (Orchidaceae) in India’

was published in the proceedings of the International Symposium on

“Plant Taxonomy and Ethno botany” [13.02.2020 – 14.02.2020].


MS. SHREYASI NAYAK

Allotted group: Genus Bulbophyllum with 137 species.

Objectives:









orchid species


target orchid group



species


on many species




• Morphological Characterization done for 36 species under one genus

based on study of live specimen and Herbarium material along with

type specimen.

• 25 Species has been Illustrated with digital macro-microscopic

photography of live specimen.

• Protologues were collected for 50 names (including synonyms).

• Type specimen and Images collected for 19 species.

• Checklist of species endemism and distribution has been prepared.

• Detailed field tour plan has been prepared based on species endemism

and distribution.

• Four species complex have been identified and one is solved.

• Inputs were provided for IUCN Red-list datasheets of 89 species.

• Geo coordinate assigned for 2090 sheets.

• Literatures on allotted species are being consulted and data on

Molecular biology, Phylogeny and Histology are being compiled.

• Methodology for Molecular studies and Histology has been

standardized.

FIELD TOURS:



district of Sikkim. C. 80 km2 were covered, 79 species were collected

and introduced in BSI SHRC campus for further studies and ex situ

conservation.


Sikkim. c.60 km2 were covered, 64 species were collected and


conservation.

• Morphological

descriptions were

prepared by using


for orchids.


images were studied


assigned with geo-


google earth software.



studied to note the

altitudinal range


studied to note the

phonological data


different herbaria

both within the

country and abroad

has been checked to

gather information on

type materials of the

allotted group.


• 16/07/2019 to 21/07/2019: Cherrapunjee, Mawsmai, Jowai, Nongpoh

(Meghalaya). c.500 km2 were covered, 28 species were collected and


conservation.

• 27/07/2019 to 30/07/2019: Nongstoin, Mawsynram, Dwaki

(Meghalaya). c.600 km2 were covered and 20 species were collected

and introduced in BSI SHRC campus for further studies & ex situ

conservation. During this field trip many epiphytic orchid species were

rescued from fallen tree logs.

HERBARIUM CONSULTATION

• 22/07/2019 to 26/07/2019: Botanical Survey of India Eastern

Regional Centre herbarium (ASSAM) Shillong, Meghalaya. Total of 530

herbarium sheets of respective groups has been studied for complete

morphological characters.


• Participated in “Two days (16.05.19-17.05.19.) 3rd Himalayan

Researchers Consortium-2019” at GBPNIHESD, Almora, Uttarakhand

from 12.05.19 to 20.05.19 (including journey period).






• Participated in “World Environment Day” on 05.06.2019 at Chintan

Bhavan, Gangtok, organized by Govt. of Sikkim.

• Attended International Workshop on “Preservation and promotion of

Sowa Rigpa in Asia” organized by Regional Ayurveda Research

Institute, Gangtok on 28.2.2020 - 29.2.2020 at Chintan Bhawan.

• Attended training um workshop in “Statistical application on Ecological

Research” organized by GBPNIHESD, Gangtok from 2.3.2020 –

6.3.2020



• Field survey conducted

with standard procedures


Rao (1977). Field and GPS

data collected along with

Germplasm collection.

(DETAIL PROVIDED IN

ANNEXURE – 3)


13.2.2020 – 14.2.2020.

• Presented the poster entitled ‘Phenotypic diversity of the genus

Bulbophyllum (Orchidaceae) in India’ in ISPTE2020 on 14.2.2020

PUBLICATION:

• Abstract on ‘Phenotypic diversity of the genus Bulbophyllum

(Orchidaceae) in India’ published in Proceedings of “International

Symposium on Plant Taxonomy and Ethnobotany”


MS. SANCHAYITA SENGUPTA

Allotted group: Sub-tribes Vandinae, Decetorineae and Phalaenopsidineae (19 genera, 94 species).

Objectives:





• Assess the threat status by


orchid species


target orchid group



species


on many species




• Generic description prepared for Arachnis Bl. and Holcoglossum Schltr.

compiled from published literatures.

• Morphological Characterization done for 9 species under 4 genera.

• Illustrations with digital macro-microscopic photographs are prepared

for 8 species under 6 genera.

• Protologues of 89 names and types for 15 species are collected

• Distributional clusters along with phenology of all the allotted species

are prepared

• Distribution of Endemism has been analyzed for 19 species.

