Scientific interventions for sustainable mountain development: A case study with Polygonatum verticillatum Linn.
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Polygonatum verticillatum Linn. is a well-documented rejuvenating herb, and presently reported as endangered. Under a scientific strategy for sustainable use to serve as exemplary, a gene bank of 150 accessions assembled from Western Himalayas (2200 to 3600 m amsl), without causing genetic erosion, was established at Forest Research Institute High Altitude Herbal Garden, Chakarata, Uttarakhand at 2600 m amsl. The accessions were analysed for morphological traits, growth parameters and phytochemical profiles to screen promising genotypes. The diversity studies based on morphological and chemical markers revealed a high level of diversity among the sampled populations. Phytochemical analysis discovered varying quantities of flavonoids, saponins, quinones, phenols, cardiac glycosides, terpenoids, steroids and fatty acids amongst the genotypes. The GC-MS profiling divulged γ-sitosterol (antidiabetic), diosgenin (progesterone precursor, neurological disorder), stigmasterol, β-sitosterol (Covid-19) and ethyl and methyl linoleate. Significant correlations were obtained among morphological parameters. However, none of the morphological traits could be significantly correlated with presence or amount of any biochemical obtained in the phytochemical analysis. The field expedition exposed serious illegal trading of this herb through local community in pretext of providing employment but with irrationally low wages leading to rampant exploitation. The psychotherapy depicted lack of proper knowledge in local communities as well as absence of proper value chains and policies for sustainable use of forest resources. Indian mountains and forests are treasure house to livelihood, yet unemployment forces migration of locals, which further enhanced under Covid-19 Pandemic. Availability of authentic source of bio- diverse and genetically promising stocks can play a complementary role in encouraging locals towards farming of medicinal plants, thereby achieving greater sustainability.
Keywords: Biodiversity conservation, Genetic resources, Illegal trade, Innovation, Deforestation and forest degradation.
ID: 3486301