A wider perspective on conservation of genetic resources is provided. The importance of nitrogen-fixing organisms, legume-rhizobium germplasm collection and utilisation is stressed. The history and developments in the field of collection, conservation, and utilisation of genetic resources are highlighted for the crop plants. Both in situ and ex-situ measures are highlighted for conservation of germplasm. The recent use of molecular techniques is stressed. Looking ahead, it is advocated that there is a need for a global germplasm ethics, guidelines for which can be developed by UNESCO with the help of IUCN and other appropriate international conservation organisations.