IPGRI, also known as the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute, was an international organization dedicated to conserving and utilizing plant genetic resources for the benefit of present and future generations. It was established in 1974 as a part of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) system.
The main objective of IPGRI was to enhance food security and improve agricultural productivity through the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources. It worked towards this goal by promoting the collection, preservation, and sharing of diverse plant materials, including seeds, plant tissues, and traditional knowledge related to plant genetic resources.
IPGRI played a key role in coordinating and supporting research activities on plant genetic resources in collaboration with national and international institutions. It provided technical assistance, capacity building, and developed projects aimed at solving global agricultural challenges, such as adapting crops to climate change and combating plant diseases. Additionally, the organization promoted public awareness and policy dialogue on the importance of conserving plant genetic resources and their potential contributions to sustainable development.
IPGRI was instrumental in establishing a network of gene banks and regional offices worldwide, facilitating the exchange of plant genetic resources among researchers, breeders, and farmers. In 2006, IPGRI merged with the International Network for Genetic Evaluation of Rice (INGER) to form Bioversity International, a global research organization focused on agricultural biodiversity and sustainable development.
