Arhar or pigeon pea is an important legume crop grown in India. It is a rich source of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals. The crop is cultivated mainly as a rainfed crop in the kharif season. However, with the introduction of improved varieties, the arhar crop has shown significant improvement in yield and quality.
The improved varieties of arhar crop are developed through the process of genetic improvement. The scientists select the best traits of the plant and cross them with other varieties to develop a new and improved variety. These varieties are then tested for various parameters such as yield, disease resistance, and adaptability to different environmental conditions.
Some of the popular improved varieties of arhar crop in India are:
1. Pant A-3: This variety was developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi. It is a high-yielding variety with an average yield of 20-25 quintals per hectare. It is resistant to wilt and sterility mosaic diseases.
2. Pusa 992: This is another high-yielding variety developed by the IARI. It has an average yield of 25-30 quintals per hectare. It is resistant to wilt and pests such as pod borer and Helicoverpa.
3. Asha: This is a drought-tolerant variety developed by the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad. It has an average yield of 20-25 quintals per hectare and can withstand moisture stress conditions.
4. Mahateora: This is a popular variety in the Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh regions of India. It has an average yield of 15-20 quintals per hectare and is resistant to wilt and sterility mosaic diseases.
5. Maruti: This is a semi-dwarf variety developed by the IARI. It has an average yield of 20-25 quintals per hectare and is resistant to wilt and root rot diseases.
The improved varieties of arhar crop have not only increased the yield per hectare but also improved the quality of the produce. These varieties are resistant to various diseases and pests, which reduces the use of pesticides and other chemical inputs. Farmers are benefited from these varieties as they have better profitability and income. Moreover, the improved varieties have contributed to food security and nutrition in the country.