National Biodiversity Authority grants heritage status to Sonitpur site under a conservation project aimed at preserving wild rice and supporting climate-resilient agriculture
Guwahati: Borjuli in Assam’s Sonitpur district has been officially notified as a Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), marking a major milestone in the state’s efforts to conserve its rich natural and agricultural heritage.
The recognition has been granted under the National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA)-funded project, In-situ Conservation and Management of Wild Rice (Oryza rufipogon) in Sonitpur District of Assam. The initiative aims to conserve wild rice in its natural habitat, ensuring the long-term preservation of its genetic diversity.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the conservation project has been under implementation since 2022. It is being executed by the ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), New Delhi, in collaboration with the Assam State Biodiversity Board.
Wild rice (Oryza rufipogon) is regarded as an invaluable genetic resource for developing crop varieties that are more resilient to climate change, pests and diseases. Conserving the species in its native ecosystem is expected to support future agricultural research, crop improvement and food security.
The declaration of Borjuli as a Biodiversity Heritage Site is expected to strengthen biodiversity conservation in Assam while promoting sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture. It also underscores the growing commitment of government agencies and research institutions to protect indigenous plant species and ecologically significant landscapes for future generations.
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