In a significant boost for agriculture in Uttar Pradesh, scientists from Kanpur's Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology (CSAUT) have successfully developed and released three new high-yielding crop varieties. These innovations, approved in a recent state meeting, are specifically tailored to address local farming challenges like alkaline soils and delayed sowing periods.
State Committee Approves New High-Yield Wheat
The State Seed Release Committee, convening at Krishi Bhawan in Lucknow on Tuesday, granted official approval for the three new varieties. The development team, led by scientists including RK Yadav, Somveer Singh, PK Gupta, Vijay Kumar Yadav, and Jyotsna, received commendation from University Vice Chancellor K Vijayendra Pandiyan for their groundbreaking work.
According to RK Yadav, Director of Research at the university, the two new wheat varieties—named K-1910 and K-1905—are game-changers for irrigated but alkaline lands. These varieties have demonstrated robust resistance against major fungal threats like brown, yellow, and black rust and show reduced susceptibility to insect attacks.
The new wheat strains mature in a span of 125 to 130 days and deliver an impressive average yield of 35 to 40 quintals per hectare, offering a reliable solution for farmers struggling with soil alkalinity.
Azad Gaurav Mustard: A Solution for Late Sowing
Addressing another critical need, university scientist Mahak Singh introduced the new mustard variety named 'Azad Gaurav'. This variety is specifically recommended for late sowing across the entire state of Uttar Pradesh. Its plants exhibit remarkable tolerance to high-temperature stress, which often affects crops sown after the optimal window.
Azad Gaurav matures in 120 to 125 days and provides a solid average yield of 18 to 19 quintals per hectare. Beyond its yield and heat tolerance, it boasts strong disease resistance and is less prone to insect damage. A standout feature is its large grain size and an oil content of 39.6%, making it an economically attractive option for oilseed farmers.
Implications for Uttar Pradesh's Agricultural Future
The release of these tailored varieties marks a proactive step towards climate-resilient and region-specific agriculture in India's most populous state. By providing farmers with seeds designed for local soil conditions (alkalinity) and unpredictable sowing schedules, the research directly targets productivity and income stability.
These developments from CSAUT Kanpur are expected to empower farmers, reduce crop loss risks, and enhance food security. The focus on creating varieties that are both high-yielding and resistant to prevalent biotic and abiotic stresses underscores the vital role of agricultural research in sustaining India's farming community.
