Acknowledgement I would like to express profound gratitude to my research supervisor Dr. A.G.

Kunjomana, Professor, Department of Physics, Christ University for her inspiring guidance. Her willingness to spend time and attention amidst numerous responsibilities is gratefully acknowledged. Words are inadequate, as I have largely benefitted by her loving approach of giving complete academic freedom, sharing research experience and immense help in scheming and structuring the thesis. I admire her craving for perfection and keen interest in the progress of my research work with a caring attitude. I am deeply indebted to Prof. Kolaindavel, Head of the Department of Physics and Dr. Manoharan, Coordinator, Research and Development Cell for providing an opportunity to pursue PhD in Bharathiar University. I would also like to express thanks to all the faculty members of the Department. Special gratitude goes to Dr. (Fr.) Thomas C.Mathew, Vice-chancellor, Christ University, Bangalore, for providing the infrastructural facilities and extending support to carry out this research work. I am grateful to Dr. (Fr.) Abraham V.M., Pro-Vice-chancellor, Dr. Anil Pinto, Registrar and the management of Christ University for their encouragement and support. I am obliged to Prof. Nanjegowda N.M., Prof. Louise George and Prof. George Thomas, Deans of Sciences. I also express my heartfelt thanks to all my colleagues in the Department of Physics, Christ University for their motivation and cooperation. 4-5 LINES ABOUT THE FACILITIES I sincerely appreciate Ms. Anu N.Mohan, for her timely help and dedication. I would like to place on record the assistance rendered by Ms. Teena Mathew for the successful completion of this thesis. I am forever indebted to my beloved parents and Father-in-law for their love, blessings and unfailing support. I specially thank my beloved wife Jyothi, sons Dev and Surya, for their moral support, understanding, warm affection and sacrifice throughout my research study. Finally, I bow down before the Almighty God for the all sufficient grace and guidance I have received throughout this journey.