Importance of Flora in the Economy of Local Inhabitants of Karnah in Jammu and Kashmir India

Present study, conducted in Karnah, Jammu and Kashmir, from February 2022 to August 2023, rigorously collected data through interviews, discussions, and observations. The Study investigated the economic significance of local flora, documenting 28 plant species across 20 families. Pinaceae (14%) stood out. Trees (n=18), herbs (n=10), and one shrub (n=1) were noted. Wild species (16) surpassed cultivated (12). Plant parts had varied economic uses; a significant difference (χ2=90.587, df=7, p<0.001) was observed. Notably, Juglans regia, Prunus cornuta, Celtis tetrandra, Ficus carica, Morus alba, and Cynodia oblang were highlighted for economic applications. "Whole plant" (51%), leaves (20%), fruits (17%), bulb and seeds (6% each) were the most used components. Six uses (Medicine, food, timber, fuel, aesthetic, and industrial) contributed to the local economy. This pioneering study sheds light on the economic role of plant taxa in the Karnah region of Jammu and Kashmir.