• Species complex identified: 6.

• Assigned geo co-ordinates: 1138 sheets under 53 species.

• Taxon datasheets of 47 taxa prepared for IUCN Red- list assessment.

• Literature on selected species has been collected and studied.

FIELD TOURS:

29/03/19 to 01/04/19: Mungpoo and surroundings in Darjeeling district

of West Bengal.The Cinchona Plantation area was thoroughly surveyed.

02/04/19 to 12/04/19: North Regu, South Regu, Rongli, Rolep, Agamlok,

Pangolakha WLS, Aritar of East district of Sikkim.

Germplasm collected and introduced in the campus for 82 species in the

above tours.

08/06/2019 at River bank Teesta (Kalijhora Teesta Low Dam IV to Sevoke

Bazar). Germplasm collected for 6 species

15/06/2019 to Lingzey-Fambonglho area along with Dr. D.K. Agrawala

and other project fellows. Germplasm collected and introduced for 23

• Morphological

descriptions were

prepared by using


for orchids.


images were studied


assigned with geo-





studied to note the

altitudinal range


studied to note the

phenological data


different herbaria

both within the

country and abroad

has been checked to



allotted group.


applying IUCN criteria.



species

15/07/2019 to 11/08/2019 to Arunachal Pradesh covering Itanagar and

Doimukh in the Papum Pare district and Tipi, Sessa, Doimara, Dadzling,

Balipara road, Shergaon, Kalaktang, Morshin, Dirang and adjoining and

Mandla in the West Kameng district. Germplasm collected for 62 species

and 51 are introduced in the campus


• Herbarium consultation was done at ARUN from 18.07.2019-

20.07.2019 and 40 sheets under 28 species were examined.

WORKSHOP/SYMPOSIUM ATTENDED:










• Attended International Workshop on “Preservation and promotion of Sowa Rigpa in Asia” organized by Regional Ayurveda Research Institute, Gangtok on 28.2.2020 - 29.2.2020 at Chintan Bhawan.

• Attended training um workshop in “Statistical application on Ecological Research” organized by GBPNIHESD, Gangtok from 2.3.2020 – 6.3.2020



13.2.2020 – 14.2.2020.

• Presented the poster entitled ‘Esmeralda Rchb.f- one of the

important horticultural orchid genera in India’ in ISPTE2020 on

14.2.2020

PUBLICATION:

Abstract on ‘Esmeralda Rchb.f- one of the important horticultural

orchid genera in India’ published in Proceedings of “International

• Field survey

conducted with

standard procedure as

laid down in Jain &


GPS data collected

along with germplasm

collection.

(DETAIL PROVIDED IN

ANNEXURE-4)




MR. SAYAK CHAKRABORTY

Allotted group: Tribes Arethuseae, Nervilieae, Gastrodieae, Tropideae and Neottieae (18 genera, 75 species).

Objectives:









orchid species


target orchid group



species


on many species




•Generic description prepared for Corymborkis Thouars, Didymoplexis

Griff., Epipogium Borkh., Otochilus Lindl., Panisea (Lindl.) Lindl.,

Pholidota Lindl., Stereosandra Blume.

•Morphological characterization done for 32 species under 10 genera

based on study of live specimen and herbarium material along with

type specimen.

• 16 species have been illustrated with digital macro-microscopic

photography of live specimen.

• Protologues collected for 289 names including synonyms and studied.

• Type specimen & images collected for 33 allotted species and studied.

•Distribution and endemism have been analyzed for 17 species.

•Species complex identified for 5 groups.

• Assigned geo co-ordinates: 2544 sheets under 64 species.

• Taxon datasheets of 58 species prepared for IUCN Red-list assessment.

•Literature on selected species has been collected and studied.

• Distributional cluster prepared for all the allotted species.

•The phenology recorded for the allotted group from the herbarium data

is compiled to form a floral calendar segregating into three

seasons.Germplasm of 109 samples introduced along with another

team member

FIELD TOURS:

• 29/03/19 to 12/04/2019: Mungpoo and surroundings in Darjeeling

district of West Bengal and North Regu, South Regu, Rongli, Rolep,

Agamlok, Pangolakha WLS, Aritar of East District of Sikkim.

143 total field numbers were collected together with team members in

which 82 germplasms were introduced into BSI, SHRC Campus for ex-

situ conservation and further study.

• 11/07/2019 to 15/07/2019: Dombyang Valley, Yumthang Hotspring

area, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Katao and adjoining areas of

North District of Sikkim.

• Morphological

descriptions were

prepared by using


for orchids.


images were studied


assigned with geo-





studied to note the

altitudinal range


studied to note the

phonological data


different herbaria

both within the

country and abroad

has been checked to



allotted group.

• Field survey

conducted with


laid down in Jain &


GPS data collected


22 total field numbers were collected together with another team

member in which 8 germplasms were introduced into BSI, SHRC

Campus for ex-situ conservation and further study.

• 13/03/2020 to 19/03/2020: Chapramari WLS and adjoining areas of

Jalpaiguri District of West Bengal.

21 total field numbers were collected together with another team

member in which 19 germplasms were introduced into BSI, SHRC

Campus for ex-situ conservation and further study.


• Visited Central National Herbarium (CAL) Howrah, West Bengal and

studied respective specimens from herbarium and took photographs

of 6 protologues from available literatures and consulted other

literatures also in CNH library with permission from 08.08.2019 to

09.08.2019.


• Participated in “Two days (16.05.2019-17.05.2019) 3rd Himalayan









• Participated in “Building Resilient Himalayan Environment and Community”: State level workshop, Sikkim on 21.02.2020




• Attended training um workshop in “Statistical application on Ecological Research” organized by GBPNIHESD, Gangtok from 02.03.2020 – 06.03.2020



collection.

(DETAIL PROVIDED IN

ANNEXURE-5)



13.02.2020 – 14.02.2020.

• Presented the poster entitled ‘Diversity and distribution of the genus

Otochilus Lindl. in India’ in ISPTE2020 on 14.2.2020

PUBLICATION:

• Abstract on ‘Diversity and distribution of the genus Otochilus

Lindl. in India’ published in Proceedings of “International Symposium

on Plant Taxonomy and Ethnobotany”


MR. SHUVADIP SARKAR

Allotted group: Tribes Cymbidieae, Epidendreae, Collabieae and Podochileae (29 genera, 77 species).

Objectives:






orchid species


target orchid group



species


on many species




• Complete morphological characterization has been done for 15

species under 10 genera has been done based on study of live

specimen & herbarium material along with type specimen.

• 8 species under 5 genera has been illustrated with critical macro-

microscopic photography of live specimens.

• Protologues collected for 173 names of 37 species under 17 genera

including synonyms from different literatures and available online

sources and studied.

• Type specimens & images of 10 species under 4 genera has been

collected.

• Distribution of endemism has been analyzed for 8 species under 7

genera

• Phenology, distribution and altitudinal ranges are compiled from the

herbarium data and available literatures for the allotted group to form

a floral calendar.

• Species complex that has been identified 13 species under 5 genera

within the allotted group

• Geo-coordinate assigned: 1406 sheets of 54 species under 27 genera

• Taxon data sheets of 53 species under 26 genera prepared for IUCN

Red -list assessment

FIELD TOURS:

• 29/03/19 to 12/04/19: Field tours to Mungpoo, Darjeeling, South

Regu, Rongli, Rolep, Agamlok, Pangolakha WLS, Aritar of East district

of Sikkim. Germplasm collected for 82 species

• 08/06/2019 at River bank Teesta (Kalijhora Teesta Low Dam IV to

• Morphological

descriptions were

prepared by using


for orchids.


images were studied


assigned with geo-





studied to note the

altitudinal range


studied to note the

phonological data


different herbaria

both within the

country and abroad

has been checked to







Sevoke Bazar). Total 24 orchid species observed; 06 field no. collected

and introduced in the campus garden for further studies and ex situ

conservation.

• 15/06/2019: Field tour to Lingzey-Fambonglho area. 22 species were

collected.

• 11/07/19 to 15/07/19: Field tour conducted to Lachung of North

Sikkim. Surveyed areas are Dombyng valley, Yumthang Hotspring,

Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Katao and adjoining areas from.

Total 36 field nos collected and 8 were introduced in introduced in

BSI, SHRC campus for further studies and ex situ conservation. During

this field trip many epiphytic orchids were rescued from fallen tree

logs at road widening sites.

• Field tour conducted to Pakyong on 23.07.2019 to study live

specimens at ICAR- National Research Centre For Orchids

• Field tour conducted to North Sikkim from 20.09.19-23.07.19.

