ICRISAT Archival Report 2011

ICRISAT Archival Report 2011 

International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics 

Patancheru 502 324, Andhra Pradesh, India 

www.icrisat.org

Contents 

Outcome 1 

Outcome 2 

Outcome 3 

Food sufficiency: Smallholder farmers in the dryland tropics producing 

sufficient food from grain legume and dryland cereal systems to at least 

meet their food needs 

Intensification: Smallholder farmers capturing additional market 

opportunities from sustainably intensified and value added grain 

legume and dryland cereal systems 

Diversification: Smallholder farmers diversifying their crops, systems 

and products achieving major value gains 

1 

91 

144 

Outcome 4 Resilience: Smallholder farmers/households maintaining food, 

nutritional and economic security during periods of environmental and 

economic shocks 

162 

Outcome 5 

Outcome 6 

Nutrition & Health: Smallholder households consuming more 

nutritious and safer diets 

Empower Women: Women in smallholder households engaging in and 

benefiting from IMOD 

178 

186 

Publications 198

Outputs and Achievements during 2011 

ICRISAT Archival Report 2011 

ICRISAT’s Medium Term Plan (2011-13) lists six outcomes, and the Grain Legumes Research Program 

contributes mainly through five outcomes (1-3 and 5-6). 

[RP GL] 

Outcome 1- Food sufficiency: Smallholder farmers in the dryland tropics producing sufficient food from 

grain legume and dryland cereal systems to at least meet their food needs 

This outcome will help the smallholder farmers in the dryland tropics to produce adequate food and the value of 

surpluses from grain legumes to generate income. Genetic resources unit, in collaboration with other research 

partners, will help in identification of abiotic and biotic stress tolerant/resistant grain legume germplasm 

accessions, and enhancing their utilization in breeding high yielding cultivars with enhanced 

tolerance/resistance, with a broad genetic base. 

Crop germplasm are the reservoir of many useful traits/alleles for developing climate resilient crop cultivars. To 

fill the gaps in characterization database, 4476 germplasm accessions of three legumes were characterized 

during 2011. ICRISAT genebank distributed >3700 samples to scientists in ICRISAT and in 9 countries. To 

meet the needs of researchers, 17,338 legumes accessions were regenerated. Seed viability of 3,293 three grain 

legume accessions was monitored, which ranged from 64% to 100%. A total of 7,784 accessions were 

transferred to medium-term cold rooms, and we deposited 7259 accessions to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, 

Norway. Sixty five unique accessions of chickpea were obtained from GRI-Baku, Azerbaijan through the 

Global Crop Diversity Trust (GCDT) to fill the gaps in the global germplasm collection at ICRISAT. 

To enhance utilization of genetic resources in crop improvement programs, germplasm accessions of chickpea, 

groundnut, and pigeonpea have been evaluated to identify sources for resistance/tolerance to biotic and abiotic 

stresses as well as for important agronomic and nutrition-related traits. Development and evaluation of mini core 

collection (10% of core or 1% of entire collection) have proved to be an efficient strategy to identify traitspecific 

high yielding germplasm for important abiotic biotic stresses such as drought tolerant accessions in 

chickpea (5) and groundnut (6), salinity tolerant accessions in chickpea (7) and groundnut (1), 8 heat tolerant 

chickpea accessions. Fifty seven water-logging tolerant pigeonpea, 95 chickpea accessions resistant to fusarium 

wilt (FW) and 6 to dry root rot (DRR) and 11 groundnut accessions resistant to Aspergillus flavus infection and 

aflatoxin contamination have been identified. Among the agronomic traits, two high yielding kabuli chickpea 

and two large-seeded groundnuts accessions have been identified. Among wild relatives, evaluation of 269 

accessions from 20 wild Arachis species belonging to six sections identified 20 best accessions with superior 

agronomic, nutritional quality and drought related traits combinations for introgression of diverse and unique 

alleles from wild Arachis species into A. hypogaea. Similarly in pigeonpea, 90 accessions of C. scarabaeoides 

were identified as extra early flowering (5) per pod. 

For accessing the alleles from wild relatives and landraces, pre-breeding has been initiated under ICAR- 

ICRISAT collaborative project on ‘Pre-breeding for biotic and abiotic stress tolerance’ for grain legumes in 

collaboration with IIPR, Kanpur and NRCG, Junagadh, India and 21 strategic cross combinations have been 

made to develop segregating populations in chickpea (8), pigeonpea (7) and groundnut (6). 

To enhance the food security by developing high yielding varieties, the promising chickpea breeding lines 

having FW resistance, early to medium maturity and heat tolerance have been identified from multi-location 

evaluation; drought tolerance improved by introgressing root traits through marker-assisted selection (MAS) in 

desi cultivar JG 11 from ICC 4958 (desi) and in KAK 2 from ICC 8261 (kabuli) using three cycles of markerassisted 

backcrossing. To assist in MAS in chickpea, 728 novel EST-SSRs and 7,884 SNP markers developed, 

validated and utilized, and an intra-specific map with 240 marker loci generated for ICC 4958 × ICC 1882 

population; a comprehensive genetic map with integrated BES-SSR markers comprising 1291 loci spanning a 

distance of 835.6 cM constructed; a consensus genetic map with 352 loci developed using two intra-specific 

genetic maps (ICC 4958 × ICC 1882 and ICC 283 × ICC 8261. Four chickpea varieties in Tanzania and two in 

in Kenya were released. Twenty-four farmers’ participatory varietal selection (PVS) trials were conducted for 

varietal dissemination in Kenya and 430 demonstrations and 7 PVS in Ethiopia. 

1

In groundnut, 69 new crosses were made to breed medium duration genotypes to incorporate fresh seed 

dormancy, and to develop drought tolerant and foliar fungal diseases resistant genotypes. Selections were made 

in the advanced segregating generations and 529 advanced breeding lines evaluated. Four new International 

trials [13 th International Medium-duration Groundnut Varietal Trial (SB) [XIII IMGVT (SB), 13 th International 

Foliar Diseases Resistant Groundnut Varietal Trial (XIII IFDRGVT), 4 th International A. flavus Resistance 

Groundnut Varietal Trial (IV IAFRGVT), and 9 th International Drought Resistant Groundnut Varietal Trial (IX 

IDRGVT)], were constituted in 2011 rainy season. Marker-assisted backcrossing (MABC) is in progress for 

introgression of a major QTL governing rust resistance from GPBD 4 to ICGV 91114, JL 24, and TAG 24. 

Seeds of 6 sets of international trials and 132 advanced breeding lines were provided to partners in six countries 

during 2011. Two varieties were proposed for identification in the Philippines and two released in India. Double 

synthetics were developed by crossing two tetraploid synthetic groundnut to broaden the genetic base of 

cultivated groundnut. Genetic linkage maps and two consensus maps prepared for drought tolerance and foliar 

diseases and identified QTLs for drought tolerance related traits, nutrition quality traits and for foliar diseases. 

At Bamako, Mali, 30 new crosses made for breeding groundnut varieties with farmer- and market-preferred 

traits; 10 advanced trials involving 404 trait specific lines evaluated at Samanko; PVS was conducted in Mali in 

collaboration with two international NGOs and an export company to evaluate and select new varieties. The 

Malian national program submitted 5 varieties to the national registration committee for inclusion in the variety 

catalog in 2011 and the Nigerian Variety Release Committee approved the release of an earlymaturing line 

(100 locations in farmers’ fields identified ICPH 

2740 as best hybrid for deep black soils of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh in 

India under rainfed and irrigated conditions. Two improved cultivars selected by the farmers in multi-location 

farmers’ field trial (FPVT) for Orissa. Three RIL populations are available to study the marker-trait associations 

for resistance/tolerance to FW and SMD. Wild relatives of pigeonpea, C. lanceolatus, and C. volubilis were used 

in the crossing program with cultivated pigeonpea to broaden the genetic base. ABQTL mapping populations 

were developed using C. cajanifolius and C. acutifolius and lines involving C. acutifolius and C. platycarpus are 

available for utilization in breeding program. First SSR-based genetic map comprising 239 loci were developed 

for molecular breeding in pigeonpea; and we developed intra-specific genetic maps and identified QTLs (4 for 

Patancheru SMD isolate and 2 for Bangalore SMD isolate) for SMD resistance in pigeonpea. Pigeonpea genome 

sequenced using next generation sequencing, Sanger-based BAC end sequences and a genetic map which 

represents 72.7% (605,78 Mb) of the 833.07 Mb pigeonpea genome; and identified candidate genes for growth 

habit in pigeonpea using whole-genome scanning and candidate gene sequencing. One pigeonpea variety was 

released for cultivation in central and northern regions of Malawi, whereas two medium- and two long- duration 

varieties in Mozambique and four varieties each in Kenya and Tanzania are under evaluation in National 

Performance Trials (NPT). Twenty-five farmer’s participatory evaluation trials were conducted in Kenya under 

Treasure Legumes projects, 40 in Tanzania under TL-II and Treasure Legumes, and 11 in Malawi for varietal 

dissemination. 

In grain legumes, multilocation evaluation through disease and Helicoverpa resistance screening nurseries led to 

identification of 23 chickpea accessions resistant to wilt, AB and BGM; 6 chickpea and 20 pigeonpea (12 

medium- and 8 long-duration) accessions having lower H. armigera damage. Cost-effective SNP genotyping 

platform was developed for chickpeas and pigeonpea. Use of Agrobase GenII software was initiated for data 

management of grain legume research activities. Seed system activities for chickpea, pigeonpea and groundnut 

were carried out under TL II projects in India and Africa; about 3053.7 tones nucleus, breeder, foundation and 

certified and truthfully labeled seeds of chickpea, pigeonpea and groundnut varieties produced with 

collaborative efforts of ICRISAT, NARS and public seed sector partners in Asia and Africa and about 7.3 t seed 

of 6 groundnut varieties supplied to collaborators to support informal seed system under IFAD and TL II 

projects. To strengthen the capacity of stakeholders to implement IMOD, 27,627 extension 

personnel/farmers/scientists/NGOs/agricultural technicians/private sector were trained in grain legume crop and 

seed production technologies by organizing trainings, farmer field days, and farmer fairs in India and Africa; 

distributed 25,000 copies of pamphlets and flyers, and 2000 booklets about improved agricultural practices and 

crop management technologies in pigeonpea to generate awareness among farmers/NGOs/NARES. ICRISAT 

also launched first on-line course on pigeonpea. The “Chickpea Seed Production Manual” was published by 

ICRISAT in English was translated in Kannada language. One information bulletin “Chickpea (Garbanzos): an 

emerging crop for the rainfed and dryland areas of the Philippines” was published by ICRISAT during 2011. 

2

Training programs on “Application of Molecular Markers for Improvement of Groundnut Oil Quality” and 

“Groundnut breeding methodology and seed systems” were conducted for NARS scientists. 

[RP GL] 

Output 1.1– Enhanced knowledge of the incidence and drivers of subsistence agriculture and of the drivers 

of change towards IMOD 

MTP Output Target in 2011 1.1 Level of smallholder dryland household food sufficiency characterized in 

10% of the target countries in Asia, ESA and WCA, and the data made available as an IPG 

Project 1.1: Tracking Change in Rural Poverty in Household and Village Economies in South Asia (Short title: 

Village Dynamics in South Asia—VDSA) 

Countries Involved: India, Bangladesh 

Objectives/Rationale: 

(1) Enhance the availability of reliable household-, individual-, and field-specific, high-frequency, timeseries 

data in purposely selected villages in the semi-arid and humid tropics of South Asia 

(2) Increase the availability of updated and expanded meso-level (e.g. district-level) agricultural data in 

India and Bangladesh 

(3) Nurture policy analysis and strengthen capacity building to fully exploit the data collected and 

assembled both at the household-level and meso-level. 

Methodology/Approach: 

The VDSA project is devoted to create a premier source of high quality longitudinal micro- and meso/macrolevel 

rural village and household data in selected regions of South Asia with a view to give a voice to the poor 

and inform programs and policies that help smallholder farmers lift themselves out of hunger and poverty, 

alongside helping shape future agricultural development strategies. The project has been conceptualized and 

implemented by ICRISAT in partnership and close collaboration with national and international institutes. The 

key implementing partners of the project are: ICRISAT, IRRI, National Centre for Agricultural Economics and 

Policy Research (NCAP) and other NARS partners in SAT and East India, SocioConsult and Center for Policy 

Dialogue (CPD) in Bangladesh. The project has been carrying out activities related to collection and processing 

of micro- and meso-level data, preparation for database management and retrieval, analysis of data and 

preparation of reports, and dissemination of research results. Researchers have been able to share their research 

findings to policy makers and peers through participation in networks and conferences organized by 

professional associations and taking part in policy debates. 

Progress in Collection. Processing and Management of Data 

Household-level Survey data: Collection of household panel data is on schedule in all the 42 villages in India 

and Bangladesh. Survey for the 2010-11 rounds is completed for all modules under annual, seasonal and highfrequency 

rounds in all the three regions, namely, SAT India, eastern India and Bangladesh. For 2011- 

12,collection of General Endowment Schedule (GES), and monthly modules up to October 2011 is completed in 

all the three regions, namely, SAT India, eastern India and Bangladesh. Data cleaning, entry, CSPro based 

comparison and validation is on schedule. Data processing for 2010-11 is completed and for 2011-12 is 

ongoing. Anthropometric equipment were procured and distributed to all the villages in SAT region. Collection 

of anthropometric data is progressing in SAT region and will be started in eastern India and Bangladesh. 

Summary files at plot, household and village level has been developed for use by researchers. Data and 

publications of the VDSA project are being disseminated through VDSA Project website. 

Meso-level Database: Meso-level database (district, state and country level) includes data on key agriculture 

activities (crop and livestock), input use, socioeconomic and infrastructure variables. Data on these variables are 

being updated for India and Bangladesh. The meso-level data base for India spans the period from 1966 to 2007 

and is one of the widely used database by researchers across the globe. The novel approach includes 

apportioning of the data of newly formed districts to their parent districts to maintain continuity of the database 

over time. The database is also suitably interfaced with GIS (ARC view) for mapping and that would enable 

spatial and temporal analysis of key variables. 

The database is now updated for key variables to 2007-08 for all the districts in SAT states of India and also for 

the northern states of Punjab and Haryana. Partners working on the project will be completing the update for 

3

eastern states of India and the entire database will be available for researchers before the year end. Even while 

the update of the database is ongoing the data have been used extensively for the preparation of the CRP’s on 

dryland cereals and legumes. BMGF—the donor organization—has also used the database for priority setting of 

the foundation related to India. For a mega study on Indian agriculture aggregate supply response models and 

models to address investment decisions in agriculture were estimated using data for Andhra Pradesh state. The 

methodology developed for the estimation will be replicated for other states once the database is ready. 

Collection of meso (district) level data on agriculture and socioeconomic conditions in Bangladesh is on track 

and progressing as expected. List of major variables to be included in the meso-level database and their sources 

have been identified. Area, production and yield of all crops at the Region level (old district) have been 

completed for the period 1981/82 to 2009/10 except some missing years for minor crops. At the District level 

(64 new districts) data on area, production and yield for major crops has been collected for 2003/04 to 2009/10 

and for minor crops for the year 2008/09 and 2009/10. Irrigation data by crops and by means (DTW, STW, 

LLP) have been collected at the Region level for 1981/82 to 2008/09, at the District and Upazila (sub-district) 

level for 2006/07 to 2008/09. Data on socio-economic condition, demographic and human capital related data 

were collected at the Division and District level for different periods between 1981 and 2009. 

Development of Data warehousing and Database Management System: Efforts are in full-swing to set up a data 

warehouse consisting of VDSA database including micro and meso data. This warehouse will be a web based 

solution with open access to users across the world. The warehouse will include attractive features like 

downloading of raw data, standard and ad-hoc reports, dash boards, facility to automatic generation of charts 

and maps as per need among others. Competent warehouse service providers in the market were approached to 

provide the desired solution. It is now in the final stage of negotiation with the prospective service provider for 

development of such a system. It is hoped that the development and hosting of a data warehouse will be 

completed in 2012. 

Website Development: An information portal or the website for hosting VDSA data, publications, and related 

information and documents has been completed with the help of ISU and Communications Office. This was 

launched on ICRISAT Annual Day celebrated on 9th Dec 2011. The web portal facilitates the downloading of 

both micro and meso data freely. The URL for the website is http://vdsa.icrisat.ac.in 

Main findings/Results & Policy Implications: 

A study on agriculture performance and poverty linkages in the state of Uttar Pradesh found that 10 percent 

increase in agricultural productivity reduces poverty by 4.3 percent in the state. The study observed disguised 

unemployment of labor force in agriculture and quantified that a shift of 10 percent of agricultural labor force to 

other economic activities would result in 7.7 percent reduction in poverty in Uttar Pradesh. 

Study on determinants of poverty in Jharkhand identified a number of factors responsible for high prevalence of 

rural poverty in the state. These are: lack of education, limited access to employment opportunities, poor land 

base and small holdings, frequent natural calamities, difficult terrain and undulating topography, poor quality of 

natural resources such as acidic, laterite and red soils, scarcity of water for irrigation facilities, predominance of 

mono cropping, and poor road and marketing infrastructure. 

In recent years, Eastern region of India emerged as the region with high potential of agricultural growth due to 

favorable agro-climatic conditions and abundance of natural resources like water and fertile soil. It is distressing 

to note that the high growth potential of the region has not been fully tapped and the region still has low levels 

of agricultural and animal productivity and the dubious distinction of a high incidence of poverty. The high 

growth potential of the region can be realized by addressing technological, policy and institutional constraints. 

A review of rural livelihood situation in12 study villages in Bangladesh during the last two decades revealed 

that households asset endowments increased over time. Rural livelihoods are changing with growth in non-farm 

sectors .Importance of agriculture on livelihoods is declining over time. Farm size is declining and land tenancy 

market is developing. Adoption of modern rice technologies is very high. Cost of rice cultivation increased 

significantly but profitability level maintained as rice prices also increased in recent years. Poverty has declined 

over time but the rate of decline varied across villages. Land, agricultural technologies, human capital, non-farm 

employment, food prices, socio-cultural norms and values, and climate were the main factors which contributed 

towards poverty reduction. 

[RP MIP] 

4

Project 1.2: Tracking Varietal Change for future Assessment of the Impact of Crop Genetic Improvement 

Research in South Asia (TRIVSA) 

Countries Involved: India (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Haryana) 


To lay the groundwork for tracking the successes and failures of crop improvement investments and for 

understanding the impact of those investments on poverty, nutrition, and food security. 

Despite the progress made in the past, poverty is still concentrated in South Asia, which accounts for around 350 

million, or one-third, of the world’s poor of about 1.1 billion. Substantial scope exists for a further reduction in 

poverty through crop genetic improvements to increase and stabilize the yields of major food crops. Modern 

varietal change in itself may not lift large numbers of people out of poverty, but greater dynamism in this area 

can go a long way toward moving poor people closer to that threshold. Moreover, modern varietal change can 

set the stage for the adoption of improved crop management practices, thereby making it possible for farmers to 

reduce the cost of production substantially. The lack of dynamism in varietal change in food-crop production 

represents wasted opportunity that is potentially very large, exacting a heavy toll on poor producers and 

consumers alike. The aim of this project is to lay the groundnut work for tracking and successes and failures of 

crop improvement investments and for understanding the impact of those investments on poverty, nutrition and 

food security. 


The research approach uses different innovative ways in generating the project outputs. In the first stage, it starts 

with complete documentation of improved cultivars released by NARs, IARCs and private seed companies. It 

also assesses the strengths of NARs on specific crop improvements and their research investments in India over 

period of time. The project also adopts different innovative mechanisms for conducting expert elicitations with 

breeders in five major states of India for five ICRISAT mandate crops. These include usage of ICT applications 

(email and mobile phone etc) in conducting them. In the second stage, conducts a primary survey with 

nationally representative sample for deeper understanding about the adoption and diffusion of new varieties in 

all five ICRISAT mandate crops (sorghum, pearlmillet, chickpea, pigeonpea and groundnut etc.). The survey 

helps in generating perceived adoption levels at farm level, sources of seed, sources of information, benefits of 

improved cultivars compared with local cultivars and influence of household characteristics in adoption of 

improved technologies etc. 


Key result area: To lay the groundwork for tracking the successes and failures of crop improvement investments 

and for understanding the impact of those investments on poverty, nutrition, and food security 

The project work is in full swing since its inception on December, 2010. The first stage activities are 

progressing across all five ICRISAT mandate crops. The second stage activities are at in the initial stage. Some 

of the activities accomplished so far are: 

• Completed the documentation of improved cultivars for five ICRISAT mandate crops from 1960-2010 

from all stakeholders (ICAR, SAUs, ICRISAT and Private companies) 

• Assessing the NARs strength and research investments for crop improvement completed for sorghum, 

pearlmillet, chickpea and it is under progress for remaining crops 

• First round of expert elicitations (by taking part in crop specific AICRP annual meetings) were 

completed for all five crops. The second round elicitations are under progress (SG and PM completed) 

• In case of sorghum, 293 improved cultivars have been notified and made available to farmers since 

1960s. Nearly 80 per cent of the cropped area is under improved cultivars which helped to increase the 

country productivity levels by 71 per cent during 1960 and 2010. This aptly proves the role of 

improved cultivars in sustaining higher yields and reducing the yield variability 

• Around 204 pearl millet improved cultivars have been released formally by ICAR, SAUs and ICRISAT 

since 1960s. Approximately 67 per cent of the cropped area was covered under improved cultivars. 

Adoption of improved cultivars has increased the productivity up to 151 per cent between 1966 and 

2008. It clearly lends support for ICRISAT’s role in public-private partnerships through HPRC 

program. 

Constraints: 

1. Identification, contacting the biological experts and getting feedback their feedback across five crops is 

bit time consuming process 

5

2. Compilation of different sources of asymmetric information i.e., cultivar database, NARs strength, 

research investments, adoption rates etc. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 1.3: Varietal Diffusion and Impact Assessment in Sub Saharan Africa (DIVA) - Impact database on 

guess-estimates on uptake of pearl millet, sorghum and groundnut varieties in 6 countries in West and Central 

Africa 

Countries Involved: This activity is undertaken both in West and Central Africa as well as East and Southern Africa 

Countries involved in West and central Africa: Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Burkina Faso and Chad. 


To gather information on varieties released in the 6 countries during the last 20 years, get guess-estimates on 

adoption by expert opinions in countries, and assess the strengths of the pearl millet, sorghum and breeding 

programs. 


Questionnaires were addressed to experts in the 6 countries targeting the characteristics of varieties, expert 

estimates of area covered by varieties and the human resource availability in the 6 countries. In addition, GIS 

tools/ maps were used to refine estimated provided by experts. 


Preliminary results from expert survey showed that during the last 20 years, there have been few variety releases 

for pearl millet, sorghum and groundnut in WCASAT. In Chad and Senegal virtually no release in the last 20 

years. This differs significantly by crop. 

It is noted that during the last 20 years, for pearl millet for example, no release has occurred in Senegal and 

Chad, Varieties released in Mali, Nigeria and Niger result from joint work between NARS and ICRISAT. The 

same observations can be made of sorghum. As for groundnut, all the releases occurring so far result from joint 

partnership between ICRISAT and NARS. However, efforts to release varieties remain a major constraint in the 

region because the rate of release is very low. In Senegal for example there has been no releases on groundnut 

through more than 10 varieties are ready for release. 

All countries have a very weak to acceptable breeding programs. There is currently no pearl millet breeder in 

Niger or Chad, no groundnut breeder in Niger, Mali and Chad. Even in the countries endowed with breeders, 

they are splitted into many other cereals making their contributions often not high or they do not have the 

educational level necessary to run breeding programs. Overall, all breeding programs are constrained by 

operational costs even to maintain germplasm. 

Guest-estimates of adoption by expert opinions showed that the levels of adoption are relatively higher in Mali 

and Nigeria and lower in other countries. Estimates from experts coupled with the use of GIS tools showed that 

the adoption of pearl millet, groundnut and sorghum average more than 20% of area cultivated to these crops in 

Nigeria and Mali. Whereas, adoption in Senegal is almost nil and that of Burkina Faso less than 5% for all the 

crops. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 1.4: Varietal Diffusion and Impact Assessment in Sub Saharan Africa (DIVA)- Impact database on 

guess-estimates on uptake of pearl millet, sorghum and groundnut varieties in ESA. 

Countries Involved: Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Kenya and Uganda 


To gather information on varieties released in the 6 countries during the last 20 years, get guess-estimates on 

adoption by expert opinions in countries, and assess the strengths of the pearl millet, sorghum and breeding 

programs. 


Questionnaires were addressed to experts in the 6 countries targeting the characteristics of varieties, expert 

estimates of area covered by varieties and the human resource availability in the 6 countries. 

6


Preliminary results from expert survey showed that during the last 20 years, there have been few variety releases 

for groundnuts, pigeonpea and sorghum in Eastern and Southern Africa. This differs significantly by crop. In 

Zambia, About sixteen (16) groundnut varieties have been released in Zambia since 1954 and six (6) of those 

were released after 1999. In Tanzania, all groundnut variety releases occurred before 1999. Also in Tanzania 

three of the seven released sorghum varieties were released after 1999 while all pigeonpea varieties releases in 

Tanzania occurred after 1999. 

In Kenya thirteen pigeonpea varieties were released in the past 20 years, seven (7) of which were released after 

1999. In Malawi, all of the six variety releases were released after 1999. In Malawi, five of the six released 

groundnut varieties occurred after 1999. There are significant variations in the strengths of the breeding 

programs for each of the crops under study. Even where breeding programs are strong, they are constrained by 

operational costs 

[RP MIP] 

Project 1.5: Adoption and impacts of modern sorghum and pearl millet varieties in Northern Nigeria. 

Countries Involved: Nigeria 


This study combines the matching and econometric methods to assess the levels of current and potential 

adoption rates of sorghum and pearl millet varieties, identify the drivers of adoption of modern varieties and 

finally, assess the impacts of adoption on household livelihood outcomes 


This paper uses a data set of 1105 households from 119 villages living in 6 states of Northern Nigeria (Borno, 

Jigawa, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano and Yobe) to assess the current and potential adoption rates as well as the 

impact of modern sorghum and pearl millet varieties released since 1996 in Nigeria. The 6 states account for 

more than 50% of sorghum and pearl millet production and area cultivated in Northern Nigeria. 

Matching methods and economic surplus methods were used to assess the impacts of modern sorghum and pearl 

millet varieties on rural households’ livelihood outcomes (wealth, aggregate household yield, total value of 

production) and estimate social gains. 


Varieties under investigation include modern sorghum varieties and hybrids namely ICSV 111, ICSV 400, 

ICSH 89002 NG, ISCH 89009 NG, and SK 5912 and pearl millet varieties namely SOSAT C88, LCIC 9702, 

GB 8735 and ZATIB. Adopters are defined as those having planted at least one modern variety of pearl millet or 

sorghum. Results showed that the current adoption rates for modern pearl millet varieties is estimated to 34.8% 

of the farmers and that of modern sorghum varieties is estimated to about 22.9%. In terms of area planted, 

modern pearl millet varieties account for 25% of the pearl millet area and 17 % of the sorghum area planted. 

The pearl millet variety SOSAT C88 is largely adopted by farmers accounting for about 95% of area planted 

with modern pearl millet varieties. For sorghum, ICSV 400 and ICSV 111 are the most widely adopted 

accounting for 8.46% and 7.07% of area cultivated to sorghum respectively. They both account both for more 

than 95% of area planted with modern sorghum varieties. Over all, extrapolating from FAO statistical data, it 

can be estimated that in Northern Nigeria, modern pearl millet varieties occupy 1,154,261 ha and modern 

sorghum varieties about 1,200,532 ha. 

Using the treatment effect estimation framework, the potential adoption rate for modern pearl millet varieties is 

estimated to 58.60% with an adoption gap of 23.8%, whereas that of sorghum is limited to 27.24% with a gap of 

4.33%. Potential for increasing adoption of modern pearl millet varieties is still high whereas that of sorghum 

varieties is limited based on awareness or promotion. 

Matching and econometric methods indicate that the impacts of modern pearl millet varieties on yield are 

estimated to between 88 to 157 kg/ha between adopters and matched non-adopters. The estimated impacts of 

adoption on per capita total gross income (household revenues) are 34 to 52% higher for adopters than matched 

non-adopters. Similarly, the estimated impacts of adoption of modern pearl millet varieties are 48 to 101% 

higher for adopters and matched non-adopters. The quantity of cereals available per capita is estimated between 

127 to 231 kg/person/year for adopters versus matched non-adopters. There are however no significant 

differences based on per capita total wealth, number of hungry months and per capita expenditures. Using 

7

simple economic surplus approach, it is estimated that the total net present value of gross benefits derived from 

pearl millet research and development is about US$8,833,216 from 1996 to 2009. The situation is different for 

modern sorghum varieties where no differences between matched adopters and non-adopters were found based 

on average yield, total value of production, total value of production and total wealth. With regard to food 

sufficiency, no differences were found in the average cereal production per adult equivalent or the number of 

hungry months. The impact of modern sorghum varieties was therefore found to be limited. Poor households 

have benefitted more from improved pearl millet varieties than relatively wealthier households. In effect, the last 

quartile of poor wealthier households is deriving on average 252 kg/ha more than the other wealth classes. As 

for sorghum, there is no evidence of poverty impacts. 

Farmers expressed their preferences for traits of selected pearl millet and sorghum varieties. The variety SOSAT 

C88 is preferred for early maturity, insect tolerance, grain color, cooking time, and head filling and is disliked 

for its low fodder yield, poor storability and shorter head. The local pearl millet varieties in general are preferred 

for long head and large stalk but disliked for their high susceptibility to insect attacks, late maturity, low grain 

yield, small grain size, grain color, high cooking time. As for sorghum varieties, the variety ICSV 400 is 

preferred for its insect tolerance and early maturity, high fodder yield, higher selling price, but is disliked for 

low drought resistance, shorter head, and small stalk. The variety ICSV 111 is disliked for its low selling price, 

shorter head, lower fodder yield, and is preferred for its insect tolerance and early maturity. These characteristics 

should be taken into account when designing/developing pearl millet and sorghum varieties that suit farmers’ needs. 

There are potential for increasing uptake of pearl millet varieties in Nigeria and especially SOSAT C88. This 

suggests that a large impact can be realized by developing and implementing a successful dissemination project 

with a strong seed multiplication and delivery component. Similar potential are limited for sorghum varieties 

released less than 20 years ago. Further investment in the exposure and promotion of modern sorghum varieties 

may not warrant its costs. These varieties face significant constraints to adoption. Consistent with farmers’ 

perception of low productivity gains and social constraints, adoption of current modern sorghum varieties 

remains low and farmers are in the stage of dis-adoption. Therefore, there is a need for significant fresh 

investment in sorghum research in Northern Nigeria to lift those constraints. Similarly, further research is 

needed for pearl millet varieties. SOSAT C88 is at date the most preferred variety. However, farmers dislike its 

lower fodder yield, poor storability and shorter head. Further research is needed to bring these traits into SOSAT 

C88 in addition to the development of other pearl millet varieties that suit farmer’ needs. 

Yield gains estimated from this study are still limited even for pearl millet varieties and in this case about 10% 

between matched adopters and non-adopters. This trend is observed in many Sahelian countries where 

productivity gains from modern open pollinated varieties are not higher than 20% everything being equal 

between modern and local OPVs. There are potential with hybrid varieties where breeders can achieve higher 

productivity gains. Research in the next decade should focus on hybrid research where it would be easier for 

farmers to attain higher productivity gains and higher profits and for the private sector to enter the seed industry 

and make it more sustainable. 

Varieties reported by farmers are unlikely to be of true type because of cross pollination as in the case of pearl 

millet and therefore will not express the full genetic potential. Differences between the potential yields of 

modern varieties reported by scientists and those reported by farmers raise serious doubts on the genetic purity 

of the cultivars. The yield gaps are huge to be explained solely by the weak crop management. After ICRISAT 

technology exchange work ended in 2002 in Northern Nigeria, there has been little efforts to maintain breeder 

and produce foundation seed of the studied varieties. Seed renewal rate by farmers is very low i.e. every 9 years 

on average. With a weak seed system, it is unlikely that farmers had access to good quality seed even if they are 

willing to pay for. Farmers mostly source the seed from village markets. Seed quality is a major concern. There 

is a need for fine tuning the current impact assessment research by improving the identification of varieties. The 

use of finger printing methods or assessment of types by breeders may be necessary to ascertain the type of 

varieties and its adoption. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 1.6: Tropical Legumes II in sub Saharan Africa 

Countries Involved: Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, and Tanzania 


Objective 1 addresses the need to target crop breeding and delivery mechanisms to enhance the project’s 

impacts on the livelihoods of the poor in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and South Asia (SA). This is achieved by 

assessing the role and potential uptake and impacts of improved legume varieties, providing feedback for 

8

determining breeder’s research priorities, and establishing a baseline and framework that will enable future 

project monitoring and evaluation. 


The objective is achieved by assessing the role and potential uptake and impacts of improved legume varieties, 

providing feedback for determining breeder’s research priorities, and establishing a baseline and framework that 

will enable future project monitoring and evaluation. 


Targeting activities largely involve baseline data collection and analysis (household and market level), trait 

preference assessment, and monitoring of technology uptake processes to better inform breeding and seed 

dissemination efforts. 

Targets were achieved through four major activities. First, baseline studies involving household surveys were 

conducted across target countries to establish the current food security and poverty status of legume producing 

households and to document the importance, constraints, and variety preferences relating to the selected legume 

production. The baseline information is intended to facilitate project monitoring and impact assessment in terms 

of technology adoption, yields, incomes, food security, and poverty. An important aspect of the baseline studies 

was the design of the baseline survey such that information on target as well as control villages and households 

would be available before and after the project. The approach accounts for conditions with and without as well 

as before and after the project and forms part of an overall monitoring and evaluation framework aimed at 

measuring and attributing the short term and long term impacts of the project using rigorous methods. Second, 

standardized PVS survey tools on end-users’ trait preferences were designed and were co-implemented by 

breeders and socio-economists. Third, secondary data relating to soybean and cowpea production and trade were 

assembled from various sources and analyzed to establish the production system and market outlook for 

legumes in south Asia and SSA. 

