The Central National Herbarium, Botanical survey of India organized a three-day workshop-cum hands-on training on Plant Molecular Systematics from 2nd to 4th April 2024. This workshop had 24 participants from various states across the country. The inauguration of this workshop was graced by Director Dr. A. A. Mao and senior scientists of Botanical Survey of India, Dr. S.S. Dash, Scientist F, Dr. C. Murugan, Scientist F. Dr. A. A. Mao, the esteemed Director of the Botanical Survey of India, spearheaded the discussions, emphasizing how crucial it is for the scientific community to embrace and integrate molecular techniques into traditional taxonomic practices. This workshop served not only as a platform for learning and exchange among the participants but also as a clarion call for the adoption of advanced methodologies in the study of plant taxonomy.
Dr. S. S. Dash, Scientist-F and in-charge technical section added that, Molecular taxonomy offers a more precise and reliable means of identifying and classifying plants, which is essential for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, and the exploration of new plant species. By leveraging DNA sequencing and other molecular tools, researchers can overcome some of the limitations faced by traditional taxonomy, such as morphological similarities among different species that can lead to misidentification. This approach is particularly beneficial in a country as bio-diverse as India, where the accurate identification of species is paramount for conservation efforts and sustainable use of plant resources.
Dr. C. Murugan, Scientist-F and Head of Office BSI headquaters, shared his valuable insights with the participants. Emphasizing the importance of the workshop, Dr. Murugan articulated how this event marks a significant step forward in the realm of capacity building within this specialized field.
The training had invited lectures by Dr, Ritesh Kumar Chaudhary, Scientist E, Agharkar Research Institute on APG IV system of classification and how molecular techniques are gradually improving the understanding of evolution in the angiosperm families. Dr. David L. Baite Scientist D, Eastern Regional Center, BSI- Shillong, explained the details of DNA extraction, the basic step of molecular biology. Dr. Avishek Bhattacharjee, focused on the use of molecular biology and its application in solving various taxonomic problems. Dr. Ranjith Loyola, gave all the participants a comprehensive idea on the various molecular markers. Dr. U. Senthilkumar, Asst. Prof., Madras Christian College, Chennai joined as resource person online and discussed on understanding characters evolution, biogeography and the various use and interpretation of molecular data that is generated. Ms. Priya Singh Khuswaha provided a brief overview on the phylogenetic tree in different methods.
The hands-on workshop stood out as a beacon for budding scientists and seasoned researchers alike, primarily due to its focus on the practical aspects of this fascinating field; specifically focusing on DNA extraction from plant samples, Extraction of DNA, use of various molecular markers that can be employed to study genetic variation within and between plant species; Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplification to amplify target sequences, PCR product purification and gel electrophoresis. Participants also got the knowledge of phylogenetic tree, which visually represents the evolutionary relationships among various plant species based on their DNA sequences. This comprehensive approach, from DNA extraction to the construction of a phylogenetic tree, provides invaluable insights into the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of plants, paving the way for advancements in the fields of botany, conservation, and biotechnology. Dr. Sudeshna Dutta, Dr Ranjith Loyala, Ms. Farheen Banu, and Ms. Priya Singh Kushwaha, contributed significantly to the practical aspects of the workshop.
All participants were facilitated with certificate of participation at the end of the workshop and shared their feedback. Dr. R. K. Gupta, Scientist-E, Head of Office CNH, Dr Avishek Bhattacharjee, Workshop coordinator, Dr Avinash Kumar Bharti, Scientist D, Mr. Sanjay Kumar and other organizing committee members were remained present during valedictory session.