1. We resolved to persuade and procure genetically superior, quality seeds of certain indigenous rare species from various sources including certain Forestry Research Institutes, Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZARI), Arid Forestry Research Institute (AFRI), Central Institute of Arid Horticulture (CIAH) and do germination trials. However, we experienced various difficulties and resolved further to procure seeds from other sources.
2. Procurement of viable fresh seeds of endangered tree species is very challenging. It involves high costs and heavy risks. It is most unfortunate that the seeds of many endangered tree species are over-exploited by certain industries engaged in the production of cosmetics and ayurvedic drugs. Such rare seeds are not available from the crops raised by someone. They are found in the open, mostly in forest areas. The aims of said commercial industries are to make money as early as possible from various parts of the plants, mostly endangered. They procure seeds of such endangered species through a chain of suppliers who have, through proper middle traders, access to the trees of such endangered species. Local communities collect the seeds and sell them to such collectors to earn money. There is no control over this. With the increase in demand for cosmetic and ayurvedic products, the pressure of such over-exploitation on endangered tree species is increasing day by day. Time is not far away when it will not be possible to find a viable genetic resource of such endangered species in nature, and we will lose them forever. It is, therefore, most urgent and important to do concrete work now.
3. We have developed a good network with the local communities through resource persons for the conservation of such endangered species and supplying us the mature seeds at the cost of their demand. We have been educating the seeds suppliers to focus on the conservation of biodiversity and rare plant species, keep educating their suppliers, procure viable seeds at the right time and supply to us. We are getting encouraging results.
