In the recent news, the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) and the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement was made with the aim of preserving the Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Genetic Resources (MAPGRs) in the National Gene Bank (NGB).
National Gene Bank: The Nucleus of Biodiversity Conversation
The NGB was first introduced in 1996-97 and is hosted by the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) in New Delhi. Its main objective is to safeguard the Plant Genetic Resources (PGR) for future generations. These resources could be in various forms such as seeds, genomic resources, and pollen amongst others.
NGB operates on four major facilities that include Seed Genebank (-18°C), Cryogenebank (-170°C to -196°C), In vitro Genebank (25°C), and Field Genebank. These facilities cater to different durations of conservation requirements. NGB houses a diverse range of crop groups including cereals, millets, medicinal plants, aromatic plants, and narcotics.
Additionally, there are other worldwide seed storage facilities like the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway which holds the world’s largest collection of seeds. India’s seed vault is situated at Chang La in the Himalayas.
National Animal Gene Bank: Fostering Indigenous Livestock Diversity
In addition to plant genetics, the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) based in Karnal, Haryana, has established the National Animal Gene Bank. The goal of this facility is to conserve the indigenous livestock biodiversity.
National Medicinal Plants Board: Boosting the Medicinal Plants Sector
To further promote the medicinal plants sector, the Government of India established the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) on November 24, 2000. Currently operating under the Ministry of AYUSH, it aims to coordinate efforts between various ministries, departments, and organisations and execute support policies or programs for the growth of the medicinal plants sector at national and international levels.
National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources: Guardians of Plant Genetic Resources
Formerly known as ‘National Bureau of Plant Introduction’, the ‘National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources’ (NBPGR) was renamed in January 1977. It serves as the central organization in India for management of Plant Genetic Resources (PGR). The NBPGR has significantly contributed to the development and diversification of agriculture in India through the introduction, collection, and conservation of germplasm from within the country and abroad.
Germplasm carries all the genetic information of a plant, ensuring long-term conservation and potential for regeneration in future. The NBPGR works in conjunction with National Active Germplasm Sites (NAGS) for managing active germplasm of field and horticultural crops. These sites are located at NBPGR regional stations, other crop-based ICAR institutes, or State Agricultural Universities.
The collaborative efforts of NGB, NMPB, and NBPGR have played a significant role in ensuring the preservation and sustainability of India’s immense biodiversity. Their continuous endeavours are integral in safeguarding the future of India’s agricultural and medicinal landscapes.