A new vault for green gold: PAU opens state-of-the-art gene bank

A new vault for green gold: PAU opens state-of-the-art gene bank

Ludhiana: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has operationalised a new gene bank to preserve six decades of crop improvement research and safeguard valuable genetic resources. Located at the Dr Gurdev Singh Khush Institute of Genetics, Plant Breeding and Biotechnology, the facility will initially conserve genetic material representing nearly 900 crop species, varieties, breeding lines, genetic stocks, and germplasm.

PAU vice-chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal described the gene bank as a crucial asset for future breeding programmes. “We have developed nearly 990 crop varieties over the past 60 years. This genetic material is like a gold mine for future agricultural research and breeding programmes,” he said.

Traditionally, scientists had to periodically replant older seed varieties in fields to maintain their germination capacity — a process that is labour-intensive and risks varietal mixing, diseases, and weather damage.

The new facility eliminates these issues by storing seeds under controlled conditions at 3 to 4 degrees Celsius year-round, extending seed viability to 10–15 years without requiring frequent field regeneration.

The facility took one-and-a-half years to build and underwent several months of rigorous testing before its launch. Researchers from various departments, including plant breeding and horticulture, have started depositing their genetic collections.

Director of research Dr A S Dhatt said, “The gene bank will enable long-term conservation of valuable seed material under controlled conditions, substantially reducing the need for frequent regeneration in the field.” He added that it will guarantee authentic genetic stocks for future research.

Institute director Dr Satinder Kaur emphasised that conserving older varieties is essential for utilising traits needed to tackle future agricultural challenges.

University officials noted that while a similar facility exists at the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources in Delhi, this dedicated local bank gives PAU ample independent space to maintain its massive, state-specific germplasm for future generations of researchers and farmers.