The major outputs of the project are a) reports and publications of baseline studies for targeted legumes in SSA 

and SA, b) documentation of early adoption levels, on-farm yield gains, profits and other benefits or welfare 

gains by target farmers for targeted legumes in SSA and SA and reports published c) targeting innovations for 

up-scaling and for reaching vulnerable groups and report on recommendation domains and strategies for better 

targeting of vulnerable groups (e.g. women and children) and d)policy recommendations for improving the 

impact of legume technologies on vulnerable groups for target crops and regions. 

[RP MIP] 

Output 1.2. Integrated, stress-resilient germplasm/management options that raise the productivity of mandate 

crops and systems under subsistence smallholder conditions to achieve food sufficiency 

Evaluate the effects of conservation agriculture on long-term productivity, resource use efficiency, 

sustainability and soil quality of black soils. 

Rationale: 

It is hypothesized that conservation agriculture which consists of zero/minimum tillage, crop residue 

retention/growing cover crops and adoption of suitable cropping systems leads to reversal of process of land 

degradation when practiced continuously through improvement in soil physical, chemical and biological 

properties. Improved soil moisture regime and better soil quality favors higher plant growth and development 

and ultimately higher yield in CA. 

Methodology: 

A long-term experiment was initiated at BW4 watershed at ICRISAT, Patancheru to study the effect of 

minimum tillage, crop residue retention and cropping systems on crop yield, soil quality, runoff and water loss 

and economic feasibility from small householders perspective. Two levels of each of tillage (normal tillage and 

minimum tillage), residue (residue retention and no residue) and cropping systems (maize –chickpea and maizepigeonpea) 

were tested in split plot design with four replications. 

Results and discussion: 

During 2009 and 2010 no significant effects of tillage or residue were recorded on maize gain yield. In 2011, 

maize yield was observed significantly higher under normal tillage compared to minimum tillage in both the 

cropping systems. This may be attributed to beneficial effects of tillage like better and timely weed control, 

9

improved soil aeration due to interculturing and improved rain water infiltration. In case of minimum tillage 

rains interrupted timely application of herbicides and their efficacy leading to more weed infestation during the 

early growth period which adversely affected growth and development of plants. Retention of residues reduced 

maize yield irrespective of cropping systems, however, differences were not significant at 5% level of 

probability. Decrease in maize yield due to residue retention may be due to improper planting by zero-seed drill 

through residues leading to lesser plant stand in residue applied plots compared to plots without residues. 

Nutrient immobilization due to residue application causing reduced nutrient supply to plants may be another 

possible reason for lower maize yield due to residue application. Maize yield was recorded significantly higher 

in maize-pigeonpea cropping system compared to maize –chickpea cropping system. This is well documented 

that growing pigeonpea enriches soil fertility through biological fixation of atmospheric N, nutrient recycling 

from deeper layers and addition of large amount of biomass from both above and below ground vegetative parts. 

Moreover, deep channels created by decomposition of pigeonpea roots improve infiltration of rain water 

creating favorable moisture regime for plants. Tillage x residue interaction effects for maize yield was found 

non-significant except when no residue application in normal tillage recorded higher maize yield compared to 

no residue application in minimum tillage. Minimum tillage with residue application was at par with normal 

tillage with residue application indicating that the minimum tillage should be practiced with residue retention to 

prevent yield penalties. However, tillage x residue x cropping system interaction effects for maize yield were 

found non-significant. These results need to be confirmed further by conducting experiments systematically 

Ram A Jat, Piara Singh, Suhas P Wani, P Pathak, Girish Chander, 

KL Sahrawat, Sudi Raghavendra Rao and R Velmurugan [RP RDS] 

Residual benefits of micronutrient application and Jatropha Cake use 

Rationale: 

Keeping in view widespread deficiencies of sulphur (S), boron (B) and zinc (Zn) in the rainfed SAT, present 

scenario requires evaluating and developing fertilization practice involving S, B and Zn to boost productivity. 

Micronutrients are no doubt essential for plant production, but are required in small amounts and are so not 

required to be added every season due to residual effects. Organic manures also offer alternates good nutrient sources. 

Methodology: 

The residual effects of sulphur (S), boron (B) and zinc (Zn) added during the rainy season 2010 in on-farm trials 

under TATA and NAIP projects in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh were evaluated for crop 

production during the 2010-11 post-rainy season. Data were also recorded in rainy season 2011 from a long 

term on-station experiment started since 2007 to evaluate the frequency (every year, once in 2 years or 3 years) 

and dose (Full and 50%) of S, B and Zn with soybean-sorghum and maize-chickpea cropping systems. The other 

experiment was conducted to evaluate the suitability of deoiled cake, a by-product of Jatropha as a source of 

nutrients on the basis of replacing 50 or 100% of basal N requirement, while reducing based upon cake 

composition other chemical fertilizers also. 

Results: 

The residual benefits of 2010 rainy season applied S, B and Zn were recorded in improved on-farm productivity 

in post-rainy cultivated wheat (3 to 24%), chickpea (2 to 54%) and other crops. The plots having fertilizer 

additions in conjuction with organic manures like vermicompost showed still higher residual effects – wheat 

yields were 1 to 65% higher than even balanced nutrition through sole chemical fertilizers and chickpea yield by 

1 to 28%. In on-station study, applied S, B and Zn increased maize grain productivity over the only application 

of recommended N and P by 64 to 77% in application every year, 43-58%% in application once in 2 years and 

11-41% in application once in 3 years. Similar results were recorded in soybean crop. Use of Jatropha cake in 

meeting nutrient requirement in maize during rainy season 2011 and cutting use of chemical fertilizers was 

found to bring in yields at par with application of recommended nutrients solely through chemical fertilizers, 

thus indicating its suitability in crop production. 

On-farm studies revealed significant residual benefits of S, B and Zn; while the on-station research showed that 

application of 50% of recommended S, B and Zn could be better option than full dose once in 2 or 3 years which 

is followed currently. And deoiled Jatropha cake is a suitable option to cut cost on chemical fertilizer in crop 

production. 

Source: SDTT, SRTT Annual (2010-11) & Half Yearly (2011) reports; IFAD-NAIP completion report; IFAD, 

2010-11 report 

Girish Chander, Suhas P Wani, Prasad Kamdi, CK Pal, SK Desai, 

Bacchu Singh Chaudhari, C Rajesh and R Velmurugan [RP RDS] 

10

Refining agronomic practices for enhancing the productivity and availability of sweet sorghum 

feedstock to the industry 

Rationale: 

Sweet sorghum is an ideal ‘smart crop’ because it produces food, feed, jaggery and sugar, having fast growth, 

wider adaptability and high biomass producing ability with sugar-rich stalks, known to have good potential for 

ethanol production. Because of the rapid increase in crude oil prices, recently, global emphasis is focused on the 

development of renewable energy sources due to depletion of petroleum reserves as well as increase in demand 

of petroleum products. In future there will be increase in demand for alternate commercial raw material like 

sweet sorghum which may be utilized as supplementary source for sugarcane industry and jaggery preparation. 

It is well known phenomenon that genotypes with an application of optimum fertilizer dose particularly nitrogen 

not only increase productivity but also improves the quality of juice obtained from stalk of sweet sorghum. 

Indeed, nitrogen appears as the most applied and crucial nutrient that greatly affects plant growth and therefore 

sorghum’s use for bio-fuel production. 

Methodology: 

Field experiments were conducted both under on farm and on station situation to find out optimum improved 

production technologies suitable for sweet sorghum. On- station trial was on standardization of genotypes and 

fertilizer in enhancing the productivity levels of sweet sorghum conducted at the Research Farm of International 

crops Research Institute for the Semi- Arid Tropics, Patancheru, Hyderabad (A.P.). The field experiment was 

laid out in split- split plot design with 36 treatment combinations and three replications. The main plot 

treatment consisted of two plant spacings viz., 45 cm x 15 cm (1.48 lakh plants ha -1 ) and 60 cm x 15 cm (1.11 

lakh plants ha -1 ). The sub plot treatment comprised of six nitrogen levels viz., 0, 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 kg N 

ha -1 whereas three sweet sorghum genotypes viz., CSH 22 SS, ICSV 93046 and NTJ-2 were placed in sub-sub 

plot. The on farm trials was on participatory evaluation of best bet management practices for sweet sorghum 

constituting improved genotype (CSH 22 SS), sowing with tropicultor and Balanced Nutrition (90 : 40 : 40 Kg 

NPK/ha), 30 kg Sulphur, 10 kg Zn and 0.5 kg Boron/ha. Nitrogen as per the treatment was applied in the form 

of urea in three split doses (50 % N as basal dose during sowing, 25 % N at 25-30 DAS and 25 % N at 45-50 

DAS); while, phosphorus and potassium @ 40 kg ha -1 were applied uniformly as a common basal dose to all the 

plots through single super phosphate and muriate of potash, respectively. 

Results: 

Perusal of results for on station experimentation revealed that variation amongst plant spacing didn’t reach to 

the level of significance in influencing grain yield of sweet sorghum. However, a linear significant difference in 

grain yield was recorded with different levels of nitrogen. Increasing level of nitrogen up to 90 kg ha -1 has 

remarkably increased grain yield whereas, further increase in nitrogen level didn’t increase the grain yield 

significantly. Significant variation was noticed amongst the genotypes under study. CSH 22 SS has recorded 

significantly higher grain yield (25.72 q ha-1) as compared to NTJ-2 (18.91 q ha-1) and ICSV 93046 (15.54 q 

ha -1 ). The extent of increase in grain yield of genotype CSH 22 SS over NTJ-2 and ICSV 93046 was 26 and 

40%, respectively. 

AS regards to on farm trials, significant (60%) increase in grain yield of sweet sorghum was recorded (10.8-23.5 

q/ha) compared to farmers practice (4.8-11.1 q/ha); Whereas w.r.t. milliable cane yield, >50 % increase in yield 

with improved management practices (39.7-57.6 t/ha) were recorded compared to farmers practice (17.3-27.3). 

Conclusion: 

Thus, the results prove that there is enough scope to increase the crop productivity by 2-3 folds with best 

possible interventions of available technologies to sustain and fulfill the ever increasing need of burgeoning 

population and built the resilience. 

Source: 

ICAR-NAIP-ICRISAT Sweet sorghum ethanol value chain development sub-project 

Gajanan Sawargaonkar, Suhas P Wani, E Pavani, 

BVS Reddy and Ch Ravinder Reddy [RP RDS] 

Sustaining crop production improvements for smallholder farmers in semi-arid Zimbabwe (PRP II) 

Rationale: 

The objectives of the ICRISAT-led interventions are to assist smallholder farmers in achieving sustained 

improvements in food and nutritional security and to build the capacity of NGOs and AGRITEX in promoting 

improved agriculture programs. 

11

Methodology: 

A survey of 20 districts located in contrasting agro-ecological regions was conducted to assess maize yields and 

selected soil properties in fields of farmers who have been practicing CA alongside conventional tillage for up to 

10 years. Maize yields were determined from 100 m 2 net plots at the centre of each field. Soil properties 

measured are infiltration rate, soil organic C, pH and aggregate stability. 

A meta-analysis of maize yield data collected from CA trials conducted by ICRISAT in Zimbabwe from 2003 to 

2010, both on-station and on-farm (8 districts) was done. Data from 85 trials were used in the meta-analysis. 

The study employed effect-size for each experiment and this was determined as the differences between 

treatment means (CA treatments) and control means. 


Maize for both CA and CT were generally low (3 

t/ha) yields were higher in CT plots. Soil infiltration results showed that minimum tillage alone had no effect 

compared to CT, in fact steady state infiltration rate was higher under CT. Retention of crop residues in on the 

soil surface in CA plots significantly increased initial infiltration (up to 1 hour) but steady-state infiltration rate 

was similar to CT. Rotating maize with legumes (groundnut, bean) significantly increased both initial and 

steady state infiltration rate compared to CT. Practicing all three CA principles (i.e. minimum tillage, mulch 

retention on soil surface, legume-based rotation) resulted in the highest increase in both initial and steady state 

infiltration rate. Analysis of other soil properties is yet to be completed. 

Meta analysis showed that CA was superior to CT and therefore a better practice given the added environmental 

benefits. CA was superior to CT in 71% of trials on sandy soils compared to only 43% in clay soils. Under poor 

rainfall distribution where CA is supposed to out-perform CT, there was no grain yield difference, but when 

rainfall distribution was good CA was superior in 90% of the trials. Applying N fertilizer at 20-40 kg/ha 

enhanced yield under CA in 78% of trials compared to CT. 

Conclusion: 

Legume-based crop rotation is the most important CA principle in terms of increasing water infiltration, but 

practicing all three principles, though not afforded by most smallholder farmers, results in the greatest increase 

in infiltration implying improved soil physical environment. Meta analysis results showed that CA performs best 

on sandy soils and therefore these should be targeted when promoting CA. The hypothesis that CA conserves 

more moisture was not confirmed since there was no yield benefit under CA in poor rainfall distribution seasons. 

Source: 

Nyamangara et al., 2011. CA in Zimbabwe: Impacts, adoption, challenges and way forward. Presentation to the 

Zimbabwe Agriculture Coordination Working Group, 30 th June 2011, Harare, Zimbabwe. www.acwg.co.zw 

Nyamangara et al. 2011. Effect of conservation agriculture on maize yield in the semi-arid areas of Zimbabwe. 

5 th World Congress of Conservation Agriculture incorporating 3rd Farming Systems Design Conference, 

September 2011 Brisbane, Australia. www.wcca2011.org 

Justice Nyamangara [RP RDS] 

Genotype x micro-dosing interaction quantified for Sahelian zone in Niger 

Rationale: 

Famers in West Africa and particularly in the sahelian zone hardly use any fertilizer for cereal production due to 

high cost and availability. Mineral fertilizer microdosing combined with spot application of organic 

amendments and the best genotype would assure a sustainable and increased crop production. 

Methodology: 

Ten improved and one local millet variety were tested under 16 soil fertility management options (0, 100, 200 

and 300g per hill of organic manure and 0g 3g NPK, 6g NPK and 2g DAP + 1g of Urea per hill). It is a 

continuation of the experiment started in rainy season 2010 in a split design in 3 replications repeated at 3 

locations. Yield data were collected at harvest at maturity 


Effect of hill application of organic manure 

The higher was manure application rate, the more was plant survival, stover and gain yield regardless of the 

variety. The crops subjected to 300g of manure par hill outperformed all the other application rates (Table 1). 

12

Grain yield of the absolute control ranged from 522 to 864 kg.ha -1 , depending up on the variety. This is higher 

than the average yield of 400 kg.ha -1 recorded in Niger. These differences are statistically significant. 

Table 1: Effect of hill application of organic manure on millet crop performance. Sadore 2011 – means 

over mineral manure and genotypes 

Organic manure rates Number of heads harvested per plot Stover yield (kg/ha) Grain yield (kg/ha) 

0g per hill 37 1619 750 

100g per hill 41 1908 790 

200g per hill 42 2122 867 

300g per hill 49 2467 1045 

Sed (±) 2.5 227.7 74.5 

Fprob (%) 0.017 0.047 0.029 

Effect of hill application of mineral manure: Millet grain yield was higher with 6g NPK per hill compared to the 

other treatments which was statistically significant at < 0.001 probability level (Table 2). Crop yield with 3 kg 

per hill of NPK was also high to be considered as possible option to further reduce application rate for the sake 

of optimizing fertilizer efficiency 

Table 2: Effect of hill application of mineral manure on millet crop performance. Sadore 2011 – means 

over organic manure and genotypes 

Mineral fertilizer Number of heads harvested per plot Stover yield (kg/ha) Grain yield (kg/ha) 

0g min fert 41 1876 813 

3g NPK per hill 43 2063 875 

6g NPK per hill 44 2236 939 

DAP 2g per hill+1g urea 41 1941 825 

Sed (±) 1.2 80.4 30 

Fprob (%) 0.006

SOUNAMAU = PE08030 41 1660 683 

Local variety 38 2891 885 

Sed (±) 2.0 127.2 47.4 

Fprob (%)

Methodology: 

Ten high temperature tolerant chickpea germplasm accessions identified earlier (Upadhyaya et al. 2011, Crop 

Science 51:2079-2094) were evaluated along with high temperature tolerant cultivar ICCV 92944 and 

susceptible cultivar G 130 to identify high yielding heat tolerant accessions. 


Only eight accessions ICC #s 5597, 5829, 6121, 7410, 11916, 13124, 14368 and 14653 (1053-1321 kg ha -1 ) 

produced higher yield per se than ICCV 92944 (1012 kg ha -1 ). Similarly, 10 accessions ICC #s 5597, 5829, 

6121, 7410, 11916, 13124, 14284, 14346, 14368 and 14653 (1173-1235 kg ha -1 ) produced higher seed yield per 

se than ICCV 92944 (1165 kg ha -1 ) when 20 kg ha -1 extra N was provided under high temperature environment. 

On an average, the heat tolerant accessions produced 60 kg ha -1 higher seed yield when 20 kg ha -1 extra N was 

provided under high temperature environment. ICC #s 5597, 5829, 6121, 7410, 11916, 13124, 14368 and 14653 

produced higher seed yield under both higher temperature and when 20 kg ha -1 extra N was provided under high 

temperature environments. 

Conclusions: 

The identified heat tolerant germplasm accessions were also agronomically desirable and can be utilized in 

breeding program for the genetic enhancement of chickpea cultivars. 

HD Upadhyaya and CLL Gowda [RP GL] 

b.Drought tolerant chickpea: 

Rationale: 

Drought is one of the most important abiotic constraints for productivity, and a large proportion of these 

productivity losses can be averted through crop improvements. 

Methodology: 

Ten previously identified drought tolerant chickpea germplasm accessions were evaluated with four control 

cultivars (Annigeri, ICCV 2, KAK 2 and ICC 4958) in a RCBD under irrigated and non-irrigated environments 

for yield and yield-attributing traits. 


Six germplasm accessions ICC #s 867, 10945, 12947, 1422, 16903 and 1923 (1946-2641 kg ha -1 ) yielded higher 

seed yield per se than the tolerant control ICC 4958 (1793 kg ha -1 ) under irrigated environment and six 

accessions ICC #s 10945, 12947, 1422, 14778, 16903 and 867 (1560-2010 kg ha -1 ) produced higher seed yield 

than the tolerant control ICC 4958 (1327 kg ha -1 ) under non-irrigated environment. ICC #s 867, 10945, 12947, 

1422 and 16903 produced higher seed yield under both irrigated and non-irrigated environments. 

Conclusions: 

The identified drought tolerant germplasm accessions also yielded well and can be used in chickpea 

improvement program to develop drought tolerant high yielding cultivars with a broad genetic base. 


c.Salinity tolerant chickpea: 

Rationale: 

Salinity is an important constraint in agriculture worldwide, especially in South Asia (India, Pakistan) and 

Australia. Improved genotypes that are well adapted to saline conditions are needed to enhance and sustain 

production in these areas. 

Methodology: 

Previously identified 45 salinity tolerant chickpea germplasm accessions were evaluated in two trials with four 

control cultivars (Annigeri, ICCV 2, L 550 and CSG 8962) under irrigated and non-irrigated environments for 

yield and yield-attributing traits. 


Only one salinity tolerant germplasm accession ICC867 (2200 kg ha -1 ) produced significantly higher seed yield 

than the tolerant control CSG 8962 (1607 kg ha -1 ) under non-irrigated environment. However, 12 germplasm 

accessions (ICC #s 67, 708, 867, 1431, 2155, 2580, 4593, 5003, 9942, 11121, 15610 and 15996 with 1623- 

2200 kg ha -1 yield) produced high seed yield similar to the salinity tolerant control CSG 8962 (2122-2329 kg 

ha -1 ) under irrigated environment and nine accessions (ICC #s 67, 708, 867, 1431, 2580, 8384, 14815, 15610 

and 15996 with 2123-2528 kg ha -1 yield) produced higher seed yield than the salinity tolerant control CSG 8962 

15

(1607-2083 kg ha -1 ) under non-irrigated environment. ICC #s 67, 708, 867, 1431, 2580, 15610 and 15996 

produced higher seed yield under both irrigated and non-irrigated environments. 

Conclusions: 

The high yielding salinity tolerant germplasm accessions will provide new sources of salinity tolerance and can 

be utilized in chickpea breeding programs to develop salinity tolerant high yielding cultivars with a broad 

genetic base. 


d.Large seed size in kabuli type: 

Rationale: 

Seed size is an important trait in kabuli chickpea. Large seeded (100-seed weight >40g) kabuli chickpeas fetch 

higher market price as they are preferred by consumers. 

Methodology: 

Twenty six large seeded kabuli accessions were evaluated with four control cultivars (ICCV 2, KAK 2, JGK 1 

and L 550) under irrigated and non-irrigated environments for yield and yield-attributing traits. 


None of the large-seeded accessions performed better than the control cultivar KAK 2 under irrigated 

environment. However, five large-seeded (47-62g 100-seed weight) accessions ICC #s 7344, 7345, 14194, 

17452 and 19765 (1658-1895 kg ha -1 ) produced 79 to 90% yield of KAK 2 (37g; 2111 kg ha -1 ) under irrigated 

environment. Seven large-seeded accessions ICC #s 14194, 17109, 17452, 17457, 19416, 19657 and 20142 (49 

to 55 g; 1202-1479 kg ha -1 ) produced yield at par with KAK 2 (34g; 1366 kg ha -1 ) under non-irrigated 

environment. Large-seeded accessions ICC #s 14194 and 17452 produced higher seed yield under both irrigated 

and non-irrigated environments. 

Conclusions: 

New large-seeded kabuli germplasm accessions identified could be utilized as valuable sources for large-seeded 

kabuli chickpea improvement. 


e.Evaluation of chickpea mini core collection: 

Rationale: 

Development and evaluation of mini core collection is suggested to be an efficient strategy for enhancing use of 

germplasm in crop improvement programs through identification of trait-specific germplasm accessions. 

Methodology: 

Chickpea mini core collection consisting of 211 accessions was evaluated along with five control cultivars 

(Annigeri, G 130, ICCV 10, KAK 2, L 550) in an alpha design under normal sown irrigated and late sown 

irrigated environments for yield and other important agronomic traits. 


Eight germplasm accessions, ICC #s 1098, 5879, 7668, 10945, 14098, 14402, 14831 and 15612 (1890-2275 kg 

ha -1 seed yield; 34-38 days to flowering; 11-19 g 100-seed weight) produced significantly higher seed yield 

than the control cultivar Annigeri (1332 kg ha -1 seed yield; 34 days to flowering; 21 g 100-seed weight) under 

late sown environment. None of the mini core accessions produced significantly higher seed yield than the 

control Annigeri under normal sown irrigated environment. However, 17 accessions ICC #s 67, 637, 867, 1205, 

1356, 1398, 1431, 4533, 6537, 6571, 6816, 7441, 8621, 8950, 10399, 11498 and 13892 (3114-3468 kg ha -1 seed 

yield; 43-62 days to flowering; 11-18g 100-seed weight) produced higher seed yield per se than the control 

cultivar Annigeri (3091 kg ha -1 seed yield; 44 days to flowering; 21 g 100-seed weight) under normal sown 

irrigated environment. 

Conclusions: 

The identified eight high yielding germplasm accessions could be utilized to develop new chickpea cultivars 

suitable for cultivation under late sown environment. 


16

• Groundnut 

a. Drought tolerance: 

Rationale: 

Over two-thirds of global groundnut production occurs in seasonally rainfed regions where drought is a potential 

constraint for its production and productivity. Therefore, to identify promising drought tolerant groundnut 

accessions, the reference set representing global diversity has been evaluated for drought-related traits such as 

root length density, total dry matter, and transpiration efficiency and germplasm accessions with contrasting 

traits identified. It would be important to determine the agronomic desirability of accessions promising for traits 

related to drought tolerance. 

a.1 Root length density groundnut: 

Methodology: 

Previously identified 20 contrasting genotypes (10 low and 10 high root length density lines) were evaluated 

with four control cultivars (Gangapuri, M 13, ICGS 44, ICGS 76) for pod yield and other agronomic traits 

during 2010-11 postrainy and 2011 rainy seasons. 


None of the germplasm accessions was better than controls. However, ICGV 02286 (3775 kg ha -1 ) among the 

higher root length density (RLD) types produced higher pod yield in comparison to all the control cultivars 

(1815-3419 kg ha -1 ). Among the lower RLD types, ICGV 86011 (3534 kg ha -1 ) produced higher pod yield in 

comparison to all the control cultivars during 2010-11 postrainy season. Data analysis for 2011 rainy season is 

in progress. 

a.2 Total dry matter groundnut: 

Methodology: 

Similarly, previously identified 20 contrasting genotypes (10 low and 10 high total dry matter lines) with four 

control cultivars (Gangapuri, M 13, ICGS 44, ICGS 76) were evaluated for pod yield and other agronomic traits 

during 2010-11 postrainy and 2011 rainy seasons. 


Four accessions ICG 4379, ICG 5286, ICG 10185 and ICG 13099 (3471-3830 kg ha -1 ) amongst the higher total 

dry mater group produced higher pod yield in comparison to all the control cultivars (2005-3413 kg ha -1 ). 

Among the lower total dry matter group, none of the genotype produced pod yield at par with control cultivars. 

Data analysis for 2011 rainy season is in progress. 

a.3 Transpiration efficiency in groundnut: 

Methodology: 

Ten high and 10 low transpiration efficient groundnut germplasm lines were evaluated with four control 

cultivars (Gangapuri, ICGS 44, ICGS 76 and M 13) during 2010-11 postrainy and 2011 rainy seasons. 


ICG 13099 (3169 kg ha -1 ) among high transpiration efficient group and ICG 9777 (3593 kg ha -1 ) among low 

transpiration group produced higher pod yields than all the four control cultivars (1925 – 3039 kg ha -1 ) during 

2010-11 postrainy season. Data analysis for 2011 rainy season is in progress. 

Conclusions: 

Identified drought tolerant lines will be re-confirmed based on analysis of 2011 rainy season data. 


b. Assessment of groundnut reference collection under drought and heat stress 

Rationale: 

Heat and drought stress occurring simultaneously in the semi arid tropics are considered to be the two major 

environmental factors limiting groundnut growth and yield. To contribute to the development of new improved 

high yielding genotypes of groundnut under drought and heat stress environments, groundnut collection must be 

investigated for indentifying new sources of tolerance and the relevant traits conferring this tolerance. 

Methodology : 

Two hundred fifty nine (259) accessions of groundnut reference collection along with 18 farmers preferred 

varieties were investigated in control (pots) and field trials under intermittent and heat stress conditions at 

17

ICRISAT Sadore station. The methodology was described in published papers (Hamidou et al. 2011a, Field 

Crops Research: in press; Hamidou et al. 2011b, Journal of Agronomy and Crops Science: accepted). The 

objective was to select high yielding genotypes tolerant to drought and/or heat stress and identify related traits. 


The published paper in Field crops research included data collected in India where the same reference collection 

was investigated. Analyzed data of the two locations across years indicated large variation for pod yield under 

intermittent drought stress conditions. New sources of drought tolerance were identified; the mechanisms of 

adaptation as well as their interaction with the environments were well understood. The GGE biplot analysis 

revealed genotypes with broad adaptation and specific adaptation under different water regimes. The combined 

effect of drought and heat stress on groundnut was published in the paper accepted in Journal of agronomy and 

crops sciences. It was indicated that intermittent drought had more effect on pod yield and its components under 

high temperature than moderate temperature. Growth processes were not affected in the high temperature season 

while the reproductive processes were negatively affected by high temperature. Large GxE interaction was 

observed for pod yield in both water regimes indicating the need for selection of genotypes in each environment. 

The lack of any relationship between residual/pod yield and SPAD reading and specific leaf area (SLA) 

indicates that care should be taken for their use as surrogate traits for transpiration efficiency in groundnut 

selection for drought tolerance. However, the partition rate could be relevant trait conferring drought and heat 

stress in both moderate and high temperature 

Conclusions: 

A large variation for pod yield exists in the groundnut reference collection under intermittent drought and heat 

stress conditions. New sources of tolerance were selected whatever a large genotype and year interaction was 

observed. The promising genotypes selected were higher yielding than the farmers preferred varieties used as 

check in this study. Investigation must be carried on to identify the relevant traits related to drought and heat 

stress. 

F Hamidou [RP GL] 

c. Salinity tolerance in groundnut: 

Rationale: 

Salinity affects plant growth, development, and yield in approximately 100 million ha of arable land worldwide. 

Salinity adversely affects plant growth at all stages, seedling and reproductive stages, in particular, and 

drastically reduces the crop yield. The development/introduction of improved genotypes adapted to saline 

conditions is needed to enhance and sustain production in salinity affected areas. 

Methodology: 

Previously identified 11 salinity tolerant germplasm and 6 elite breeding lines along with 6 control cultivars 

(Gangapuri, ICG (FDRS) 10, JL 24, ICGS 76, ICGS 44, and M 13) were evaluated for pod yield and other 

agronomic traits during 2010-11 postrainy and 2011 rainy seasons. 


The germplasm line ICG 6022 (fastigiata) produced higher pod yield (3497 kg ha -1 ) and had higher 100-seed 

weight (69g) than the control cultivar Gangapuri (1861 kg ha -1 , 46g) during postrainy season. None of the line in 

hypogaea group produced higher pod yield than the control cultivars ICGS 76 (3739 kg ha -1 ) and M 13 (3753 kg 

ha -1 ). Data analysis for 2011 rainy season is in progress. 

Conclusions: 

High yielding salinity tolerant germplasm lines will be identified after analysis of 2011 rainy season data. 


d. Bud necrosis disease (BND) and defoliation tolerant groundnut: 

Rationale: 

Bud necrosis disease and defoliation caused by bud necrosis virus (BNV) are the major biotic stresses affecting 

the groundnut production drastically. 

Methodology: 

Five hundred seventy six groundnut germplasm accessions along with four control cultivars (Gangapuri, M 13, 

ICGS 44, ICGS 76) were evaluated during 2010-11 postrainy season and 356 during 2011 rainy seasons under 

natural field condition for tolerance to BND and defoliation and for pod yield and other agronomic traits. 

18


Six accessions, ICG 246, ICG 4527, ICG 9127, ICG 9777, ICG 13895 and ICGV 86011 (3998 -4470 kg ha -1 

pod yield; 0% BND;

Methodology: 

A total of 269 accessions from 20 wild Arachis species belonging to six sections were evaluated in an open 

Arachis house in large cylindrical concrete structures during 2004–05 season at Patancheru, India for 41 

morpho-agronomic traits and 89 selected accessions for oil, protein and total sugar content. 


Data analysis showed significant differences between species and accessions for most of the traits studied. 

Hierarchical cluster analysis, based on the first five principal component scores accounting for 82.5% variation, 

resulted in four clusters: clusters 1 and 2, contained mostly annuals and clusters 3 and 4 perennials. A large 

range of variations were noticed among species for days to flowering, pod and seed characteristics, specific leaf 

area (SLA) and for SPAD chlorophyll meter reading (SCMR). Arachis duranensis showed the maximum 

intraspecific variation as revealed by a high diversity index for 23 of the 41 traits which included: days to 

flowering, primary branches, plant width, pod length, pod width, SCMR and SLA. The other species with 

desirable traits were A. pusilla (earliest flowering) and A. villosa (high SCMR at 60 and 80 days after sowing). 

The latter species is cross compatible with cultivated groundnut, thus, is a good source to enhance the trait value 

in the cultigen’s gene pool. The best 20 accessions with superior agronomic, nutritional quality and drought 

related trait combinations have been identified (Upadhyaya et al. 2011, Euphytica 182: 103-115). 

Conclusions: 

The identified 20 best accessions with superior agronomic, nutritional quality and drought related trait 

combinations could be utilized for introgression of diverse and unique alleles from wild Arachis species into A. 

hypogaea. 


• Pigeonpea 

a. Water-logging tolerance: 

Rationale: 

Pigeonpea is highly sensitive to water-logging and generally cultivated under rainfed conditions in the rainy 

season. Unpredictable rainfall pattern has resulted in frequent droughts as well as water-logging stresses 

resulting in yield losses. As a consequence of increased temperature and greenhouse gas emissions, global 

warming models have also predicted an increase in the mean intensity of rainfall on any rainy day. 

Methodology: 

Physiologists at ICRISAT evaluated the selected pigeonpea germplasm including mini core collection for waterlogging 

tolerance and identified 57 water-logging tolerant accessions. New water-logging tolerant cultivars are 

needed to sustain pigeonpea production in the areas affected with water-logging. Keeping this in view, waterlogging 

tolerant accessions were planted for evaluation, for yield traits under irrigated and non-irrigated 

conditions during 2011 rainy season in an alpha design with two replications. 


Recording of observations is in progress. 


b. Multilocation evaluation of pigeonpea mini core collection 

Rationale: 

Development and evaluation of mini core collection is suggested to be an efficient strategy for enhancing use of 

germplasm in crop improvement programs through identification of trait-specific germplasm accessions. 

Methodology: 

Pigeonpea mini core collection consisting of 146 accessions and four control cultivars, ICP 6971 (extra-early), 

ICP 11543 (early), ICP 8863 (medium) and ICP 7221 (late), were evaluated at ICRISAT and five other locations 

in India (IIPR, Kanpur; ARS, Gulberga; PAU, Ludhiana; ARS, Khargone; and ARS, Badnapur) for 10 

important agronomic traits. Experiments were laid-out in alpha design with two replications under irrigated and 

non-irrigated conditions. Accessions were sown with a spacing of 75 cm between rows and 25 cm between 

plants. 


Recording of observations is in progress. 


20

c. Evaluation of Cajanus scarabaeoides (L.) Thou.: 

Rationale: 

Crop wild relatives (CWR) are potential gene contributors for crop improvement programs. Cajanus 

scarabaeoides (L.) Thou., a pigeonpea wild relative, is crossable with cultivated pigeonpea and possess several 

useful traits. Assessment of collection for gaps and characterization of collection is very important to enhance 

the utilization of this species in crop improvement. 

Methodology: 

One hundred accessions of C. scarabaeoides conserved at the ICRISAT genebank were characterized during 

2010-11. Experiment was laid out in un-replicated augmented design with systematic controls after every test 

accessions. Observations on 13 quantitative and 10 qualitative traits were recorded to assess the diversity in the 

collection. Using GIS tools identified the gaps in the collection. 


