Genetic Resources of Vegetable Crops: Indian Perspective

Abstract

The potential of vegetable genetic resource (VGR) is tremendous, enabling us to meet with future challenges such as food and nutritional security. This is achievable through identification, collection, conservation, documentation and utilization of these VGRs. The development and adoption of improved varieties has led to replacement of innumerable landraces and local crop cultivars of different agri-horticultural crops in general and vegetables in particular. Harmonization of activities relating to plant genetic resource management at the global and national level has improved the scope of VGR utilization. Precise documentation on the strength of vegetable genetic resources of a region is a must for agri-biodiversity assessment. India is rich in vegetable genetic resource diversity of indigenous and exotic origin. The information on VGR of Indian region can be made available through passport data, conservation data, catalogues on characterization/evaluation and information on local use of vegetables to further strengthen these activities. In this chapter the vegetable genetic resources particularly the important cultivated species from the Indian region along with regionally important crops, less-known types, potential species and wild relatives were discussed in light of efforts made at national level. Future targets are highlighted on the basis of gap areas identified in VGR management.