Activists demand biodiversity heritage site tag for ‘Appemidi’ growing areas in Karnataka

Bengaluru: Environment activists from the Western Ghats have written to the chairman of the Karnataka Biodiversity Board requesting that the areas growing Appemidi mango varieties be declared a biodiversity heritage site.

The proposal by Anant Hegde Ashisara, former chairman of the Board, and Balachandra Hegde Sayimane, member of the Western Ghats Task Force, said Appemidi has a unique genetic diversity with over 100 recognised varieties tied to cultural and ecological heritage.

The 100 metre zone on either side of the Aghanashini river from the Sarakuli village bordering Sirsi and Siddapur taluks until the river reaches Unchali Falls has been proposed as a heritage site.

‘Genetic uniqueness’

The proposal cited a 2013 study by the Indian Institute of
Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, identifying 33 distinct accessions conserved in gene banks.

“Scientific studies have documented the genetic uniqueness of these varieties. Such diversity is not only a
genetic reservoir but also a living heritage of the Western Ghats, reflecting the intimate relationship between people and their landscapes,” the proposal said.

Despite the importance, the Appemidi mangoes face threats due to encroachment, commercial monoculture and land use change.

In addition, climate variability has begun to affect the flowering and fruiting cycles.

Apart from the legal protection through formal declaration of the heritage site, they sought community stewardship, documentation, awareness and outreach as among measures that will help conserve the varieties.

The proposal also suggested research and monitoring studies by universities and institutes under the Indian Council Agriculture Research.