Highly significant genotypic variance for leaflet length, days to 5% maturity, seeds per pod, 100-seed weight, 

seed protein content, trichome density and length was observed. All C. scarabaeoides accessions used in the 

present study are the best sources for extra early (75%) map indicated a total of 118 provinces covering 

790 districts in Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, 

Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam as geographical gaps in the collection. 

Conclusions: 

C. scarabaeoides accessions are the best sources for extra early (90 accessions with 5 seeds). Occurrence of C. scarabaeoides is quite close to the origin and dispersal of 

pigeonpea. 


ii. a. Characterization of germplasm: 

Rationale: 

Characterization is one of the crucial genebank activities and is required for efficient conservation and 

utilization of germplasm in crop improvement programs. Crop germplasm collections are dynamic in nature and 

needs to be characterized as and when new germplasm becomes available through collection/assembly. 

Amongst grain legume crops, ICRISAT genebank has the global responsibility of collection, characterization, 

conservation, and distribution of germplasm accessions of chickpea, pigeonpea, and groundnut and holds about 

49,344 accessions from 134 countries. In spite of such a large collection, gaps still exist in our collection and 

new germplasm is being assembled/collected to enrich the existing collection. Further, in the existing collection, 

we have identified characterization gaps in the databases of grain legumes crops. Therefore, to fulfill these gaps, 

the existing germplasm accessions were characterized along with the newly assembled germplasm following the 

descriptors lists and databases were updated. 

Methodology: 

Chickpea: Newly assembled 106 accessions and 140 existing accessions were characterized to fill the gaps in 

characterization database for days to 50% flowering, days to flower ending, flower color, plant color, flowering 

duration, growth habit, and days to maturity during 2010-11 postrainy season. 

Groundnut: Newly assembled 146 accessions and 3,000 existing accessions were characterized to update the 

gaps in characterization database for 31 agro-morphological traits during 2010-11 postrainy season and 145 

newly assembled accessions during 2011 rainy season. 

Pigeonpea: During 2010, a total of 1,004 accessions were characterized to fill the gaps in characterization 

database. Eighty pigeonpea accessions have been characterized in 2011 rainy season. Data recording is in 

21

progress. Besides, 182 accessions of wild relative Rhynchosia minima are being characterized in botanical 

garden in an alpha design in two replications. Data recording is in progress. 


b. Regeneration: 

Rationale: 

Regeneration of germplasm is required to maintain the seed quantity of germplasm accession for efficient 

conservation in active (medium-) and base (long-term) collections, to meet the demand for research and safety 

back-ups, and to maintain the seed viability during storage. 

In ICRISAT, germplasm accessions are conserved under medium- (at 4°C temperature and 20-30% relative 

humidity) and long-term (-20°C) conditions as active and base collections, respectively. Therefore, sufficient 

quantities of seeds are required for efficient conservation of germplasm accessions under two conditions. Also, 

seed distribution is one of the major genebank activity and we have distributed about 319 seed samples of three 

grain legumes, chickpea, groundnut and pigeonpea to the researchers within ICRISAT and 1,490 samples to the 

researchers in 15 countries in 2010 and 687 seed samples within ICRISAT and 3,024 seed samples in 9 

countries in 2011. Hence, regeneration of these germplasm accessions is needed to meet the future demand. 

Further, germplasm accessions may lose their viability when conserved for a long period. Hence, the germplasm 

collections are periodically monitored for viability and the accessions are regenerated when the seed viability 

falls below the critical level. Besides, large scale regeneration of critical accessions has been planned for this 

year keeping in view of safety back-up storage at Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway during 2012. 

Methodology: 

Regeneration is generally carried out under field conditions, but the critical accessions with low seed stock and 

the wild types are regenerated under controlled environmental conditions in green houses. 


a. Regeneration under field conditions: 

In chickpea, 2,463 accessions and in groundnut, 4,318 germplasm accessions with low seed stock and poor 

viability (

viability and health of accessions is tested before seeds are packaged and placed in the genebank and at regular 

intervals during storage following germination test. 

Methodology: 

The seed viability of 3,293 grain legume accessions was tested during 2011 following standard (BP method) 

germination testing procedure. This included chickpea (2,345), pigeonpea (457), and groundnut (491) 

regenerated during 2010 rainy and 2010-11 postrainy seasons. 


The viability ranged from 76-100% in chickpea, 68-100% in pigeonpea and 64-100% in groundnut. The seed 

viability testing of another 3,000 groundnut accessions regenerated during 2010-11 postrainy season is in 

progress. 

Conclusions: 

During observations on viability of critical germplasm accessions of pigeonpea, we observed that some 

accessions showed no germination following normal germination tests. However, in such accessions there were 

seeds which produced less vigorous seedlings during extended period of germination. These seedlings were 

rescued for further growing in ideal conditions of glasshouse/field. Fresh and viable seeds were secured in such 

seed accessions. Otherwise seed lots of such accessions when planted directly in the field, may not produce 

seedlings robust enough to penetrate the soil crust and withstand the field conditions, thus, resulting in loss of 

valuable germplasm. 


d. Germplasm samples processed for medium- and long-term conservation 

Rationale: 

Cleaning the harvested seed samples of extraneous material, controlled environment drying, testing germination 

and transfer to appropriate containers for conservation ensures seed quality fur further utilization and 

distribution. 

Methodology: 

Seed harvests of 260 critical accessions of groundnut regenerated in the special facilities during 2010 were 

transferred to the medium term-storage on priority basis. Additionally, seed samples of 7,524 accessions 

regenerated during the 2010 rainy and 2010-11 postrainy seasons were transferred to the medium-term cold 

rooms following standard protocols. These include chickpea (2,463), pigeonpea (743) and groundnut (4,318). A 

total of 7,259 samples (chickpea-4,000, pigeonpea-559, and groundnut-2,700) have been dried under controlled 

environment (15ºC and 15% RH) for safety back-up storage. 

Conclusions: 

Timely processing of the seed samples in these crops resulted in large scale transfer of accessions to mediumterm 

storage and to safety backup storage at Svalbard Global Seed vault. 


e. Facilities identified for backup safety storage of germplasm collections in collaboration with partners 

and samples processed for safety backup 

Rationale: 

Conserving duplicate samples of assembled germplasm at other locations under long-term conditions provides 

insurance against loss of seeds in genebanks as well as a refuse for seeds in case of large scale regional or global 

crisis. 

Methodology: 

As part of the Agreement between ICRISAT and the Nordic Genetic Resources Center, Norway (formerly 

Nordic Gene Bank), we have deposited 4000 seed samples of chickpea, 559 of pigeonpea and 2700 of 

groundnut at the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, Norway following standard protocols of seed health testing and 

certification by National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) in India. An additional 375 (chickpea- 

200, pigeonpea-25, and groundnut-150) accessions from this set were also sent for germination monitoring in 

due course of time. The passport and conservation information on these accessions was successfully uploaded to 

the public data portal at www.nordgen.org/sgsv. With these depositions, the total number of duplicate samples 

of ICRISAT germplasm at the seed vault has increased to 31,279 representing chickpea (14,005), pigeonpea 

(8,559), and groundnut (8715). 

23

Conclusions: 

ICRISAT is fulfilling its important role in the initiative for saving global agricultural biodiversity for future 

generations. 


f. Requested germplasm of staple crops distributed to bona fide users for utilization 

Rationale: 

Distribution of germplasm and related information is fundamental to ICRISAT’s mission of increasing crop 

productivity and food security. ICRISAT supplies germplasm through SMTA of the ITPGRFA. 

Methodology: 

The Patancheru genebank distributed 3,024 germplasm samples of chickpea (1,084), pigeonpea (1,315), and 

groundnut (625) in 56 consignments for research use in 9 countries (Australia, Canada, East Timor, India, Iran, 

Pakistan, Sudan, United Kingdom, and USA) following standard germplasm distribution protocols. Part of this 

distribution includes one set of chickpea reference set to Australia; and eight sets of mini core collection 

(chickpea – 1 and pigeonpea – 7) in Canada, India and USA. The user community includes NARS (1,208), 

University (1,686), and commercial company (130). 

Additionally, 687 germplasm samples of chickpea (84), pigeonpea (96) and groundnut (507) were supplied to 

scientists within the institute. The supply included one set of groundnut mini core collection. 

Conclusions: 

The users of germplasm of these crops largely include NARS partners and researchers for utilization in adapted 

as well as basic research studies. 

HD Upadhyaya, Rajan Sharma, CLL Gowda and NBPGR [RP GL] 

g. New germplasm of staple crops assembled for conservation and utilization 

Rationale: 

Genetic variation is fast eroding and genetic diversity need to be conserved to combat newly emerging pests and 

diseases and to produce better-adapted varieties to changing climatic and environmental conditions. 

Methodology: 

The Global Crops Diversity Trust (GCDT) identified important national collections for regeneration and safety 

duplication at ICRISAT, Patancheru genebank during the year 2011. ICRISAT and NARS partners in eight 

countries have established links for communication and establishing procedures for transferring the germplasm 

samples. ICRISAT genebank has received 65 samples of chickpea from GRI-Baku, Azerbaijan. The chickpea 

samples released were planted for seed increase and conservation. Progress with other collections is at different 

stages viz., documentation, import permit, SMTA and shipment. 

Conclusions: 

These additions reduce gaps in the global germplasm collections of these crops at ICRISAT for further 

utilization in research for food and agriculture. 

HD Upadhyaya, CLL Gowda, Rajan Sharma and NBPGR [RP GL] 

h. Seed health evaluation and clearance through NBPGR for export of requested germplasm of 

ICRISAT mandate crops for utilization and import of new germplasm for conservation 

Rationale: 

Plant Quarantine Laboratory (PQL) facilitated in exporting of 2230 samples of grain legumes (chickpea-1631, 

pigeonpea-425, and groundnut-174). All these samples (2230) were processed for phytosanitary measures 

through NBPGR Hyderabad and sent to various countries along with 42 phytosanitary certificates. A total of 45 

seed samples (chickpea-27 and pigeonpea-18) were rejected by plant quarantine authority (NBPGR, Hyderabad) 

either due to poor germination, and/or association with seed-borne fungi (Botryodiplodia theobromae, 

Cercospora sp., Fusarium spp., Phyllosticta cajani, Rhizoctonia bataticola) or gram -ve bacteria, store-grain 

pests, bacteria of unknown etiology, non-established FAO designation status of the samples 

Import: 

Applications processed for Import permits: Of the 17 import permits requests, 6 import permits were obtained 

to import various plant materials and seed germplasm of legume crops. Among these one import request was 

processed through Department of Plant Protection and Quarantine and Storage (DPPQS), Faridabad to import 

150 samples of straw/stover of cowpea hay (50), groundnut haulms (100), and remaining, 5 import requests 

24

were processed through NBPGR to import 188 seed germplasm samples (chickpea -171, groundnut -17 from 4 

countries. 

Imports Released: 

NBPGR, Hyderabad released 66 germplasm samples of Chickpea received from Azerbaizan and Canada for 

ICRISAT. We also facilitated to release one consignment containing 150 samples of straw/stover cowpea hay 

(50), groundnut haulms (100). This was imported under the special import permission granted by DPPQS, 

Faridabad. 

Rajan Sharma, HD Upadhyaya and NBPGR [RP GL] 

i. Utilization of germplasm to develop pre-breeding populations 

Rationale: 

Evaluation of germplasm accessions have resulted in identification of trait-specific germplasm for biotic and 

abiotic stresses and for agronomic and quality traits. The utilization of these accessions, especially those 

belonging to exotic landraces with poor agronomic performance and wild relatives require pre-breeding. Prebreeding 

refers to the activities involved in transferring desirable characteristics and/or genes from undated 

materials that cannot be used directly in breeding populations (exotic; wild species) to an intermediate set of 

materials that breeders can use for developing new varieties with broad genetic base. 

Methodology: 

Under ICAR-ICRISAT collaborative project on ‘Pre-breeding for biotic and abiotic stress tolerance’, the work 

on pre-breeding for chickpea, pigeonpea and groundnut has been initiated at ICRISAT in collaboration with 

IIPR, Kanpur and NRCG, Junagadh. Popular cultivars/lines of chickpea, pigeonpea and groundnut were 

identified and seeds were assembled. Trait-specific germplasm lines consisting of landraces and wild species 

were identified for following traits: 

- Resistance to ascochyta blight (AB), botrytis grey mold (BGM), fusarium wilt (FW), helicoverpa pod 

borer, drought, salinity, heat tolerance and high protein content in chickpea 

- Resistance to sterility mosaic disease (SMD), phytophthora blight (PB), FW, pod borer, pod fly, 

nematodes, salinity and high protein content in pigeonpea 

- Resistance to late leaf spot, rust, drought, salinity, germination at low temperature, high oil content, and 

high O/L ratio in groundnut 


Strategic cross combinations involving landraces, wild species and popular cultivars are being made to develop 

segregating populations in chickpea (8 crosses), pigeonpea (7 crosses) and groundnut (6 crosses). 

HD Upadhyaya, Shivali Sharma and CLL Gowda [RP GL] 

A.2. Genebank activities at Lilongwe, Malawi: 

In the Lilongwe genebank, 571 germplasm accessions and 5828 breeding lines/varieties of groundnut have been 

conserved at 4°C temperature and all the lines are in good condition. 

ES Monyo and M Mgonja [RP GL] 

A.3. Genebank activities at Nairobi, Kenya: 

• Pigeonpea 

Conservation 

Under long-term storage, 174 germplasm accessions have been conserved in good storage condition at Nairobi 

gene bank. Besides, 638 breeding lines are being stored at Nairobi gene bank. As safety back-up, the complete 

set of germplasm accessions (174) and breeding lines (638) are being maintained at Kiboko, cold room as a 

duplicate set under medium-term storage. In addition, 275 additional accessions are being conserved in cold 

rooms at Kiboko (total germplasm 449 accessions). 

Seed viability testing and regeneration 

Seed viability of germplasm accessions available at gene bank was tested and based upon seed viability testing, 

174 germplasm lines comprising of germplasm accessions from Tanzanian, Ugandan and Mozambique were 

regenerated to maintain seed viability. Besides, 14 proven lines and 47 elite lines were regenerated for seed 

increase for sharing with NARS partners. Fresh seed after regeneration was properly cleaned and sorted prior to 

storage and sharing with NARS partners. 

25

Evaluation 

One hundred seventy four germplasm accessions and 121 proven breeding lines were evaluated for wilt 

tolerance. 

Distribution 

Seed of 12 released varieties was supplied to NARS in Tanzania, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Uganda and 

Zambia. Short duration determinate (10 entries excluding checks) and short duration non-determinate (13 entries 

excluding checks) evaluation nurseries were supplied to Botswana (1 set each) and Sierra Leone (1 set each). 

Medium duration elite (13 entries excluding checks) and medium duration international (18 entries) nurseries 

supplied to Malawi (5 sets each), Mozambique (3 sets each), Zambia (2 sets each), Uganda (1 set each) and 

Tanzania (1 set each). Pest tolerance screening nursery (12 entries) also supplied to Uganda. Long duration late 

(18 entries excluding checks), long duration normal (33 entries), long duration early (22 entries) nurseries 

supplied to Malawi (4 sets each), Mozambique (2 sets each), and Tanzania (1 set each). Wilt tolerance screening 

nursery (14 entries) also supplied to Tanzania. The complete list of germplasm accessions and breeding lines 

was updated in the database. 

• Chickpea 

Evaluation 

Selected lines of reference set (154) and 30 large seeded kabuli chickpea germplasm accessions were evaluated. 

Safety/security duplication: 

Complete set of germplasm accessions (154 reference set + 68 lines of Nairobi gene bank) and breeding lines 

(358) are being maintained at Kabete as a duplicate set. 

Conservation under medium and long-term storage: 

A total 222 germplasm and 358 breeding lines are being stored at Kabete. 

Seed viability testing and regeneration 

Seed viability of germplasm accessions and breeding lines (especially kabuli chickpea types) and working 

collection conserved under medium-term storage conditions at Kabete was tested to plan for regeneration. Based 

upon this, 154 germplasm lines and 256 breeding lines were regenerated. Besides, 12 proven lines (7 desi and 5 

kabuli chickpea) and 32 elite breeding lines were regenerated for sharing with NARS partners. 

Seed processing and distribution: 

Seed of multiplied varieties was properly cleaned and sorted prior to storage and sharing. Seed of 8 varieties 

supplied to NARS in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and private organizations like Kilimo markets, Concern 

Worldwide International, Burundi. Two of nurseries of desi chickpea with 17 and 30 entries and two kabuli 

chickpea nurseries with 17 and 30 large-seeded accessions, were supplied to LZARDI-Ukiriguru, SARI-Arusha 

and Egerton University. 

Information and data management: 

Complete list of germplasm accessions and breeding lines was updated in the database. 

NVPR Ganga Rao [RP GL] 

B. Breeding 

i) Developing and identifying high yielding breeding lines in chickpea 

Rationale: 

Chickpea breeding lines with at least 10% higher yield than the existing benchmark varieties and seed quality 

preferred by the traders are needed to be developed for release of future cultivars. This activity is aimed at 

developing such breeding lines. 

Methodology: 

The promising advanced breeding lines from preliminary evaluation are further evaluated in preliminary and 

advanced yield trials (PYTs and AYTs). Best performing lines from AYTs are then promoted to International 

Chickpea Screening Nurseries (ICSNs). These lines are resistant to FW and have early to medium maturity. 

Three ICSNs (ICSN-Desi, ICSN-Kabuli and ICSN-Kabuli Large Seed) were constituted for 2010-11. The first 

two ICSNs consisted of 18 breeding lines each, while the last ICSN had 11 lines. There was one common check 

26

and one local check in each ICSN. The ICSN-Desi was supplied to 18 locations (Dharwad, Dholi, Gulbarga, 

Hiriyur, Indore, Jabalpur, Junagadh, Kanpur, Kargil, Ludhiana, Nandyal, Pantnagar, Patna, Rahuri, Ranchi, 

Samba, Sehore, and Shillongani), while ICSN-Kabuli was supplied to 17 locations (Habak and all locations of 

ICSN-Desi, except Hiriyur and Patna) and ICSN-Kabuli Large Seed to 8 locations (Dharwad, Gulbarga, 

Jabalpur, Kanpur, Nandyal, New Delhi, Rahuri, and Sehore) in India. 


The data on evaluation of ICSNs was received from 16 locations for ICSN-Desi, 15 locations for ICSN-Kabuli, 

and all 8 locations for ICSN-Kabuli Large Seed. The data from one location (Samba) in ICSN-Desi, three 

locations (Dharward, Jabalpur and Samba) in ICSN-Kabuli, and one location (Jabalpur) in ICSN-Kabuli large 

Seed was not used for calculating overall mean due to high CV or very poor grain yield. The high G x E 

interactions made it difficult to compare performance of lines across locations. However, based on overall mean 

grain yield, 3 entries in ICSN-Desi (ICCV 10102, ICCV 10103, ICCV 10114), 6 entries in ICSN-Kabuli (ICCV 

10301, ICCV 10306, ICCV 10307, ICCV 10310, ICCV 10312, ICCV 10316) were found superior (at least 5% 

higher yield) to the common check JG 11 and KAK 2, respectively. In ICSN-Kabuli Large Seed two entries 

(ICCV 10402, ICCV 10404) out-yielded the common check marginally. Many entries had higher 100-seed 

weight than KAK 2 in ICSN-Kabuli and 5 entries had higher 100-seed weight than ICCV 95334 in ICSN-Kabuli 

Large Seed. 

Conclusions: 

Promising breeding lines were identified from multi-location evaluation of ICSNs. The partners will further 

evaluate the selected lines in their station trials. 

PM Gaur, AK Jukanti, CLL Gowda, S Pande, 

Mamta Sharma and NARS partners [RP GL] 

ii) Improving heat tolerance in chickpea for increasing its resilience to climate change 

Rationale: 

Heat stress has become a major abiotic stress affecting chickpea production in the SAT regions because of 

increasing area under late sown conditions due to intensification of the cropping system; shift in chickpea area 

from cooler, long-season environments to warmer, short season environments; and frequent raise in 

temperatures due to climate change. Assessing genetic variability for heat tolerance in the germplasm/breeding 

materials and identifying sources of tolerance is must for initiating breeding for heat tolerance in chickpea. 

Methodology: 

Based on the results of heat tolerance screening in previous crop season, 80 heat tolerant germplasm/breeding 

lines were selected for multilocation evaluation. These genotypes were evaluated under timely-sown 

(unstressed) and late-sown (heat stressed) conditions at four locations (ICRISAT, Patancheru; IIPR, Kanpur; 

RARS, Nandyal; and JNKVV, Jabalpur) to identify stable heat tolerant genotypes. The experimental design 

used was randomized block design with three replications. The observations were recorded on phenological 

traits, grain yield and yield components. In a separate experiment, the heat tolerant and the heat sensitive 

genotypes were compared for pollen viability 


Several breeding lines/cultivars (ICCV 06302, ICCV 07109, ICCV 07118, GG 2 and JAKI 9218) and 

germplasm accessions (ICC 67, ICC 1205, ICC 1422, ICC 1882, ICC 6816, ICC 16181) with high levels of heat 

tolerance were identified based on basis of grain yield obtained under late sown (heat stress) condition. Some of 

these genotypes (ICC 6279, ICC 6816, ICC 8950 and ICC 16181) showed high level of heat tolerance at three 

locations. Two heat tolerant lines (ICC 1205, ICC 15614) were crossed with several cultivars for development 

of heat tolerant breeding lines. 

Pollen studies conducted at ICRISAT-Patancheru on ICCV 92944 (heat tolerant) and ICC 5912 (heat sensitive) 

plants grown under growth chambers at different alleviated temperatures (29/16 0 C to 40/25 0 C), indicated that 

high temperatures reduced pod set by reducing pollen viability and pollen production per flower. Pollens of 

ICCV 92944 were viable at 35/20 0 C (41 % of pollen fertility), while pollens of ICC 5912 were almost 

completely sterile at 35/20 0 C with no in vitro germination and no germination on stigma. However, the stigma 

of ICC 5912 was receptive at 35/20 0 C and non-stressed pollen (27/16 0 C) germinated on it during reciprocal 

crossing. Pollen grains were identified to be highly sensitive to high-temperature stress and, thus, pollen 

viability under high temperature stress can be used as a selection criterion for selecting for heat tolerance. 

Crosses were made between heat tolerant and heat sensitive genotypes for develop segregating populations 

required for studying genetics of heat tolerance. Two crosses (ICC 4567 x ICC 15614, ICC 4567 x ICC 1356) 

27

are being advanced for development of recombinant inbred lines (RILs) for molecular mapping of genes 

involved in heat tolerance. 

The heat tolerant cultivar JG 14 (ICCV 92944) was evaluated along with local check on farmers’ fields under 

late sown conditions in Fatehpur district of Uttar Pradesh. Under pigeonpea (short-duration) – chickpea 

cropping sequence, chickpea was sown on 27 December and the heat tolerant cultivar JG 14 gave 38-40% 

higher yield than the local check in 8 trials conducted in Mauhar and Sai villages. Similarly, under paddychickpea 

cropping sequence in clay and clay loam soils, chickpea was grown on 20 December and the heat 

tolerant cultivar JG 14 gave 24-31% higher yield than the local check in 5 trials conducted in Alipur and Pahur 

villages. 

Conclusions: 

Several breeding lines with heat tolerance were identified by multilocation evaluation under late sown (heat 

stress) conditions. Pollen grains were identified to be highly sensitive to high-temperature stress suggesting that 

pollen viability under high temperature stress can be used as a selection criterion for heat tolerance. The heat 

tolerant cultivar JG 14 (ICCV 92944) gave up to 40% higher yield than the local cultivars under late sown 

conditions at farmers’ fields in Uttar Pradesh state of India. 

PM Gaur, AK Jukanti, CLL Gowda, N Mallikarjuna, L Krishnamurthy, 

V Vadez, RK Varshney and NARS partners [RP GL] 

iii) Improving drought tolerance in chickpea by introgressing drought avoidance root traits through 

marker-assisted breeding 

Rationale: 

Earlier studies conducted at ICRISAT showed that root traits, particularly root length density and root biomass, 

play an important role in tolerance to terminal drought in chickpea. As phenotypic selection for root traits is 

cumbersome, molecular markers linked to major QTL for toot traits can greatly facilitate selection for root traits 

in breeding populations. 

Methodology: 

A genomic region was identified that contributes to about one-third of the variation in root length density, root 

biomass and other traits (shoot biomass, harvest index, carbon isotope discrimination) related to drought 

tolerance was identified. The genomic region was introgressed in desi cultivar JG 11 from ICC 4958 (desi) and 

in KAK 2 from ICC 8261 (kabuli) using three cycles of marker-assisted backcrossing. Thirty-five BC 3 F 3 

progenies (29 from recurrent parent JG 11 and 6 from recurrent parent KAK 2) were grown along with parents 

for seed multiplication and preliminary evaluation. 


Several of the BC 3 F 3 progenies were identified as promising based on preliminary evaluation. Some of the 

BC 3 F 3 lines gave up to 8% higher yield under rainfed conditions and up to 30% higher yield under irrigated 

conditions as compared to the recurrent parents. Most of these lines have larger seed than the recurrent parent 

and it was possibly because the genomic region introgressed also influences seed size. These lines will be 

further evaluated in larger plots (min 4 rows) and at multilocations during 2011-2012. 

Conclusions: 

Promising BC3F3 lines carrying genomic regions controlling drought tolerance traits were identified for further 

evaluation. 

PM Gaur, RK Varshney, Siva Kumar and AK Jukanti [RP GL] 

iv) Submission of BC 3 F 3 roots data for progeny selection and confirmation 

Rationale: 

It was necessary to confirm the success in transfer of a stronger root system in to JG 11, a recurrent parent and a 

well adapted cultivar to short duration environments, from ICC 4958 carrying the root QTL. These backcross 

progenies were at BC 3 F 3 stage, ready for multilocation field trials. 

Methodology: 

Twenty nine root QTL transgressed BC 3 F 3 (ICC 4958 × recurrent parent JG11) and six other BC 3 F 3 (ICC 8261 

× recurrent parent ICCV 92318) had been evaluated for root traits in the cylinder culture system to assess their 

root traits along with uninvolved but well-known parents KAK 2 and Annigeri. The experiment was sown on 

27-29 Oct 2010 and harvested (35 days later) on 1-3 Dec 2011 in an alpha lattice with eight replications. The 

cylinders were filled with an equal amount of Vertisol and sand mixed with 70% of field capacity. The rooting 

28

depth, root dry weight, root volume, root surface area and the root length density were the root-related data 

collected along with the shoot dry weight of these two plants from each cylinder. 


There were significant variations among the BC 3 F 3 for the rooting depth but these variations were small and 

ranged between 105 cm to 119 cm. The root length density (RLD) of JG 11 was 0.39 cm cm -3 and of ICC 4958 

was 0.46 cm cm -3 . The RLD variations for the ICC 4958 × JG11 BC 3 F 3 s were also large and most plants had an 

RLD greater than JG 11 but equal or less than ICC 4958. Similarly the RLD variations for the ICC 8261 × 

ICCV 92318 BC 3 F 3 s were also large and rated between the two parents. Approximately similar pattern was also 

seen for the root dry weight g cylinder -1 in the two populations and the root dry eight confirmed the presence of 

the QTL in the BC3F3 much more emphatically than the RLD. The shoot weight per cylinder was also 

influenced and the shoot weight distribution in BC 3 F 3 was following the pattern of root weight. 

Conclusions: 

The root phenotyping revealed that almost all the root QTL transgressed back cross populations of JG11x ICC 

4958 exhibited a stronger root system whereas the populations of ICCV 92318 x ICC 8261 did not show the 

presence of strong root system. 

L Krishnamurthy, PM Gaur and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

v) Develop experimental conditions and protocols to assess root assess AQPs in chickpea 

Rationale: 

We have acquired evidence that plant hydraulics has a necessary involvement in water saving traits, reported 

above. It is well known that aquaporins (AQP) contribute to facilitating water movements in parts of the plants 

where heavy water fluxes are taking place. Therefore, we have tested whether chickpea lines contrasting in their 

water saving traits also differ in the degree of AQP involvement in water transport to support transpiration. 

Methodology: 

We have developed protocols (details reported in a document to the Governing Board of ICRISAT) to assess the 

effect of AQP inhibitors on plant transpiration in a growth chamber, using an automated weighing system. 


It was striking to note that chickpea lines having high early plant vigor and high leave conductance (most of 

which previously identified as terminal drought tolerant) showed little inhibition of transpiration upon an AQP 

inhibitor application in the nutrient solution, whereas lines that had a smaller canopy development and lower 

canopy conductance at vegetative stage showed severe transpiration inhibition. Additional experiments 

indicated the possibility to indirectly assess these changes in canopy conductance by temperature measurements. 

Progresses have also been made to identify AQP genes in chickpea, which has consisted first in developing 

consensus sequence of AQP genes in the legume genus, before blasting these against a EST transcript assembly 

of chickpea. The results have generated about 40 sequences from which primers have been synthesized and run 

on chickpea DNA of several genotypes. These primers have given good amplification for 7 sequences, which 

show a close homology with other AQP genes in model legumes and also chickpea. These are currently used to 

assess expression levels. 

Conclusions: 

Work is in progress. An important milestone is that AQP involvement in water transport does differ in lines that 

also differ in water saving traits and links to differences in root hydraulics. Focus of future work will be on 

establishing a functional link between AQP expression, hydraulic regulation, and water saving traits. 

V Vadez, M Zaman-Allah, and J Kholova [RP GL] 

vi) Generate haploid plants to accelerate chickpea breeding 

Rationale: 

Haploids from which di-haploids are produced are important in a self pollinated crop such as chickpea, to 

accelerate the crop breeding cycle and obtain pure lines. The published protocol of chickpea haploids (reported 

2009) is not repeatable. Hence protocols have to be developed in house. 

Methodology: 

Anther cultures were initiated to develop haploids in chickpea. 

29


Anther and microspore culture experiments were carried out to produce double haploids plants from chickpea. 

Pyramiding stress pre-treatments such as cold, centrifugation and electroporation proved to be more effective 

than individual stresses in case of anther culture though the response of microspores was very low. A 

symmetrical division of nucleus resulting in bi-nucleate microspores was observed however there were no 

further divisions. Direct culture of immature microspores resulted in a higher rate of induction and a sustained 

increase in size (approx 32µm diameter) was observed in anthers subjected to centrifugation followed by 

electroporation. Enlarged microspores formed cell wall after 1week but prolonged culture in the same conditions 

did not improve the divisions, instead the microspores turned yellow and plasmolysis was observed. The 

protocol developed for chickpea anther and microspore culture resulted in poor induction rates and stalled 

growth beyond multicellular stage. The published protocol (2009) on chickpea anther culture resulting in 

haploid/dihaploid plants is not repeatable!. 

S Panchangam, PM Gaur and N Mallikarjuna [RP GL] 

vii) Phenotyping data for nitrogen fixation related traits 

Rationale: 

As a consequence of nitrogen fixation, legumes provide an estimated 30% of humankind’s nutritional nitrogen. 

Thus cultivation of legumes simultaneously provides vital nitrogen to the agricultural system and serves as a 

buffer against malnutrition. Several lines of evidence indicate that cultivated legumes can have inefficient 

systems for symbiotic nitrogen fixation, and that genetic change during historical domestication and recent 

intense breeding may be responsible for this. This project investigates domestication bottleneck on N-fixation 

using chickpea as an example. 

Methodology: 

To understand the genetic bottleneck of domestication in chickpea, 18 cultivars and 12 wild accessions, 

including C. arietinum, C. reticulatum, C. bijugum, C. echinospermum, C. pinnatifidum, C. judaicum and C. 

yamashitae, were analyzed in field trials to phenotype in no treatment, rhizobium and nitrogen treatment. 


In general, cultivated species accession showed higher biomass than the wild species accessions. Cultivated 

species accessions, with improved inoculum, performed equivalent to nitrogen-treated plants, but attained 20% 

less shoot weight when planted into non-supplemented soil (control treatment). Reduced biomass in control 

treatments could not be attributed to low nodule numbers or low nodule biomass, as both of these parameters 

were significantly higher in control treatments. In contrast to cultivated species genotypes, biomass 

accumulation in wild species accessions in non-supplemented soil was equivalent to or greater than that of 

nitrogen treatments and improved inoculum. 

Conclusions: 

Wild species accessions of chickpea, as compared to chickpea cultivars or elite lines can have efficient 

symbiosis with indigenous rhizobium. 

DH Kim, M Kaashyap, P Swathi., PM Gaur, 

HD Upadhyaya, DR Cook and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

viii) Association of drought stress and nitrogen fixation 

Rationale: 

Drought stress is one of the major factors affecting nitrogen fixation by legume-rhizobium symbiosis. Several 

mechanisms have been previously reported to be involved in the physiological response of symbiotic nitrogen 

fixation to drought stress. 

Methodology: 

To evaluate the effect of drought stress on symbiotic nitrogen fixation a gradient of chickpea genotypes 

including 4 species arietinum, reticulatum, echinospermum and bijugum were exposed to terminal drought 

stress. 13 genotypes were subjected to irrigated and stressed conditions under 3 treatments viz. no treatment, 

nitrogen and rhizobium treatment. Pots were weighed and saturated with calculated amount of water in order to 

impose the drought stress on the basis of fraction of soil. Phenological parameters such as shoot biomass, root 

biomass, nodule weight, nodule number and leaf surface area were recorded to elucidate the elevation of stress 

effect on tolerant and susceptible genotypes. 

30


Drought tolerant genotypes e.g. ICC4958 showed good shoot weight with slight decrease in stressed conditions. 

Drought susceptible genotypes on the other hand showed retarded root biomass. Except ICC8261, all genotypes 

show fitness parameter increases in nitrogen treatment. Nodule number has no correlation with nodule weight. 

ICC1882, ICC283, JG 11+ and ICC16207 show highest nodule number. ICC8261, JG 11 and ICC5003 with 

improved inoculum showed better fitness parameters in drought stress. Detailed analysis is in progress. 

Conclusions: 

Drought tolerant genotypes as compared to the susceptible genotypes showed better nitrogen fixation-related 

traits (nodule number and weight). 

