Improved varieties of Bajra crop:
Bajra (Pennisetum glaucum) is one of the important cereal crops grown in India, particularly in the arid and semi-arid regions. It is commonly known as pearl millet and is a staple food for millions of people in India. Bajra is an important nutri-cereal, rich in protein, minerals, and vitamins. It is a hardy crop and requires less water and nutrients as compared to other cereals. With the growing need for food security and sustainability, the cultivation of improved varieties of bajra has become crucial.
Improved varieties of bajra are developed through a systematic breeding process that involves selection, hybridization, and testing. These improved varieties have several advantages over traditional varieties, such as high yield potential, improved disease resistance, and better quality traits. Here are some of the improved bajra varieties that are gaining popularity among farmers.
1. HHB 67 Improved:
HHB 67 Improved is a high-yielding variety of bajra developed by the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT). It has a yield potential of 3.5-4 tonnes per hectare and is suitable for cultivation in rain-fed areas. This variety is resistant to downy mildew and ergot disease and has good grain quality traits.
2. PBH 1:
PBH 1 is a hybrid variety of bajra developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). It has a yield potential of 4-5 tonnes per hectare, which is higher than traditional varieties. This variety is resistant to downy mildew and rust diseases and has good grain quality traits. It is suitable for cultivation in both rain-fed and irrigated areas.
3. RHB 177:
RHB 177 is a hybrid bajra variety developed by the Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute (RARI). It has a yield potential of 3-4 tonnes per hectare and is suitable for cultivation in rain-fed areas. This variety is resistant to downy mildew, ergot, and smut diseases and has good grain quality traits.
4. Bajra Composite DHM 119:
Bajra Composite DHM 119 is a composite variety of bajra developed by the Directorate of Wheat Research (DWR). It has a yield potential of 3-3.5 tonnes per hectare and is suitable for cultivation in rain-fed areas. This variety is resistant to downy mildew and ergot disease and has good grain quality traits.
In conclusion, improved varieties of bajra have revolutionized the agricultural landscape in India. These varieties have the potential to increase the income of farmers and improve food security in the country. With the implementation of appropriate agriculture practices, such as the use of improved seed varieties, the cultivation of bajra can be made more sustainable and profitable.