(By Aryavart International University, India)
Dr. Preeti Kumari
Vol. 5, Jan-Jun 2018
Abstract:
One of the most important centers for agricultural plant biodiversity is in India. Since ancient times, a significant number of crop plants have been domesticated, and an even greater number have been introduced from other parts of the world. The sculptural depictions, archaeobotanical remains, and references to them in Sanskrit literature provide unambiguous proof that 65 crop species were introduced prior to the 8th century. It includes crops from Southeast Asia, the Americas, Africa, the Near East, Central Asia, and China. The geological and geographical fragmentation of the continental landmass, followed by drift, raises the possibility of introduction or occurrence; normal or man-made overseas development, and exchange and social trade. The new evidence dispels inaccurate notions regarding the date of the introduction of numerous crops like maize, sunflower, cashew, and others.