Bajra, also known as pearl millet, is an important cereal grain crop in India and other parts of the world. It is a hardy crop that can grow in hot and dry conditions, making it ideal for cultivation in arid and semi-arid areas. Bajra is an important source of food and feed for millions of people, particularly in rural areas.
With the increasing demand for food due to population growth and changing lifestyles, there is a need to increase the production and productivity of crops like bajra. To meet this demand, researchers and breeders have been working to develop improved varieties of bajra with better yield potential, resistance to diseases, and tolerance to abiotic stress.
One of the significant achievements in bajra breeding is the development of hybrid varieties. Hybrid bajra varieties have higher yield potential than traditional varieties and are resistant to diseases and pests. They are also tolerant to adverse weather conditions like drought and heat. Several popular hybrid bajra varieties include Pusa Hybrid-1, MH-810, and Jowar Bajra Hybrid-1.
Apart from hybrids, several high-yielding bajra varieties have been developed through conventional breeding methods. These varieties are characterized by better yield potential, quality traits, and resistance to pests and diseases. Some of the high-yielding varieties of bajra include H7-1, H77, and H-95.
One of the crucial goals of bajra breeding is to improve its nutritional quality. In recent years, several nutritional-biofortified bajra varieties have been developed. These varieties have higher levels of essential micronutrients like iron and zinc, making them more nutritious than traditional varieties.
In conclusion, the development of improved bajra varieties is vital for increasing the production and productivity of this important crop. The development of hybrids, high-yielding varieties, and biofortified varieties is a significant achievement in bajra breeding. Further research and development efforts are required to develop improved varieties that can meet the growing demand for food, particularly in remote and rural areas.