Plant Genetic Resources Network in India Paroda R.S. Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi. Abstract India holds an important position in the international network of pldnt genetic resources, being a seat of origin and diversification for several old and new world crops. Besides, it has a rich and unique flora. About 160 species of crop plants and 320 of wild related types occur in the Indian gene centre with rich diversity in rice, sugarcane, citrus, mango, banana, egg plant, ridge gourd, bitter gourd, okra, cucumber, pigeonpea, cov.pea, mung bean, urad bean, rice bean, moth bean, jute, tree cotton, oilseed Brassicae, saafflower, sesame, spices and condiments and tuber crops such as taros and yams. The National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources established in 1976 with its 10 centres, coordinates activities in collection, exchange, evaluation, maintenance, documentation and conservation of plant genetic resources in the national and international context. Thus, it has linkages with crop-based ICAR institutes, agricultural universities and with international agricultural research centres and several regional organisations. The objectives and achievements of the Bureau, as a nodal agency in this field, are highlighted. Emphasis is also laid on the recent national and international developments and future perspectives are discussed. Top |