Sun Feb 09 06:53:41 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu to Establish Cryogenic Seed Vault for Endangered Plant Species
**Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu – February 9, 2025** – The Tamil Nadu state government has approved the creation of a cryogenic seed vault at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) in Coimbatore to preserve endangered plant species. The ₹10.5 lakh project aims to combat the loss of forest genetic diversity due to human activities and climate change.
The vault will utilize cryopreservation techniques to store seeds, buds, and other plant materials from approximately 140 species listed on the IUCN Red List, with a focus on 50 endangered grass species and 25 orchid species. The facility will also support research into seed viability and plant rejuvenation.
A ten-year plan has been proposed, with an initial investment of ₹10.5 lakh for the first year and ₹50,000 annually for the subsequent nine years. The project, initiated by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and approved by Principal Secretary P. Senthil Kumar, represents a significant step towards safeguarding Tamil Nadu’s biodiversity.
First Piper 