Research Projects

Rubus ellipticus Sm., known as Himalayan blackberry or yellow Himalayan raspberry, is a native shrub of the Indian subcontinent, valued for its ethnomedicinal, nutraceutical, and wine-producing potential due to its high fruit pulp content and fruit size (Lamichhane et al., 2023). This project aims to assess the climate-resilience and livelihood-enhancing potential of R. ellipticus populations across all North East Indian states (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura) using trait-based ecological niche modeling (ENM) that integrates both bioclimatic and non-bioclimatic variables, alongside a plant functional trait-based approach. Fruit quality traits, viz fruit pulp content, fruit size (for wine preparation), and functional traits like leaf morphology, and phenological patterns, will be assess to evaluate resilience under climate change scenarios (Swenson & Weiser, 2010) . Phenotypically superior plants will be selected based on high fruit pulp content and large fruit size for ex-situ conservation and breeding programs. The study will support conservation strategies and enhance livelihood opportunities for tribal communities through value-added products like wine and nutraceuticals, contributing to food security and economic development in North East India.