Inventorying Plant Genetic Resources of Religious Importance and their In Situ Conservation: A Case Study of Farming Communities of Kumaon Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

Plant genetic resources (PGR) are considered to be the integral part of human life to provide food, medicine and
industrial raw materials. They also offer immense potential and untapped benefits for future generations. The pattern
of resource utilization link human beings firmly with the culture, beliefs and religion, which they have adopted
socially since long past and in return knowingly or unknowingly played an important role in their conservation.
In this way, the culture and religion, which are most important part of human life remain in harmony and in return,
help in conservation of surrounding plant diversity for its sustainable utilization. In the present communication,
an attempt has been made to study the role of folk culture, ceremonies and rituals performed by hill communities
in PGR conservation. Therefore, an integration of traditional culture with modern scientific developments by adding
value would help in effective conservation of plant diversity in the area of study. Information on the use of plant
genetic resources for religious purposes have been collected and the role of religious ceremonies in conservation
of PGR have been discussed.