A fertile alluvial land area, the state has abundant water supply owing to large rivers and an extensive irrigation canal system. A belt of undulating hills extends along the northeastern part of the state at the foot of the Himalayas. While there are no natural forests in the plains, extensive tracts occur covered only with grass, shrubs and bushes. Agriculture is the largest industry in Punjab. The Shiwalik area is richest in terms of floral and faunal diversity and has been identified as one of the micro-endemic zones of India. Among angiosperms, about 355 species of herbs, 70 tree species, 70 species of shrubs or undershrubs, 19 climbers and 21 species of twiners have been recorded from the area. Three species of pteridophytes, 27 of bryophytes and 1 of gymnosperms have also been recorded. Hanke, Kanjli and Ropar wetlands of Punjab are inhabited by diversity of flora and fauna that include some rare plants and animals.

1. Shyam Nikunj Educational and Social Welfare Society, Patiala
2. Vir Sawarkar Social Welfare Society, Kapurthala
3. National Institute of Pharmaceutical Educational and Research, Mohali
4. State Medicinal Plant Board, Chandigarh