M Kaashyap, L Krishnamurthy, M Zaman-Allah, 

PM Gaur and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

ix) Evaluating candidate gene towards enhancement of drought tolerance in chickpea (Cicer arietinum) 

Rationale: 

Chickpea breeders in India and abroad have been working towards combating the problem of drought and to 

increase the crop production, still there is a need for substantial improvement in chickpea production especially 

in semi-arid tropic regions. In recent years, biotechnology and genomic tools have offered the possibility to 

facilitate breeding programs. This project envisaged development of genomic tools including identification of 

candidate genes for deploying molecular breeding approaches in chickpea improvement. 

Methodology: 

To specifically identify genes, which are up- and down- regulated in response to drought, cDNA libraries were 

constructed at flowering stage from the roots of both stress and control plants of two contrasting drought 

responsive chickpea genotypes (ICC 4958 and ICC 1882). Sequencing has been done using FLX/454 

sequencing technology. Clustering and assembly of FLX/454 short transcript reads (STRs) and Sanger 

expressed sequence tags (ESTs) were performed using CAP3 sequence assembly program. Subsequently, RNAs 

collected from different samples of each genotype were pooled, and pooled RNA for each genotype was used 

for sequencing on Illumina’s Genome Analyzer I. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between droughtresponsive 

genotypes were identified based on R-Statistics and mapping of DEGs onto different pathways was 

done using MapMan 3.0.0 tool. Selected genes were validated through quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR). 

EST-based SSR and SNP markers were identified using MISA tool and Alpheus software system, respectively. 


Assembly of FLX ⁄ 454 STRs and Sanger ESTs together provided 44,845 contigs and 58,370 singletons. Thus a 

total of 103,215 tentative unique sequences (TUSs) have been defined and is referred to as the ‘chickpea 

transcriptome assembly’ (CaTA). Illumina 1G on drought stressed root samples of both ICC 4958 and ICC 1882 

was accomplished and as a result 15.6 and 22.1 million sequence reads were generated, respectively. A total of 

44,639 highly differentially expressed genes between the tolerant and sensitive genotypes were identified. Of 

these a subset of 2,974 TUSs which had significant and greater than or equal to two-fold expression variation 

were submitted to MapMan analysis. Majority of genes were categorized to energy metabolism, secondary 

metabolism, transcription factors and stress related pathways (Hiremath et al. 2011, Plant Biotech J 9: 922–931). 

In order to validate the altered expression patterns of the identified putative drought-responsive genes a set of 71 

genes were selected for validation through qRT-PCR. Expression profiling for 71 candidate genes revealed 

similar expression pattern to that of in silico in 27 genes that include 8 novel un-annotated genes. In parallel, a 

non-redundant set of 728 novel EST-SSRs and 7,884 SNP markers were developed and validated which added 

to the list of earlier developed markers. In addition 387 conserved orthologous sequence (COS) and 424 

conserved intron spanning region (CISR) markers were also developed (Gujaria et al. 2011, Theor Appl Genet 

122: 1577-1589). Genotyping data has been generated for 353 polymorphic markers on the intra-specific 

mapping population ICC 4958 × ICC 1882, as a result a set of 240 marker loci were mapped onto the genetic 

linkage map. 

Conclusions: 

Chickpea transcriptome assembly was defined with 103,215 TUSs. Utilizing the markers developed, an intraspecific 

map with 240 marker loci was generated for ICC 4958 × ICC 1882 population. Developed molecular 

markers will accelerate molecular mapping and molecular breeding activities for chickpea improvement. 

H Kudapa, P Hiremath, N Gujaria, A Kumar 

S Azam, TM Shah and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

31

x) Genetic and consensus maps and physical maps of chickpea developed 

Rationale: 

Molecular genetic maps are pre-requisites for any molecular breeding programs for crop improvement. 

Integration of genetic and physical maps enables fine mapping of the target trait and isolation of the genes. 

a) Construction of comprehensive inter-specific genetic map of chickpea 

Methodology: 

A comprehensive genetic map was constructed employing the genotyping data of 675 DArT markers, 157 novel 

SSR markers derived from BAC end sequences, data from other published studies (Winter et al. 2000, Theor 

Appl Genet 101:1155-1163; Nayak et al. 2010, Theor Appl Genet 120:1415-1441; Gujaria et al. 2011, Theor 

Appl Genet 122:1577-1589) and data from collaborators were used for map construction with JoinMap v 4.0. 

Initially, markers showing goodness of fit were used for map construction, but later on markers showing 

segregation distortion were also attempted to be integrated into the map however always on >LOD 3.0. Linkage 

groups were determined based on “Independence test LOD score”. Placement of markers into different linkage 

groups was done with “LOD groupings” and “Create group using the mapping tree” commands. Map distances 

were calculated by the Kosambi mapping function, and markers showing negative map distances and large 

jumps in mean chi-square values were discarded from mapping. The final map was drawn with the help of 

MapChart v 2.2. The marker order of the comprehensive map was compared with already published maps using 

CMap v 1.01 (http://cmap.icrisat.ac.in/cmap/sm/cp/thudi/). 


Segregation data for 928 polymorphic markers was obtained on 131 RILs of the mapping population. In 

addition, genotyping data were collected for 192 genic molecular markers (GMMs) including 83 conserved 

orthologous sequences (COS)-based SNPs (COS-SNPs), 54 cleaved amplified polymorphic sequences (CAPS), 

35 conserved intron spanning region (CISR) and 20 EST-derived SSR marker loci published in Gujaria et al. 

2011, Theor Appl Genet 122:1577-1589 and 494 first generation DNA markers that have been used in 

construction of genetic maps in several studies (Nayak et al. 2010, Theor Appl Genet 120:1415-1441; Winter et 

al. 2000, Theor Appl Genet 101:1155-1163; Hüttel et al. 1999, Genome 42: 210-217). As a result a 

comprehensive genetic map comprising 1291 loci spanning a distance of 835.6 cM was constructed. The 

number of markers per linkage group ranged from 68 (LG 8) to 218 (LG 3) with an average inter-marker 

distance of 0.65 cM. 

Conclusions: 

The comprehensive genetic map with integrated BES-SSR markers will facilitate its anchoring to the physical 

map (under construction) to accelerate map-based cloning of genes in chickpea and comparative genome 

evolution studies in legumes. 

M Thudi, A Bohra, SN Nayak, N Varghese, TM Shah, RV Penmetsa (UC-Davis), 

T Nepolean, S Gudipati, PM Gaur, PL Kulwal (MPKV), HD Upadhyaya, 

PB Kavikishor (Osmania Uni), P Winter (GenXpro), G Kahl (Frankfurt Uni), 

CD Town (JCVI), A Kilian (DArT Pty Ltd), DR Cook (UC-Davis) and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

b) Construction of consensus map of chickpea 

Methodology: 

Genotyping data were assembled for all segregating makers on 232 and 234 RILs of ICC 4958 × ICC 1882 and 

ICC 283 × ICC 8261 mapping populations respectively and linkage-based mapping was performed using 

JoinMap version 4.0 (Van Ooijen and Voorrips 2001, Heridity 93:77-78) using “Regression mapping 

algorithm”. Consensus genetic map was derived from two intraspecific mapping populations using software 

JoinMap 4.0. 


A set of 240 marker loci (213 SSRs, 6 GMMs and 21 DArT loci) were mapped on to the genetic linkage map of 

ICC 4958 × ICC 1882 and 170 marker loci (153 SSRs, 10 GMMs and 7 DArT loci) in case of ICC 283 × ICC 

8261. Map distances of the two populations ranged from 533.06 cM to 621.51 cM. The largest gap between 

mapped markers ranged from 13.3 to 17.9 cM for individual maps. 

A consensus map comprising 352 marker loci was constructed consolidating two intraspecific maps based on 

ICC 4958 × ICC 1882 and ICC 283 × ICC 8261 mapping populations. Among different marker (SSR/STMS, 

EST-SSR, CISR, CAPS and DArT) loci, the current map predominantly consists of SSR marker loci (322). 

Forty percent of DArT loci were alone mapped on LG1, while 20 and 18% loci DArT loci were mapped on LG7 

and LG4 respectively. Of 5 CAPS markers used for mapping, only one marker (Tp684964) was mapped on 

32

LG4. The consensus map spanned a total length of 771.39 cM. The length of LGs ranged from 70.77 cM (LG3) 

to 155.99 cM (LG7). The density of markers on the map ranged from 1.1 cM/ marker on LG3 to 3.66 

cM/marker on LG7, with an average density of 2.19 cM/marker. 

Conclusions: 

The consensus genetic map with 352 loci was developed using the two intra-specific genetic maps (ICC 4958 × 

ICC 1882 and ICC 283 × ICC 8261) will enhance trait mapping MAS in chickpea breeding. 

A Bohra, M Thudi, SN Nayak, K Jahnavi, 

PM Gaur and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

c) Towards integrating the genetic and physical map in chickpea 

Methodology: 

In order to develop a genome-wide physical map, in collaboration with National Institute of Plant Genetic 

Research (NIPGR), New Delhi (S Bhatia and AK Tyagi), two new BAC libraries were constructed using 

HindIII and EcoRI restriction enzymes employing pCC1BAC Epicentre vector in DH10b. A total of 71,094 

clones from both the libraries that cover ~15.7 X genome were chosen for fingerprinting in collaboration with 

UC-Davis, USA (MingCheng Luo). 


The high information contig fingerprinting (HICF) of 69,984 BAC clones (35,040 clones from HindIII and 

34,944 clones from EcoRI libraries) gave high-quality fingerprinting data for 67,164 clones. Fingerprinting of 

an additional 1144 BAC clones, 773 of which correspond to NB-LRR disease resistance gene clusters (UC- 

Davis) and 371 of which have been genetically mapped via BAC-end derived SSRs (BES-SSR) (Thudi et al. 

2011, PLoS One 6: e27275), was also completed. 46,112 clones were assembled into 1,174 contigs, with 3,256 

singleton clones. The average contig size is 0.49 Mb, with a maximum contig size of 4.1 Mb. Taken together, 

the existing physical map spans an estimated 574 Mb. Genetic map positions for 245 BES-SSR markers permits 

an initial integration of BAC contigs with the chickpea genetic map. 

Conclusions: 

Efforts are underway to define the minimum tiling path (MTP) based on the available physical mapping data, 

which will facilitate either BAC-end or pooled BAC- sequencing of MTP clones. The resulting integrated 

genetic and physical map is expected to enhance genetics and genomics research and breeding applications in 

chickpea. 

RK Varshney, MC Luo (UC-Davis), S Bhatia (NIPGR), 

B Rosen (UC-Davis), RR Mir, M Thudi, O Riera-Lizarazu, 

DR Cook (UC-Davis) and AK Tyagi (NIPGR) [RP GL] 

xi) Breeding medium-duration groundnut varieties with high yield potential 

Rationale: 

Genetic enhancement for yield potential in medium-duration groundnut varieties can contribute to increased 

productivity. 

Methodology: 

Conventional breeding methods are used. Elite medium-duration lines, ICGV 00350, ICGV 00499 and ICGV 

00351 are improved for fresh seed dormancy. 


In 2011 rainy season, 15 new crosses were made to breed medium duration genotypes and to include fresh seed 

dormancy into superior lines (ICGV 97045, ICGV 87378 and ICGV 87921 as sources). During 2010-11, 18 new 

crosses were made. In 2010 rainy season, 191 F 2 -F 11 bulks and 297 single plant selections were made and 320 

F 2 -F 11 bulks and 84 single plant selections were made in 2010-11 postrainy season. In both these seasons 112 

advanced breeding lines and in 2011 rainy season 143 advanced breeding lines were evaluated. 

2010 rainy season: In Elite Trial (Spanish), ICGV 08234 (4.8 t ha -1 pod yield, 71% shelling outturn and 36 g 

100-seed weight -1 ), ICGV 08237 (3.65 t ha -1 pod yield, 60% shelling outturn and 35g 100-seed weight -1 ) and 

ICGV 08238 (3.33 t ha -1 pod yield, 63% shelling outturn and 43g 100-seed weight -1 ) were significantly superior 

over best check GPBD 4 (2.6 t ha -1 pod yield, 51% shelling outturn and 22 g 100-seed weight -1 ). While in Elite 

Trial (Virginia), ICGV 08268 (1.7 t ha -1 pod yield, 69% shelling outturn and 39 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 

08267 (1.45 t ha -1 pod yield, 73% shelling outturn and 36g 100-seed weight -1 ) were best over the check ICGS 76 

(0.92 t ha -1 pod yield, 70% shelling outturn and 34 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

33

In Advanced Trial (Spanish) ICGV 09119 (3.77 t ha -1 pod yield, 55% shelling outturn and 27 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 

09121 (2.99 t ha -1 pod yield, 65% shelling outturn and 34 g 100-seed weight -1 ) were significantly superior over 

best check GPBD 4 (2.31 t ha -1 pod yield, 57% shelling outturn and 28 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In Virginia Trial, 

ICGV 09137 (2.53 t ha -1 pod yield, 64% shelling outturn and 42 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 09138 (2.31 t 

ha -1 pod yield, 64% shelling outturn and 46g 100-seed weight -1 ) were superior over the best check ICGV 97115 

(1.5 t ha -1 pod yield, 60% shelling outturn and 34 g 100-seed weight -1 ).In Preliminary Trial (Spanish), 38 out of 

52 entries significantly outperformed with a pod yield range of4.2-2.65 t ha -1 . In VirginiaTrial, four test entries 

were significantly superior with pod yield of 3.7-3.1t ha -1 . 

Postrainy 2010-11: In Elite Trial (Spanish), 11 entries were significantly superior over best check ICGV 95070 

(5.2 t ha -1 pod yield, 72% shelling outturn and 48 g 100-seed weight -1 ). ICGV 08233 was best (6.8 t ha -1 pod 

yield, 73% shelling outturn and 57 g 100-seed weight -1 ) followed by ICGV 08225 (6.6 t ha -1 pod yield, 71% 

shelling outturn and 62g 100-seed weight -1 ). While in Elite Trial (Virginia), ICGV 08273 (6.7 t ha -1 pod yield, 

58% shelling outturn and 47 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 08270 (6.0 t ha -1 pod yield, 62% shelling outturn 

and 50g 100-seed weight -1 ) were superior over the best check ICGS 76 (4.9 t ha -1 pod yield, 65% shelling 

outturn and 53 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

In Advanced Trial (Spanish), eight entries significantly outperformed the highest yielding control GPBD 4 (4.1 t 

ha -1 pod yield, 70% shelling outturn and 39 g 100-seed weight -1 ). ICGV 09131 (6.3 t ha -1 pod yield, 72% 

shelling outturn and 59 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 09115 (6.2 t ha -1 pod yield, 71% shelling outturn and 57 

g 100-seed weight -1 ) were best performers. In Virginia Trial, ICGV 09138 (6.0 t ha -1 pod yield, 67% shelling 

outturn and 59 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 09141 (5.7 t ha -1 pod yield, 69% shelling outturn and 44g 100- 

seed weight -1 ) were superior over the best check ICGV 86325 (4.7 t ha -1 pod yield, 74% shelling outturn and 50 

g 100-seed weight -1 ).In Preliminary Trial (Spanish), 31 out of 52 were significantly superior with a pod yield 

range of 6.7-5.6 t ha -1 .In VirginiaTrial, seven test entries (6.5-6.0 t ha -1 ) out yielded the best check was ICGV 

87325 (5.0 t ha -1 pod yield, 75% shelling outturn and 57 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

Rainy 2011: In Elite Trial (Spanish), four entries were significant over best check ICGS 44 (5.0 t ha -1 pod yield, 

68% shelling outturn and 50 g 100-seed weight -1 ). ICGV 09128 ranked first (6.5 t ha -1 pod yield, 76 shelling 

outturn and 53 g 100-seed weight -1 ) followed by ICGV 09132 (6.4 t ha -1 pod yield, 70% shelling outturn and 52g 

100-seed weight -1 ). While in Elite Trial (Virginia), ICGV 09141 ranked first (6.0 t ha -1 pod yield, 66 shelling 

outturn and 33 g 100-seed weight -1 ) followed by ICGV 09138 (5.6 t ha -1 pod yield, 68% shelling outturn and 54g 

100-seed weight -1 ), while the best check was ICGV 97115 (4.2 t ha -1 pod yield, 69% shelling outturn and 36 g 

100-seed weight -1 ). 

In Advanced Trial (Spanish), 28 entries significantly outperformed the highest yielding control GPBD 4 (3.4 t 

ha -1 pod yield, 63% shelling outturn and 28 g 100-seed weight -1 ). ICGV 10148 ranked first (6.6 t ha -1 pod yield, 

66% shelling outturn and 40 g 100-seed weight -1 ) followed by ICGV 10168 (6.0 t ha -1 pod yield, 73% shelling 

outturn and 39 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In Virginia Trial, ICGV 10158 (6.6 t ha -1 pod yield, 68 shelling outturn and 

33 g 100-seed weight -1 ) followed by ICGV 10160 (6.0 t ha -1 pod yield, 67% shelling outturn and 35g 100-seed 

weight -1 ) were superior over the best check ICGV 97115 (4.7 t ha -1 pod yield, 70% shelling outturn and 36 g 

100-seed weight -1 ).In Preliminary Trial (Spanish), four entries significantly outperformed the best check GPBD 

4 (4.0 t ha -1 pod yield, 66% shelling outturn and 29 g 100-seed weight -1 ) with a pod yield range of 5.1-6.0 t ha -1 . 

In Virginia Trial, nineteen test entries were significantly superior over check ICGV 97115 (3.4 t ha -1 pod yield, 

56% shelling outturn and 38g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

Conclusions: 

Thirteenth International Medium-duration Groundnut Varietal Trial (SB) [XIII IMGVT (SB) was constituted 

during 2011 rainy season and several lines were advanced to next level of testing. 

SN Nigam and P Janila [RP GL] 

xii) Breeding groundnut genotypes for drought tolerance 

Rationale: 

An annual estimated loss to groundnut production equivalent to US$ 520 million is caused by drought. Almost 

half of it can be recovered through genetic enhancement for drought tolerance. Moreover, drought predisposes 

pre-harvest Aspergillus infection in the field leading to aflatoxin contamination. 

Methodology: 

Conventional methods are used. Mapping populations were developed to identify QTLs for potential traits 

34

contributing to drought tolerance. Evaluation of advanced breeding lines are carried out under both, rainfed 

(without supplemental irrigation) and irrigated conditions in rainy season and under irrigated and stress 

(withholding alternate irrigations from 60DAS) conditions in postrainy season. 


Nine new crosses were made during 2011 rainy season; the new parents used were ICGV 97182, ICGV 02022 

and ICGV 02189. In 2010-11 a total of 20 new crosses were made involving ICGV 07277, ICGV 07406, ICGV 

07337, ICGV 08268, ICGV 06049, ICGV 05155, ICGV 03043, ICGV 09188, ICGV 09170, ICGV 08217, 

ICGV 08146 and ICGV 09188. During 2010 rainy season, 192 bulks and 205 single plants were selected from 

124 F 2 -F 10 bulks and 169 plant progenies. From those selected 265 F 2 -F 12 bulks and 263 single plants were 

selected in 2010-11 postrainy season and sown in 2011 rainy. In 2011 season, 63 single plant and 228 bulk 

selections were made. Forty two lines were evaluated in Advanced and Elite Trials during 2010 rainy and 2010- 

11 postrainy seasons and in 2011 rainy season 94 lines were evaluated. 

A total of 12 new crosses were made in 2010-11 postrainy season that will be advanced to develop RIL mapping 

populations for various drought tolerant traits. The F 1 generations of the crosses were raised in 2011 rainy season 

and the F 2 generation plants are now in field in 2011-12 postrainy season. ICGV 97182 was drought tolerant and 

has large canopy which is includes as one of the parent. 

2010 rainy season: In Elite Trial (Spanish), under irrigation ICGV 08146 produced highest pod yield (3.6 t ha -1 ; 

68% shelling outturn and 32 g 100-seed weight -1 , while in rainfed ICGV 08175 (3.4 t ha -1 , with 64% shelling 

outturn and 27 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 08147 (2.9 t ha -1 , 70% shelling outturn and 38 g 100-seed 

weight -1 ) were superior. In Elite Trial (Virginia), ICGV 08217 was best in both irrigated (3.6 t ha -1 ; 70% 

shelling outturn and 31 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and rainfed conditions (4.0 t ha -1 , 67% shelling outturn and 35 g 

HWS). 

In Advance Trial (Spanish), ICGV 09170 was top yielder (3.7 t ha -1 ; with 68% shelling outturn and 28 g 100- 

seed weight -1 ) under irrigation, while in rainfed ICGV 09166 was top (3.5 t ha -1 , with 65% shelling outturn and 

24 g 100-seed weight -1 , followed by ICGV 09174 (3.3 t ha -1 with 68% shelling outturn and 28 g 100-seed 

weight -1 ). In Virginia trail, ICGV 09187 produced highest pod yield (3.0 t ha -1 ; with 63% shelling outturn and 

36 g 100-seed weight -1 ) under irrigation and it was second best under rainfed (1.8 t ha -1 with 64% shelling 

outturn and 38 g HWS). In Preliminary (Spanish) Trial, eight entries outperformed over best check ICGV 02266 

(3.1 t ha -1 , 68% shelling outturn and 38 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In Virginia Trial, only ICGV 10378 outperformed 

the best check ICGV 87846 (3.0 t ha -1 , with 67% shelling outturn and 39 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

2010-11 postrainy season: In Elite Trial (Spanish), ICGV 08143 was top yielder (7.6 t ha -1 , 75% shelling 

outturn and 63 g 100-seed weight -1 ) under irrigation, while in rainfed ICGV 08176 (3.06 t ha -1 , 77% shelling 

outturn and 60 g 100-seed weight -1 )and ICGV 08175 (2.9 t ha -1 , 72% shelling outturn and 65 g 100-seed weight -1 ) 

are superior. In Virginia Trial, ICGV 08201 was best (7.5 t ha -1 , 76% shelling outturn and 57 g 100-seed weight -1 ) 

under irrigation, while in rainfed ICGV 08187 (2.3 t ha -1 , 48% shelling outturn) and ICGV 08200 (2.3 t ha -1 , 

54% shelling outturn) were superior. 

In Advanced Trial (Spanish), ICGV 09173 (6.5 t ha -1 , 72% shelling outturn and 60 g 100-seed weight -1 ) was 

best under irrigation, while in rainfed ICGV 09166 (2.7 t ha -1 , 37% shelling outturn) and ICGV 09152 (2.5 t ha - 

1 , 51% shelling outturn). In VirginiaTrial, ICGV 09181 (5.9 t ha -1 , 77% shelling outturn and 45 g 100-seed 

weight -1 )and ICGV 09187 (5.8 t ha -1 , 63% shelling outturn and 53 g 100-seed weight -1 ) were best. In 

Preliminary (Spanish) Trial, 20 entries outperformed best check ICGV 02266 (5.5 t ha -1 , 75% shelling outturn 

and 63 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In Preliminary (Virginia) Trial, eight entries were superior over best check ICGV 

87846 (4.7 t ha -1 , 59% shelling outturn and 45 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

2011 rainy season: In Elite Trial (Spanish) none of the entries were found to be significantly superior over 

check under irrigation. While in rainfed ICGV 90170 (3.7 t ha -1 , 68% shelling outturn, 29 g 100-seed weight -1 ) 

and ICGV 09168 (3.4 t ha -1, 62% shelling outturn, 30 g 100-seed weight -1 ) were superior. In Elite Trial 

(Virginia), ICGV 09181 recorded highest pod yield (3.9 t ha -1 , 66% shelling outturn, 37 g 100-seed weight -1 ) 

under irrigation, while in rainfed none were superior over check. 

In Advanced Trial (Spanish) ICGV 10367 was at par with best check ICGV 02266 (3.8 t ha -1 , 63% shelling 

outturn, 39 g 100-seed weight -1 ) in both, irrigated and rainfed conditions. In Virginia trial, ICGV 87846 (3.7 t 

ha -1 , 64% shelling outturn, 33 g 100-seed weight -1 ) was best under irrigation. ICGV 10371 (4.4 t ha -1 pod yield, 

64% shelling outturn, 20 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 101373 (4.2 t ha -1 pod yield, 65% shelling outturn, 26 g 

35

100-seed weight -1 ) were superior in rainfed condition in Virginia trial. In Preliminary Trials, 6 entries were 

superior over best check ICGV 02266 (3.5 t ha -1 , 62% shelling outturn, 36 g 100-seed weight -1 ) in Spanish 

group and three entries outperformed best check ICGV 87846 (4.1 t ha -1 , 62% shelling outturn, 31 g 100-seed 

weight -1 ) in Virginia group. 

Conclusions: 

Ninth International Drought Resistant Groundnut Varietal Trial (IX IDRGVT) was constituted in 2011 rainy 

season and 40 superior lines were identified for inclusion in replicated yield trials in 2011 rainy season. Four 

RIL population in F 9 generation of the crosses, ICGS 76 x CSMG 84-1 (134), ICGS 44 x CSMG 84-1 (174), 

TAG 24 x ICGV 86031 (320) and ICGS 76 x ICGS 44 (458) are available. 

SN Nigam, P Janila and V Vadez [RP GL] 

xiii) Breeding for resistance to foliar fungal diseases (late leaf spot (LLS) and rust) in groundnut 

Rationale: 

Foliar diseases such as late leaf spot (LLS) and leaf rust (LR) in the semi-arid tropics of Asia, Africa and Latin 

America cause 10-50% pod and haulm yield losses besides adversely affecting quality. Host-plant resistance is 

the best approach and combines synergistically with other control measures. 

Methodology: 

Both, conventional and marker assisted breeding approaches are used. Disease screening is done in rainy season 

where infector rows were inoculated with LLS and rust for optimum disease development at 50 DAS. The 

disease scoring is done at about 75, 90 and 105 DAS on a scale of 1-9. 


During 2011 rainy season 7 new crosses were made using CS-19 (obtained from DGR, Junagadh) and ICGV 

09112 as sources. ICGV-07130, ICGV-06183, ICGV-09141, ICGV-09191, ICGV-03057 and ICGV-09137 are 

the new parents involved in the new crosses made during 2010-11. In 2010 rainy season, 118 bulks and 220 

single plants were selected from 116 F 2 -F 12 bulks and 16 plant progenies. From these, during 2010-11 postrainy 

season, 131 F 2 -F 13 bulks and 223 single plants were selected and advance and in 2011 rainy season 111 single 

plants and173 F 2 -F 13 bulk selections were made.60 lines in 2010 rainy and 2010-11 postrainy seasons and 78 

lines in 2011 rainy season were evaluated. 

Marker assisted backcrossing (MABC) is under progress for introgression of a major QTL governing rust 

resistance from GPBD 4 to ICGV 91114,JL 24 and TAG 24. During 2011 rainy season, the BC 3 F 2 (TAG 24 X 

GPBD 4 and JL 24 X GPBD 4) and BC 4 F 2 (ICGV 91114 x GPBD 4) were phenotyped for rust resistance and 

advanced. Before this in BC 2 F 2 generation positive homozygous (for QTL) were identified by genotyping. 

2010 rainy season: InElite trial, 5 test entries (3.2-2.1±0.16 t ha-1) out yielded best check ICGV 98373 (1.2 t ha -1 , 

65% shelling outturn, 41 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score = 2 and LLS score = 5 at 90 DAS). ICGV 07130 (3.2 t 

ha-1 with 60% shelling outturn, 40 g 100-seed weight -1 , At 90 DAS, rust score= 3 and LLS score = 5) and 

ICGV 07143 (3.0 t ha-1 with 67% shelling outturn, 36 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score at 90 DAS = 3 and LLS 

score at 90 DAS = 5) were best entries. 

In Advanced Trial (Spanish), eleven entries (3.3-2.2±0.2 t ha -1 ) were significantly superior over the control 

ICGV 86590 (1.6 t ha -1 , 62% shelling outturn, 28 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score=2, LLS score= 6 at 90 DAS). 

ICGV 08305 (3.3 t ha -1 , 62% shelling outturn, 48 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score=3 and LLS score=5 at 90 

DAS) and ICGV 08304 (3.0 t ha-1 with 62% shelling outturn, 39 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score at 90 DAS = 

2.5 and LLS score at 90 DAS = 5) were best entries. In Virginia Trial, 8 entries outperformed best check ICGV 

86699 (2.1 t ha- 1 , 61% shelling outturn, 32 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score=3 and LLS score=5 at 90 DAS). Best 

entries were ICGV 08316 (2.3 t ha -1 , 52% shelling outturn, 35 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score=3 and LLS 

score=5 at 90 DAS) and ICGV 08326 (2.3 t ha -1 , 68% shelling outturn, 27 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score=2.5 

and LLS score=5 at 90 DAS).In Preliminary Trials, five entries (3.5-2.3±0.2 t ha-1) out yielded the best check in 

Spanish group and in Virginia group five entries (3.1-2.4±0.11 t ha-1) out yielded the best check, but none were 

better for tolerance to diseases. 

2010-11 postrainy season: In an Elite Trial, ICGV 07143 (5.4 t ha -1 , 74% shelling outturn, 51 g 100-seed 

weight -1 ) and ICGV 07130 (5.4 t ha -1 , 68% shelling outturn, 66 g 100-seed weight -1 ) outperformed best check 

ICGV 98373 (4.2 t ha -1 , 70% shelling outturn, 66 g 100-seed weight -1 ) for pod yield. In Advanced Trials, four 

entries (7.2-6.6±0.5 t ha -1 ) out yielded best check ICGV 86590 (5.3 t ha -1 , with 72% shelling outturn, 47 g 100- 

36

seed weight -1 ) in Spanish group and in Virginia group three entries out performed best check ICGV 86699 (4.6 t 

ha -1 , 66% shelling outturn, 65 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In Preliminary Trials, fourteen test entries (6.6-6.0±0.2 t ha -1 ) 

out yielded the best check ICGV 86590 (5.3 t ha -1 , 66% shelling outturn, 42 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and in Virginia 

group two entries outperformed best check ICGV 86699 (4.5 t ha -1 ,70% shelling outturn, 63 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

2011 rainy season: In Elite Trial (Spanish), seven entries (4.2-5.3±0.18 t ha -1 ) were significantly superior over 

best control GPBD 4 (3.2 t ha -1 , 57% shelling outturn, 27 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score = 2.5 and LLS score =5 

at 90 DAS). ICGV 08304 (5.3 t ha -1 , 60% shelling outturn, 50 g 100-seed weight -1 rust score = 2.5 and LLS 

score =5 at 90 DAS) and ICGV 08305 (4.8 t ha- 1 , 63% shelling outturn, 52 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score=2 

and LLS score=5 at 90 DAS) were best with score similar to resistant check. In Elite Trial (Virginia), ICGV 

08319 (4.7 t ha- 1 , 69% shelling outturn, 45 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score=2 and LLS score=4 at 90 DAS) was 

significantly superior over control ICGV 86699 (3.9 t ha -1 , 64% shelling outturn, 34 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust 

score=2 and LLS score = 4 at 90 DAS). 

In Advanced trial (Spanish), seven entries (3.6-4.9±0.2 t ha-1) out yielded the best check ICGV 86590 (2.6 t 

ha- 1 , 59% shelling outturn, 30 g 100-seed weight -1 , rust score=2 and LLS score=6 at 90 DAS). In Advanced 

Trial (Virginia), 3 were best over check ICGV 86699 (2.7 t ha -1 , 64% shelling outturn, 48 g 100-seed weight -1 , 

rust score=2 and LLS score=4 at 90 DAS). In Preliminary Trial (Spanish), seven entries (4.1-4.6±0.16 t ha-1) 

produced significantly superior over control ICGS 44 (3.0 t ha- 1 , 62% shelling outturn, 31 g 100-seed weight -1 , 

rust score=4.5 and LLS score=5.5 at 90 DAS). 

Conclusions: 

Thirteenth International Foliar Diseases Resistant Groundnut Varietal Trial (XIII IFDRGVT) was constituted 

during 2011 rainy season and several lines were advanced to next level of testing. 

SN Nigam, P Janila, HK Sudini and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

xiv) Sharing new International nurseries with NARS and private sector partners 

Rationale: 

Variety replacement is an important constraint to groundnut production and as a consequence several obsolete 

varieties are under cultivation. The best varieties should reach farmers either through NARS or private players 

to increase the productivity levels in groundnut. 

Methodology: 

International nurseries are constituted; multiplied and shared the NARS and private sector partners (through 

seed consortium) for evaluation for local adaptation and identify best suited lines for different/varied locations 

of SAT Asia and promoted subsequently. The elite lines for international nurseries are identified for various 

important traits after evaluating their performance for 6 seasons (3 rainy and 3 postrainy). 


From elite Trials, 13 Spanish and 3 Virginia lines for foliar disease resistance; 15 Spanish lines each for medium 

duration and A. flavus resistance; and 8 Spanish and 7Virginia lines for drought tolerance were selected to 

include in four new International nurseries. They are multiplied in 2011 rainy season. 

1. Thirteenth International Medium-duration Groundnut Varietal Trial (SB) [XIII IMGVT (SB)] 

2. Thirteenth International Foliar Diseases Resistant Groundnut Varietal Trial (XIII IFDRGVT) 

3. Fourth International A. flavus Resistance Groundnut Varietal Trial (IV IAFRGVT) 

4. Ninth International Drought Resistant Groundnut Varietal Trial (IX IDRGVT) 

Conclusions: 

During 2011, seeds of 6 sets of international Trials sets and 132 advanced breeding lines were provided to 

partners in six countries in addition to following seed supplies. In the year 2011, Astha Bio Care Pvt Ltd, 

Maharashtra has become new member to Seed Consortium. Two varieties proposed for identification and 

release in the Philippines. Two varieties identified for release by NARS, India during 2011 were the advanced 

breeding lines of ICRISAT (ICGV 94118 and ICGV 05049. 


xv) Development of high yielding and stress resilient groundnut varieties with traits preferred by end 

users in Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania and Uganda 

Rationale: 

The research program targeted development of high yielding and stress resilient groundnut varieties with traits 

preferred by end users comprising farmers, traders and consumers. The major constraints and traits addressed by 

breeding efforts include: high yield potential; diseases, insect pests and environmental stress tolerance 

37

Methodology: 

Germplasm were supplied to NARS partners in Malawi, Tanzania, Mozambique and Uganda to evaluate 

promising lines for yield potential, adaptability and reaction to predominant diseases in various agro ecological 

zones. A total of 142 groundnut varieties were each supplied to Tanzania and Mozambique, 117 to Malawi and 

96 to Uganda. The materials were evaluated at different research stations representing a wide range of agroecological 

zones as well as on-farm under farmers’ condition. 


