EFFECT OF PLANT GROWTH REGULATORS ON MICROPROPAGATION OF Catharanthus roseus

Research in plant biotechnology is playing a crucia l role in the production and conservation of plant- based resources globally. The aim of the work is to estab lish favourable culture medium condition for regene ration and better growth of Catharanthus roseus explant. Plant Micropropagation has also been used as a tool for the propagation of genetically manipulated superior clo nes. Our attempt was made to develop micropropagation as suitable condition for cloning of Catharanthus roseus . After optimizing the culture media of explant cul ture, the repeated subculturing was performed at regular inte rvals for 5 weeks. The roots were developed within 10 days. IBA concentration and the period of pulse treatment had significant effects on the average number of r oots produced per shoot. Rooted plants were successfully acclimatized at room temperature in soil contained in pots. All plants flowered and set seeds in the greenhouse after 3 months. It is an attempt to highlight some of the important landmarks of tissue culture of medicinal plants and it is also as important recent developme nt in vitro technology.