ICRISAT emphasizes its pivotal role in conserving agrobiodiversity for global food security

New Delhi: On the eve of UN International Day for Biological Diversity, The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) has spotlighted its pivotal role in conserving agrobiodiversity for global food security.

The institution’s Genebank, in collaboration with CGIAR, Crop Trust, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ), stands as a guardian of agricultural diversity, preserving valuable genetic resources crucial for breeding resilient and nutritious crops.

Agrobiodiversity is the bedrock of ICRISAT’s initiatives, particularly in “Breeding for Better Varieties,” with its Genebank safeguarding three dryland legumes—chickpea, pigeonpea, and groundnut—and eight cereals, including pearl millet, sorghum, and finger millet. These resources are shared globally, supporting research and addressing agricultural challenges.

ICRISAT’s efforts extend to developing climate-smart and nutrient-dense crops. Pearl millet, critical for drought-prone regions, is conserved with over 25,000 germplasms from 51 countries. Chickpea accession ICC 4958 remains pivotal for drought tolerance, aiding the release of cultivars like PUSA chickpea 10216. 

Moreover, the institution focuses on combating malnutrition, with varieties like Dhanshakti and Parbhani Shakti addressing iron and zinc deficiencies. Recent studies identified nutrient-rich accessions in little millet and kodo millet, offering potential solutions to nutritional challenges.

In the fight against pests and diseases, ICRISAT’s Genebank plays a crucial role. The wilt-resistant pearl millet variety, ‘Iniadi,’ and the groundnut variety, Arachis cardenasii, exemplify the value of landraces in breeding resilient crops. Varieties like ‘Maruti’ pigeonpea and late-leaf spot-resistant groundnuts highlight the enduring value of conserved agrobiodiversity.

ICRISAT’s impact extends beyond conservation, with over 55,399 accessions repatriated to 11 countries and 1.65 million seed samples distributed globally. These efforts support national initiatives like India’s Millets Mission and international programs promoting millet cultivation.

As a beacon of agricultural innovation, ICRISAT’s Genebank ensures the recovery and redistribution of lost genetic resources, bolstering agricultural research worldwide. Over the years, it has repatriated thousands of accessions to countries facing crises, fostering millet cultivation, and supporting national agricultural missions.