"ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR), New Delhi organized two days’ Workshop on ‘Plant Genetic Resources of Mizoram-Present Status and Conservation Needs’ and Biodiversity Exhibition” from 6th -7th March, 2024, in collaboration with Department of Horticulture, Aromatic and Medicinal Plants (HAMP), Mizoram University (MZU), Aizawl under NEH SubPlan. The workshop was inaugurated by Prof. D.C. Deka, Honorable Vice-Chancellor, Mizoram University as the Chief Guest in the august presence of Mr. Ashok Kumar Biswal, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Mizoram as Guest of Honour. The ICAR-NBPGR was represented by Dr. P.K. Singh, Head, Plant Exploration Division, ICAR-NBPGR as ‘Guest of Honour’. Principal Scientists Dr. S.K. Malik, Nodal Officer, NEH SubPlan and Dr. S.K. Yadav from ICAR-NBPGR were the technical experts for the workshop. Prof. Rambir Singh, Head, Dept. of HAMP, MZU welcomed all the guests and presented a brief overview about the biodiversity of various plant genetic resources in Mizoram. Mr. Ashok Kumar Biswal, PCCF, Mizoram elaborated about the forest being a rich biodiversity centers for the selection of plant materials for various applications. Prof. D. C. Deka, Vice Chancellor, MZU stressed upon the need for nature and society linked approach for every developmental activity. He emphasized that development is needed for the increasing population as well as to meet the changing lifestyle, but the forest ecosystems, green belts, and associated environments must be conserved for sustenance. Prof. Lalnuntluanga, Dean, School of ES & NRM of MZU emphasized that protection of biodiversity is essential for survival of the human being. Dr. PK Singh, Head, ICAR-NBPGR, Dr. SK Malik, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer, NEH SubPlan and Dr. SK Yadav, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer, Potential Crops also highlighted the rationale behind this workshop, role of ICAR-NBPGR in PGR management and developing awareness among farmers and other stake holders to safeguard the indigenous PGR. Farmers from various villages of Aizawl district, faculty members from various departments of MZU, SMS from KVK, students and other stakeholders were present during the workshop. The experts discussed about technical details including present status of plant genetic resources of Mizoram and measures required for the in situ and ex situ conservation during various sessions. The experts and participants stressed upon the need for conservation and sustainable utilization of local bioresources for the benefit of farmers and community overall. Technical Bulletin on PGR of Mizoram was also released by the chief guest during this occasion. During the workshop agri-inputs were distributed to the 120 participating farmers.

                                                            (Source :Dr. SK Malik and Dr. SK Yadav, ICAR-NBPGR, New Delhi)