Surveyed areas are Yumthang Hotspring, Shingba Rhododendron

Sanctuary, Yumesamdong, Katao, Zekuphyak and adjoining areas.

Total 16 field no.s collected.

• Field tour conducted to Chapramari WLS and adjoining areas with

Sayak Chakraborty from 13.3.2020 to 19.3.2020. Surveyed areas are

Chapramari 2, 3, 4 compartments & Panijhora 1a, 2a, 4a

compartments under Chapramari Beat; Panjhora 1c, 5, 7

compartments of Panjhora beat; Sibchu 2b, 2c compartments of

Sibchu beat. Total 30 species of orchids observed, 21 specimens were

collected and 19 introduced in BSI, SHRC garden for ex-situ

conservation.


• conducted to CAL from 08.08.2019 to 09.08.2019 and studied of

allotted specimens from Herbarium and consulted 14 literatures from

CNH library




allotted group.

• Field survey

conducted with


laid down in Jain &


GPS data collected


collection.

(DETAIL PROVIDED IN

ANNEXURE-6)











13.2.2020 – 14.2.2020.

• Presented the poster entitled ‘Taxonomic studies on the Genus Phaius

Lour. (Orchidaceae) in India’ in ISPTE2020 on 14.2.2020

• Participated in “Building Resilient Himalayan Environment and

Community”: State level workshop, Sikkim on 21st February 2020

• Attended the State Level Workshop ‘Building Resilient Himalayan

Environment and Community’ under a NMHS project on 21.2.2020.




PUBLICATIONS:

• Agrawala, D.K. and Sarkar, S. 2019. Vegetative propagation of Phaius

flavus through back bulb cutting- a conservation tool. ENVIS

Newsletter 24(1): 4-5.

• Abstract on ‘Taxonomic studies on the Genus Phaius Lour.

(Orchidaceae) in India’ published in Proceedings of “International



MS. OINDRILA CHAKRABORTY


orchid species


target orchid group



• Morphological Characterization done for 12 taxa based on study of live

specimen and herbarium material along with type specimen.

• 8 species has been illustrated with digital macroscopic photography of

live specimen.

• Protologues collected for 188 names of 58 species under 8 genera

including synonyms from different literatures and available online

• Morphological

descriptions were

prepared by using


for orchids.



Allotted group: Tribe: Vandeae (Sub-Tribe: Aeridinae) (21 genera, 86 species).

Objectives:








species


on many species




sources and studied.

• Type specimen and images collected for 9 species under 3 genera

from different herbaria and available online sources.

• Checklist of species endemism and distributional cluster has been

prepared.

• The phenology recorded for 86 species under 21 genera from the

herbarium data and different literatures is compiled to form a floral

calendar.

• Geo-co-ordinates assigned: 1432 sheets of 47 species under 16 genera

• Taxon datasheets of 45 taxa prepared for IUCN Red-list assessment.

• Prepared distribution map with help of Arch GIS software, obtained

AOO and EOO for 21 species.

FIELD TOURS:



district of Sikkim. 79 species were collected and introduced in BSI

SHRC campus for further studies and ex situ conservation.

• 08/06/2019: River bank Teesta (Kalijhora Teesta Low Dam IV to

Sevoke Bazar).

Total 24 orchid species observed; 06 field no. collected and introduced

in the campus garden for further studies and ex situ conservation.


Sikkim 64 species were collected and introduced in BSI SHRC campus

for further studies and ex situ conservation.

• 25/07/19 to 11/08/19: Tippi, Sessa, Doimara, Shergaon, Morshin,

Dirang, Shangti Basti, Thembang, Namsu, Munna camp, Chug, Rahung

and Mandla located in West Kameng district and Itanagar and Doimukh

in Papum Pare district. Total 82 species could be observed of which

specimens of 62 field numbers collected and 51 are introduced in the

campus garden for further studies and ex situ conservation.


18/07/2019- 20/07/2019: Botanical Survey of India, Arunachal Pradesh

Regional Centre (ARUN), Itanagar. Total 40 sheets under 28 species were

studied.

images were studied


assigned with geo-




studied to note the

phonological data


different herbaria

both within the

country and abroad

has been checked to



allotted group.

• Field survey

conducted with


laid down in Jain &


GPS data collected


collection.

