Unique germplasm of vegetable crops in India

Abstract

Due to increasing global economic interdependence and trade in agricultural products and international conventions and treaties, it is desired to value and record the available diversity in crops of a region. Vegetables are an important part of the diet of millions of people around the world, more particularly in the tropics. Vegetables have quick plant growth to produce maximum quantity of food for the area planted and fetch more income in short time as compared to other food commodities. They provide variety and flavours to the diet, making meals more palatable and appetizing. The food value of vegetables, especially leafy types and fruits is low because of large amount of water, low fat and calories but they are rich sources of vitamins, minerals and fibre.