Conservation and management of underutilized fruit genetic resources in Himalayan region for food and nutritional security

In an immensely growing global world, eradicating hunger and poverty is not only an ethical imperative but an important prerequisite for peace and world security which can be met, among other measures by rescuing and using more diversity in agricultural and food production systems. India is one of the mega biodiversity rich countries with only 2.4% land area, accounting for 7.8% of all the recorded species on this planet and ranks 10th in world and 4th in Asia in plant diversity. Within the country, Himalayan region encompasses a wide array of plant genetic resources due to its diverse climatic conditions. India’s recognition as a ‘mega-biodiversity’ country derives partly from the Himalayas wherein out of 6000 endemic plant species, 2532 species occur. Some important fruit genera of Himalayan belt are Rubus, Ribes, Pyrus, Frageria Grewia, Ziziphus, Flacourtia, Carrissa, Mangifera, Syzigium, Garcinia, Citrus and Vitis. However, most of these species are in a state of neglect and are rendered “Underutilized” by the fact that even though they are locally abundant, but restricted to their geographical location with dearth of scientific knowledge about them. These fruits contribute towards the food and nutritional security and also income generation in local areas. Conservation of wild species and domesticated diversity is immensely important. Not they only provide livelihood to the local people but may have genes for biotic and abiotic potential for use in future breeding program. This richness of species and genetic diversity provides many opportunities, which can be achieved through appropriate management of this diversity. In the situation of climate change and depletion of natural resources, the challenges are more to feed growing population, so efforts are required for exploring the unexplored areas for collection of horticultural biodiversity for conservation and utilization for the benefit of mankind.