R P Gupta

Hydrogeology is a topical and growing subject as the earth's water resources become scarcer and more vulnerable. More than half of the surface area of continents is covered with hard rocks of low permiability. This book deals comprehensively with the fundamental principles for understanding the hydrogeological characteristics of rocks, as well as exploration techniques and assessment. It also provides in depth discussion on structural mapping, remote sensing, geophysical exploration, GIS, groundwater flow modelling and contaminant transport, field hydraulic testing including tracer tests, groundwater quality, geothermal reservoirs, managed aquifer recharge, and resources assessment and management. Hydrogeological aspects of various lithology groups, including crystalline rocks, volcanic rocks, carbonate rocks and clastic formations have been dealt with separately, using and discussing examples from all over the world. It will be an invaluable text book cum reference source for postgraduate students, researchers, exploration scientists and engineers engaged in the field of groundwater development in fractured rocks. Applied Hydrogeology of Fractured Rocks - Second Edition is thoroughly revised and extended with a new chapter, updated sections, many new examples, and expanded and updated references.

Developing countries, particularly those in the Indian subcontinent, are experiencing significant economic, agricultural, and industrial growth. The primary objective of modern agricultural practices is to increase grain production to feed the growing population. As a result, the use of chemical fertilizers and other agrochemicals is becoming increasingly necessary. However, the high cost of these products puts pressure on the countrys fossil fuel reserves. Bioinoculants, such as biofertilizers, biopesticides, and organic decomposers, are a more eco-friendly and economically viable alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Biofertilizers are live microbial cells that provide essential nutrients, promote growth, and improve resistance to diseases, leading to increased yields. Biopesticides are live microbial isolates or their metabolic products that help control pests and insects. Commercial biopesticides, such as Bt cotton, have emerged as successful alternatives to traditional pesticides. The third category of bioinoculants includes organic decomposers, such as fungal species, bacterial genera, and actinomycetes, which break down organic matter and release nutrients for plant growth. These eco-friendly solutions can help reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, making them a promising option for sustainable agriculture in developing countries.