Important Crop Germplasm Introduced in Field Crops in India during 2009

Germplasm Exchange Unit of NBPGR is constantly working towards introduction of promising trait specific germplasm having tolerance/resistance to various biotic and abiotic stresses. India has been benefi ted tremendously by importing germplasm and varieties and new crops in various field crops from other countries, which have improved productivity and lead to diversification of crop species. Exchange of plant genetic resources (PGR) offers enormous opportunity for addressing these issues and there is continuous need of genetic resources for developing varieties resistant to various pests and diseases and to improve quality, quantity and other value addition traits. During 2009, the Bureau introduced 28,225 accessions in field crops from 43 countries which included trait-specific germplasm in crops namely wheat, barley, rice, maize, soybean, lentil and cotton.