There were a lot of variations in the performance of varieties across sites within a country and between 

countries. In Malawi, the effect of site on the performance of the genotypes was very highly significant 

(P≤0.001) for the medium duration lines. Kernel yield was on average higher at Chitala (2551 kg/ha, Chitedze 

(1965 kg/ha) and Mbawa (1675 kg/ha) compared to Makoka (403 kg/ha). Seven genotypes (ICGV-SM series 

06718, 03708, 07593, 02794, 07599, 01709 and 01711) out-performed both CG7 (1617 kg/ha) and Nsinjiro 

(1493 kg/ha), yielding between 1739 and 2307 kg/ha. In Tanzania, only four varieties: ICGV-SMs 01709, 05593 

and 06725 and 08503 (1050-1100 kg/ha) yielded statistically similar to CG 7 (1200kg/ha) and ICGV-SM 01711 

(1050 kg/ha). However one variety, ICGV-SM 05558 (1360 kg/ha) outperformed the recently released checks. It 

is evident that the following three varieties namely CG 7, ICGV-SM 01709 and 01711 consistently gave better 

performance in Malawi and Tanzania. For the short duration varieties, five comprising ICGV-SM series 01514, 

03513, 03516, 03517 and 03530 registered superior performance than both Chitala and Kakoma (1810 kg/ha) in 

Malawi, while in Tanzania four test genotypes: ICGV-SM 03516 (1340 kg/ha), JL 24 and ICGV-SM 03530 

(1290 kg/ha), ICGV-SM 99568 (1220kg/ha) gave superior mean yield performance across Nachingwea and 

Naliendele research stations. 

Results from Mozambique and Uganda were received too late for inclusion into this report. 

Conclusions: 

Three medium duration groundnut varieties: CG 7, ICGV-SM 01709 and ICGV-SM 01711 showed high yield 

potential and were moderately less sensitive to environmental stresses. Among the short duration genotypes, 

ICGV-SMs 03516 and 03530 were consistent in Malawi and Tanzania. These lines have the potential to mitigate 

against the effects of erratic rainfall seasons and/or intermittent drought. 

ES Monyo, H Charlie O Mponda, A Chamango and S Njoroge [RP GL] 

xvi) Broaden the genetic base of groundnut for crop improvement 

Rationale: 

Groundnut is another legume with a narrow genetic base and hence is susceptible to a range of diseases and 

pests. 

Methodology: 

Wild Arachis species were used to develop synthetic groundnut. Synthetic groundnut are tetraploids and hence 

are more amenable to crosses with cultivated groundnut. 


Development of new sources of synthetic groundnut 

Double synthetics were developed by crossing two tetraploid synthetic groundnut previously developed at 

ICRISAT. Two of these synthetics comprised of four Arachis species and three double synthetics comprised of 

three Arachis species. Although these are double synthetics, they are amphidiploids as they have both A and B 

genome species. Meiotic analysis of double synthetics showed good homology between the parental genomes 

and pollen fertility in these hybrids ranged from 73 % to 92 % (Table 1). Need to confirm the hybrids through 

molecular analysis. 

Table 1. 

Serial 

no. 

Double synthetics 

Pollen 

fertility (%) 

Seed 

no. 

1 (A duranensis x A. ipaensis) x (A. magna x A. batizocoi) 75 297 

2 (A duranensis x A. ipaensis) x (A. kempf mercadoi x A. hoehnei) 73 53 

3 ( A. duranensis x A. batizocoi) x (A. magna x A. batizocoi) 74 58 

4 ( A. duranensis x A. batizocoi) x (A. duranensis x A. hoehnei) x 79 2 

5 (A duranensis x A. ipaensis) x (A. duranensis x A. hoehnei) 92 40 

38

Conclusions: 

Double synthetics are new sources of tetraploid groundnut as they have more than two genomes and comprised 

of A and B genome species. It is presumed that they would have greater variability as they more than two 

Arachis species contributing variability. 

P Krishna Shilpa, S Srikanth and N Mallikarjuna [RP GL] 

xvii) QTL analysis and consensus map for drought tolerance related traits and foliar diseases based on 

RIL populations of cultivated groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) 

Rationale: 

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important food and cash crop mainly grown in semi-arid tropics (SAT) 

regions of the world where biotic and abiotic stress are the major production constraint for low productivity. 

Terminal drought among biotic stress and two fungal foliar diseases (late leaf spot-LLS and rust) have the 

greatest impact on yield losses worldwide. Identification and development of tolerant/resistant breeding material 

to these stresses is one of the challenging objectives in groundnut breeding. 

Methodology: 

After screening a total of 3,215 SSR markers on parental genotypes of five mapping populations, segregation 

data for polymorphic markers was generated for three RILs segregating for drought tolerance (RIL-1: TAG 24 × 

ICGV 86031, RIL-2:ICGS 76 × CSMG 84-1, RIL-3:ICGS 44 × ICGS 76) and two RILs segregating for foliar 

diseases (RIL-4:TAG 24 × GPBD 4, RIL-5:TG 26 × GPBD 4). The genotyping data generated on these 

populations were used for construction of individual genetic linkage maps and consensus maps followed by 

comprehensive QTL analysis using phenotyping data. 


Individual genetic linkage maps were constructed for all the five mapping populations i.e., RIL-1 (191 marker 

loci, 1785.4 cM map length,), RIL-2 (119 marker loci, 2208.0 cM map length), RIL-3 (82 marker loci, 831.4 cM 

map length), RIL-4 (188 marker loci, 1922.4 cM map length) and RIL-5 (181 marker loci, 1963 cM map 

length), respectively. Further, two consensus maps were prepared for drought tolerance based on three RILs 

(RIL 1-3) with 293 SSR loci (2,840.8 cM) and for foliar diseases based on two RILs with 225 SSR loci (1152.9 

cM), respectively. Extensive phenotyping and comprehensive QTL analysis in all the five populations detected a 

total of 153 main effect QTLs (M-QTLs) and 25 epistatic QTLs (E-QTLs) for drought tolerance related traits; 

43 QTLs for foliar diseases (LLS and rust); 7 QTLs for protein content, eight QTLs for oil content and six 

common QTLs for oleic and linoleic acid. Sixteen key genomic regions were selected on the basis of QTLs 

identified for their expected role towards drought adaptation. Similarly, in case of foliar diseases, a major QTL 

each for LLS (62.34% PVE) and rust (82.96% PVE) resistive were identified. In addition, 199 highly 

informative SSR markers with PIC >0.50 were identified based on above studies. The details of these studies 

are published in Varshney et al. 2009 (Theor Appl Genet 118:729–739), Khedikar et al. 2010, (Theor Appl 

Genet 121: 971–984), Ravi et al. 2011(Theor Appl Genet 122:1119–1132), Sarvamangala et al. 2011 (Field 

Crop Res 122:49-59), Gautami et al. 2011 (Mol Breed doi: 10.1007/s11032-011-9660-0), Sujay et al. 2011 (Mol 

Breed doi:10.1007/s11032-011-9661-z) and Pandey et al. 2012 (Plant Breed 131:139-147). 

Conclusions: 

Novel breeding approaches like marker-assisted recurrent selection (MARS) and genomic selection (GS) 

approaches are likely to be the preferred approaches for introgression of a larger number of small-effect QTLs to 

breed drought tolerant groundnut genotypes while tightly linked markers and candidate QTLs identified for 

foliar disease resistance can be deployed in molecular breeding for resistance to foliar diseases in cultivated 

groundnut. 

B Gautami, V Sujay, MK Pandey, MVC Gowda (UAS-D), SN Nigam, V Vadez, 

YP Khedikar, C Sarvamangala, T Radhakrishnan (DGR), P Janila, K Ravi, 

L Krishnamurthy, RS Bhat (UAS-D), HL Nadaf (UAS-D), S Lingaraju (UAS-D), 

PL Ratnakumar, ML Narasu (JNTU), DJ Bertioli (Catholic Uni), 

SJ Knapp (UGA), DA Hoisington and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

xviii) Implement the use of plant breeding data management software in the Pigeonpea Breeding 

Program 

Rationale: 

A plant breeding data management system will allow preserving, retrieving, analyzing, and sharing data more 

effectively and efficiently. 

39

Methodology: 

After testing three commercially available plant-breeding data management software packages Agrobase GenII 

was selected and purchased. Trained personnel, modern equipment, standardization of nomenclature, pedigrees, 

traits, protocols and units are also essential requirements. 


Two project members have received training to handle Agrobase: MI Vales (formal) and Suyash Patil (informal 

training).Books of inbred lines (ICPL, ICPA/B), hybrids, and crossing books were digitalized (1978 to 

present).A standardized pedigree and nomenclature system was prepared and agreed upon. A trait dictionary 

was prepared and used for Agrobase. Several modern equipment options were evaluated and tested: data 

loggers, barcode readers, grain counters, single plant threshers, computer-linked balances, label printers. New 

equipment will be purchased based on available funds. Agrobase has been used to design experiments, design 

crossing blocks, prepare templates, data collection, data archival, data analysis, decision making. 

Conclusions: 

Agrobase allows streamlining the breeding process from beginning to end. The learning curve is steep, but it is 

worthwhile to invest the time and effort to master it; the rewards for a breeder are amazing. Having a fully 

rational system gives the power to access and dig information from multiple years, locations, traits, genotypes 

and previous analysis, thus improving selection efficiency. 

MI Vales [RP GL] 

xix) 

Development of mapping populations segregating for resistance to FW (Fusarium wilt), SMD 

(sterility mosaic disease) and drought resistance/tolerance in pigeonpea 

Rationale: 

In order to study marker-trait associations it is necessary to have bi-parental populations segregating for the trait 

of interest. Thus, several parental lines contrasting for the trait/s of interest have been used in the development 

of mapping populations. 

Methodology: 

The three most advanced populations (F 5 generation) were planted under net houses in four m plots (0.25 cm 

plant to plant) for seed increase. Seed from a single plant will be preserved to maintain pure stocks; the rest will 

be bulked to be distributed to our collaborators for phenotyping purposes in 2012. Three additional populations 

at earlier generations were planted in one m plots for generation advance. Seed from a single plant will be 

preserved to maintain pure stocks. Data were collected for days to 50% flowering, 75% maturity and some 

agronomic traits for the advanced F 5 plants. FW and SMD resistance/tolerance was confirmed on the parental lines. 


The following recombinant inbred lines (RIL) were generated (F 6 seed produced): 

F 5 to F 6 : (ICPB 2049-1 x ICPL 99050-1), segregating for FW,329 lines. 

F 5 to F 6 : (ICPL 20096-1 x ICPL 332-1), segregating for FW and SMD, 342 lines. 

F 5 to F 6 : (ICPL 20097-1 x ICP 8863-1), segregating for SMD, 266 lines. 

Generation advance 

F 4 to F 5 : (ICPL 87119-1 x ICPL 87091-1), segregating for FW and SMD, 116 lines. 

F 3 to F 4 : (ICP 8755-5 x ICPL 227-5), segregating for drought, 190 lines. 

F 3 to F 4 : (ICP 2376-1 x ICPL 20102-1), segregating for FW, 157 lines. 

Additional crosses were made to develop new populations segregating for morphological (leaf shape, flower 

type), agronomic traits, drought and water-logging tolerance. 

Conclusions: 

We have three RIL populations ready to be phenotyped and genotyped during 2012. Marker-trait associations 

will allow understanding the genetic basis of resistance/tolerance to FW and SMD as a first step to move 

towards molecular breeding in pigeonpea. 

MI Vales and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

xx) Evaluation of physiological parameters of hybrids and varieties of pigeonpea under different 

production systems 

Rationale: 

It is important to determine the expression of heterosis in pigeonpea, medium-duration hybrid vis-à-vis variety 

in correlation with yield and morphological characters; and to enhance adoption of improved varieties and 

hybrids through farmers’ participatory varietal selection trials. 

40

Methodology: 

Six pigeonpea cultivars consisting of four hybrids (ICPH 2671, ICPH 2740, ICPH 3762, and BDN2004-3 (711)) 

and two varieties (BSMR 736 and Asha) were evaluated for their physiological parameters, yield, and yield 

contributing characters. Physiological parameters were studies at 30, 60, 90 and 120 days after sowing. In 

another study five improved cultivars consisting two hybrids (ICPH 2671 and ICPH 2740) and three varieties 

(ICP 7035, ICPL 87119, and Maruti) were tested in multi-location farmers’ field trial (FPVT) against local 

variety as check in Orissa covering 12.5 ha in three districts (Nauparha, Kalahandi, and Rayagada). Harvesting 

will continue till end of February 2012. Details of these activities can be found in special project reports. 


Agronomic characters were studied and collection of important data will continue till March 2012. Analysis of 

data is in progress. 

Aside from on-station research, the multi-location tests of farmer preferred varieties was implemented. 

Conclusions: 

Among the cultivars evaluated in the FPVT, ICP 7035 and ICPH 2671 were selected by the farmers and were 

considered as acceptable options for Orissa. 

M G Mula [RP GL] 

xxi) Develop super-early NDT (non-determinate) and DT (determinate) lines 

Rationale: 

Super-early pigeonpea lines could be planted at higher latitudes and altitudes to expand the cultivation of 

pigeonpea in cropping systems with a narrow crop window (3 to 3.5 months), such as wheat-pigeonpea rotation 

in states such as Punjab and Haryana and hills of Uttarakhand. 

Methodology: 

Seventeen (eleven NDT and six DT lines) advanced lines (selected F 5 and F 6 ) were planted in RCBD at three 

locations in India: Ludhiana (Punjab), Almora (Uttarakhand) and Patancheru (A.P), representing different 

latitudes (30 o , 29 o and 17 o N, respectively) and altitudes 247, 545 and 1,250 m a.s.l., respectively). Data were 

collected on days to 50% flowering, 75% maturity, yield and yield components. 


The newly developed lines flowered and matured at a higher latitudes (up to 30 o N) and altitudes (up to 1,250 m 

a.s.l.). Several lines showed promising yields (>1,500 kg/ha). Among the promising lines, ICPL 20329 (NDT) 

yielded > 2,000 kg/ha at both Ludhiana and Almora in 2011. 

Conclusions: 

The new super-early lines generated using the pedigree-based selection could be used in new cropping systems 

(i.e. pigeonpea – wheat) and/or could expand to non-traditional pigeonpea planting areas (i.e. wider 

latitudes/latitudes). Promising lines have been identified. These lines, together with new advanced lines will be 

re-tested in 2012 to confirm their performance. 

MI Vales and R Sultana [RP GL] 

xxii) Screening/validation of pigeonpea genotypes for tolerance to water-logging and salinity 

Rationale: 

In India, water-logging is a serious constraint for agriculture, as about 8.5 m ha of arable land is prone to this 

problem. Agricultural production losses due to water-logging in India are estimated to be around US$ 28.5 

million. If water-logging and/or water-logging plus salinity tolerant pigeonpea varieties or hybrids are 

identified/developed, the yield losses due to water-logging in pigeonpea would be significantly reduced, and 

pigeonpea production could be expanded to water-logging prone areas. 

Methodology: 

Laboratory, pots, and field (both on-station and on-farm) experiments were performed to address challenges 

imposed by water-logging at different crop growth stages in pigeonpea: seed, early seedling, and late seedling 

(confirmation on-station and validation on farmers’ fields). Seven institutions across India (ICRISAT, IIPR, 

IARI, PAU, JNKVV, BHU, HAU) have been involved in the water-logging/ water-logging plus salinity 

screening efforts. Thirty one promising pigeonpea genotypes (from ICRISAT and IIPR) were distributed to all 

project locations for its validation for water-logging tolerance under laboratory, on-station and on-farm 

conditions. The tolerant genotypes were selected on basis of survival rate, vigour, and overall yield. 

41


ICPH 2740, ICPH 2671 and Asha were proved as promising water-logging tolerant genotypes at farmer’s fields 

in most of the locations. Very few genotypes showed tolerance to water-logging plus salinity under laboratory 

conditions. At the highest salt concentration (50mM NaCl), only three genotypes ICPB 2039, JBP 110-B, and 

ICPL 2037 showed tolerance to salinity. Other promising water-logging and water-logging plus salinity tolerant 

lines have been observed from screening advanced promising breeding lines and local varieties from some of 

the national programs. H07-5, H06-12, H00-47, MULTISEED, H09-38, H00-37, AKT-8811, AKT-9811, BDN- 

2000, BDN-2002, and BDN-708, showed promise to water-logging tolerance whileH06-12, PUSA 991, H07-5, 

H09-25, H09-34,H09-37 showed promise against water-logging plus salinity stress. 

Conclusions: 

Pigeonpea genotypes contrasting for water-logging tolerance have been identified and validated. Contrasting 

lines will be used to develop mapping populations to conduct genetic studies. 

R Sultana, MI Vales and KB Saxena [RP GL] 

xxiii) New disease-resistant parental lines developed in super-early and medium maturity groups 

Rationale: 

Sterility mosaic disease (SMD) and Fusarium wilt (FW) are the two most important diseases in pigeonpea. Host 

plant resistance to SMD and FW is a pre-requisite in the development of new pigeonpea varieties and hybrids. 

Methodology: 

New crosses were made between promising new lines and sources of resistance to SMD and FW. Parental lines 

and advanced segregating populations were tested for SMD and FW at the disease nursery (ICRISAT-Patancheru). 


A total of 320 short/super-early duration (use either early-maturing or short duration, at present it is early and 

short together) and 477 medium duration genotypes, including advanced breeding lines (A/B/R lines), 

germplasm, hybrids, varieties, new crosses and derivatives of wild relatives along with checks: Asha (resistant 

to FW and SMD), Maruti (resistant to FW) and ICP2376 (resistant to SMD) were evaluated for wilt and SM 

resistant at disease sick nursery. Within the short duration materials, tolerance to only one of the diseases (FW 

or SMD) was more frequent. Only a few short duration genotypes showed tolerance to both SMD and FW, 

including wild derivatives and materials derived from resistant parents that are now in BC 3 , BC 4 , F 5, and F 6 

generations. 

Within the medium duration genotypes, most of the A/B lines (except 2043, 2048, 2092, 2098, and 2198) were 

susceptible and restorer parents were resistant to both SM and FW. Most of the hybrids were resistant to both 

diseases, which in turn mean that resistance/tolerance to both diseases, was contributed by the male parents. 

Also we can conclude that resistance to FW is governed (at least in part) by dominant gene/s. 

Conclusions: 

Most of the super-early lines are susceptible to SMD and FW, thus the effort to combine earliness and disease 

resistance should continue. There are promising high yielding and SMD and FW resistant advanced lines in 

medium duration. 

KB Saxena, MI Vales, S Pande and R Sultana [RP GL] 

xxiv) Development of at least 50 new pigeonpea hybrids with stable fertility restoration and disease 

resistance 

Rationale: 

Pigeonpea hybrids with high yield, high fertility restoration, and disease resistance are needed to increase 

pigeonpea production and break the stagnation in yield of pigeonpea. 

Methodology: 

A total of 72 hybrids were evaluated in seven station trials. These were evaluated in two replications with 75 x 

50 cm spacing in 4-6 rows, four m plots. Initially, 100 kg of Di-ammonium Phosphate per hectare was applied at 

the time of land preparation. Three weeding were done. Three insecticide sprayings were also applied to control 

pod borers. The hybrids were also planted in the disease nursery (ICRISAT-Patancheru). Agronomic and 

disease resistance evaluations were performed in all the trials. 

42


A high density of volunteer sorghum plants emerged after the first irrigation and seriously affected the initial 

growth of pigeonpea plants. However, the crop growth picked up soon after weeding and clear differences in 

seedling vigor were observed. Visual observations indicated that the vigor of all the hybrids was superior to the 

control. All the hybrids evaluated were 100% male-fertile. The promising hybrids identified were ICPH 4395, 

ICPH 3492, ICPH 4494, ICPH 4143, and ICPH 3502. Based on the disease data recorded up to 50% flowering, 

59 hybrids were resistant to FW and SMD. The trials have been harvested. Agronomic data is pending. 

Conclusions: 

The preliminary evaluation of hybrids was very useful and we were able to identify promising hybrids for multilocation 

testing in the coming season. 

KB Saxena and S Pande [RP GL] 

xxv) Evaluation of three promising pigeonpea hybrids in over 100 on-farm locations representing 

diverse environments 

Rationale: 

Testing promising pigeonpea hybrids in diverse environments (both on-station and on-farm trials) allows 

identification of hybrids that are better suited for different location based on adaptation and farmers’ preferences 

besides determining their stability. 

Methodology: 

During the 2011 season, a total of 33 hybrids were evaluated in multi-location trials (MLT) at four locations 

(Navsari, Gujarat, Myanmar, ICRISAT-Patancheru) using RCBD with two replications and 75 x 50 cm spacing 

in six row/plots of four meters length. These trials were conducted in Vertisols and DAP@ 100 kg ha -1 was 

applied. Pre-emergence herbicide was applied and three rounds of hand weeding were necessary to minimize 

weed competition. Two irrigations were given to protect the crop from stress. Three insecticide sprayings were 

done to protect the crop from pod borers. 

Based on data from MLT, four promising hybrids (ICPH 2671, ICPH 2740, ICPH 3762 and ICPH 2433) were 

selected for testing in >100 locations across India in farmers’ fields. These trials were grown under sole as well 

as inter-crop (in most cases) with cotton, soybean, and turmeric, green and black gram. 


The initial correspondence with cooperators indicated that the hybrids performed well in the MLTs. Of these, 

ICPH 2751, ICPH 3477, ICPH 3733, ICPH 3494 and ICPH 4182 were found promising for yield, fertility, and 

resistance to FW and SM. ICPH 4182 is a medium duration white seeded hybrid (Maruti maturity group). The 

bold white seeds have attracted farmers and seed growers. The crop has been harvested and results are awaited. 

The four promising hybrids identified based on MLT data were planted in on-farm trials at Maharashtra, Andhra 

Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Jharkhand. In Maharashtra, ICPH 2740 performed very well in deep 

black soils. ICPH 2740 showed very good adaptation, performing well even under rainfed conditions and rocky 

soil in Yavatmal district. ICPH 2740 impressed many farmers (for example in Raver, Jalgaon location, three 

acre plot) due to its profuse podding; this has attracted the attention of many farmers from surrounding villages. 

Conclusions: 

ICPH 2740 emerged as best hybrid for deep black soils under rainfed as well as irrigated conditions. This hybrid 

is well adapted to deep black soils several states including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra 

Pradesh and other locations in India. 

KB Saxena [RP GL] 

xxvi) Generate pre-breeding lines with desirable traits utilizing wild relatives of Cajanus species 

Rationale: 

Disease and pest resistant crops can increase farm productivity. Since high levels of resistance to insect such as 

pod borer and disease such as SMD are not available, introgressing these from wild Cajanus species is 

imperative. 

Methodology: 

Crosses between secondary gene pool species C. acutifolius and tertiary gene pool species C. platycarpus were 

carried out to introgress resistance. 

43


120 

100 

80 

Percent plants 

60 

40 

20 

0 

Highly resistant 

Moderately 

resistant 

Susceptible 

Figure 1. Progeny lines derived from C. acutifolius with FW (red bar) and SMD (blue bar) resistance. 

Seventy-one advanced and stable lines with pod borer resistance (damage less than 5 %) and pod fly (less than 1 %) 

resistance in the preceding three years, were screened for FW and SMD resistance by growing the lines in 

disease sick plot. 78 % and 92 % of the lines had no FW and SMD disease symptoms (Fig. 1) and were 

classified as highly resistant lines. 20 % and 7 % of the lines had plants with varying FW and SMD disease 

symptoms (1-30 %) were classified as moderately resistant lines. Only about 2 % each of the lines had more 

than 30-90 % disease symptoms and these lines were classified as susceptible. In one line from this group all the 

plants showed SMD symptom. Lines with no FW and SMD symptoms are classified as lines with multiple 

disease and pest resistance. Analyzing pod borer damage for the current year (2011-12) is in progress. 

100 

80 

Percent plants 

60 

40 

20 

0 

Highly 

resistant 

Moderately 

resistant 

Moderately 

susceptible 

Susceptible 

Figure 2. Progeny lines derived from C. platycarpus with 

FW (red bar) and SMD (blue bar) resistance. 

One hundred and forty seven stable advance generation lines derived from C. platycarpus with less than 5 % 

pod borer damage and less than 1 % pod fly damage in the last three preceding years, were screened for FW and 

SMD by growing the lines in disease sick plot. Twenty seven percent and 66 % of the lines did not show any 

FW and SMD symptoms (Fig. 2) and were classified as highly resistant, 34 % and 21 % of the lines that 

showed 1-30% disease damage were classified as moderately resistant and 13 % and 8 % of the lines showed 

30-50 % disease and were classified as moderately susceptible. Remaining 25 % and 4 % of the lines showed 

more than 50 % of the plants with disease symptoms and were classified as susceptible. Pod borer damage for 

the current year (2011-12) is yet to be compiled. 

Conclusion 

Useful lines having genes from secondary gene pool species C. acutifolius and tertiary gene pool species C. 

platycarpus and multiple disease and pest resistant lines are available for utilization in breeding program. 

MI Vales, DR Jadhav, HC Sharma, S Pande, 

Mamta Sharma and N Mallikarjuna [RP GL] 

xxvii) Broaden the genetic base of pigeonpea for crop improvement 

Rationale: 

There is an ample evidence that pigeonpea has a narrow genetic base. In order to broaden its genetic base, wild 

relatives of pigeonpea were used in the crossing program. Cajanus lanceolatus, a species from its secondary 

gene pool, which has not been successfully crossed with Pigeonpea until now, was used in the crossing program. 

Crosses were also carried out utilizing a wild relative from tertiary gene pool of pigeonpea namely C. volubilis. 

Apart from this ABQTL mapping populations were developed utilizing two wild relatives’ namely C. 

cajanifolius and C. acutifolius. 

Methodology: 

Wide crossing was carried out using C. cajan as the female parent and wild relatives as pollen donor. 

Result and discussion 

a. Crosses with secondary gene pool species. 

44

Cajanus lanceolatus is a wild relative from the secondary gene pool of pigeonpea. Previous published report of 

utilizing C. lanceolatus resulted in the production of F 1 hybrids which did not reach the flowering stage. In 

2011, C. cajan cv 85010 was crossed with C. lanceolatus and fertile hybrids were produced. Morphologically 

the hybrids resembled the male parent with extensive vegetative growth and elongated leaves. Cytological 

analysis of the hybrids showed high degree of homeology between the parental genomes. In spite of 

chromosome homeology, three out of 9 plants were totally sterile, remaining plants showed different degrees of 

pollen fertility. A large number of BC 1 and F 2 seeds have been obtained. 

b. Crosses with tertiary (incompatible) gene pool species. 

C. volubilis is a wild relative in the tertiary gene pool of pigeonpea. Cajanus cajan cv ICPL 85010 was used as 

the female parent and C. volubilis as the pollen donor gave rise to fertile hybrid, which in turn has produced a 

large number of F 2 and BC 1 seeds. Since C. volubilis is a tertiary gene pool species molecular techniques were 

used to confirm hybridity. Fig. 3 shows DArT marker CCM008 confirming the hybridity of the F 1 progeny. 

There is a report in literature of using C. volubilis as the female parent and obtaining male sterile hybrids. Due 

to various sterility bottlenecks the cross could not be carried further. Otherwise it is reported not to cross with 

cultivated pigeonpea. 

c. ABQTL mapping populations 

ABQTL mapping populations were developed utilizing two Cajanus species namely C. cajanifolius and C. 

acutifolius. Two ABQTL mapping population were grown in the field to obtain BC 2 F 3 seeds. Each population 

had 184 lines. Individual plants were treated as each treatment and morphological traits such as plant height, 

number of secondary and tertiary branches and 100-seed weight data collection are in progress. 

Fig. 3. DArT marker showing polymorphism between female parent (top line) ICPL 85010 

having a different molecular profile than the hybrid (center line) and the male parent C. volubilis 

(bottom line). The hybrid and the male parent share the same molecular profile 

RR Mir, Sandhya Srikanth, DR Jadhav, RK Varshney and N Mallikarjuna [RP GL] 

xxviii) Analysis of BAC-end sequences (BESs) and development of BES-SSR markers for genetic 

mapping and hybrid purity assessment in pigeonpea 

Rationale: 

In order to enhance the genomic resources for pigeonpea, this study was designed to develop SSR markers on 

large scale from BAC-end sequences (BESs) and their subsequent use for genetic mapping and hybridity testing 

in pigeonpea. 

Methodology: 

Two BAC libraries were developed from pigeonpea cultivar “Asha”, based on partial digestion with HindIII and 

BamHI restriction enzymes. With the goal of increasing genetic marker repertoire in pigeonpea, BESs (clusters 

+ singletons) were surveyed for the presence of SSRs by means of the MIcroSAtellite (MISA) search module. 

SSR genotyping and mapping was done by using standard procedures. 


A set of 88,860 BAC (bacterial artificial chromosomes)-end sequences (BESs) were generated from two BAC 

libraries by using HindIII (34,560 clones) and BamHI (34,560 clones) restriction enzymes. These sequences 

were examined to develop annotation lists and subdivide the BESs into genome fractions. BESs were also 

searched for microsatellites or simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and a total of 18,149 SSRs were identified, from 

which a set of 6,212 SSRs were selected for downstream analysis. A total of 3,072 SSRs were successfully used 

for primer pairs synthesis and tested for polymorphism on a set of 22 parental genotypes of 13 mapping 

45

populations segregating for traits of interest. In total, 842 polymorphic SSRs were identified. Based on these 

markers, the first SSR-based genetic map comprising of 239 loci was developed. SSR markers were also used 

for identifying a set of 42 markers each for two hybrids (ICPH 2671 and ICPH 2438) for genetic purity 

assessment. Detailed results have been published in Bohra et al. 2011, BMC Plant Biology 11:56. 

Conclusions: 

BAC libraries and BESs are useful for genomics studies, SSR markers, and the genetic map should be very 

useful for linking the genetic map with a future physical map as well as for molecular breeding in pigeonpea. 

A Bohra, A Dubey, R Saxena, RV Penmetsa (UC-Davis), KN Poornima, 

Naresh Kumar, AD Framer (NCGR), S Gudipati, HD Upadhyaya, 

R Gothalwal (Barkatullah Uni), S Ramesh (UAS-B), Dhiraj Singh (CCSHAU), 

KB Saxena, PB Kavikishor PB (Osmania Uni), NK Singh (NRCPB), 

CD Town (JCVI), GD May (NCGR), DR Cook (UC-Davis) and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

xxix) Genetic mapping and quantitative trait locus analysis of resistance to sterility mosaic disease in 

pigeonpea 

Rationale: 

Sterility mosaic disease (SMD), known as the "green plague of pigeonpea" and caused by Pigeonpea Sterility 

Mosaic Virus (PPSMV), is one of the major biotic factor which leads to heavy yield losses. Molecular tools 

offer a viable option to tackle these biotic stresses via identification of the genomic segments related to SMD 

resistance. 

Methodology: 

Two F 2 populations i.e. ICP 8863 × ICPL 20097 and TTB 7 × ICP 7035 were developed and F 2:3 families were 

phenotyped by using leaf stapling method for resistance to SMD. SSR genotyping, mapping and QTL analysis 

was done by using standard procedures. 


A total of 3000 SSR markers were screened on parental genotypes of mapping populations, intra-specific 

genetic maps comprising of 11 linkage groups and 120 and 78 SSR loci were developed for ICP 8863 × ICPL 

20097 and TTB 7 × ICP 7035 populations, respectively. QTL analysis by using genetic mapping and 

phenotyping data provided four QTLs for Patancheru SMD isolate and two QTLs for Bangalore SMD isolate. 

One QTL identified within an interval of 2.8 cM on LG 7 explaining 24.72 % of phenotypic variance. Detailed 

results have been published in Gnanesh et al. 2011, Field Crop Research 123:53-61. 

Conclusions: 

After validation, the identified QTLs in other genetic background may be potential candidates for markerassisted 

selection. This is the first study on development of intra-specific genetic maps and identification of 

QTLs for SMD resistance in pigeonpea. 

BN Gnanesh, A Bohra, Mamta Sharma, M Byregowda (UAS-B), S Pande, 

V Wesley, RK Saxena, KB Saxena, PB Kavikishore and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

xxx) Single feature polymorphisms (SFPs) for drought tolerance in pigeonpea 

Rationale: 

Availability of molecular markers and saturated genetic linkage maps are the requirements for marker-assisted 

breeding which are not available for pigeonpea. Single feature polymorphism (SFP) is a microarray based 

marker system that is detected by hybridization of DNA or cRNA to oligonucleotide probes. Affymetrix 

genome arrays of soybean were used to develop informative markers for pigeonpea. 

Methodology: 

A total of six accessions namely ICP 28, ICPL 8755, ICPL 151, ICPL 87, and ICPL 227 from the cultivated 

genepool (C. cajan) and ICPW 94 a wild relative of pigeonpea (C. scarabaeoides) were used in this study. 

Expression data were generated by hybridizing pigeonpea cRNA to the soybean genome array. The Affymetrix 

Soybean Genome Arrays used in this study contained 37,500 probe sets derived from soybean unigenes. This 

represents 61% of the total probe sets on the chip, with the remainder targeting two pathogens important for 

soybean genetics research. Each probe pair consists of a perfect match (PM) probe and a mismatch (MM) probe. 


A total of 5,692 potential SFPs were identified by using robustified projection pursuit (RPP) on 15 pair-wise 

comparisons for six parental lines. The number of SFPs varied from 780 (ICPL 8755 × ICPL 227) to 854 (ICPL 

46

151 × ICPL 87) per parental combination. In order to validate the identified SFPs a random set of 179 SFPs 

were used. Based on good quality sequence data for 75 genes, true positives were found for 37.73% predicted 

SFPs for ICPL 151 × ICPL 87, 40% for ICPL 8755 × ICPL 227, and 86.11% for ICP 28 × ICPW 94 parental 

combinations. Gene ontology analysis of the genes detecting SFPs provided a set of 397 candidate genes that 

may have association with drought drought tolerance. Detailed results have been published in Saxena et al. 

