Abstract:

A study was conducted to understand trends in the conservation of the locally adapted critically endangered radish landrace ‘Newar ’ (Raphanus jaunpurensis sp. nova.), conventionally grown in certain saline areas of Jaunpur city, Uttar Pradesh for use in salads, and for other traditional household uses, as well as the sale of fresh roots and seeds. An exploratory research design was adopted to collect data from 40 respondents, including 5 key informants. Specific agronomic characteristics of ‘Newar’ such as long roots that maintained organoleptic properties for an extended time, salt tolerance, compatibility for mixed cropping with hookah tobacco, varied traditional usage and generation of extra income from the seed crop played a critical role in sustaining ‘Newar ’ radish cultivation in the past.