The Botanical Survey of India (BSI) was established in 1890 with the objectives of exploring the plant resources of the country and identifying plant species with economic virtue. In 1954, the Government reorganised the BSI with the objectives of (1) undertaking intensive floristic surveys and collecting accurate and detailed information on the occurrence, distribution, ecology and economic utility of plants in the country; (2) collecting, identifying and distributing materials that may be of use to educational and research institutions; and (3) acting as the custodian of authentic collections in well planned herbaria and documenting plant resources in the form of local, district, state and national flora. The activities of the BSI were publicised largely through its official organs, namely its annual reports and its Records. These publications won appreciation in India and abroad. With the requirements of the country changing over time and with the BSI having considerably expanded its activities, there was a corresponding change in the pattern and policies regarding its publications. It became necessary to publish at regular intervals information on the flora of India for the benefit of scientific workers. Thus in 1958 it was decided to publish the Bulletin of the Botanical Survey of India, in a distinct and separate form, to promote botanical research in the country. Results of exploratory and scientific activities of the BSI and information relating to floristic and utilitarian aspects of Indian botany are published periodically in the Bulletin. (BACK VOLUMES ARE AVAILABLE, ASK FOR REQUEST)