**1. Introduction**

Grasses biodiversity constitutes one of the critical primary sources for securing sustainable supplies of food, feed, fiber, medicines, aromatic stuffs and shelter [1–3]. Globally, humans have put to use a very limited number (less than one-third) of plant species from the recognized pool of species which diversified generations of varying cultures have been aware of for multiple uses. The origins and regions of

diversification for numerous underutilized grasses have been investigated recently, but information pertaining to genetic diversity and agro-botanical traits of many species having local pertinence has remained scant. One of the underlying reasons for over-focussed staple crops might be attributed to overwhelming reliance on prime food crops which has led to food basket's shrinking across the globe [4, 5]. This phenomenon finds its roots in the simplification and intensification of agricultural production systems. These have historically favored major grasses over others owing to their comparative and competitive advantages regarding successful production in a wider range of pedo-climatic conditions, feasible cultivation requirements, growerfriendly processing, economical storability, unmatched nutritional properties, high market demand, superior revenue generation and preferable taste [6–8].

It is also pertinent to mention that the simplification process of agricultural production systems has abruptly lowered the quality of agricultural produces over time. However, this approach has reduced the risks of complete crop failure and multiplied successful harvests opportunities. This in turn has boosted survival human's survival through limited but sufficiently produced yields by major grasses. The commercial-oriented farming systems focussing major grasses have caused serious decline in intra and interspecific diversity of crops. In addition, other disadvantages of over-emphasis on major grasses include higher vulnerability among growers and end-users, for whom grasses diversity have become survival necessity rather than a matter of choice due to changing climate and crop failures owing to a bunch of biotic and abiotic stresses [9, 10].
