Peninsular India, encompassing the Western and Eastern Ghats, the Deccan Plateau, coastal ecosystems, and associated island systems, represents one of the richest repositories of plant genetic diversity in the tropics. Among these, the Western Ghats recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots alone harbor over 4,600 vascular plant species, many endemic.
The region possesses immense agricultural and horticultural wealth including spices, plantation crops, medicinal and aromatic plants, fruits, vegetables, tuber crops, millets, pulses, oilseeds, and indigenous wild relatives. These resources are increasingly threatened by habitat degradation, climate change, urbanization, overexploitation, and erosion of traditional knowledge systems.
Despite immense potential, gaps remain in systematic exploration, genetic characterization, digitization of germplasm data, genomic interventions, community-based conservation models, and policy harmonization. There is an urgent need to strengthen scientific collaborations, integrate indigenous knowledge systems with modern technologies, and develop strategies for sustainable utilization of these invaluable bioresources.
NSPPI 2026 aims to provide a multidisciplinary platform for researchers, academicians, students, policy makers, industry stakeholders, and farming communities to deliberate on emerging issues, innovative technologies, biodiversity conservation strategies, and sustainable livelihood opportunities linked to Plant Genetic Resources.
The symposium strongly aligns with national priorities on biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, nutritional security, and bioeconomy development.
Accommodation
A wide range of budget and luxury accommodation options are available in Bengaluru and nearby areas close to the symposium venue. Current room tariffs range from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 per day for single or double occupancy. Guest house accommodation is also available in the vicinity of the venue.
Contact: Dr. Sandeep Kumar G.M., 91 9632873499 and see the link https://nsppi.in/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NSPPI_2026_Accommodation_List_Formatted.pdf
For requesting Accommodation please fill Google Form link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScl0dSHUXMOhiFKseexOwRrWJSHYBs-Hs71O8Tb70XkDlQiBQ/viewform
Roadmap and Weather
ICAR-IIHR Bengaluru is situated on Hesaraghatta Road at Ivarakandapura, approximately 24 km north of Bengaluru City.
Connectivity
- Approximately 30–45 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport
- Well connected by road and public transport
- Nearby railway stations and bus terminals available
Weather During Symposium
Bengaluru experiences pleasant weather during September with temperatures ranging from approximately 20°C to 29°C. Occasional rainfall is common.
See https://www.accuweather.com/en/in/ivar-kandapura/2862322/september-weather/2862322?year=2026
Official Language
The official language of the symposium will be English for all communications and presentations.
IMPORTANT DATES
| Activity | Date |
| Call for Abstracts | May 4, 2026 |
| Registration Opens | May 15, 2026 |
| Last Date for Submission of Abstracts/Papers | August 7, 2026 |
| Last Date for Registration | August 31, 2026 |