(DETAIL PROVIDED IN

ANNEXURE-7)





from 12.05.19 to 20.05.19 (including journey period)







• Participated and presented a poster in International Symposium on “Plant Taxonomy and Ethno botany” organized by Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata from 13.02.2020 to 14.02.2020.

• Participated in one day state level workshop on “Building Resilient Himalayan Environment and Community” organized by IUCN, NMHS & GBPNIHESD on 21.02.2020.




PUBLICATION:

• Abstract on ‘Concept of the genus Acampe Lindl. (Orchidaceae) in India’

published in Proceedings of International Symposium on “Plant

Taxonomy and Ethnobotany” [13.02.2020-14.02.2020].

*Experimental work giving full details (in separate sheet, within 300 words) of experimental set up, methods adopted, data collected supported by necessary table, charts, diagrams & photographs. Note: Data, table and figures may be attached as separate source file (.docx, .xls, jpg, .jpeg, .png, .shp, etc. ).


4. Fellowship Description at Institutional/ University Level

Annual Deliverables/ Outputs (during the reporting year)

S. No. Deliverables/ Parameters No. Description

1.

No. of Research Publications (monograph/ articles/ peer-reviewed articles):

3 peer reviewed articles,

7 abstracts in the Proceedings of International Symposium

Occurrence and Red List Assessment of Hemipilia purpureopunctata (Orchidaceae) – a less known species in India published in Richardiana.

Extended distribution of Peristylus orbicularis (Orchidaceae) in Arunachal Pradesh, India. Indian Journal of

Forestry 2019.

Vegetative propagation of Phaius flavus through back bulb cutting- a conservation tool published in ENVIS Newsletter [This ensures a new technique in propagating this particular species in the orchidarium, possibly opening a new arena in horticultural practices.

Abstracts published on the topics:

‘Orchid diversity in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) and their response to climate change’

‘Synopsis of the genus Dienia Lindl. (Orchidaceae) in India’

‘Phenotypic diversity of the genus Bulbophyllum (Orchidaceae) in India’

‘Esmeralda Rchb.f- one of the important horticultural orchid genera in India’

‘Diversity and distribution of the genus Otochilus Lindl. in India’

‘Taxonomic studies on the Genus Phaius Lour. (Orchidaceae) in India’

‘Concept of the genus Acampe Lindl. (Orchidaceae) in India’

2. No. of Data Sets generated: 403 403 data sheets were prepared by compilation of taxonomic citation, distribution, diagnostic characters, threats etc. for assessment of threat status as per IUCN criteria. A total of 161 species has been worked out for compilation of nomenclature and macro-morphological characters. Nearly 10,000 herbarium specimens found in Indian Herbaria are assigned with geo-coordinates for plotting of range maps. Generic descriptions prepared for 8 genera. Protologues collected and studied for 1277 names.

3. No. of Conferences/ Workshops attended:

08 The Research Fellows and Principal Investigator have attended seminars, trainings and brainstorming meetings related to biodiversity of Indian Himalayan Region and actively participated.

• “Two days, 3rd Himalayan Researchers Consortium-2019” at GBPNIHESD, Almora, Uttarakhand.

• “International Day on Biological Diversity”, organized by Botanical Survey of India, Sikkim Himalayan Regional

Centre, Gangtok.

• “World Environment Day” organized by Botanical Survey of India, Sikkim Himalayan Regional Centre, Gangtok.

• “World Environment Day” at Chintan Bhavan, Gangtok, organized by Govt. of Sikkim.

• Participated in the “International Symposium on Plant Taxonomy and Ethnobotany” organized by Botanical


Survey of India at Kolkata from.

• “Building Resilient Himalayan Environment and Community”: State level workshop, Sikkim.

