Gene Bank for Crops Germplasm – A second gene bank to store 10 lakh plant varieties for food security.
In an era of unpredictable climate change and rising global food demands, conserving plant biodiversity is more critical than ever. Gene banks play a vital role in safeguarding genetic resources to ensure future food security. India has taken a significant step forward by planning a second gene bank to store 10 lakh plant varieties, reinforcing its commitment to agricultural sustainability and resilience.
What is a Gene Bank?
Definition and Purpose
A gene bank is a facility that collects, stores, and preserves plant genetic resources to protect biodiversity and ensure the availability of diverse crop varieties for future generations. These stored genetic materials help in breeding programs and developing resilient crops.
Types of Gene Banks
Gene banks can be categorized into:
- Seed Banks: Store seeds in controlled environments.
- Field Gene Banks: Preserve live plants in agricultural fields.
- Cryopreservation Banks: Store tissues at ultra-low temperatures.
- DNA Banks: Maintain genetic materials like DNA sequences.
Importance of Crop Germplasm Conservation
Ensuring Food Security
Gene banks act as a backup against natural calamities, pests, and diseases that could wipe out crops, ensuring a steady supply of food crops for the future.
Preserving Biodiversity
By maintaining diverse plant species, gene banks prevent the loss of rare and indigenous crops that might otherwise become extinct due to urbanization and deforestation.
Mitigating Climate Change Effects
With climate change affecting crop yields, gene banks help develop drought-resistant, pest-resistant, and high-yield varieties to sustain agriculture.
Existing Gene Banks Around the World
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault
Located in Norway, this facility is often called the “Doomsday Vault” and serves as the world’s largest seed storage repository.
India’s First Gene Bank
Managed by the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), India’s first gene bank stores critical crop germplasm to support agricultural research and development.
India’s Second Gene Bank – A New Initiative
Objectives of the New Gene Bank
- Expand the conservation capacity to 10 lakh plant varieties.
- Strengthen India’s preparedness against future agricultural challenges.
- Support scientific research in crop breeding and improvement.
Storage Capacity and Infrastructure
The new gene bank will be equipped with advanced cryopreservation technology, high-security storage facilities, and an efficient database management system to track genetic materials.
How Does a Gene Bank Function?
Collection and Preservation Process
Seeds and plant materials are collected from farmers, research institutions, and wild varieties. These materials undergo viability testing before being stored in gene banks.
Long-Term Storage Techniques
Seeds are dried and stored at -18°C or lower. Cryopreservation involves freezing plant tissues in liquid nitrogen to maintain their genetic integrity for decades.
The Role of Gene Banks in Sustainable Agriculture
Supporting Farmers and Scientists
By providing access to diverse crop varieties, gene banks aid in developing improved seeds that enhance agricultural productivity.
Development of Climate-Resilient Crops
With climate change causing unpredictable weather patterns, gene banks contribute to creating heat-tolerant and drought-resistant crop varieties. Gene Bank for Crops Germplasm – A second gene bank to store 10 lakh plant varieties for food security.
Challenges in Gene Banking
Funding and Infrastructure
Maintaining a gene bank requires significant financial investment and advanced facilities to ensure proper storage and management.
Climate and Natural Disasters
Extreme weather conditions, power failures, and natural disasters pose risks to stored genetic materials.
Political and Ethical Concerns
Ownership and access to genetic resources raise ethical and political debates, especially regarding patent rights and bio-piracy.
Future of Crop Conservation and Gene Banks
Advanced Technologies in Genetic Preservation
Cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and genetic engineering are transforming the efficiency and security of gene banks.
Global Collaborations and Policies
International partnerships and regulatory frameworks ensure that genetic resources are shared responsibly for the benefit of all.
Conclusion
The establishment of a second gene bank in India is a landmark step towards strengthening agricultural resilience and food security. By conserving a vast genetic repository of 10 lakh plant varieties, India is preparing for a sustainable agricultural future. With the right policies, funding, and scientific advancements, gene banks will continue to be a cornerstone of global food security.
FAQs
1. What is the purpose of a gene bank?
A gene bank stores and preserves plant genetic material to ensure biodiversity conservation and food security.
2. How does a gene bank help in climate change adaptation?
Gene banks provide genetic resources to develop climate-resilient crops that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
3. Where is the world’s largest gene bank located?
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway is the world’s largest and most secure gene bank.
4. Why is India establishing a second gene bank?
To expand conservation capacity and safeguard against food security challenges by preserving 10 lakh plant varieties.
5. How long can seeds be stored in a gene bank?
Seeds can remain viable for decades or even centuries, depending on the preservation techniques used. Gene Bank for Crops Germplasm – A second gene bank to store 10 lakh plant varieties for food security.
