Introduction

Agriculture Botany Division (located in Khumaltar, 1368 m, 27o 40’ N, 85o 20’E) is a leading central division of Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) for the development of improved varieties suitable for various agro-climatic conditions and cropping systems. It started its operation in 1966 under Department of Agricultural Education and Research. The main functions of the division are to conduct adaptive research using conventional plant breeding and modern biotechnological techniques in the crop improvement, preserve plant genetic resources and undertake research activities associated with use and production of quality seed for increased agriculture production. The significance of the plant breeding techniques has been realized since the inception of the division. Breeding activities have been undertaken in nationally important cereal crops to improve their productivity. As a result, several improved varieties of rice, wheat and maize have been released for general cultivation in the hills. The division is also involved in seed planning, quality control and variety release in association with National Seed Board (NSB), Seed Quality Control Centre (SQCC), Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives (MoAC) and other seed stakeholders.

Objectives

• To collect, characterize, evaluate and conserve landraces of various crop species and utilize in crop improvement.
• To develop improved varieties adapted to hill environments through plant breeding and modern biotechnological techniques in collaboration with National Commodity Programs.
• To produce and maintain breeder seed of released varieties for further seed multiplication.
• To carry out studies on various problems associated with seed quality and develop appropriate technologies for seed production, harvesting, post harvest technology and quality testing.
• To assess nutritional status of various crop genotypes in order to support the Commodity Programs with information related to quality aspects.