Ranjan bats for Citrus Park
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 16 2021:
MP Dr RK Ranjan has urged the Centre to set up a Citrus Park under the aegis of the Central Agricultural University, Imphal.
On the floor of the Lok Sabha yesterday, Dr Ranjan said that the North-East region of India is the 'citrus depository' of the country and as many as 17 citrus species originate from the region.
The soil and climatic conditions along with physio-graphic landscape of the region is highly suitable for faster growth (of the citrus plants) and fruit quality.
Despite favorable genetic diversity and immense potential to raise quality fruits, there is not enough efforts taken up for production, conservation and commercialization of these fruits.
It is high time for the scientific community, planners and policy makers to think seriously for conservation and commercialization of citrus fruits of the North-East region, he said.
Urging the Centre to establish the citrus park under the aegis of CAU, Imphal with Central funding, he said such a park would facilitate scientific intervention for conservation, promotion and commercialisation of the exotic citrus fruits.
Molecular and morphological characterization of the reported germplasm evaluation and screening against biotic and abiotic stresses should be undertaken to conserve and improve the existing plants.
In the absence of these facilities, "our citrus genotypes are on the brink of extinction", he added.