• “Preservation and promotion of Sowa Rigpa in Asia” organized by Regional Ayurveda Research Institute

• “Statistical application on Ecological Research” organized by GBPNIHESD

4. No. of Sites/ Study Area Covered:

11

and

(herbarium consultation

tour: 2)

Field study and sampling done:

• 29.03.19 to 12.04.19- Field tours to North Regu, South Regu, Rongli, Rolep, Agamlok, Pangolakha WLS, Aritar

of East district of Sikkim, Mungpoo, Darjeeling

• 08.06.2019 at River bank Teesta (Kalijhora Teesta Low Dam IV to Sevoke Bazar)

• 15.06.2019- Field tour to Lingzey-Fambonglho area

• 22.6.2019-30.6.2019- Field tour to Chungthang area, North Sikkim conducted

• 11.07.19 to 15.07.19- Field tour conducted to Lachung of North Sikkim. Surveyed areas are Dombyng valley,

Yumthang Hotspring, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Katao and adjoining areas

• 16.07.2019 to 21.07.2019- Field tours to Cherrapunjee, Mawsmai, Jowai, Nongpoh (Meghalaya)

• 23.07.2019- Field tour conducted to Pakyong to study live specimens at ICAR- National Research Centre For

Orchids

• 25.07.19 to 11.08.19- A tour has been conducted to Tippi, Sessa, Doimara, Shergaon, Morshin, Dirang, Shangti

Basti, Thembang, Namsu, Munna camp, Chug, Rahung and Mandla located in West Kameng district and

Itanagar and Doimukh in Papum Pare district

• 27.07.2019 to 30.07.2019- Tour to Nongstoin, Mawsynram, Dwaki (Meghalaya)

• 20.09.19-23.07.19- Field tour conducted to North Sikkim. Surveyed areas are Yumthang Hotspring, Shingba

Rhododendron Sanctuary, Yumesamdong, Katao, Zekuphyak and adjoining areas.

•Field tour conducted to Chapramari WLS and adjoining areas from 13.3.2020 to 19.3.2020.

• Two herbarium consultation tours conducted to ASSAM and CAL within the period.

5. No. of Best Practices suitable for IHR:

02 • Germplasm of 402 specimens were collected from different locations of Indian Himalayan Region during field trips and introduced at BSI campus for ex-situ conservation and further studies. During the field tours, epiphytic species were rescued from fallen tree logs and tied into nearby trees and rehabilitated at BSI campus.

• Propagation technique developed through back-bulb cutting, which can be practiced at IHR.

• Firm establishment of the Coelogyne species on the vertical framing of guard walls has helped in further extension of the technique for larger areas.

6. New Observations/ Innovations The exomorphic characters studied from the live specimens collected from field and the data deciphered from the old collections or recent collections give a wide range of character and character states.


5. Fellowship Concluding Remarks/ Annual Summary

Conclusions summarizing the achievements and indication of remaining work (within 300 words):

The Himalayan Fellowship Project has been initiated during July 2018 after joining of the Research Fellows. Within the second year, there has been significant progress made by all the research fellows. The consolidated achievement has been presented below.

• The distributional range in the Indian Himalayan Region for the allotted groups has been computed and analysed.

• The phenology of all allotted groups has been recorded and floral calendar has been prepared.

• The altitudinal range has been gathered from herbarium data from all allotted group.

• 10 field trips has been conducted to different regions of Indian Himalayan Region and two herbaria within the country.

• Germplasm of 381 species collected and introduced in the campus garden.

• 123 species has been studied live and illustration prepared with digital macro-microscopic photographs and description prepared.

• 403 data sheets were prepared by compilation of taxonomic citation, distribution, diagnostic characters, threats etc. for assessment of threat status as per IUCN criteria.

• More than 10000 herbarium specimens found in Indian Herbaria are assigned with geo-coordinates for plotting of range maps.

• Prepared distribution map with help of Arch GIS software, obtained AOO and EOO for 21 species.

Next year’s plan:

1. Thorough field exploration targeting the less known species. 2. Spatial representation. 3. Solving of taxonomic and nomenclatural complexes within the group. 4. Germplasm collection and ex-situ conservation. 5. Morphological and Molecular characterization

6. Specific Research Question(s) Addressed with Succinct Answer(s)

S. No. Research Questions Addressed Succinct Answers (within 150-200 words)

1. Literature survey Major floristic account on regional orchid floras and other available literature consulted and compiled. Distributional range, altitudinal range, phenology have been addressed.

2. Collection of Type, protologues and herbarium specimen

Herbarium consultation tours conducted at ASSAM, CAL, BSHC for both general and type specimens. Digital herbarium at K, K-W, P, BM, L has been studied for type and protologue. BHL, JSTORE and other library within the country has been consulted for protologue.

3. Field study 10 field studies have been conducted to different regions of Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya

4. Introduction of live samples 381 live specimens collected and introduced in SHRC, BSI.

national mission on himalayan studies (nmhs)

Documents