Vikas Kumar
Sri Vijaya Puram, 17 May 2025
In a significant milestone for the conservation and utilization of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ native plant diversity, the ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI) has successfully registered the germplasm of a unique wild pepper species, locally known as choi jhaal, with the ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), New Delhi.
The species, christened woody pepper by CIARI researchers to give it an international identity, was found to be a rich source of piperine and antioxidants — compounds known for their medicinal and nutraceutical value. Traditionally under-utilised and known only to a few islanders, woody pepper has now been identified through DNA barcoding as Piper pendulispicum, a species previously reported only in Vietnam and Thailand. This marks the first recorded presence of the species in India.
The breakthrough comes as part of CIARI’s broader mission to explore the archipelago’s untapped plant wealth for food, medicine, and livelihood generation. The registration of the germplasm under the accession number INGR 25029 signifies national recognition of this novel crop and paves the way for its systematic cultivation and conservation.
Under the leadership of Director Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Senior Scientists Dr. Ajit Arun Waman and Dr. Pooja Bohra spearheaded efforts to evaluate and promote the species. Their work included the development of propagation techniques such as serpentine layering, protected cultivation methods, and value-added post-harvest products to extend shelf life and enhance marketability.
Already, several farmers across the islands have begun cultivating woody pepper, signaling a growing interest in its commercial potential. Quality planting materials are now available at CIARI’s Horticultural Plants Propagation Unit in Bathu Basti. Farmers in North and Middle Andaman can also access planting material through progressive farmer Mr. Laxman Das of Kalipur, Diglipur, who has adopted CIARI’s propagation techniques for mass multiplication.
The registration of woody pepper as a novel germplasm not only aids in its conservation but also offers promising livelihood opportunities to farmers in the islands, reinforcing CIARI’s role in bridging biodiversity and sustainable development.