Bengal gram, scientifically known as Cicer arietinum, is a popular leguminous crop that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Also known as chana or chickpea, it is widely cultivated in various regions across the world and holds significant importance in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the state of West Bengal.
Several varieties of Bengal gram are cultivated to suit different climatic conditions and meet various agricultural objectives. Let’s delve into some of the prominent varieties of this crop:
1. Desi Chana: This is the most common and widely cultivated variety of Bengal gram. Desi chana has small, dark brown seeds with a rough outer surface. It is known for its rich protein content and is commonly used in Indian cuisine to prepare curries, snacks, and chutneys. Desi chana is well-adapted to dryland conditions, making it suitable for regions with minimal irrigation facilities.
2. Kabuli Chana: Known for its large, light-colored seeds with a smooth outer surface, Kabuli chana is a variety that is predominantly cultivated in the Middle East, Mediterranean, and Latin America. This variety requires a longer growing season and is relatively more sensitive to water availability. Kabuli chana is widely used in the preparation of salads, hummus, and other popular international dishes.
3. Pusa 362: Developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Pusa 362 is a high-yielding variety of Bengal gram. It possesses medium-sized seeds and exhibits good resistance against diseases, including fusarium wilt. Pusa 362 is suitable for both rainfed and irrigated conditions, making it a preferred choice among farmers in various regions.
4. Pusa 372: Another notable variety developed by IARI, Pusa 372, is known for its high yield potential and resistance to major diseases and pests. It has an average seed size and adapts well to diverse agro-climatic conditions. Pusa 372 is a sought-after choice for farmers looking for a dependable and productive variety of Bengal gram.
5. JG 11: Developed by Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya (JNKVV), JG 11 is a variety that possesses a medium to large seed size. It exhibits tolerance to drought conditions and provides good yield stability under varying rainfall patterns. JG 11 shows excellent resistance against wilt and root rot diseases, making it a valuable variety for farmers in regions susceptible to these issues.
6. KAK 2: Developed by the University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, KAK 2 is a variety of Bengal gram suited for irrigated conditions. It has medium-sized seeds and exhibits tolerance to both wilt and sterility mosaic diseases. KAK 2 is favored by farmers in southern India due to its adaptability to the region’s climatic conditions.
These are just a few examples of the diverse varieties of Bengal gram cultivated across different regions. Each variety brings its unique characteristics and suitability to specific conditions, allowing farmers to choose the best option based on their requirements and the local environment. Continuous research and development efforts aim to further enhance the productivity, disease resistance, and adaptive traits of Bengal gram varieties, ensuring a sustainable future for this essential crop.