Role of seri biodiversity in achieving sustainable development at global level: A review Bhat Aina* College of Temperate Sericulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences-and Technology of Kashmir, Srinagar - 190 025, Jammu and Kashmir, India *e-mail: ainabhat886@gmail.com
Online published on 2 April, 2024. Abstract The diversity of sericigenous insects and the plants that support them is referred to as seri-biodiversity, and it is a crucial component of biodiversity both ecologically and commercially. India is the richest centre of Seri-biodiversity in the world hosting all the 5 types of economically important natural silks along with their wild relatives. To sustain and meet the future demands of this agro-based activity it should efficiently be backed up by directional improvement and conservation of mulberry and silkworm. Seri - biodiversity is necessary to sustain and improve production in sericulture, to keep open future options, as a buffer against harmful environmental change, as the raw material for much scientific and industrial innovation. In J&K, College of Temperate Sericultutre (SKUAST-K) is maintaining about 151 genotypes of Bivoltine silkworm breeds of diverse geographical origin & some are also maintained by other universities/institutions including SKUAST-J. College of Temperate Sericulture’s Mulberry Germplasm Bank is maintaning 62 Accessions, 10 Indigenous, 35 Exotic, 17 Selections. Mulberry contributes to sustainable development by many ways. It is estimated that Sericulture can generate employment @ 11-man days per kg of raw silk production (in on-farm and off-farm activities) throughout the year. This potential is par-excellence and no other industry generates this kind of employment, especially in rural areas. By adopting the package of practices, a farmer can attain net income levels up to Rs.30000 per acre per annum. The scientifically maintained, characterized and evaluated germplasm is of utmost importance to have specific breeding plans for upgrading the productivity and production stability. To improve silk output and generate superior yielding breeds, there is an urgent need to increase the use of Seri biodiversity, both commercially and experimentally. Seri biodiversity protection and sustainable use assist to long-term development. Long-term sustainable development demands broad engagement of diverse stakeholders in policy formulation, decision-making, and implementation at all levels, especially when it comes to concerns of biological diversity, and this must be promoted. Top Keywords Germplasm, Mulberry, Seri biodiversity, Silkworm, Sustainable. Top |