CUO Launches Indigenous Crop Germplasm Conservation Plot

Koraput, Nov 13: In a significant step toward preserving traditional agricultural biodiversity, the Central University of Odisha inaugurated an Indigenous Crop Germplasm plot at its City Campus in Landiguda, Koraput on Wednesday.

Prof. Chakradhar Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor, led the inauguration, alongside were Prof. Vibhash Chandra Jha, Advisor-Administration & Academics; Prof. Sharat Kumar Palita, Dean, School of Biodiversity & Conservation of Natural Resources; Prof. Jatin Soni, former Vice-Chancellor, Swarnim Gujarat Sports University; Madhumoy Nath, All India Joint Organising Secretary, Kreeda Bharati and Dr. Debabrata Panda, the Principal Investigator of the Project, who take initiative for this Germplasm conservation plot.

The germplasm plot is dedicated to conserving 104 varieties of indigenous rice, 87 types of finger millet, 30 varieties of local niger, 15 varieties of little millet, five varieties of foxtail millet, 15 types of maize, and eight species of wild yam. These crops, integral to India’s agrarian heritage, will be studied for conservation and potential reintroduction to mainstream agriculture.

This Germplasm plot is developed and maintained by Dr. Debabrata Panda, Asst. Professor of the BCNR.

At the inauguration, Prof. Tripathi highlighted the urgent need to revive traditional crops, which are being overshadowed by modern, non-native varieties. “Our traditional farming practices are intertwined with our cultural heritage. Preserving these crops is essential not only for food security but for promoting health and sustainability,” he stated, expressing hope that the university would emerge as a leading institution in this field.
Prof. Palita underscored the importance of bridging scientific research and practical application through a “lab-to-land” approach. Meanwhile, Shri Madhumoy emphasized the role of traditional crops in supporting environmental sustainability. Prof. Jha also emphasised on the use of modern technology in the traditional farming.