India’s Second National GenBank: Budget 2025-26 Plan
Why in the news
Budget 2025-26 promised a second national gene bank, seen as a boost to food security and the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
About a gene bank
A facility storing seeds, pollen and tissue samples to save plant species from extinction.
Key facts
| Point | First | Second |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | 1996 | Budget 2025-26 |
| Holdings | 0.47 million accessions: cereals, millets, legumes, oilseeds, vegetables | Capacity of 1 million lines |
Significance
- Protects crop diversity and aids public and private genetic resource management.
- Can support SAARC and BRICS countries lacking gene banks.
- Guards germplasm against climate, disaster and geopolitical threats.
Exam angle
- Host of first gene bank: ICAR-NBPGR.