New Delhi, 02 July (H.S.): A project titled In Situ Conservation and Management of Wild Rice (Oryza rufipogon), funded by the National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, has achieved a significant milestone in Assam. As part of the project, Borjuli has been notified as a Biodiversity Heritage Site by the National Biodiversity Authority.

The project has been implemented since 2022 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR) in collaboration with the Assam State Biodiversity Board. Its objective is to conserve, scientifically study, and secure the genetic resources of wild rice for future generations.

A team of scientists from ICAR-NBPGR met Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, Chief Executive Officer of the NRAA, and briefed him on the project's key achievements. The scientists informed him that Borjuli had been declared a Biodiversity Heritage Site in recognition of its rich diversity of wild rice. The designation is expected to further strengthen the conservation of the area's natural resources.

Speaking to the media, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar said that wild rice species constitute an invaluable genetic resource for India. He noted that these genetic resources could play a crucial role in developing new rice varieties capable of withstanding climate change, drought, and floods, while delivering higher yields and improved nutritional value. He also emphasised the need to expand similar conservation initiatives for the wild relatives of other crop species.

The meeting was also attended by Dr. Pankaj Kumar Shah, Director (Agriculture and Horticulture), NRAA, and Dr. Anil Kumar Mishra, Technical Expert (Watershed Management).

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar