First Pigeon pea hybrid BDNPH 18-5 developed by ARS Badnapur of VNMKV

The Annual Group Meet of AICRP Kharif Pulses, ICAR-IIPR Kanpur, was held at ICRISAT, Hyderabad, from May 27-29, 2024. During the event, the hybrid BDNPH 18-5, developed by the Agriculture Research Station (ARS) Badnapur of VNMKV, Parbhani was identified for the Central Zone of India. This significant achievement marks the first pigeon pea hybrid developed by any Agricultural University in Maharashtra. BDNPH 18-5 is a white-seeded hybrid with an impressive productivity range of 1759-2159 kg/ha. It has a growth duration of 155 to 170 days, making it suitable for inclusion in various cropping systems. Notably, the hybrid exhibits moderate resistance to wilt and sterility mosaic disease, enhancing its viability and resilience.

The development of this hybrid was spearheaded by Dr. D. K. Patil and Dr. V. K. Gite, with crucial guidance and support from Dr. Indra Mani, Hon. Vice Chancellor, VNMKV, Parbhani. Dr. Indra Mani elaborated on the advantages of this hybrid, highlighting its potential to significantly improve agricultural productivity in the region. Dr. K. S. Baig, Director of Research, and Former Director of Research Dr. D. P. Waskar provided valuable support in the development of the hybrid. Dr. K. T. Jadhav, Officer Incharge, announced that efforts will be initiated promptly to commence a hybrid seed production program to ensure widespread availability to farmers.

 

Salient Features of BDNPH 18-5:

High Yielding Variety: Average yield of 1759-2159 kg/ha in the Central Zone.

Maturity: 155-160 days.

Seed Characteristics: White seeds with an average test weight of 10.46 g.

Cultivation Suitability: Ideal for cultivation in the Central Zone during the Kharif season.

Disease Resistance: Moderately resistant to wilt and sterility mosaic disease.

Pest Reaction: Lower pest reaction compared to checks.

Prof. Indra Mani addressed International Conference held at Bangkok (Thailand)

The Asian Association for Agricultural Engineering (AAAE), in collaboration with the Thai Society of Agricultural Engineers (TSAE), has organized the International Conference on ‘Smart Agricultural Engineering for Resilient and Sustainable World’ at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC), Thailand. The event is scheduled to run from May 22 to 24, 2024. Prof. Indra Mani addressed the opening ceremony on May, 22, 2024, emphasizing the importance of innovative agricultural engineering solutions for a sustainable future. He highlighted the critical role of collaboration among stakeholders in achieving these goals.

The conference aims to provide a platform for the dissemination and exchange of ideas and recent advancements in agricultural engineering and related fields. It brings together students, academic researchers, industry personnel, and other interested participants from the different part of the globe to discuss how to implement research outputs in practice, contributing to resilient and sustainable development in the region and beyond. Coinciding with the conference is the AGRI TECHNICA ASIA 2024 Exhibition, showcasing the latest technologies and innovations in agriculture. This event underscores the conference's commitment to bridging research and practical applications in the field of agricultural engineering.