Meghalaya launches key afforestation and seed supply chain initiatives

Agartala: The Forest and Environment Department of Meghalaya recently organized a pivotal workshop on September 25, focusing on two major initiatives: the "Development of Schedule of Rates for Afforestation Works in Meghalaya" and the "Establishment of a Supply Chain to Ensure Assured Supply of Seeds and Other Plant Propagules of Superior Genetic Makeup." 

The workshop, conceptualized and led by H.C. Chaudhary, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Working Plan, Research & Training, and District Council Affairs, aimed to enhance the department's capacity to restore barren and degraded forest areas across the state in a cost-effective and scientifically sound manner.
An official from the Meghalaya Forest Department, who wished to remain anonymous, emphasized that the first project seeks to develop site-specific models tailored to afforestation and restoration efforts. It will include scientific models to reclaim abandoned mines and other challenging sites, ensuring that restoration is both efficient and sustainable.

“The project also aims to standardize and document various nursery and plantation operations through a detailed method study, assessing the manpower, materials, and services required. The institutional use of modern tools, equipment, and machinery will be another key component of the project, ensuring the seamless execution of afforestation activities”, said the official.
He informed that the second initiative seeks to establish an end-to-end supply chain, ensuring the availability of seeds and other plant propagules of superior genetic quality.

“Initially, the project will focus on 50 commercially significant tree species, with plans to establish 500 hectares of in-situ seed sources and 60 hectares of ex-situ sources for these prioritized species. A medium-term seed storage facility, with a capacity to store 10 to 15 tonnes of seeds for up to 10 years, will be set up in Upper Shillong. This project also includes the identification and preservation of old growth or heritage trees throughout the state”, he said.

The official further elaborated that seeds from as many seed-bearing wild plant species as possible will be collected and deposited with the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), a premier institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Half of the seeds stored at the NBPGR’s long-term storage unit—kept at minus 20 degrees Celsius and 5% relative humidity—will be available to the Forest Department for restocking and reintroducing wild populations if needed. This seed preservation effort will act as an insurance policy against the potential extinction of native tree species in Meghalaya.
The workshop saw participation from senior officers of the Forest and Environment, Agriculture, Horticulture, and Soil and Water Conservation departments of Meghalaya, along with forest officials from Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. Representatives from the Rain Forest Research Institute, Jorhat; Assam Agriculture University; North Eastern Hill University; and NBPGR were also in attendance.