Importance and prospects of indigenous horticultural plants and their significance in nutritional and food security in Nepal

• In Nepal, about 200 plant species are consumed as vegetables.
• Indigenous horticultural crops in Nepal are widely utilized in rural community as food and have also important role in biodiversity conservation.
• Indigenous horticultural crops are considered valuable because of their ability to fit into year-round production, adaptability to adverse condition and their nutritional value.
• But, only a very few indigenous horticultural crops are still cultivated at field scale. Most of them are neglected and, many landraces of horticultural crops are in the process of being replaced by modern varieties.
• Along with this, the indigenous knowledge associated with the cultivation, utilization, and conservation of indigenous crops is also endangered.
• But, there has been very limited information available about the identification, occurrence, collection, and utilization of indigenous horticultural crops in Nepal.
• In this scenario, promotion, conservation, utilization and commercialization of indigenous horticultural crops can be a better alternative towards improving the food security and nutritional status of the community, particularly those people residing in remote areas and in the hills.

Why promote indigenous crops?

• Food and nutrition security
• Contribute to micronutrient intake and sustainable diets
• Enhanced climate resilience and adaptation
• Improved livelihoods
• Sustainable use of local resources
• Conservation of biodiversity
• Export potential