Current Science

Astha Gupta ¹, Sanjay Kr. Uniyal ¹, Meenakshi ¹, Amit Kumar ¹, R. D. Singh ¹

Affiliations
1 High Altitude Biology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur 176 061, IN

Abstract

Recognizing the need of information-sharing and its implications, development of on-line plant databases has been advocated. The present article provides details on the development of web-enabled Bioresource Information Centre for Floral Resources of Himachal Pradesh, Western Himalaya. It is a MySql database that presently houses information on ~1500 plant species. This information pertains to distribution, life form, population, local name, taxonomy, image, use, conservation status and alien species. Twelve tables form the backbone of this repository. In website creation, the database interface has been implemented using wordpress CMS written in PHP. The designing of graphic user interface has been done using HTML, CSS, PHP, JavaScript and jquery. The site allows for basic and guided search, and is compatible with all major browsers and operating systems. It is dynamic and provides the user with an option of sharing of information.

Keywords

Plant Database, Floral Resources, Information-Sharing.

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Rakesh Kumar ¹, R. D. Singh ¹, Manohar Arora ¹, J. P. Patra ¹, T. R. Sapra ¹

Affiliations
1 National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee 247 667, IN

Abstract

Due to advent of computations facilities and emerging technologies in the field of water sector, the gap between research and its applications is rapidly increasing. Problems and challenges in the field of hydrology and water resources have been discussed. Requirement of hydrological design aids as well as Decision Support Systems; necessity of preparation of standards, manuals, guidelines; strengthening of training and capacity building; importance of web portals and outreach plans; drawing talented young professionals to research institutions; upgradation of infrastructure; significance of crowd sourcing and engaging citizen scientists; integration of research and practice and action points for using emerging technologies are brought out.

Keywords

Capacity Building, Crowd Sourcing, Design Aids, Online Training, Research and Applications, Web Portal.

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