Pear belongs to genus Pyrus, abundantly found in temperate region of AJ & K reflects rich biodiversity. Such diversity and valuable genetic resources are being eroded due to human over exploitation, and natural calamities. Keeping in view existing genetic diversity and genetic erosion in Pyrus germplasm, the focus of present study was to develop biotechnological conservation strategies by using slow-growth techniques. However in vivo preservation was also implemented to conserve the basic stock under field conditions. The apical shoots of nine pear genotypes were preserved in vitro under minimal growth conditions using low temperature treatments, modification in medium strength and adding mannitol in the basal medium and also by reducing the concentration of BAP and using growth retardants for different storage periods i.e. 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. After twelve months of storage, the culture successfully regenerated into new shoots and they were morphologically similar to those of non-stored.

The State of the AJ &K- Pakistan is situated at the border of floristic regions of the world, various vicarant taxa have been differentiated and may hybridize in the same area and Pyrus is a good example. Biodiversity in indigenous Pyrus germplasm accumulated through extreme diversity in climate, geography, naturalized population and interspecific cross pollination. Further, due to silk trade route system could be promoted the phenomena of biodiversity in Pyrus species. Besides displaying high resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, diverse germplasm are important for genetic improvement of pears. High diversity in pear species is being eroded due to the ecological damage caused by global warming and urbanization. Therefore, there is an urgent need to investigate potential and limits of molecular technique, evaluate the current genetic structure and classifying highly valuable genotypes. Genetic markers representing highest genetic diversity to all genotypes based on SSRs and Protein (SDS-PAGE) analysis showed the diversity in protein profile need to be exploited. Present study would be helpful to initiate breeding programme and to improve existing pear diverse germplasm.