2011, Funct Integr Genom 11:651-657. 

Conclusions: 

The study demonstrates the utility of the soybean genome array for identification of large number of SFPs, 

providing an efficient route to markers for a dense genetic map to facilitate molecular breeding in pigeonpea. 

Drought related candidate genes are useful resource for undertaking the gene expression analysis as well 

development of functional markers for both basic and applied research. 

RK Saxena, X Cui (UC-Riverside), V Thakur, W Walter (UC-Riverside), 

TJ Close (UC-Riverside) and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

xxxi) Decoding the genome of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan), an orphan legume crop of resource-poor 

smallholder farmers in Asia and Africa 

Rationale: 

Pigeonpea is one of the neglected crops which are subject to low levels of scientific research despite their 

importance for regional food security in the world’s poorest regions. To accelerate the application of genomics 

to improve yield and quality draft genome sequence has been generated. 

Methodology: 

Next generation sequencing (Illumina) was used to generate the raw sequence reads that, along with Sangerbased 

BAC end sequences and a genetic map, was assembled into scaffolds. Genome annotation and 

downstream analysis were conducted by using standard bioinformatics tools. 


By using Next generation sequencing a total of 237.2 Gb of sequence were generated that, along with Sangerbased 

BAC end sequences and a genetic map, was assembled into scaffolds representing 72.7% (605.78 Mb) of 

the 833.07 Mb pigeonpea genome. Further, genome analysis predicted 48,680 genes for pigeonpea and also 

showed the potential role of some gene families during evolution/domestication, e.g. drought tolerance related 

genes. Although a few segmental duplication events were found, recent genome-wide duplication events, such 

as seen in soybean, were not observed. Detailed results have been published in Varshney et al. 2012, Nat 

Biotechnol 30:83-89. 

Conclusions: 

The availability of a pigeonpea genome will facilitate greater use of biotechnological tools in pigeonpea 

breeding so that the yield gap in farmer’s fields in Asia and Africa can be minimized. The availability of 

pigeonpea genome sequence will also facilitate assembly and alignment of genomes of other Phaseoloid species. 

RK Varshney, W Chen W (BGI), Y Li (UGA), AK Bharti (NCGR), RK Saxena, 

J Schlueter (UNCC), MTA Donoghue (NUIG), G Fan (BGI), AM Whaley (UNCC), 

AD Framer (NCGR), J Sheridan (UNCC), A Iwata (UGA), R Tuteja, RV Penmetsa (UC-D), 

W Wu (Monsanto), HD Upadhyaya, SP Yang (Monsanto), T Shah, KB Saxena, 

T Michael (Monsanto), WR McCombie (CSHL), B Yang (BGI), G Zhang (BGI), 

H Yang (BGI), J Wang (BGI), C Spillane (NUIG), DR Cook (UC-D), 

GD May (NCGR), X Xu (BGI) and S Jackson (UGA) [RP GL] 

xxxii) Identification of candidate genes associated with growth habit in pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L) 

Millsp.) 

Rationale: 

Pigeonpea is one of the important legumes crops for arid- and semi-arid tropics of the world and two distinct 

growth habits (indeterminate vs determinate) have been also reported in this crop. It is believed that determinate 

growth habit has long been selected during pigeonpea domestication and some of the mutation may be 

responsible for this transition from indeterminate to determinate growth habit. Keeping the above in view efforts 

have been made to identify the genes responsible for this transition in pigeonpea 

Methodology: 

A comprehensive association analysis using whole-genome scanning and candidate gene sequencing has been 

done using a set of 142 pigeonpea lines to identify candidate markers and SNPs responsible for determinacy in 

47

pigeonpea. For whole genome scanning, a 768 GoldenGate assay by Illumina and 15,360 features developed by 

DArT Pty Ltd, Australia was used. For candidate gene sequencing, a set of 12 candidate genes were initially 

selected from Kwak et al. 2008 (J Heredity 99: 283-291). However, among these genes only 9 amplified but 

good quality amplification with single band suitable for Sanger sequences was obtained for only 7 candidate 

genes including AP1, FCA, FLD, FKF1, GI, TFL1 and TFL2. 


Association analysis using the TASSEL program showed significant (p=

superior varieties identified by ICRISAT-Nairobi. Hence, release of FW resistant, desi and kabuli varieties are 

highly relevant to smallholder farming systems of Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania. 

Methodology: 

Concerted efforts through farmer participatory PVS, large scale demonstrations and farmers field days resulted 

in fast tracking of varietal releases duly involving NARES partners in Tanzania(LZARDI-Ukiriguru, SARI- 

Arusha) and Kenya(KARI-Njoro; EU-Njoro) under TL-II and Treasure Legumes projects. 


Released 4 chickpea varieties namely Ukiriguru 1(ICCV 97105), Mwanza 1(ICCV 00108), Mwanza 2 (ICCV 

00305), and Mwangaza (ICCV 92318) in Tanzania as a landmark first time official release. The on-farm yield 

advantages of two desi (ICCV 97105 and ICCV 00108 at 46 and 43%, respectively) and two kabuli varieties 

(ICCV 00305 and ICCV 92318 at 54 and 19%, respectively) ranged from 19-54% when compared to presently 

grown ‘Dengumawe’ a desi type local. Similarly, in Kenya one desi ICCV 97105(40% yield advantage over 

‘Ngara local) and one kabuli variety ICCV 95423 (31% yield advantage) released by Egerton University and 

KARI-Njoro, respectively. Three more varieties ICCVs 92944, 97126 and 00302 are being evaluated in NPT in 

Kenya by Egerton University. 

Conclusions: 

New varietal releases provide an opportunity to small holder farmers in Tanzania and Kenya to increase the 

harvests and there by food security and marketable surplus. 


xxxvi) Improved pigeonpea varieties disseminated through participatory methods in ESA 

Rationale: 

Majority of pigeonpea farmers in ESA, still growing traditional low yielding, wilt susceptible, photo and 

thermo-sensitive varieties, in spite of availability of superior pigeonpea varieties developed by ICRISAT- 

Nairobi. The farmers’ participatory evaluation with direct involvement of farmers in choosing preferred 

varieties based on high yield, cream seed color and bold seeds offer a greater scope for varietal dissemination. 

Methodology: 

Participatory evaluation and demonstration approaches are being adopted in Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and 

Mozambique duly involving NARES partners in Tanzania (SARI-Arusha, IARI-Ilonga), Malawi (CARS- 

Lilongwe), and Kenya (KARI-Katumani) under TL-II and Treasure Legumes projects. 


15 and 10 demos conducted respectively in Makueni and Mbeere districts of Kenya, involving three medium 

(ICEAPs 00557, 00554, 00850) and two long duration varieties (ICEAPs 00040, 00932) under Treasure 

legumes projects. ICEAPs 00850, 00040 already released for general cultivation Kenya and ICEAPs 00554 and 

00557 are in final stages of NPT evaluation. In Tanzania, 40 FPVS trials were conducted in Babati, Karatu, 

Kondoa and Arumeru districts with six long duration (ICEAPs 00040, 00053, 00932, 00933, 00936, 00576-1) 

and two medium duration varieties (ICEAPs 00557, 00554) under TL-II and Treasure legumes. In Malawi, 11 

FPVS trials with 6 medium (ICEAPs 01514/15, 01162/21, 01480/32, 01167/11, 00557 and Mthawajuni) and 5 

long duration varieties (ICEAPs 00020, 00040, 00926, ICP 9145 and farmers’ local were conducted. 

Conclusions: 

Farmers preference during FPVS and large scale demonstrations helped in creating demand for varietal release 

and seeds. 


xxxvii) Improved chickpea varieties disseminated through participatory methods in ESA 

Rationale: 

A majority of chickpea farmers in ESA, still growing traditional low yielding, wilt susceptible, small seeded 

genotypes in spite of availability of superior varieties identified by ICRISAT-Nairobi. Hence, demonstration of 

FW resistant, large seeded desi and kabuli varieties are highly relevant to smallholder farming systems of 

Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania. 

Methodology: 

Participatory evaluation and demonstration approaches were adopted in Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania duly 

involving NARES partners in Ethiopia( DZARC-DebreZeit, Gonder ARC, DebreBirhan ARC, Sirinka ARC), 

and Tanzania(LZARDI-Ukiriguru, SARI-Arusha) under TL-II and Treasure legumes project funded by IFAD. 

49


Evaluated two desi (ICCVs 97105, 00108) and four kabuli (ICCVs 00305, 97306, 96329, and 92318) varieties 

in 10 and 14 FPVS in Lake zone (in new Kwimba and Igunga districts) and Northern zone (Arumeru and Karatu 

districts). 30 demos were conducted involving four newly released varieties viz., Ukiriguru 1(ICCV 97105), 

Mwanza 1(ICCV 00108), Mwanza 2 (ICCV 00305), and Mwangaza (ICCV 92318). In Ethiopia, 430 demos 

(260 demos by DZARC, 60 by Gonder ARC, 80 by DebreBirhan ARC, 30 demos by Sirinka ARC) and 7 PVS 

(by Sirinka ARC) were conducted using Arerti, Habru, Natoli, Minjar, Mastewal, Shasho, Acos, Ejere, Teji and 

Chefe. 

Conclusions: 

Eliciting farmers’ feedback on varietal preferences during FPVS and large scale demonstrations helped in fast 

tracking of varietal release and creation of variety wise seed demand. 


xxxviii) Develop new high yielding varieties, resistant/ tolerant to drought and foliar diseases with 

farmer- and market preferred traits for different uses (food and oil types), using conventional 

and modern breeding approaches 

Rationale: 

Groundnut productivity is limited by a number abiotic (drought) and biotic stresses (foliar diseases, groundnut 

rosette and aflatoxin contamination) in the semi-arid zones of Wes Africa. The gap between potential yield and 

realized yield is large in smallholder farming. To improve productivity at the farm level and bridge the yield gap 

requires varieties that have farmer-and market preferred traits including those that enhance and stabilize 

productivity, increase profitability of the crop and thereby the income of smallholder groundnut farmers. 

Methodology: 

The generation of enhanced germplasm and deployment of finished products go through a series of steps from 

generation the populations, screening the populations for key biotic and abiotic stresses; on station preliminary 

and advanced performance evaluation and most promising lines are promoted on farm through farmer 

participatory variety selection. Alpha lattice design and three replications were used in all on-station variety 

trials. On the other hand, mother and baby trials methodology was the main participatory tool in on-farm 

evaluation and selection of varieties. 


Hybridization and generation advance: A total of 30 new crosses were made with the objectives to combine 

aflatoxin and foliar disease tolerances (10), foliar disease resistance into farmer preferred varieties (10) and 

drought tolerance into farmer preferred varieties. 54 F2:3 populations for foliar disease tolerance (18), 

productivity (12), aflatoxin contamination (10), foliar diseases and aflatoxin contamination (13) and 1 for 

limited fresh seed dormancy were advance to F3:4 generation. Single pod bulks have been made in each of the 

populations. A total of 1119 F4:5 lines derived from 5 populations involving farmer preferred varieties and a 

stable source of resistance to early leaf spot was phenotype for early leaf spot under natural conditions at 

Samanko. One this of these showed good level of resistance ranging from a sore of 3 to 5 on a 1 to 9 scale (1+ 

no disease and 9, highly susceptible). 

On-station trials: 10 advanced trials involving 404 trait specific lines (resistance to rosette and the vector aphid, 

tolerant to foliar diseases, adaptation and confectionary types, was evaluated in replicated trials at Samanko 

using the Alpha lattice design and 3 replications. Post-harvest data capture is in progress. 

On-station PVS was conducted using 24 advanced breeding lines sown in large demonstration plots for farmer 

preferred traits. The material involved those tolerant to drought (6) rosette (5) aflatoxin contamination (4), 

foliar diseases (4) and extra-early maturing lines (5). Sixty farmers (45 women and 15 men) from the various 

locations where on farm PVS are being conducted evaluated the material. Yield, earliness and foliar disease 

ranked highest as the most preferred traits. 

On-farm trials: As series of non-replicated mother on-farm PVS trials were initiated in Mali in collaboration 

with two international NGOs (Sahel 21 and Aga Khan Foundation) and an export company (YIRIWA) to 

evaluate new varieties. With Sahel 21, 17 women and 18 men evaluated 5 early maturing in 5 villages in Dijeni 

district. Five varieties tolerant to aflatoxin along with the local check were evaluated by 123 women in Mopti 

region in northern Mali where Aga Khan Foundation is operating. We also supplied YIRIWA export Company 

with 5 aflatoxin tolerant lines to test in their intervention area in the Kayes region. PVS trials earlier established 

with the NGO Plan Mali were repeated. These are being implemented in 5 villages in the Koulikoro region and 

145 women are participating. These trials are being used as field schools to educate farmers on the best 

practices. 

50

Fast Tracking of the release of PVS varieties: The national program in Mali submitted 5 varieties; including 

ICGV 86015 and ICGV 86124 from the PVS conducted in the previous years to the national registration 

committee for inclusion in the variety catalog in 2011. These varieties are high yielding and tolerant to drought. 

The Nigerian Variety Release Committee approved the release of ICIAR 19BT as SAMNUT 24. It is an earlymaturing 

line (< 90 days), but most importantly it is resistant to groundnut rosette disease. 

B Ntare, F Waliyar, O Kodio and CA Echekwu [RP GL] 

I. Disease and insect-pest resistance 

i) Evaluation of chickpea and pigeonpea germplasm and breeding lines for identification of disease 

resistance 

Rationale: 

New and stable sources of disease resistance are needed to develop new chickpea and pigeonpea cultivars with a 

broad genetic base. 

Methodology: 

Chickpea germplasm accessions and breeding lines were evaluated to identify the resistance to AB, BGM, DRR, 

Collar Rot (CR) and FW diseases under controlled environment conditions at ICRISAT. Severities of AB, BGM 

and DRR were scored on 1-9 rating scale and the incidence of FW and CR was recorded as percentage of 

mortality. Pigeonpea germplasm and breeding lines were evaluated in wilt and SMD sick plot at ICRISAT. 

Disease incidence was recorded as percentage of mortality. For the stable sources of resistance in chickpea and 

pigeonpea, a set of entries found resistant to different diseases at ICRISAT were evaluated across multilocations 

through individual disease nurseries: Chickpea wilt and root rot nursery, International Ascochyta Blight 

Nursery, International Botrytis Gray Mold Nursery in chickpea and pigeonpea Wilt and Sterility Mosaic Disease 

Nursery. 


Sources of disease resistance in chickpea: 

Chickpea germplasm lines: Out of 500 germplasm lines from composite collection, 95 lines to FW and 6 to 

DRR were found resistant. However, moderately resistant reaction was recorded in 106 lines to BGM, 11 to AB 

and 15 to DRR. All the accessions were found susceptible to CR. 

Chickpea breeding lines: Among the 108 advanced breeding lines, high level of resistance was identified to FW 

in 68 lines. Out of 442 breeding lines, 244 lines and among the 1326 -F6 breeding lines, 175 showed high level 

of resistance to FW. For AB, among the 1329 F5 populations, three entries (ICCX-060060-F4-P59-BP, ICCX- 

060074-F4-P12-BP, and ICCX-060074-F4-P26-BP) were found resistant (1.0-3.0 rating). For BGM, of the 54 

advanced lines, 27 lines were found moderately resistant. 

Multilocational evaluation: Five entries ICCV’s 07306, 08113, 08124, 08125 and 98505 at 7 locations were 

found resistant to wilt. Eight entries (ICCV’s 04505, 04506, 04512, 04513, 05502, 05551, EC’s 516839 and 

516874) were found resistant to AB at three locations. Ten entries (ICCV’s 05502, 05506, 05509, 05522, 05529, 

05553, EC’s 516891, 516720, 516806 and 516878) were found resistant to BGM at two locations. 

Sources of disease resistance in pigeonpea: 

Advanced lines: Out of 59 lines, 42 lines showed combined resistance to both wilt and SMD. 

Hybrids: Out of 12 promising hybrids, 10 were found resistant to both wilt and SMD. Among the 20 SD NDT 

hybrids, only one (ICPH 4386) showed moderate resistant reaction to both wilt and SMD. Among 161 MD NDT 

hybrids, 82 hybrids were found resistant to both wilt and SMD. 

Breeding lines: Among 52MD CMS A&B lines, 13 lines were found resistant to both wilt and SMD, out of 73 

MD NDT R lines (ICPLs), 52 were found resistant to both wilt and SMD, of 14 SIPS lines, one line showed 

moderately resistant reaction, of 21 MAL lines, 7 lines were found resistant to both wilt and SMD. Out of 30 SD 

NDT R lines (ICPLs), one (ICPL 90011) was found resistant to both wilt and SMD; All SD DT and NDT cms 

A&B lines were susceptible to both wilt and SMD. 

Multilocational evaluation: Out of 28 entries, one entry (ICPL 99046) at eight locations and four entries (ICPL 

20104, 20105, 20108 and 99050) at seven locations were found resistant to wilt. For SMD, 5 entries (ICP 

11298, ICPLs 20104, 20112, 99054 and 99088) at five locations and 6 entries (ICPLs 20121, 20125, 20138, 

51

20139, 99046 and 99087) at four locations were found resistant. Combined stable sources of resistance were 

identified in 5 entries (ICP 11298, ICPLs 20104, 20105, 99050 and 99054) at three locations. 

Conclusions: 

High level of resistance was identified in chickpea and pigeonpea germplasm and breeding lines. Stable sources 

of resistance identified to diseases of chickpea and pigeonpea. 

S Pande and Mamta Sharma [RP GL] 

ii) Groundnut mini core evaluation for resistance to Aspergillus flavus infection and subsequent 

aflatoxin contamination 

Rationale: 

Aflatoxin contamination of groundnut is important food safety issue and need to address in every possible way. 

Search for finding resistant sources in available germplasm accessions of groundnut through field and laboratory 

screenings is a viable approach for resource poor farmers. In this direction groundnut mini core (10% of the core 

and 1% of entire collection) evaluation for aflatoxin resistance offers good representative variation within the 

crop species. 

Methodology: 

Groundnut mini core comprising 188 accessions was evaluated for resistance to seed infection by Aspergillus 

flavus and subsequent aflatoxin contamination in a sick field during 2010 postrainy and 2011 rainy seasons 

along with 4 standard checks (JL-24, J-11, ICGS 44 and ICGS 76). The experiment was conducted in a RCBD 

with 2 replications. Aspergillus flavus toxigenic strain AF 11-4 was multiplied on sorghum grains and applied to 

field 3 times during crop growing season. Drought was imposed 4 weeks before harvest for creating ideal 

environment for A. flavus infestation. Immediately after harvesting, pre-harvest infection was tested by plating 

method and aflatoxin quantification was tested using indirect competitive ELISA. 


The 2010-11 postrainy season data on pre-harvest Aspergillus flavus seed contamination showed 0-35% 

infection range on all accessions. However resistant control (J 11) and susceptible control (JL 24) showed 0% 

and 3% seed contamination levels, respectively. Aflatoxin quantification ranged from 0-2346 µg/kg indicating 

very wide variation in the mini-core as against to 0 µg/kg in resistant control (J 11) and 65 µg/kg in susceptible 

control (JL 24). A total of 11 accessions (ICG11687, ICG5779, ICG4911, ICG11249, ICG1399, ICG10890, 

ICG 2106, ICG 13603, ICG 4670, ICG 36 and ICG 5494 etc.) have recorded 0% pre harvest seed infection and 

0µg/kg aflatoxin contamination resulting from pre harvest invasion. The 2011 late rainy season data are yet to 

analyze. 

Conclusions: 

Wide variation exists for pre-harvest seed infection and aflatoxin contamination. Promising new sources of 

resistances are available in mini core collection. 

HK Sudini, HD Upadhyaya and CLL Gowda [RP GL] 

iii) Evaluation of chickpea germplasm for resistance to pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera 

Rationale: 

Pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera is one of the major constraints in chickpea production and host plant resistance 

can play a critical role in minimizing the losses due to this pest. Therefore, we evaluated chickpea genotypes 

selected earlier for resistance to pod borer, H. armigera in different nurseries for resistance to pod borer, H. 

armigera during the 2010-11 postrainy season. 

Methodology: 

The genotypes were divided into three sets of short- (68 lines), medium- (96 lines), and long-duration (40 lines). 

There were three replications for each set in a randomized complete block design. Data were recorded on days 

to flowering and maturity, leaf and pod damage on a 1 - 9 scale (1 = 80% leaf area/pods damaged, poor pod 

setting, and pods present on a few branches only), overall resistance score (1 = highly resistant, and 9 = highly 

susceptible), egg and larval density per 5 plants, and grain yield. 


In the short-duration nursery, pod borer infestation was very high and the leaf damage ratings at the vegetative 

stage (30 days after seedling emergence) varied from 1.5 - 6.5 (1.9 in ICC 506 EB and 6.0 in ICC 3137). At 

52

maturity, the overall resistance scores ranged from 3.0 - 7.0 (3.0 in ICCV 10 and 7.0 in ICC 3137). There were 

3.2 to 22.5 larvae per 5 plants at the vegetative stage (3.2 in ICC 506 EB and 16.5 in ICC 3137). Pod damage 

ranged from 3.5 to 66.5% (3.5% in ICC 506 EB and 66.5% in ICC 3137), while the grain yield varied from 275 

to 1454 kg ha -1 (275 kg ha -1 in ICC 3137 and 1039 kg ha -1 in ICC 506 EB). The genotypes 5583, D 013, D 021, 

D 051, ICC 14364, ICCV 05310, ICCV 06302, ICCV 07104, ICCV 09104, ICCV 09105, ICCV 09118, ICCV 

92944, ICCV 93954, ICCV 95334, ICCV 97105, ICC 506 EB, and ICCV 10 suffered lower H. armigera 

damage and plant mortality due to seedling diseases, and also exhibited high yield potential (>1,000 kg ha -1 ) 

under unprotected conditions. In the medium-duration nursery, leaf damage ratings at the vegetative stage varied 

from 2.0 in ICC 506 EB and 7.5 in ICC 3137. At maturity, the overall resistance scores ranged from 3.0 - 7.0 

(4.0 in ICCV 10 and 6.5 ICC 3137). There were 2.0 to 14.0 larvae per 5 plants at the vegetative stage (2.2 on 

ICC 506 EB and 13.0 on ICC 3137). Pod damage ranged from 3.9 to 89.2% (20.4% in ICCV 10 and 89.2% in 

ICC 3137), while the grain yield varied from 69 to 1860 kg ha -1 (69 kg in ICC 3137 and 1581 in ICCV 10). The 

genotypes 5105, 5360, D 008, D 010, D 045, ICC 11324, ICC 15868, ICCV 96852, ICCV 04104, ICCV 07105, 

Vijay, and ICCV 10 suffered lower H. armigera damage and plant mortality due to seedling diseases, and also 

exhibited high yield potential (>1,000 kg ha -1 ) under unprotected conditions. In the long-duration nursery, leaf 

damage ratings at the vegetative stage varied from 2.0 - 6.0 (2.9 in ICC 506 EB and 6.0 in ICC 3137). At 

maturity, the overall resistance score ranged from 3.5 - 7.5 (4.0 in ICCV 10 and 7.0 in ICC 3137). There were 

2.5 to 17.0 larvae per 5 plants at the vegetative stage (7.0 on ICC 506 EB and 13.5 on ICC 3137). Pod damage 

ranged from 8.6 to 49.1% (13.3% in ICCV 10 and 47.6% in ICC 3137), while the grain yield varied from 204 to 

1931 kg ha -1 (204 kg ha -1 in ICC 3137 and 1931 kg ha -1 in ICCV 10). 

The genotypes ICC 11198, ICC 14344, ICC 14831, ICC 6874, ICC 867, ICC 95, ICCV 09115, ICCV 09117, 

and ICCV 10 suffering lower H. armigera damage and plant mortality due to seedling diseases, and also 

exhibited high yield potential (>1,000 kg ha -1 ) under unprotected conditions. 

In the medium-duration nursery, leaf damage ratings at the vegetative stage varied from 1.0 - 7.5 (2.0 in ICC 

506 EB and 7.5 in ICC 3137). At maturity, the overall resistance score ranged from 3.0 - 7.0 (4.0 in ICCV 10 

and 6.5 ICC 3137). There were 2.0 to 14.0 larvae per 5 plants at the vegetative stage (2.2 on ICC 506 EB and 

13.0 on ICC 3137). Pod damage ranged from 3.9 to 89.2% (20.4% in ICCV 10 and 89.2% in ICC 3137), while 

the grain yield varied from 69 to 1860 kg ha -1 (69 kg in ICC 3137 and 1581 in ICCV 10). The genotypes 5105, 

5360, D 008, D 010, D 045, ICC 11324, ICC 15868, ICCV 96852, ICCV 04104, ICCV 07105, Vijay, and 

ICCV 10 suffered lower H. armigera damage and plant mortality due to seedling diseases, and also exhibited 

high yield potential (>1,000 kg ha -1 ) under unprotected conditions. In the long-duration nursery, leaf damage 

ratings at the vegetative stage varied from 2.0 - 6.0 (2.9 in ICC 506 EB and 6.0 in ICC 3137). At maturity, the 

overall resistance score ranged from 3.5 - 7.5 (4.0 in ICCV 10 and 7.0 in ICC 3137). There were 2.5 to 17.0 

larvae per 5 plants at the vegetative stage (7.0 on ICC 506 EB and 13.5 on ICC 3137). Pod damage ranged from 

8.6 to 49.1% (13.3% in ICCV 10 and 47.6% in ICC 3137), while the grain yield varied from 204 to 1931 kg ha -1 

(204 kg ha -1 in ICC 3137 and 1931 kg ha -1 in ICCV 10). The genotypes ICC 11198, ICC 14344, ICC 14831, ICC 

6874, ICC 867, ICC 95, ICCV 09115, ICCV 09117, and ICCV 10 suffered lower H. armigera damage and plant 

mortality due to seedling diseases, and also exhibited high yield potential (>1,000 kg ha -1 ) under unprotected 

conditions. 

Conclusions: 

The lines suffering lower H. armigera damage and plant mortality due to seedling diseases, and also exhibiting 

high yield potential will be useful for chickpea improvement. 

HC Sharma, HD Upadhyaya, PM Gaur and CLL Gowda [RP GL] 

iv) International chickpea Helicoverpa resistance screening nursery 

Rationale: 

Several germplasm and breeding lines with less susceptibility to the pod borer, H. armigera have been identified 

at ICISAT. To test the stability of resistance of these lines across locations and to distribute these lines to the 

NARS, we evaluated the international Helicoverpa resistance screening nursery (30 lines) across locations in 

India. 

Methodology: 

RCBD with three replications was used. Observations were recorded on H. armigera damage on a 1 to 9 scale (1 

= 80% leaf area/pods damaged), larval density, and grain yield. 

The international Helicoverpa resistance screening nursery (25 lines) was evaluated for resistance to H. 

armigera under field conditions, and also distributed to several NARS for evaluating the stability of resistance 

53

and use of the promising lines in their crop improvement programs. There were three replications in a 

randomized complete block design. Observations were recorded on H. armigera damage on a 1 to 9 scale (1 = 

80% leaf area/pods damaged), larval density, and grain yield. 


At ICRISAT - Patancheru, leaf damage ratings at the vegetative stage varied from 1.0 - 5.0 (1.0 in ICC 506 EB 

and 4.3 in ICC 3137). At maturity, the overall resistance score ranged from 2.3 - 7.3 (2.3 in ICC 506 EB and 7.3 

ICC 3137). There were 1.7 to 13.7 larvae per 5 plants at the vegetative stage (1.7 on ICC 506 EB and 13.7 on 

ICC 3137), and 1.7 - 14.3 (1.7 in ICC 506 EB and 14.3 in ICCV 09308) at the flowering stage, and 4.7 - 28.3 

(4.7 in ICC 506 EB and 28.3 in ICC 3137) at the podding stage. Pod damage ranged from 3.1 to 39.2% (3.1% in 

ICC 506 EB and 39.2% in ICC 3137), while the grain yield varied from 63 to 116 g per 5 plants (63 g in ICC 

3137 and 85.7 g in ICC 506 EB). 

Conclusions: 

The genotypes 5034, ICC 14364, ICC 14872, ICCL 86111, ICCV 09106, and ICCV 09118 suffering lower H. 

armigera damage and plant mortality due to seedling diseases, and had high yield potential (>100 g/5 plants) 

under unprotected conditions can be used for chickpea improvement in future. 

HC Sharma, JB Gopali, CLL Gowda and PM Gaur [RP GL] 

v) Evaluation of interspecific mapping population [ICC 4958 (Cicer arietinum) x PII 489777 (Cicer 

reticulatum)] for resistance to pod borer, H. armigera 

Rationale: 

The pod borer, H. armigera is one of the most damaging pests of chickpea. Therefore, there is a need to develop 

insect resistant cultivars to reduce the extent of losses due to this pest. Therefore, we evaluated the mapping 

population derivatives derived from ICC 506EB x Vijay (200 lines) for resistance to pod borer, H. armigera 

during the 2009/10 postrainy season to identify high yielding lines with resistance/tolerance to this pest. 

Methodology: 

Interspecific derivatives derived from ICC 4958 (Cicer arietinum) x PII 489777 (Cicer reticulatum) (128 lines 

along with resistant - ICC 506 EB, susceptible - ICC 3137, commercial - ICCC 37, local - Annigeri, Kabuli - L 

550 checks, and the two parents) were evaluated for resistance to pod borer, H. armigera under natural 

infestation in the field. Data were recorded on agronomic traits, leaf and pod damage visually on a 1 to 9 scale, 

egg and larval numbers per 5 plants, pod damage, wilt incidence, and grain yield. The test material was also 

evaluated using detached leaf assay under laboratory conditions at the vegetative (30 days after seedling 

emergence) stage. For this purpose, the terminal branches (5 to 7 cm long) were brought to lab from the field in 

an ice box, inserted in 3% agar-agar as a supporting medium, and infested with 10 neonate larvae in a 250 ml 

plastic cup. Data were recorded on leaf feeding on a 1 to 9 scale (1 = 80% 

leaf area damaged), larval weight, and larval survival at 5 days after infestation. 


Among the early-duration lines, CRIL 2-2 (EC 583250), CRIL 2-20 (EC 583267), CRIL 2-39 (EC 583285), 

CRIL 2-67 (EC 583313), and CRIL 2-109 (EC 583355) had damage ratings and yield potential comparable to 

the resistant check, ICC 506 EB. These lines also had lower egg and/or larval population than on the susceptible 

check, ICC 3137. Among the medium-duration lines, CRIL 2-1 (EC 583249) , CRIL 2-28 (EC 583275), CRIL 

2-59 (EC 583305), and CRIL 2-72 (EC 583318) showed damage levels and yield potential comparable to the 

resistant check, ICC 506 EB. These lines also had lower egg and/or larval population than on the susceptible 

check, ICC 3137. Among the long-duration lines, CRIL 2-31 (EC 583278), CRIL 2-33 (EC 583280), CRIL 2-49 

(EC 583295), CRIL 2-61 (EC 583307), and CRIL 2-116 (EC 583361) showed damage ratings and yield 

potential comparable to the resistant check, ICC 506 EB. These lines also had lower egg and/or larval 

population than on the susceptible check, ICC 3137. 

Among the early-duration lines CRIL 2-16 (EC 583263), CRIL 2-34 (EC 583281), CRIL 2-47 (EC 583293), 

CRIL 2-69 (EC 583315), and CRIL 2-85 (EC 583331) showed leaf feeding and larval weight gain (5.5 mg per 

larva) comparable to that on the resistant check, ICC 506 EB (5.58 mg), but significantly lower than the 

susceptible check, ICC 3137 (19.43 mg). Among the medium-duration lines, CRIL 2-4 (EC 583252), CRIL 2-25 

(EC 583272), CRIL 2-95 (EC 583341) and CRIL 2-104 (EC 583350) showed leaf feeding and larval weight 

gain comparable to/or lower than the resistant check, ICC 506 EB. Among the long-duration lines, CRIL 2-46 

(EC 583292), CRIL 2-52 (EC 583298), CRIL 2-53 (EC 583299), CRIL 2-116 (EC 583361) and CRIL 2-121 

(EC 583366) showed leaf feeding and larval weight gain comparable to or lower than the resistant check, ICC 

54

506 EB. The phenotypic data will be used to identify molecular markers (QTLs, quantitative trait loci) to 

improve chickpea for resistance to H. armigera. 

In another experiment, interspecific derivatives derived from ICC 506 EB (the resistant source from the 

cultivated germplasm) (Cicer arietinum) and IG 72953 (Cicer reticulatum) (40 derivatives) along with resistant 

- ICC 506 EB, susceptible - ICC 3137, commercial - ICCC 37, Kabuli - KAK 2 checks, and the two parents) 

were also evaluated for resistance to pod borer, H. armigera under natural infestation in the field, and using 

detached leaf assay under laboratory conditions. Data were recorded on agronomic traits, leaf and pod damage 

visually on a 1 to 9 scale, egg and larval numbers per 5 plants, pod damage, and grain yield. The test material 

was also evaluated using detached leaf assay under laboratory conditions at the vegetative (30 days after 

seedling emergence) stage. For this purpose, the terminal branches (5 to 7 cm long) were brought to lab from the 

field, inserted in 3% agar-agar as a supporting medium, and infested with 10 neonate larvae in a 250 ml plastic 

cup. Data were recorded on leaf feeding on a 1 to 9 scale (1 = 80% leaf area 

damaged), larval weight, and larval survival at 5 days after infestation. 

