Introduction of Heeng Germplasm by NBPGR Leads to its Successful Cultivation in India

Abstract

ICAR-NBPGR facilitated the introduction of heeng (Ferula assa-foetida L.) from Iran in 2018 following stringent pest risk analysis. By the end of 2020, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur has successfully established 800 saplings in the cold desert region of Lahaul valley. Successful cultivation of heeng is expected to save crores of rupees in foreign exchange as well as increase the income of small and marginal farmers of Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Heeng introduction is an example of cooperation between CSIR and ICAR institutes.