Coelogyneovalisone of the abundant orchid found in the moist riverine forest

Gori valley (Uttaranchal) is regarded as orchid hotspot in western Himalaya. The valley is situated at the junction of Western and Central Himalaya. So far, 121 species of orchids have been recorded from the valley out of 239 species reported found in the Western Himalaya. Much of the Gori valley lies in the sub-tropical belt. It has rich and moist riverine forests which are essential for the growth of orchids. The orchid population in Gori valley is dwindling fast because of anthropogenic pressure, coupled with ill planed developmental activities and unknowingly by locals as they are unaware of the importance of the plants and their conservation values. Hence, it is imperative to generate awareness among the local communities about importance of orchids.

Bulbophyllumumbullatuman epiphytic orchids common in the streatch between Lumtito Baram

The main focus in this project will be to generate disseminate awareness through popular talks, poster presentations, slide shows, video clippings and brochures on orchids in local language, involvement of school children, women and elderly people through small workshops. The youth and the women folk will be the focus of this awareness campaign. It is important to inculcate the youth about the conservation values of orchids for future generation and also to judiciously exploit orchids for economic benefits. Fire wood is the most prevalent primary source of energy for cooking and is still used by almost 80% of the rural house holds. As in other parts of Uttaranchal, fuel wood and fodder is collected primarily by the women folk, the project would target the women for conservation awareness so that they refrain from collecting such species there by making a major contribution to conservation of orchids and their hosts.