Genomics-Driven Application of Plant Genetic Resources for Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

Genebanks preserve the valuable genetic diversity in the form of huge collections of plant genetic resources (PGR). Dr Raj S. Paroda has spearheaded the modernization of one of the world’s largest genebanks, the ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), New Delhi, India, which currently houses nearly 462,466 accessions. Dr Paroda’s notable contributions in the field of PGR management have earned him the popular name of “Genebank Guru”. As Dr Paroda turns 80 on August 28, 2022, we commemorate the occasion by synthesizing an article in line with Dr Paroda’ forward-thinking vision for PGR management and utilization. The present article highlights how modern genetic technologies have expanded our capacity to characterize and exploit the unexplored genetic diversity from genebanks. Extensive molecular and phenotypic characterisation support efficient strategies to minimize large PGR collections to workable sizes, thus allowing targeted search of plant diversity for sustainable agriculture. As the technological innovations transform genebanks into “bio-digital resource centres”, availability of detailed genotype-phenotype maps and genomic predictions for large PGR collections will guide selection and breeding decisions in crop improvement programmes. Effective preservation and use of PGR collections is imperative to impart climate change adaptation to crop production systems and safeguarding our future food supply.