Borjuli in Assam’s Sonitpur district has been declared a Biodiversity Heritage Site by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) in recognition of its rich genetic diversity of wild rice (Oryza rufipogon), marking a significant step towards strengthening in-situ conservation and promoting climate-resilient agriculture.
The designation has been made under an NRAA-funded project that has been implemented since 2022 by the ICAR–National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR), New Delhi, in collaboration with the Assam State Biodiversity Board.
Officials said the recognition highlights the ecological and scientific importance of Borjuli’s wild rice resources, which are considered vital for safeguarding agrobiodiversity and supporting future food security.
National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA) Chief Executive Officer Chandra Shekhar Kumar described wild rice as an invaluable genetic resource with the potential to develop climate-resilient, high-yielding and nutritionally superior rice varieties. He also called for similar conservation initiatives to be adopted in other parts of the country to protect biodiversity and strengthen sustainable agriculture systems.
The declaration is expected to enhance conservation efforts in the region while encouraging research and development aimed at utilising wild rice diversity for agricultural improvement in the face of changing climate conditions.