The H. armigera population under field conditions in the test entries varied from 1.0 - 8.5 (1.5 on ICC 506 EB, 

2.0 on IG 72953, and 8.0 on ICC 3137). Overall damage ratings at maturity ranged from 2.5 - 7.0 (5.0 in ICC 

506 EB, 4.5 on IG 72953, and 7.0 on ICC 3137), while the percentage pod damage ranged from 3.1 - 42.2 (3.1% 

on ICC 506 EB, 30.9% on IG 72953, and 25% on ICC 3137. Very high damage in the wild relative was because 

of late maturity. Grain yield ranged from 542 - 2,000 kg ha -1 (1775 kg ha -1 in ICC 506 EB, 621 kg ha -1 in IG 

72953, and 1638 kg ha -1 in ICC 3137). The line Nos. ICCX 040006 F5-1, -5, -10, -15, -20, -29, -34, and -35 

showed high levels of resistance to the pod borer, and also exhibited grain yield potential of >1,000 kg ha -1 

under unprotected conditions. To confirm the expression of resistance to H. armigera, these lines were also 

tested under laboratory conditions using the detached leaf assay. All the interspecific derivatives showed high 

levels of resistance to H. armigera, and six lines showed significantly greater reduction in weight gain by H. 

armigera (

parental genotype, Semsen in terms of days to 50% flowering and maturity, and there was no abnormal growth 

of the plants. However, lines derived from the event BS6H.5 (T6) 12 showed prolongation of the flowering and 

maturity, and exhibited abnormal growth, but high levels of resistance to H. armigera. Some of the lines 

exhibiting abnormal growth showed poor pod setting. 

Conclusions: 

Transgenic chickpeas with resistance to H. armigera will be useful for chickpea improvement for pest resistance 

and sustainable crop production in future. 

HC Sharma and B Sharma [RP GL] 

vii) Evaluation of pigeonpea genotypes for resistance to pod borer, H. armigera 

Rationale: 

Pod borer, H. armigera is one of the major constraints in pigeonpea production and host plant resistance can 

play a critical role in reducing the insecticide use for controlling this pest. 

Methodology: 

We evaluated pigeonpea genotypes, earlier selected to be less susceptible to pod borer, for resistance to H. 

armigera during the 2010/11 rainy season. There were three replications in a randomized complete block 

design. Data were recorded on pod borer damage on a 1 to 9 rating scale (1 = 80% pods damaged and pods present only on a few branches), 

percentage pods damaged by the pod borers, H. armigera and Maruca vitrata, and the pod fly, Melanagromyza 

obtusa, wilt incidence, and grain yield. 


In the short duration nursery, the pod borer damage in the short-duration lines was very high (90 to 100%). The 

genotypes ICP 7, ICP 13011, ICPR 2263, ICPR 2433 showed moderate levels of recovery resistance (scores 5.3 

to 7.3 as compared to 9.0 in ICPL 151). In the medium-duration nursery, we evaluated 102 medium-duration 

pigeonpea genotypes, earlier selected to be less susceptible to pod borer, for resistance to H. armigera. The wilt 

incidence ranged from 1.6 to 74.3% (1.4% in ICPL 332 WR and 18.3% in ICPL 87119). The pod borer damage 

in the first flush ranged from 6.3 to 9.0, while recovery resistance rating/pod borer damage in the second flush 

ranged from 4.0 to 9.0. Pod damage ranged from 4.3 to 44.2% (18.9% in ICPL 332 WR and 25.5% in ICPL 

87119). The grain yield varied from 70 to 2211 kg ha -1 . The genotypes ICP 13633, ICP 16264, ICP 3461, ICP 

3491, ICPR 2897, ICPR 2899, ICP 14508, ICPL 20115, ICPL 20116, ICPL 20124, ICP 14290, and ICPL 94068 

suffered lower pod damage and yielded >1,000 kg ha -1 , and these genotypes will be useful for pigeonpea 

improvement in the national program. 

In the long-duration nursery, we evaluated 23 pigeonpea long-duration genotypes, earlier selected to be less 

susceptible to pod borer, for resistance to H. armigera during the 2010 rainy season. The wilt incidence ranged 

from 1.9 to 43.0% (16.35% in ICPL 332 WR and 13.13% in ICPL 87119). The pod borer damage ranged from 

3.3 to 5.3. Pod damage ranged from 5.35 to 23.04% (11.33% in ICPL 332 WR and 23.04 in ICP 9174). Pod fly 

(4.34 to 30.07%), and the pod bug, Clavigralla gibbosa (8.28 to 39.25%) damage were also quite high in the 

long-duration genotypes. The grain yield varied from 468 to 1863 kg ha -1 . The genotypes ICP 7507, ICP 3615, 

ICP 12759, ICPR 2925, NP (WR) 15, ICP 9174, ICP 8087 and ICPL 332 WR suffered lower pod damage by 

pod borer, H. armigera, and/or pod fly, and pod bug, and also exhibited high yield potential (>1,000 kg ha -1 ) 

under unprotected conditions, and these genotypes will be useful for pigeonpea improvement in the national 

program. 

In another trial, eight B-lines were evaluated for resistance to H. armigera along with the resistant and 

susceptible checks during the 2010 rainy season. The wilt incidence ranged from 8.06 to 70.83% (15.08% in 

ICPL 332 WR and 8.06% in ICPL 87119). All the B-lines were susceptible to wilt, except ICPB 2092 (10.24% 

wilt incidence). The first flush was completely damaged by the pod borers, H. armigera and M. vitrata (damage 

rating 8.5 to 9.0). The recovery resistance scores in the second flush ranged from 4.5 to 9.0 (5.0 in ICPB 2047 

and 5.5 in ICPB 2043 compared to 6.0 in ICPL 332 WR). The grain yield varied from 20 to 1248 kg ha -1 , and 

only ICPB 2047 yielded 1051 kg ha -1 compared to 1248 kg ha -1 in ICPL 87119 and 527 kg ha -1 in ICPL 332 

WR. The rest of the genotypes exhibited poor yield potential under unprotected conditions. 

Conclusions: 

The genotypes exhibiting resistance/tolerance to pod borer and resistance to wilt, and high grain yield potential 

under unprotected conditions will be useful for pigeonpea improvement. 

HC Sharma [RP GL] 

56

viii) Effect of selection for wilt resistance in ICPL 332 on expression of resistance to pod borer, H. 

armigera 

Rationale: 

ICPL 332 WR - derived from five cycles of mass selection for resistance to FW from the highly susceptible 

original line ICPL 332. Efforts were made to compare the agronomic performance of the wilt resistant version, 

ICPL 332WR with the parent line to assess whether the resistance and yield potential of this line is comparable 

to the parent material. 

Methodology: 

The two versions of ICPL 332 were evaluated in a replicated trial along with the commercial check, ICPL 

87119. Data were recorded on pod borer damage on a 1 to 9 rating scale (1 = 80% pods damaged and pods present only on a few branches), 

wilt incidence, Helicoverpa/Maruca, egg/larval numbers, pod damage, and grain yield. 


There were no significant differences between the two versions in terms of egg and larval numbers, and pod 

damage. Wilt incidence in ICPL 332 WR was 7.22% compared to 32.01% in ICPL 332 WS, and 6.93 % in ICPL 

87119. The first flush was heavily damaged by Maruca, and moderate levels of recovery resistance were 

recorded in the second flush, 6.33 and 7.33 in ICPL 332 WR and ICPL 332 WS, respectively. The grain yield of 

ICPL 332 WR was 794 kg ha -1 compared to 278 kg ha -1 of ICPL 332 WS. 

Conclusions: 

Although slight differences in flowering and maturity were observed, the levels of resistance/tolerance to pod 

borer of the wilt resistant version was comparable to the parental material. 

HC Sharma [RP GL] 

I. Physiological studies 

i) Assessment of water saving traits in chickpea and groundnut 

Rationale: 

Dryland legumes such as chickpea and groundnut are frequently exposed to drought, by nature of the 

environments in which they are cultivated. Then their capacity to manage water is critical to the development of 

adapted cultivars towards a better resilience. Water saving traits were then measured in germplasm of chickpea 

and groundnut, using lines contrasting for yield in the field across locations and years of environments. 

Methodology: 

Here we have assessed whether leaf conductance, the leaf conductance response to high vapor pressure deficit 

(VPD), and the leaf development differ in lines of chickpea and groundnut contrasting for drought tolerance. 

These protocols are well described in a number of publications (see Zaman-Allah et al. 2011, Funct Plant Biol 

38:270-287; Kholova et al. 2010, J Exp Bot 61:1437-1440). 


Here also some of the work is published or in the course of being published. Some is also reported in the TLI- 

Obj1 and TLI-Obj5 report to the Generation Challenge Program. In short, it was clear that in chickpea, terminal 

drought tolerant germplasm has lower canopy conductance under fully irrigated conditions than sensitive lines, 

and this contribute to water saving that becomes available for the grain filling period. Canopy conductance 

sensitivity did not distinguish terminal drought tolerant from terminal drought sensitive lines though. Tolerant 

lines had also the capacity to reduce transpiration at higher soil moisture thresholds, which is also a mean of 

water saving, and this likely led to a lesser leaf development under stress in the tolerant lines, another factor of 

water saving. A method was developed that uses leaf infrared imaging to indirectly estimate canopy 

conductance. For more details see Zaman-Allah et al. 2011, Funct Plant Biol 38:270-287. 

In groundnut, this work on water saving traits has only been initiated and there is preliminary evidence of large 

variations in the canopy conductance and in the canopy conductance response to high VPD. This agrees well 

with recently published work (Devi et al. 2010, Crop Sci 197: 272-283). However the differences in the soil 

moisture thresholds where transpiration declines upon exposure to water deficit appear to vary relatively little in 

the case of groundnut. 

57

Conclusions 

This work is in progress but milestone conclusions are exciting. They indicate that different crops share similar 

water saving strategies (eg lower leaf conductance, sensitivity to high VPD). They also open new scope for 

research. For example in the case of chickpea where virtually all the work has so far narrowly concentrated on 

root traits, or in groundnut where 25 years of research has centered on TE. 

V Vadez, PL Ratnakumar, and M Zaman-Allah [RP GL] 

ii) Lysimetric assessment of germplasm of chickpea and groundnut 

Rationale: 

Being frequently exposed to terminal or intermittent drought, grain legumes species such as chickpea and 

groundnut are frequently facing drought and managing and capturing water resources is a critical issue that we 

have addressed to increase crop resilience. 

Methodology: 

A range of experiments in these legume species were carried out in the lysimetric facility. The lysimeters consist 

in a set of tubes in which plants are grown individually, with space and soil volume similar to the field 

conditions, and where stress conditions are imposed by stopping irrigation. The setup allows a precise 

measurement of water use during the entire crop cycle, together with yield and components at maturity. See 

Zaman-Allah 2011, J. Exp. Bot for details. 


This year the lysimetric setup was upgraded by adding time domain reflectometry (TDR) access tubes, which 

allow the monitoring of soil moisture at different depth. This system will allow us to follow up the profile of 

water extraction and will be a useful tool, combined with precise total water uptake assessment from the 

lysimeters, to understand better how roots spatially and temporally exploit the water from the soil profile, which 

can also be used to refine the water component of crop models. In chickpea the lysimetric system has also been 

used to tackle combinations of stress (drought and salinity), by layering the soil with saline soil (treated with 80 

mM in the 1/3 bottom of the cylinder and 40 mM in the middle 1/3) and non-saline soil in the top 1/3 of the 

profile. Yields were mostly decreased by the water stress and the combination of a salt and water stress only 

slightly decreased the yields. 

In groundnut, 60 genotypes, selected as the most contrasting for pod yield in previous field trials carried out in 

Niger and India were tested in the lysimeters under intermittent stress. This work is the beginning of an effort to 

better understand the putative traits involved in the better yield performance of tolerant lines. In parallel to that, 

data on 20 contrasting lines from the previous year were fully analyzed, interpreted and published (Ratnakumar 

and Vadez 2011, Funct Plant Biol 38:1016–1023.), in which it was clearly shown that TE had a significant 

influence on yield only under conditions of a mild stress (30% yield reduction or less) but had no relationship to 

yield in situation of larger yield decreases (45-70%). By contrast, lines that were able to develop a smaller 

canopy (therefore saving water), had a significant advantage compared to more leafy types. These observations 

in the lysimeters correlated well with observations from the field, where most drought tolerant lines also 

developed smaller canopy. 

Conclusions: 

The lysimetric system continues to fulfill its promises and many things need to be assessed in this system. What 

is reported is a work in progress with details provided in a number of report, published work or forthcoming 

publications. The lysimetric system is also helping us to integrate several components of drought adaptation, for 

example the water saving traits in chickpea reported above, which indeed lead to a more conservative water use 

at vegetative stage leaving more water available for grain filling (see Zaman-Allah et al. 2011, J Exp Bot 62: 

4239-4252). 

V Vadez, PL Ratnakumar, and M Zaman-Allah [RP GL] 

iii) A cross-legumes comparison: Lysimetric assessment of groundnut and cowpea under water stress 

conditions 

Rationale: 

Groundnut and cowpea, two important legumes, were often investigated separately for response to drought 

stress. Several traits conferring drought stress tolerance have been identified for groundnut and cowpea. Certain 

traits contributing to better drought adaptation in groundnut can also be important in cowpea. For making 

comparison of traits involved in the response to drought, contrasting genotypes of groundnut and cowpea were 

assessed simultaneously under water stress conditions. 

58

Methodology: 

A lysimeter phenotyping facility containing 400 cylinders (1m x35cm) was used to plant 20 genotypes of 

groundnut and 20 genotypes of cowpea. The cylinders were filled with Sadoré soil. The genotypes were studied 

in completely randomized block under two water regimes (well water and water stress). A rain out shelter 

(ROS) was used to prevent rain during water stress imposition. A crane balance loads the tubes (cylinders) for 

weighing and determining the water lost by transpiration. Physiological and agronomical parameters were 

measured on control and stressed plants from day after emergency to harvest. 


For groundnut, significant genotype and water treatment interaction was observed for pods and shoot weight in 

groundnut. Significant genotype and water treatment effects on pods and shoot weight were observed in cowpea. 

Genotypes with high yield under both well water and water stress conditions were identified for both groundnut 

and cowpea. Our results indicated that most of high yield genotypes under water stress conditions were those 

that had high transpiration during water deficit period. These suggest that stomatal adjustment for pursuing 

photosynthesis activities during water deficit could be a common trait/mechanism for drought tolerance in both 

groundnut and cowpea varieties. 

Conclusions: 

Results of the first year assessment of groundnut and cowpea for comparing drought related traits of the two 

species are encouraging. Investigations ongoing and in forthcoming works would lead to better understand 

mechanisms of drought adaptation in both species and to identify relevant traits for better improving their 

adaptation to water stress. 

F Hamidou [RP GL] 

Milestone: Integrated global breeding platform (electronic field book, central breeding data and analysis) 

implemented for all mandate crops (2012) 

i) Implementing electronic data capture and management system in chickpea breeding 

Rationale: 

Plant breeding experiments usually generates lot of data which needs to be carefully maintained and analyzed 

for further use. Thus, plant breeding programs need to have an effective data capture and management system. 

Methodology: 

AGROBASE Generation II software and Honeywell handheld for recording field data. 


The AGROBASE Generation II software was installed in chickpea breeding unit at ICRISAT-Patancheru and 

three persons received training in use of this software. The software was used for developing field books for 

2011/12 crop season. We will be expanding its use in pedigree management, data analysis and development of 

databases. We tried one Honeywell handheld during the current crop season for recording data in the field. 

Though this handheld is easy to use, the major limitation it has is its small screen and keyboard. The font size 

needs to be kept small and it puts stress on the eyes. Scrolling for specific plot numbers is cumbersome and it 

would be useful to use it with barcodes. The machine has a barcode reader, but this is something we have not yet 

tried. 

Conclusions: 

AGROBASE Generation II is comprehensive software that helps you to maintain data in one integrated system 

instead of moving between spreadsheets, databases, statistics packages, and other software systems. The 

handheld improves efficiency (saves time in entering data from field book to the Excel sheet) and reduces error. 

However, it should be like an I-pad with big screen and lots of flexibility in managing the screen. It should also 

be light in weight. 

PM Gaur, AK Jukanti, S Srinivasan and CLL Gowda[RP GL] 

ii) Cost-effective SNP genotyping platform 

Rationale: 

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are considered as markers of choice due to their greater abundance in 

the plant genomes. SNP genotyping using Illumina’s GoldenGate (GG) assays is not cost-effective for projects 

dealing with a small subset of SNPs on a small to medium number of samples. Cost-effective and low-mid 

59

throughput SNP genotyping platforms like BeadXpress system, based on GoldenGate Veracode oligo pool 

assays (OPA) as well as KASPar assays can provide cost effective marker system for breeding applications. 

Methodology: 

A large number of SNPs were identified in chickpea (26,082) and pigeonpea (12,141) by using next generation 

sequencing technology (Illumina) (Hiremath et al. 2011, Plant Biotech Jour 9:922–931; Dubey et al. 2011, DNA 

Res, doi:10.1093/dnares/dsr007). Using this resource, KASPar assays were designed for SNPs in chickpea and 

pigeonpea using competitive allele‐specific PCR genotyping system where in an allele‐specific primer binds to 

its complementary region directly upstream of the SNP (with the 3' end of the primer positioned at the SNP 

nucleotide) and gets incorporated into the template during PCR reaction. Further, the fluorescent labeled oligos 

corresponding to the amplified allele were incorporated into the template in due course of PCR reaction. The 

genotyping data was analyzed by graphical viewing of genotyping data employing the KBiosciences software 

(http://www.kbioscience.co.uk/software/klustercaller.html). For a given genotype, homozygous for a SNP, FAM 

or CAL Fluor Orange 560 fluorescent signals were generated and for heterozygous genotype, mixed fluorescent 

signal were generated. 


In the case of chickpea, 2486 KASPar assays have been developed and 2005 were validated on a set of 96 

genotypes. Similarly, in the case of pigeonpea, 1834 KASPar assays have been developed and 1616 were 

validated on a set of 96 lines. These assays have also been used to undertake genetic diversity and genetic 

mapping applications. Furthermore, for making the use of SNPs in breeding applications, a 96-plex oligo pooled 

assay (OPA) in chickpea and a 48-plex OPA in pigeonpea for use on BeadXpress system have been designed. 

Conclusions: 

Developed sets of KAPSar assays and multiplexed SNP markers on BeadXpress system have the potential to 

increase the speed and cost-effectiveness of genotyping, mapping and breeding applications in chickpea and 

pigeonpea. 

RK Varshney, A Kumar, P Hiremath, M Thudi, 

M Roorkiwal, RK Saxena and A Dubey[RP GL] 

iii) Genotyping services 

Genotyping services laboratory has been providing marker genotyping services to the NARS partners and 

international organizations across the word for empowering the molecular breeding since its inception. During 

2011, a total of 1.5 million SSR data points were generated for different projects like diversity, mapping, 

marker-assisted selection etc., for wide range of species like tomato, potato, maize, rice, chickpea, pigeonpea, 

common bean, banana, mango and litchi (Table 2). 

Table 2: List of beneficiaries receiving genotyping services during 2011 

Institute Crop Marker Data 

points 

Overseas 

Fundación PROINPA, Cochabamba, Bolivia Potato 10,880 

CSIR - Crops Research Institute, Kumasi, Ghana Sorghum 10,656 

CIMMYT, Mexico City, Mexico Common bean 8,640 

Global Crop Diversity Trust, Rome, Italy Pearl millet 6,200 

Instituto de innovacio Agrpecuaria Forestal (INAF), Tomato 2,613 

Bolivia 

CIMMYT, Mexico City, Mexico Rice 11,520 

Egerton University, Kenya Chickpea 120 

Catholic University of Brasília, Groundnut 179,968 

Private seeds companies 

S M Sehgal Foundation, Hyderabad, India Maize 86,400 

Pioneer Overseas Corporation, Hyderabad, India Pearl millet 75,264 

Centromere Biosciences, Hyderabad India Pearl millet 200 

NARS partners 

Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow, 

India 

Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore, 

India 

Mango and Litchi 624 

Banana 1920 

60

Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research, Pune, India Garlic 1824 

Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India Chickpea 120 

ICRISAT 

ICRISAT, Patancheru, India 

Chickpea, pigeonpea, groundnut, 1,120,056 

sorghum and pearl millet 

Total 1,517,005 

M Thudi, O Riera-Lizarazu and RK Varshney[RP GL] 

iv) Development of Integrated SNP Mining and Utilization (ISMU) pipeline based on next generation 

sequencing (NGS) and high throughput (HTP) genotyping technologies for facilitating molecular 

breeding 

Rationale: 

Next generation sequencing (NGS) methods are becoming increasingly popular and routine technologies that 

accelerate the acquisition of genomic resources, through the generation of large volumes of sequence 

information within a short time period. The objective of this project is to develop an improved and robust 

pipeline for prediction of SNP, visualization and genotype calling many features has been added. Efforts were 

have also been made to optimize the appropriate tools and approaches for analysis of NGS data for SNP 

discovery. 

Methodology: 

A number of sequential analyses were done such as preprocessing, mapping, assembly, and SNP calling. Unlike 

probability based statistical approaches for consensus calling and by comparison with a reference sequence, a 

Coverage based Consensus Calling (CbCC) approach was applied with four commonly used short read 

alignment tools such as Maq, Bowtie, Novoalign and SOAP2. Using these tools, 15.7 and 22.1 million Illumina 

reads for chickpea genotypes ICC 4958 and ICC 1882 were aligned with the chickpea transcriptome assembly 

(CaTA). In addition to this visualization and genotype calling softwares i.e. Tablet and Flapjack respectively, 

have been added to improve the features of pipeline. 


By using Coverage based Consensus Calling (CbCC) approach with four commonly used tools namely Maq, 

Bowtie, Novoalign and SOAP2 followed by validation of selected set of SNPs using Sanger sequencing or 

KASPars assays, Maq showed the superiority over other tools, as 50.0% of SNPs predicted by Maq were true 

SNPs. Using combinations of two tools, the greatest accuracy (55.7%) was reported for Maq and Bowtie, with a 

combination of Bowtie, Maq and Novoalign identifying 61.5% true SNPs. SNP prediction accuracy generally 

increased with increasing reads depth, however, in case of Maq, SNPs predicted at lower read depths (

Genotyping by sequencing 

Current status on sorghum GBS data: At present, 3600 sorghum samples (includes – mapping populations, 

association mapping panel, mini-core collection, sweet sorghum samples, etc.) were sent for skim sequencing at 

Cornell University, USA. Another set of 1000 samples has to be sent for skim sequencing after isolating DNA 

and testing for their quality in 2012. 

During 2011, GBS pipeline were established successfully at ICRISAT and problems in the analysis pipelines 

were fixed for effective processing of sequences data to identify SNP markers. So far, skim sequences were 

available for 2688 sorghum samples. For each accession, ~200,000 sequences were generated and were 

processed through GBS pipelines and ~162,000 SNP markers were identified (after filtering). Initial analysis on 

a mapping population (consisting of 255 RILs) segregating for stem borer resistance identified a major QTL on 

chromosome 7 for dead hearts and has the phenotypic variation of 27.7%. These results require further 

confirmation. Analysis on haplotype distribution, association mapping will be continued during 2012. In future, 

this data can be used for developing a training population for the traits of our interest and for genomic selection. 

Punna Ramu [RP DC] 

Mechanisms and diversity of resistance to sorghum shoot fly, Atherigona soccata. 

Sorghum shoot fly, Atherigona soccata is one of the major insect pests of sorghum. Host plant resistance is 

considered as an effective tool to control sorghum shoot fly. To identify sorghum lines with diverse mechanisms 

of resistance, and the factors associated with shoot fly resistance, we evaluated 90 sorghum genotypes for 

resistance to this insect under field conditions during the rainy and postrainy seasons. Data were also recorded 

on the morphological traits of the genotypes tested. The genotypes ICSV 25039, PS 35805, IS 2123, and Akola 

Kranti showed resistance to shoot fly in both the seasons. Association of morphological traits with the 

parameters used to measure shoot fly resistance was determined through linear correlation. Plants with shoot fly 

eggs were positively correlated with glume and grain color, and endosperm texture and color, and 100 seed 

weight, but negatively associated with grain covering by the glumes, presence of awns, panicle exertion, number 

of harvestable heads, and grain yield. Deadheart formation was negatively associated with trichome density, leaf 

glossiness, panicle exertion, number of harvestable heads, and grain yield, but positively associated with glume 

and grain color, and endosperm texture and color. The overall resistance scores were negatively associated with 

grain covering by the glumes, presence of awns, panicle exertion, harvestable heads, and grain yield. Analysis of 

genetic diversity among the shoot fly resistant lines based on unweighted pair group method with arithmetic 

mean (UPGMA) placed the genotypes into four major groups suggesting that there is considerable genetic 

diversity among the shoot fly resistant sources. The genotypes placed in different groups can be used to increase 

the levels and diversify the basis of resistance to A. soccata. Plant morphological traits showing significant 

association with expression of resistance/susceptibility to shoot fly damage can be used as selection criteria to 

breed shoot fly resistant sorghums to minimize pesticide use and avoid environmental pollution. 

HC Sharma, BVS Reddy and Ashok Kumar [RP DC] 

Evaluation of A1 cytoplasm B-lines for resistance to sorghum shoot fly, Atherigona soccata 

Maintainer lines (46) of A 1 / A 2 cytoplasm along with resistant (IS 18551) and susceptible (Swarna) checks were 

evaluated for resistance to shoot fly, A. soccata during the 2011 rainy season. Data were recorded on shoot fly 

deadhearts, leaf glossiness, plant vigor, recovery resistance, and agronomic score. Deadheart incidence in the 

test entries ranged from 40.0 to 81.3%, and six maintainer lines (ICSB 425, ICSB 440, ICSB 458, ICSB 480, 

ICSB 486, and ICSB 487) suffered

checks were evaluated for shoot fly resistance. The shoot fly incidence ranged from 7.9% to 74.3%, and eight 

lines suffered

inside the clip cages was quite comparable, and the genotypes 61523, IS 21807, and IS 40615 showed lower 

rates of aphid increase in both the tests. Increase in aphid numbers were greater inside the clip cage than on the 

detached leaf, suggesting that the former will be more reliable to confirm the resistance levels of the selected 

entries under no-choice conditions. 

A set of 101 lines comprising of germplasm and improved maintainer and restorer lines with adaptation to postrainy 

season were screened for resistance to sugarcane aphid, M.sacchari during the 2011post rainy season. 

There were three replications, and observations were recorded at physiological maturity on aphid damage (1 = 

80% leaf area damaged). The plots were artificially infested with aphids. 

The aphid damage scores ranged from 2.7 to 9.0, and 15 genotypes suffered aphid damage rating of 90%RH) provided by overhead sprinklers for 30 min twice a day on rain 

free days till physiological maturity of the grains. The experiment was conducted in RCBD with three 

replications, two rows of 2m length/replication. The grain mold severity was recorded on a progressive 1-9 

scale. 

None of the advanced B-lines had grain mold resistance, whereas hybrids ICSA 29007 x ICSV 25263, ICSA 

29007 x ICSR 56 and ICSA 29010 x PVK 801 were found resistant (score ≤3.0) and 19 hybrids exhibited 

moderate resistance (3.1-5.0 score) to grain mold. High level of resistance was not observed in other lines; 

however, four A/B-lines with A1 cytoplasm and 2 lines with A2 cytoplasm, 13 advanced R-lines and 65 lines in 

the preliminary varietal trial had moderate levels of grain mold resistance. Grain mold resistant hybrids 

identified in the present study should be promoted in the farmers’ fields. 

Charcoal rot resistance in sorghum 

Charcoal rot is an important biotic constraint to sorghum productivity in addition to drought stress in the post 

rainy season. Attempts were made to identify charcoal rot resistance in the parental lines as well as advanced 

hybrids for the development and selection of hybrids for the post rainy season adaptation with reasonable levels 

of tolerance to charcoal rot. 

Evaluation of new hybrids produced in year 1 for charcoal rot tolerance in replicated trials. Two hundred 

eighty new hybrids produced in year 1 of the HOPE project were evaluated for charcoal rot reaction along with 

systematic checks (SPV 1411 CSH 15R M35-1) by artificial inoculation in field in the post-rainy season 2010- 

11. The test lines were artificially inoculated by inserting toothpick infested with inoculum of Macrophomina 

phaseolina- the charcoal rot pathogen, into the second internode of the stalk at 10 days after 50% flowering. 

Five plants in each row were inoculated. Irrigation was withheld in the experimental plots at 50% flowering to 

ensure adequate soil moisture stress to facilitate disease development. The inoculated plants in test lines were 

scored for charcoal rot severity at the physiological maturity (25-35 days after inoculation). Data were recorded 

for per cent soft rot, number of internodes infected and length of infection. Number of internodes infected in the 

test lines ranged from 0 to 5, whereas soft rot percentage ranged from 0 to 100%. Of the 280 hybrids screened, 

32 were found resistant to charcoal rot with no infection. ICSA 238 x Dagidi Solapur was highly susceptible 

with 100% soft rot, 5 nodes infection and length of infection up to 67 cm, thus can be used as susceptible check 

in the charcoal rot screening experiments. 

Screening selected varieties for charcoal rot tolerance. Thirty-two advanced varietal lines, 25 advanced B-lines 

and 504 R-lines were evaluated for charcoal rot reaction as described above. Four varieties were free from 

64

charcoal rot and seven lines were found resistant with

Blast resistance screening in the field and the glasshouse: Since blast has emerged as a serious threat to pearl 

millet cultivation during the past few years in several states of India, greenhouse and field screening techniques 

were standardized and breeding lines were screened for resistance to this notorious pathogen. 

Twenty entries from population trials were evaluated for blast resistance against 4 pathotypes in the greenhouse. 

The pot grown seedlings were spray-inoculated with an aqueous conidial suspension (ca. 1 × 10 5 /mL) of M. 

grisea. Resistant plant against each pathotype were selected and transplanted for use in parental line 

development for blast resistance. 

Two hundred fifty B-lines were evaluated for leaf blast resistance in the 2011 rainy season. The experiment was 

conducted in a RCBD with 2 replications; 1 rows of 2 m length/replication. The entries were spray-inoculated 

with an aqueous conidial suspension (ca. 1 × 10 5 /mL) of M. grisea at tillering stage. High humidity (>90%RH) 

was maintained using overhead sprinkler irrigation till dough stage of the crop to facilitate blast development. 

The disease severity was recorded at soft-dough stage using a progressive 1-9 scale. Seventy-seven lines were 

resistant (score ≤3.0) to Patancheru population of M. grisea and 75 lines had moderate (3.1-5.0 score) field 

resistance. 

Rajan Sharma [RP DC] 

Integrated Striga and soil fertility management 

Cluster Based Farmer field schools (CBFFS) for integrated Striga and soil fertility management (ISFFM) have 

been implemented by ICRISAT and partners since 2006 in Mali (14 clusters, 83 FFS), Nigeria (19 clusters, 91 

FFS) and Niger (7 clusters, 29 FFS) and in Ghana (2 FFS). In these FFS, locally applicable and relevant ISSFM 

practices have been developed and tested against dominant farmer practice (FP) in collaboration with national 

research institutes, farmer organizations and NGO’s by combining farmers’, field agents’ and scientists’ 

knowledge on Striga control and by jointly choosing combinations of control options in an intelligent and 

informed manner. In total, at least 960 farmer trainers and 3865 farmers were trained in these 4 countries. In 

general the results show that, when moving from monocultures of cereals to intensified intercropping of 

legumes with cereals and complementary use of moderate doses of organic and mineral fertilizers and additional 

handpulling of Striga at flowering, one can reduce Striga populations and sustain similar levels of cereal 

production while achieving complementary yields of legume crop grain and fodder. This complementary yield 

generally leads to higher net benefits of the ISSFM practice in comparison to FP. However, marginal rates of 

return are not always better under ISSFM than under FP, which may compromise the use of ISSFM by farmers. 

Through participatory agro-economical analyses of trials and evaluation of individual ISSFM component 

technologies, farmers are able to make an informed decision on which components to use in their own field. 

Observations from the field show that ISSFM can be adopted by farmers albeit in forms which are adapted it to 

their conditions. Ideally the CBFFS activity and research cycle normally lasts 2 or 3 years, after which a process 

of dissemination of the required technologies, inputs and crop varieties is initiated. This process should be taken 

over by partners in a stepwise manner, giving more and more responsibility to NGO’s, farmer organizations and 

agro-dealers as time passes 

Thomas Alexander Van Mourik [RP DC] 

Assessment of sorghum and pearl millet genetic material in the lysimetric facility 

Rationale: – Dryland crops such as pearl millet and sorghum are frequently exposed to drought, by nature of the 

environments in which they are cultivated. Therefore, their capacity to manage and capture water is critical to 

the development of adapted cultivars and then for their resilience. These adaptive traits were measured in 

germplasm, breeding materials, parents of mapping populations, and materials introgressed with staygreen 

(sorghum) or terminal drought tolerance QTLs (millet). 

Methodology: - A range of experiments in pearl millet and sorghum, were carried out in the lysimetric facility. 

The lysimeters consist in a set of tubes in which plants are grown individually, with space and soil volume 

similar to the field conditions, and where stress conditions are imposed by stopping irrigation. The setup allows 

a precise measurement of water use during the entire crop cycle, together with yield and components at 

maturity. 


We confirmed the large contrast in TE (g biomass kg -1 water transpired), and in the water extraction capacity, 

respectively in 20 germplasm entries among 152 germplasm tested in previous years. This latter work has also 

been published (see Vadez et al 2011 – Crop and Pasture Science). These selected contrasting germplasm are 

now the object of more detailed studies to better understand the physiological basis for these large differences. 

66

We have shown a yield advantage in several staygreen introgression lines in S35 background and shown that 

these differences were closely related to the leaf area at anthesis, the staygreen lines having developed a lower 

leaf area than the recurrent background. Detailed work on the leaf development of these entries has been done. 

More details of the work on sorghum can be found in a more exhaustive report to ACIAR in 2011. In addition, 

analysis of 2010 data clearly indicates that several staygreen QTL increase TE or the water extraction capacity 

of the recurrent background, although this depends on the recurrent background (i.e. no TE increase in 

background having high TE baseline) (see Vadez et al., 2011, Funct. Plant Biol.). We have also compared a set 

of cultivars adapted to the postrainy sorghum areas. 

