Interactive Database: An Effective Tool for Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Utilisation: A Case Study of Arunachal Pradesh

All the North Eastern States are known to possess rich biodiversity, unparalleled folk Knowledge and multiple natural resources. Arunachal Pradesh is one such state inhabited by a large number of tribal communities, who because of physiographical isolation and remoteness have evolved local practices to support their livelihood, sustenance and health. The divergent altitudes and physiography has resulted in a variety of vegetation types typically harboring unique plant species assemblage. Most importantly the recognition of unique medicinal plants from the state is a matter of great concern. Based on the available resources, an Inventory of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of Arunachal Pradesh is attempted and a database has been developed comprising of 1654 species against the earlier known 500 medicinal plants. The present database has high potential, as a decision making tool for conservation of Medicinal Plants. In order to identify medicinal plants traded in huge quantities, a comprehensive review of each medicinal plant species of the state viz-a-viz the checklist of 178 medicinal plant species recorded in high volume trade (-100 Metric Tonnes/Year) in India was undertaken [25]. The database developed is first of its kind and will help different stake holders especially the people who are working in the field of ethno botany, which in turn is linked with modern pharmacology data. Propagation information has been linked to facilitate the cultivation aspect of the species in the state. The database has several Photographs which will serve as a useful tool for easy identification. It also provides information on Conservation of species based on the Conservation Assessment and Management Prioritization (CAMP) assessment of North East species [24]. A similar attempt can be made for all other North East states for conservation of medicinal plants and other bio resources like bamboos, canes, orchids etc.