Logistics planning for plant genetic resources collecting from Nicobar Islands of India

The Nicobar group of Islands forming a part of Sundaland biodiversity hotspot were explored for plant genetic resources during three consecutive years, 2017, 2018 and 2019. Out of the total 22 Islands in Nicobar district 12 are inhabited. Considering the remoteness, communication and transport problems, hurdles in getting clearance from forest and tribal welfare departments, impenetrable forest, unpredictable sea voyage conditions, unavailability of camping sites, scare of dangerous reptiles and many such issues, these explorations were really challenging. Also, equally rewarding as over 370 germplasm collections belonging to 180 species of mostly crop wild relatives including several endemics (not available in the genebanks in mainland) could be collected and conserved in the Long Term Storage/established in the Field Gene Banks. The planning and implementation of exploration missions to Nicobar was an entirely different experience for us than that followed in mainland. Hence, various aspects of logistics while undertaking an exploration in Nicobar Islands is dealt in detail in this narrative in order to serve as a guide to future explorers. Based on observations and experience gained during these trips spanning over 48 working days, future strategies for conservation and utilization are also briefly outlined.