The Abu Saunf Community Gene Bank is a pioneering initiative based in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, India. It represents a groundbreaking effort to conserve and enhance fennel biodiversity by bringing together traditional farming knowledge with modern agricultural science.

Key Aspects

• Community-Led Conservation:
  Established on the farm of progressive fennel farmer Ishaq Ali in Kachholi village, the gene bank serves as a local repository for fennel germplasm. It emphasizes the importance of community participation in safeguarding genetic resources and ensuring in-situ conservation of local varieties.
  

• Biodiversity and Seed Preservation:
  Housing over 100 unique accessions of fennel collected from major growing regions across India, the gene bank focuses on preserving both traditional and farmer-developed cultivars. These varieties are well-adapted to local agro-climatic conditions and hold significant cultural, ecological, and economic value.
  

• Innovation and Farmer Empowerment:
  Beyond conservation, the gene bank plays a vital role in the research and development of improved seed varieties. One notable example is the “Abu Saunf-440” variety, which is under the process of registration as a farmer variety. This initiative not only enhances productivity but also empowers local farmers by bridging traditional practices with modern agricultural technology.
  

• Collaborative Efforts:
  The project is implemented under the BiotechKisan program and enjoys the support of the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. It is a joint effort involving the South Asia Biotechnology Centre (SABC) and the ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI). This collaboration ensures that cutting-edge scientific techniques complement traditional farming wisdom for sustainable agriculture.
  

Significance

The Abu Saunf Community Gene Bank stands as a model for how localized conservation efforts can contribute to broader biodiversity goals. It not only protects the genetic diversity of fennel—a spice with considerable nutritional and medicinal benefits—but also fosters a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that can adapt to changing climatic conditions. The initiative illustrates how innovative agricultural practices can be scaled through community involvement, ensuring that valuable genetic resources are preserved for future generations.

In essence, the gene bank is more than just a repository; it is a vibrant ecosystem that supports research, innovation, and the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, ultimately contributing to a resilient and sustainable food system.

Would you like more details on any specific aspect of the gene bank, please use search box below