What is Begonia Narahari?

About Begonia neisti:

• It is a new species of flowering plant.
• It was discovered from Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh.
• The plant belongs to the begonia sect platycentrum.
  • The genus Begonia is one of the largest groups in the plant kingdom, with more than 2,100 known species globally, many of which are valued for their ornamental appeal.
• The species has been named ‘begonia neisti’ to honour the North East Institute of Science and Technology (NEIST) on the successful completion of its 60 years and its immense contribution through science and technology towards the benefit of the local people of the Northeast region of India.
• Begonia neisti boasts striking variegated leaves adorned with white-silver circular spots and dark brownish-red patches near the veins.
• The large leaves and the distinctive white stripealong the stems and petioles give the plant an unusual appearance, setting it apart from other Begonia species. 
• The plant thrives on moist, hilly slopes between Hunli and Anini, blooming from November to January.
• Classified as Data Deficient (DD) by the IUCN Red List, Begonia neisti’s habitat is threatened by road expansion, sparking concerns about its future.

Q1: What is the North East Institute of Science and Technology (NEIST)?

NEIST, Jorhat, Assam, a constituent establishment of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), New Delhi, has been engaged in multidisciplinary R&D work relevant to the country in general and North Eastern Region in particular.

News: New plant species discovered in Arunachal’s Dibang valley

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