Context: 

Recently, the Indian Prime Minister announced that a Gene Bank will be established to conserve India’s genetic resources.

About Second Gene Bank

It aims to ensure Genetic Resources and Food Security for future generations.

The Ministry of Finance has announced the creation of a second National GenBank in the 2025-26 budget to safeguard India’s agriculture biodiversity.

It will house 1 million (10 lakh) Germplasm lines, providing critical support for genetic resource management in both the public and private sectors.

• Germplasms refer to the genetic materials of plants and animals used for research, conservation, and crop breeding.

To preserve genetic resources critical for agricultural sustainability and food security. 

It aligns with India’s long term vision of becoming a  Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.

Importance of the Second GenBank

• Enhancing Global Leadership in Biodiversity Conservation: It will enhance India’s position as a leader in global biodiversity conservation.
• Supporting International Initiatives: It will not only safeguard India’s invaluable plant genetic resources but also support international initiatives, particularly for countries in the SAARC and BRICS regions, where there is a lack of well-established PGR networks.
• Addressing Global Challenges: The gene bank is crucial in addressing challenges posed by climate change, natural disasters, and geopolitical issues that threaten genetic diversity globally.
• Ensuring Long-term Sustainability and Food Security: This will ensure the long-term sustainability of genetic diversity and contribute to global food security.
• Commitment to Agricultural Biodiversity and Sustainable Farming: It undersores India’s dedication to preserving agricultural biodiversity, securing food futures, and promoting sustainable farming systems, both domestically and internationally.

India’s First Gene Bank

India’s first Gene Bank was set up in 1996 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR) in New Delhi. 

The facility consists of 12 regional stations across the country for the collection and storage of essential crop germplasms.

Current Status of India’s Gene Bank: As of January 15, 2025, the Gene Bank houses 0.47 million accessions (stored plant material used for breeding), which include:

• Cereals: 0.17 million accessions
• Millets: 60,600 accessions
• Legumes: 69,200 accessions
• Oilseeds: 63,500 accessions
• Vegetables: 30,000 accessions

It conserves over 4.7 lakh accessions and contributes to global efforts in PGR conservation through partnerships with researchers and breeders.