Induced mutagenesis as a strategy for genetic diversification and sustainable utilization of himalayan medicinal plants

Himalayas are a hidden repository of anonymous medicinal plants out of which a few species are systematically investigated for their phyto-molecules and industrial applications. However, genetic improvement of these species is severely constrained by narrow genetic variability, limited genetic resources, poor flowering, low seed setting, and predominant vegetative propagation, which restricts the effectiveness of conventional breeding approaches. The perspective emphasizes the potential of induced mutagenesis as an effective tool to generate novel genetic variability in Himalayan medicinal flora. Applications of physical and chemical mutagens, particularly through in vitro systems, can facilitate the development of novel superior chemotypes with enhanced secondary metabolite content and improved stress resilience. The integration of induced mutagenesis with metabolomics and molecular characterization enables precise identification and stabilization of improved genotypes. By overcoming the bottleneck of limited genetic diversity, mutation-assisted improvement offers a promising platform for accelerating crop improvement, strengthening traditional medicine systems, and promoting sustainable utilization and commercialization of high-altitude medicinal plant resources.