Farmers’ Technology Discussion: Discussion on conserving neglected crops

The 100th session of Farmers’ Technology Discussion was held on February 7, focusing on the conservation of genetic resources of neglected plant species and the role of home gardens in agricultural development.

Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation Dr Tin Htut said Myanmar’s rich plant genetic diversity offers strong potential for developing high-value crops, including those suitable for export. He stressed that underutilized crops should be conserved and cultivated through home gardens before they disappear, noting that such systems can serve as a starting point for organic production, value-added processing, and small and medium enterprise development.

Experts from Yezin Agricultural University highlighted the decline in crop genetic diversity, the ecological and economic value of neglected species, and practical approaches farmers can adopt to strengthen biodiversity through home garden systems.