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By the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI); 2011. This publication describes the historical perspective, extent of genetic diversity of major crops, the institutions involved, genebank holdings, crop improvement, utilization of genetic resources, training and capacity building and public awareness. It also highlights the regional efforts for plant genetic resources (PGR) conservation and use, the current issues and the way forward for agricultural research for development. The roots and tuber crops are of particular importance for the Pacific region, from the point of view of food and nutrition security, income generation and cultural diversity. In order to save the valuable genetic diversity from possible extinction, all countries in the region are engaged in plant genetic resources activities to varying degrees and a number of externally funded projects are being implemented on various aspects of collecting, characterization, evaluation, documentation, conservation and utilization.
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