In the case of pearl millet, we have used the same lysimetric set up to assess the water uptake pattern and yield 

and components in a RIL population that was used about 10 years ago to identify a large terminal drought 

tolerance QTL (based on yield assessment in the field). The purpose of this exercise was an attempt to map yield 

QTL, possibly in the same LG2 region, and map QTL for components and/or for the water uptake pattern. In 

that same experiment we have also assessed leaf conductance on a detached leave, also as an attempt to map this 

traits, shown to differentiate terminal drought tolerant and sensitive QTL introgression lines in previous work 

(see Kholova et al., 2010a, 2010b, J Exp. Bot.). We have also finalized the QTL analysis of this RIL populations 

in which leaf conductance and leaf parameters had been assessed. A paper reporting the results is under review 

(Kholova et al, submitted to Mol. Breed.). In this work we have identified 4 QTLs for the leaf conductance, 

three of which falling in the interval of the yield-based QTL identified earlier and being defined by a much 

shorter genetic interval. We have also identified other QTL for leaf development characteristics (area, thickness) 

and a high level of interaction between the different QTL and dependence on the environmental conditions in 

which phenotyping is done. We have also tested a set of high resolution cross recombinants in the vicinity of 

this QTL in the lysimeters, as well as a set of chromosome segment substitution lines. These data are still in the 

process of being fully analyzed but the purpose is to assess how genetic material with a well-defined genetic 

make-up in a standard background affect plant water relations in a way that eventually alter grain yield under 

terminal drought. 

Conclusion – Clearly the lysimetric system is fulfilling its promises. What is reported above is just a glimpse in 

the range of scientific information that we are gathering, here showcased for sorghum and pearl millet. There are 

many things that need to be assessed in the lysimetric system and what is reported is a work in progress with 

detailed provided in a number of either published work or forthcoming publications. 

Vincent Vadez and Jana Kholova [RP DC] 

Assessing water saving traits in sorghum 

Rationale: 

It is the same as above: All traits contributing to water saving can potentially contribute to the adaptation of 

crops to water limited conditions. Here we have assessed whether leaf conductance, the leaf conductance 

response to high vapor pressure deficit (VPD), and the leaf development, differs among lines of sorghum 

(germplasm, lines introgressed with staygreen QTL). 

Methodology: 

We have used pot experiments and assessment follow standard protocols described in previous published work 

(Kholova et al., 2010a, 2010b, J. Exp. Bot). We have also developed a protocol to assess the soil moisture 

thresholds where the leaf expansion declines, by daily assessing the length and width of the 2-3 expanding 

leaves in plants exposed to a progressive and standard water deficit (protocol described in paper referred above). 


The assessment of water saving trait in 20 germplasm lines showing a high contrast for TE (reported above) is 

exciting. Not only the lines having high TE tend to have a lower canopy conductance under fully irrigated 

conditions (constitutive trait, measured as g water loss cm -2 leaf are h -1 ), but all of these also show a clear 

sensitivity to high VPD conditions. Therefore, these lines partially close stomata at high VPD, therefore saving 

water, and this is likely the reason for the large TE superiority of these lines obtained in long term trial in the 

lysimeters under conditions where the crop was often exposed to high VPD conditions. More work is on-going 

to further investigate these lines. We have tested similar traits in staygreen introgression lines in S35 

background and have also pinpointed similar VPD sensitivity in several QTL-introgressions. Confirmation 

experiments are planned, possibly for publication in 2012-13. 

Conclusions: 

Here also the work on these water saving traits is a work in progress with a lot of things to test. However it is a 

very exciting front that fits well with the observations in the lysimeters reported above (differences in TE or in 

67

water extraction patterns), and with the genetic studies. The observations of VPD sensitivities clearly involves a 

central role for plant hydraulics, which validates the choice made in 2010 to start working on aquaporins. 


Develop experimental conditions and protocols to assess root assess AQPs in different crops 

Rationale: 

It follows the rationale above: Under harsh water limitation, water saving traits are key to the resilience of crops. 

We have gathered evidence from previous research that water saving traits have a relation with the regulation of 

plant hydraulics and research has been initiated to understand what role aquaporins (AQP) play in the hydraulic 

regulations of lines of pearl millet that differ in water saving traits. 

Methodology: 

We have developed protocols (details reported in a document to the Governing Board of ICRISAT) to assess the 

effect of AQP inhibitors on plant transpiration in a growth chamber, using an automated weighing system. 


We have now gathered evidence of clear differences in the degree of inhibition of transpiration in lines that also 

differ in their degree of sensitivity to high VPD. In short, terminal drought tolerant lines, which are sensitive to 

high VPD (partial stomata closure and then water saving at high VPD), suffer less inhibition from AQP 

inhibitors than lines that are insensitive to VPD (and terminal drought sensitive). This would indicate that 

sensitive lines might have an active involvement of AQP for the water transport from the soil to the xylem in the 

root cylinder, whereas tolerant lines would have most of its water channeled through the apoplast. This seems to 

be confirmed by other experiments in which the apoplast was blocked. We have also gathered evidence that the 

root hydraulic conductivity of lines that are sensitive to high VPD is lower than that in lines that are insensitive 

to high VPD. More work is on-going towards the identification of AQP genes in pearl millet, on their level of 

expression in contrasting lines. Some details are provided in a report to the Governing Board of ICRISAT. 

Conclusions: 

Work in progress. Nevertheless a milestone conclusion is that AQP involvement in water transport does differ 

in lines that also differ in water saving traits and links to differences in root hydraulics. Focus of future work 

will be on establishing a functional link between AQP expression, hydraulic regulation, and water saving traits. 


Design protocols to address the interaction between P deficiency and water stress 

Rationale: 

In area of the Sahel, but also South Asia, where water is a critical limiting factor, soil fertility is often a 

concomitant limitation, which is sometimes more important. However these two stresses are mostly assessed 

independently. Low P soil delays flowering and the lower growth both affect plant growth (and then water use), 

but this also limits rooting (and then water use also). The delay in flowering puts the crop at risk of having to 

complete its cropping cycle in a period with no rain, therefore increasing the acuteness of water stress. Therefore 

the purpose of this research was to test both water and low P stress together to assess possible trade-offs 

between adaptive traits to each stress taken independently. 

Methodology: 

We have used the lysimeters, filled with a low P soil. So far we have assessed different genotypes under fully 

irrigated conditions, and seeds were either or not coated with a layer of soluble P equivalent to about 10 times 

the amount of P in a standard seed. This followed previously published work (Karanam and Vadez 2010, Exp. 

Ag.). In 2012, trials will be started in which a water stress is applied by stopping irrigation at flowering in the 

high P treatment. A similar setup has been developed at the Sahelian station in Niger. 


The work is mostly reported in a 2011 report to BMZ. The pattern of water extraction indicates that coated 

plants extracted more water than non-coated plants (they grew more). However these differences were more 

important in the case of HHB67 than they were in the case of 863B. This indicates that there is some genotype × 

coating interaction. Practically, this would mean that we could consider developing technological packages 

combining P seed coating with an adequate genotype (that responds well to the coating). However, more 

genotypes need to be tested to confirm this hypothesis. In the same trial, we also confirmed the previous 

observation of a delay in flowering time in the plants grown in low-P soil (compared to the non-limiting P). 

68

However, this delay is alleviated by the coating effect. The data on yield in that trial also showed higher seed 

yield in the seed coating treatment, which confirmed previous results. 

Conclusions: 

This setup combining both water and low P stress is novel and shows large promises. We clearly can see that 

several factors will condition plant water use (the degree of sensitivity to low soil P, the delay in flowering, 

plant water acquisition), and we are hopeful that the lysimetric system will be well suited to sort out this 

complexity. 

Vincent Vadez and Falalou Hamidou [RP DC] 

Output 1.3. Effective delivery systems to provide subsistence farmers access to initial levels of 

productivity‐enhancing inputs and output/market systems that moderate deficit/surplus variation over years 

Increasing yield of dryland crops in WCA through microdosing, improved seeds and warrantage 

Rationale: 

To increase crop yields of major crops in Mali, Niger and B. Faso by at least 50% and increase the revenues of 

360 000 households in the project sites by 30%. 

Methodology: 

Technical support/backstoping the NARS in implementing the project through capacity building, field visits etc. 


During the two years of project activities, main results achieved are as follow: 

• Microdosing technology dissemination through Demos in 28,039 plots and 438 farmer field schools 

• Input stores established to sell inputs (fertilizer, improved seed, pesticides, and services): 161 stores were 

built or rehabilitated 

• Warrantage (Inventory credit) stores to store and sell grain, provide credit: 155 stores were built or 

rehabilitated 

• Warrantage management teams trained : 95 teams of three managers (at least one woman in each team) 

• Fertilizer sold in input stores and for FFS and Demo plots: more than 4000 t 

• Improved seed of millet, sorghum, cowpea, groundnut, vegetables, sesame: more than 665 t sold 

• Area under microdosing : estimated above 30,000 ha 

• Number of households reached by the microdosing technology: 472,600 households estimated. 

• Major banks and finance institutions linked to farmer organizations for low interest credit: 5 major banks 

such as BRS (Banque de Solidarite Regionale), ECOBANK, BAGRI (in Niger) developed agreements with 

AGRA Microdosing project to provide loans at interest rates between 7 and 12% (the normal rate is 20- 

25%). Between 300 and 500 million CFA are made available per country based on deposited guarantee funds 

by the project 

• Income generating activities through warrantage provided benefits of more than 30% (ex. of Mali) 

• In communication to disseminate the technology or raise awareness: at least 50 press articles, two films and 

six televised debates were organized. 

Conclusions: 

The main conclusion is that microdosing of fertilizer application as a method of intensifying crop production in 

the semi arid region of West Africa has a good potential. Grain yields increased from 300-500 kg/ha to 1000- 

1200 kg/ha on millet, though the use of 30 kg/ha of compound fertilizer and improved seed. It has shown a good 

potential for increasing income both through additional yields, but also through inventory credit schemes 

providing direct benefices to farmers. 

Mahamadou Ganda [RP RDS] 

Cluster Based Farmer field schools (CBFFS) for integrated Striga and soil fertility management (ISFFM) 

Rationale: 

Striga is a major constraint in the Sahel and it’s effects are exacerbated by low soil fertility. 

Methods: 

CBFFS for ISFFM have been implemented by ICRISAT and partners since 2006 in Mali (14 clusters, 83 FFS), 

Nigeria (19 clusters, 91 FFS) and Niger (7 clusters, 29 FFS) and in Ghana (2 FFS). In these FFS, locally 

applicable and relevant ISSFM practices have been developed and tested against dominant farmer practice (FP) 

in collaboration with national research institutes, farmer organizations and NGO’s by combining farmers’, field 

69

agents’ and scientists’ knowledge on Striga control and by jointly choosing combinations of control options in 

an intelligent and informed manner. 


In total, at least 960 farmer trainers and 3865 farmers were trained in four countries. In general the results show 

that, when moving from monocultures of cereals to intensified intercropping of legumes with cereals and 

complementary use of moderate doses of organic and mineral fertilizers and additional handpulling of Striga at 

flowering, one can reduce Striga populations and sustain similar levels of cereal production while achieving 

complementary yields of legume crop grain and fodder. This complementary yield generally leads to higher net 

benefits of the ISSFM practice in comparison to FP. However, marginal rates of return are not always better 

under ISSFM than under FP, which may compromise the use of ISSFM by farmers. Through participatory agroeconomical 

analyses of trials and evaluation of individual ISSFM component technologies, farmers are able to 

make an informed decision on which components to use in their own field. Observations from the field show 

that ISSFM can be adopted by farmers albeit in forms which are adapted it to their conditions. Ideally the 

CBFFS activity and research cycle normally lasts 2 or 3 years, after which a process of dissemination of the 

required technologies, inputs and crop varieties is ininitiated. This process should be taken over by partners in a 

stepwise manner, giving more and more responsibility to NGO’s, farmer organizations and agro-dealers as time 

passes. 

Tom van Mourik [RP RDS] 

Milestone: Seed/input delivery systems tested in Asia, ESA and WCA to provide smallholder farmers access to 

modern varieties of mandate crops and other required inputs 

i) Strengthening formal and informal seed systems for increasing seed availability of farmer-preferred 

chickpea cultivars 

Rationale: 

Strengthening of both formal and informal seed systems is needed for enhancing availability of quality seed of 

improved cultivars of grain legumes to the farmers 

Methodology: 

The seed system activities in India are being carried out in two states (Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka) under 

Tropical Legumes II projects in partnership with NARS partners and public seed sector. The NARS partners 

include Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Nandyal and Agricultural Research Station (ARS) 

Darsi in Andhra Pradesh and University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad and ARS, Gulbarga in Karnataka. 

The public seed sector included Andhra Pradesh State Seed Development Corporation (APSSDC), Karnataka 

State Seed Corporation (KSSC), National Seed Corporation (NSC) and State Farms Corporation of India 

(SFCI). The nucleus and breeder seeds are being produced by the Plant Breeders either at the research stations 

or at farmers’ fields under their direct supervision. The foundation and certified seeds are produced by the Seed 

Corporations. The farmers and the farmer’s groups were involved in production of certified and truthfully 

labeled seed and facilitated by NARS partners in terms of source seed supply and linking with the seed 

certification agencies. 


A total of 532.3 kg seed (118.8 kg breeder seed and 413.5 kg certified and truthfully labeled seed) was produced 

by different research stations. Of this about 75.8 kg was produced on station and 456.5 on farmer’s field under 

the guidance of the concerned chickpea breeders. Breeder seed was produced from five varieties (JG 11, JAKI 

9218, KAK 2, BGD 103, and MNK 1) and the certified and truthfully labeled seeds were produced from six 

varieties (JG 11, JAKI 9218, JG 130, KAK 2, Vihar and BGD 103). Over 23,000 kg seed (22,380 kg certified 

and 1,019 kg foundation seed) was produced by the public seed sector. Foundation and certified seed were 

produced from three varieties: JG 11 (570 kg FS + 14,180 kg CS), JAKI 9218 (250 kg FS + 2500 kg CS) and 

KAK2 (199 kg FS + 5700 kg CS). Further a total of 4979 samples of six chickpea varieties (JG 11, JAKI 9218, 

JG 130, KAK 2, Vihar and BGD 103) of different denominations (2, 4, 5, and 20 kg) were distributed to 

farmers. 

In addition to the above quantities of seed, 2869 kg of breeder seed of eight farmer preferred chickpea varieties 

(ICCC 37, JG 14, JG 11, JAKI 9218, KAK 2, ICCV 95311, JG 130, JGK 1) was produced by RARS Nandyal 

and ICRISAT-Patancheru for meeting the indent of the Government of India and requirements of various 

research projects. 

70

Conclusions: 

Collaborative efforts of ICRISAT, NARS and Public Seed Sector considerably enhanced the availability of seed 

of improved chickpea cultivars to farmers in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka states of India. 

PM Gaur, AK Jukanti, CLL Gowda and NARS partners [RP GL] 

ii) Farmer’s participatory varietal selection (FPVS) of groundnut 

Rationale: 

Farmer’s participatory varietal selection (FPVS) is needed to identify farmers preferred varieties (FPVs) of 

groundnut. In addition, FPVS also contribute to owning of the varieties by farmers thus promote variety 

replacement which is a major constraint and also promote informal seed production by farmers and seed 

exchange among farmers. 

Methodology: 

FPVS trials are constituted with 6-10 best genotypes and are given for on-farm evaluation by farmers along with 

local check. At the end of 1 st year evaluation the best 2-3 genotypes are identified and given for evaluation in 2 nd 

year and at the end 1-2 FPVs are identified that are promoted through seed chain. 


During 2011, new FPVS trials were constituted for Bihar (spring-summer and rainy seasons) and Odisha (rainy 

and postrainy seasons) states under TL II Phase 2. Under IFAD 954-ICRISAT project FPVS were conducted 

during the project period 2008-11 in India, Nepal and Vietnam to identify farmer preferred varieties and the 

seed multiplication through both formal and informal systems is under progress. ICRISAT bred varieties were 

preferred in the states of Tamil Nadu (ICGV 87846), Andhra Pradesh (ICGV 00350, ICGV 91114) and 

Karnataka (ICGV 00350, ICGV 91114), Chhattisgarh (ICGS 76) and Odisha (ICGV 91114). During 2011, 

through informal seed systems, over 2400 t of seed of ICGV 91114 was produced in Andhra Pradesh and 2 t of 

ICGS 76 was produced in Chhattisgarh through IFAD project partners. 

Conclusions: 

The new improved FPV genotypes reached farmers through seed supply chains, both formal and informal. 


iii) Breeder seed production of groundnut 

Rationale: 

Seed is an important input and both, variety and seed replacement are important to elevate productivity of 

groundnut. Breeder seed of groundnut is produced and supplied to support both formal and informal seed 

systems. 

Methodology: 

Breeder seed of groundnut is multiplied from nucleus seed and the seed production is organized at ICRISAT and 

farmers’ fields. Rouging is done in the seed production plots to remove off-types. 


During 2010-11 postrainy season a total 33.5 t breeder seed of nine groundnut varieties were produced of which 

24.5 t was distributed to various public and private seed producing agencies for next stage seed multiplication. 

Small seed samples of these varieties, each of 2-3 kg was also distributed to 49 farmers on request. In 2011 an 

indent for 114.15 t of ICGV 91114, 1.1 t of ICGV 87128, 0.1 t of ICGS 76 and 0.8 t of VL Moongphali-1 

(ICGV 86590) was received from DGR, Junagadh; seed multiplication of ICGV 87128, ICGS 76 and ICGV 

86590 is under progress. Breeder seed is supplied of ICGV 91114 is supplied to State Farm Corporation of India 

in 2010 and 2011 to take up multiplication of stage II Breeder seed. Basic seed for ICGV 00348 is supplied to 

TNAU to take up breeder seed production. 

Groundnut Breeder seed produced and distributed during 2010-11. 

Variety Produced (Kg) Supplied (Kg) 

ICGS 44 400 290 

ICGS 76 800 560 

ICGV 00350 3000 2350 

ICGV 00351 1000 775 

ICGV 00440 400 100 

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ICGV 86564 800 200 

ICGV 87846 3500 3030 

ICGV 91114 23000 17140 

ICGV 86590 600 100 

Total 33500 24545 

Seed is supplied to special project to support informal seed systems developed and promoted under these 

projects: 

• Under IFAD project seeds of three varieties were supplied to four collaborators. ICGV 91114 (1000 

kg), ICGS 44 (60 kg) and ICGS 76 (60 kg) was provided to OTELP; ICGV 91114 (1000 kg) each to 

JTDC and BAU and ICGS 76 (100 kg) to CTDP 

• As part of TL II project seeds of varieties ICGV 87846 (2000 kg) and ICGV 00351 (175 kg) were 

provided to TNAU; and ICGV 00350 (1800 kg) and ICGV 00351 (100 kg) to UAS collaborators. The 

seed of these varieties was produced and supplied to the collaborators for conduct of on-farm Trials 

and further evaluation. 

Conclusions: 

From the 24.5 t of Breeder seed supplied to seed agencies for next generation of seed multiplication at least 

16,000 ha of groundnut area would be covered under the new varieties. 


iv) Seed production of groundnut in Malawi, Tanzania, Mozambique 

Rationale: 

Seed of good quality is a prerequisite to food security because crop production and productivity can only be 

enhanced through its availability and quality. The challenge among smallholder farmers is the availability since 

most seed companies do not take up the challenge of multiplying groundnut seed owing to the fact that most 

farmers prefer recycling seed of previous harvest. As such there was need to implement seed multiplication 

activities for all classes (nuclear, breeder and basic) for availing to NARS partners and farmers 

Methodology: 

Nuclear seed of the following varieties and quantities were supplied to Tanzania for increase: ICGV-SM 90704 

(10 kg), CG 7 (10 kg), ICG 12991 (10kg) and ICGV-SM 99568 (10kg). In addition, Tanzania used the variety 

Pendo from its own sources for production of breeder and basic seed for national requirements. In Malawi, both 

nuclear and breeder seed were multiplied at Chitedze research station while basic seed of ICGV-SM 90704 and 

ICGV-SM 99568 were multiplied through contract farming involving five farmers associations from the two 

districts of Mchinji (2 associations) and Kasungu (3 associations) and 15 individual growers. 


In Tanzania, the following seed quantities were achieved: Pendo (5080 kg), Mnanje (280 kg), Mangaka (40 kg), 

and Nachingwea (80 kg). ICRISAT-Malawi produced a total of 5600 kg groundnut breeder seed of three short 

(JL 24, ICG 12991 and Nyanda) and medium to long duration varieties (CG 7, ICGV-SM 90704 MGV 5 and 

Chalimbana) for availing to NARS partners and farmer participatory variety selection (FPVS) evaluations. 

Contract growers in Malawi produced 44 tons of basic ICGV-SM 99568 and 31 tons of certified ICGV-SM 

90704. Nuclear seed of 270 varieties under advanced testing and on-farm were multiplied to produce 5 to 15 kg. 

The new varieties Mnanje, Mangaka, Masasi and Nachingwea were released in Tanzania in 2009. The efforts 

have been to build enough volumes to avail large quantities for farmer adoption. This will be achieved for 

Mnanje during 2011/12 season. 

Conclusions: 

The seed produced will be distributed to collaborating partners for further multiplication into basic and certified 

seed for delivery to seed producers and farmers in both countries. 

E S Monyo, H Charlie O Mponda, and A Chamango [RP GL] 

72

v) Establish and/or improve seed system in pigeonpea growing areas of Orissa and Andhra Pradesh to 

increase productivity 

Rationale: 

The availability of genetically pure seed of pigeonpea varieties and bona fide hybrids is critical to obtain high 

yields in pigeonpea. It is necessary to enhance and/or improve existing seed system in project areas to minimize 

outcrossing in pigeonpea and increase productivity and production. 

Methodology: 

Farmer preferred cultivars (two hybrids and three varieties) were made available to the project sites through the 

improved production practices technology in a ‘one variety one village’ concept. Identified smallholder farmers 

were provided with seeds. 


Bill Melinda Gates Foundation – Tropical Legumes II (TL-2):During2011, the pigeonpea seed system under 

the BMGF TL II was effectively carried out in Andhra Pradesh in collaboration with ANGRAU. Asha variety 

was sown in 29 ha and PRG 158 was sown in 12.5 hectares in eight villages of two Mandals. Under the hybrid 

seed production program, A X R seed production of ICPH 2740 was cultivated in 3.8 hectares (0.8 ha in ARS- 

ANGRAU and three ha at farmers field) while seed production of maintainer line (A X B) of ICPH 2740 was 

done at ANGRAU-ARS in 0.4 hectare. Details of these activities can be found in special project reports. 

Orissa Pigeonpea Project: Under the project ‘Introduction and expansion of improved pigeonpea (arhar) 

production technology in rainfed upland ecosystems of Orissa’, a total of 3000 ha covering three districts 

(Nauparha, Kalahandi and Rayagada) was planted with improved pigeonpea varieties Asha in 1,100 ha Asha 

and Maruti in 1,900 ha. Of this, 1,000 ha were identified by Orissa Seed Certification Agency as seed 

production sites. A total of 5.9 tons seeds of these improved varieties were sown. Aside from the conduct of 

improve production practices to selected farm holders, 200 kg of breeder seeds (100 kg Asha and 100 kg 

Maruti) was sown (to produce foundation seeds) by KVK Nawarangapur. Details of these activities are available 

in special project reports. 

Conclusions: 

The ‘one variety one village’ concept was implemented to maintain the purity of pigeonpea seeds in the selected 

project sites and for distribution to smallholder farmers during the next cropping season of the TL II and Orissa 

Project. Harvesting of the seeds is on-going till March 2012. 

MG Mula and KB Saxena [RP GL] 

vi) Development of A/B lines incorporating a morphological trait (obcordate leaflets) and resistance to 

SMD and FW 

Rationale: 

Preserving genetic purity in pigeonpea is a big challenge. With the advent of molecular markers we have tools at 

our disposal to test for homozygosity of parental lines. At the same time, a system that involves the use of a 

naked eye polymorphism (NEP) is being explored so testing for homozygosity of the parental lines is simplified. 

The obcordate leaf shape is due to the presence of recessive alleles at one locus and thus it is suitable for testing 

homozygosity of A and B lines. The restorer line and the resulting hybrids will have normal leaves. 

Methodology: 

Obcordate A lines were crossed with the corresponding obcordate B lines to fix homozygosity. Advanced A and 

B lines were also screened for SMD and FW resistance at ICRISAT’s disease nursery. Crosses between A and R 

(SMD and FW resistant restorers) were also made to generate new hybrid combinations. F 1 s between the donor 

of the obcordate leave shape (ICP 5529) and the cleistogamous flower stocks were planted and selfed to 

generate F 2s for genetic studies related with leaf and flower shape. 


Nine A/B lines have shown tolerance/resistance to SMD and FW and stable expression of obcordate leaf shape 

and are ready for distribution and/or to be use in the development of new hybrids. F 1 s between the ICP 5529 and 

the cleistogamous stocks showed normal leaves and normal flowers. 

Conclusions: 

Farmers and seed producers will have the opportunity to test for purity of parental lines and hybridity faster, 

more efficiently and cheaper if NEP makers are incorporated into the CMS (nuclear cytoplasmic male sterility) 

system in pigeonpea. 

KB Saxena and MI Vales [RP GL] 

73

vii) Large scale seed production of three pigeonpea hybrids organized 

Rationale: 

Finding options to develop best seed production technology of hybrids to suit different locations in India will be 

useful for large scale seed production. 

Methodology: 

To produce quality seed of promising hybrids ICPH 2671, 2740 and 3762 in large quantities to test in farmers’ 

fields in different locations of India. In addition to ICRISAT, the Nalgonda, Rangareddy in Andhra Pradesh and 

Risod in Maharashtra were selected for large scale production of hybrids in farmers’ fields under ICRISAT 

supervision. Of the six ha two ha were used to produce ICPH 2671 in a farmers’ field in Nalgonda with a 

spacing of 1.2m x 30 cm and four ha area for ICPH 2740 in Risod, (Maharashtra), Rangampet, Medak, and 

ICRISAT, (Andhra Pradesh). Proper care was taken at the time of two irrigations and two sprayings. Field 

maintenance was very good. 


In the hybrid seed production of ICPH 2671 in Nalgonda, the farmer followed the agronomic practices 

suggested by ICRISAT. As a result very good pod setting was observed and good yield is expected. Similarly, 

four ha of ICPH 2740 were maintained at Risod, (Maharashtra), Rangampet, Medak, and ICRISAT, (Andhra 

Pradesh). In all the locations harvesting is in progress and results are awaited. 

Conclusions: 

The seed production technology of pigeonpea hybrids is easy and the farmers have understood it very well and 

followed the recommended agronomic practices However, this technology has limitations and good yields can 

be harvested in suitable locations only. 

KB Saxena and MG Mula [RP GL] 

viii) Production of breeder and other classes of pigeonpea seed in ESA countries 

Rationale: 

Seed is one of the most critical inputs for technology dissemination in ESA countries. Production and delivery 

of breeder and foundation seed of most promising released and pre-released varieties were taken up, in order to 

infuse initial starter seed and to sustain subsequent steps in seed chain. 

Methodology: 

Both formal (ICRISAT and Selian) and informal (seed stockists, NGOs, community seed banks, private seed 

companies) seed production and delivery systems were followed in Tanzania and Malawi. Private seed 

companies (Kilimo Markets, Zenobia, Krishna Seed) involved in seed production and marketing in Tanzania. 


In total 162.5 t of quality pigeonpea seed produced including breeder (11.5 t), foundation (26.5 t), certified (119 

t) and quality declared seed (5.5 t) types. Out of which, ICRISAT-Nairobi produced 2600 kg breeder seed of 

nine long (800 kg), seven medium (1200 kg) and four short duration (600 kg) for FPVS evaluation, on-farm 

demonstrations and supply to NARS and other partners. In Tanzania, 4.3 t of breeder (formal) and 18.5 t of 

foundation (informal involving farmer associations and private seed companies), 54 t of certified and 5.5 t of 

QDS seed were produced. Five seed stockists namely Apaikunda, AgrovetKikatiti, WADEC, NkoAgrovet and 

Kentein meru district with Mali (ICEAP 00040) and ICEAP 00053 were provided with 3200 kg of pigeonpea 

for seed distribution. In Malawi, 4.1 t of breeder, 8.0 t of foundation and 65 t of certified seed produced 

involving two long and one medium duration variety. 

Conclusions: 

Both formal and informal seed systems of seed production and delivery models are operating in pigeonpea. 


ix) Production of breeder and other classes of chickpea seed in ESA countries 

Rationale: 

Seed is one of the most critical inputs for technology dissemination in ESA countries. Production and delivery 

of breeder and foundation seed of most promising released and pre-released varieties were taken up, in order to 

infuse initial starter seed and to sustain subsequent steps in seed chain. 

74

Methodology: 

Both formal (DZARC and LZARDI) and informal (seed stockists, NGOs, private seed companies) seed 

production and delivery systems were followed in Ethiopia and Tanzania. Ethiopian Seed Enterprise (ESE), 

Oromiya Seed Enterprise(OSE), World Vision, CARE, CRS Agricultural Commodities and Supplies (ACOS), 

Gadissa Seed Plc and involved in seed production and marketing in Ethiopia. 


8.2 t of breeder, 45.1 t of foundation and 287.9 t of certified seed produced during 2010-11 in Kenya, Ethiopia 

and Tanzania. 2500 kg chickpea seed of four kabuli (1400 kg) and six desi (1100) varieties was available with 

ICRISAT-Nairobi for on-farm evaluations, demonstrations and distribution to various stake holders. In Ethiopia, 

during 2010-11 crop season produced about 4.8 t of breeder, 35.1 t of foundation (pre-basic and basic), and 

287.1 t of certified. In Tanzania, one ton of breeder and 8 t of foundation seed produced at on-station and onfarm 

respectively. During 2011-12 crop season basic seed provided to 7 seed growing associations 

(LemelemChefe, Hawiboru, Biftu, Chala, Megeretu, Ude, Memerhager) in East Shoa Zone of Ethiopia, on a 

revolving seed scheme to 440 households with 0.25 ha area/HH. 


x) Produce nucleus and breeder seed of farmer-preferred and promising varieties to support Seed 

System activities and share with researchers and other stakeholders 

Rationale: 

Searching for ways and means of establishing efficient, sustainable seed systems for the major staple crops 

including groundnut that provide farmers a reliable supply and a range of choices of quality seed, well adapted 

to local conditions cannot be overemphasised.The availability of nucleus and breeder seed is critical to ensure 

that other classes of seed (foundation and certified) are produced to meet the needs of the farmers and market 

requirements. 

Methodology: 

A number of approaches are used to ensure that the systems developed are sustainable. Production of breeder 

seed is the starting point. 


During the postrainy season, (January to May) breeder seed of 41 advanced lines were produced for use in the 

rainy season trials and sharing with the various users on requests. Seed was sent to researchers in Senegal (5 

confectionary types), Nigeria (20 rosette resistant lines), Ghana (50 trait specific lines) and Uganda (5 aflatoxin 

tolerant lines. A total of 250 kg of breeder seed of the most popular varieties in Mali was made available to 

NGOs to produce on-farm foundation seed with farmers. During the rainy season 900 kg breeder seed of 47 

promising advanced lines, 60 kg nucleuses of 25 drought tolerant lines selected from the reference set, and 1000 

kg of 5 released varieties in Mali were produced. These quantities will contribute to the enhancement of 

groundnut seed systems being tested in the region. 

B Ntare [RP GL] 

Achievement of Output Target (%):100 

Countries Involved: WCA (9 countries), ESA (7 countries), SA (1 country), CWANA (13 countries) 


Targeting and estimation of benefits 2011-2020 for CRP 3.6 (Dryland Cereals) 


A targeting exercise was made to quantify the areas planted to dryland cereals in four regions and the number of 

households in those regions whose livelihoods depended on production of dryland cereals. Ten major farming 

systems were identified with more than 800,000 ha of dryland cereals (barley, finger millet, pear millet, and 

sorghum). The Harvest Plus database was used to estimate the rural population, population below the $1.25/day 

poverty line, prevalence of stunting, for the areas planted to dryland cereals. For the 30 countries targeted the 

total rural population was 978 million, of whom 578 million (59%) lived below the poverty line. Areas growing 

dryland cereals were also characterized by high prevalence of child stunting (43%) and high risk of drought 

(30%). 

Expected yield increases from new technology for dryland cereals were estimated for the 30 target countries for 

the period 2011-2020. Area planted to dryland cereals was extracted from FAOSTAT. Expert opinion of 

75

eeders and agronomists was used to estimate the expected yield increase from crop improvement and crop 

management. Holding area constant, expected rates of adoption were then used to measure the expected 

production increase in grain and sorghum stover. 

Based on expected production increases, the additional benefits by 2020 were then estimated for value of the 

grain, food security, net income, nutrition, the value of sorghum stover, and the number of farmers reached. We 

also calculated the seed requirement needed to deliver the increase in production. The methods used to measure 

these benefits are fully explained in Annex 3 of the CRP document. 

The results showed that with new technology production of dryland cereals would increase by 16 %, from 85 

million mt in 2011 to 99 million mt by 2020. We estimated that this additional grain production would mean 

improved food security for an additional 44 million farm households, who could now meet 30 % of their 

consumption needs from dryland cereals. Assuming that improved seed was distributed in small seed packs, 

improved varieties will be made available to an additional 33 million smallholder families. The cumulative 

increase in net income by 2020 was estimated at $1.5 billion. 

Partners Involved: 

About 25 participants took part in the workshop to identify target countries and quantify expected yield 

increases. This included economists and sorghum and millet breeders from ICRISAT and ICARDA. 

Alastair Orr [RP DC] 

Output 1.4 – Evidence‐based policy advice that helps subsistence farmers attain food sufficiency and triggers 

their entry into IMOD 

MTP Output Target in 2011 1.4.1 Research data on the changes required for smallholder farmers to attain 

sustainable food security acquired and made available as IPGs 

Project 1.7 : Global Futures (Global Futures for Agriculture: Integrated Modeling and Scenario Assessment for 

Ex-ante Research Evaluation) 

Countries Involved: Global project 


Rising incomes and globalization place unprecedented demands on agricultural systems around the world. 

Natural resource degradation and climate change pose global risks for food security and the environment. 

Enhancing the productivity and sustainability of agricultural systems is essential to improving well-being in the 

developing world and reducing poverty. The goal of this research is to deepen the understanding of the complex 

linkages among socio-economic and environmental change, the functioning of agricultural systems and human 

well-being. The product will be a comprehensive modeling environment integrating socio-economic, biophysical 

and technological responses that can simulate global, regional, and local consequences of policy 

changes and technology investments. The modeling environment will provide a much improved platform upon 

which international, agricultural research centers, development agencies, and national governments can base 

strategic planning and investment decisions. 

The main activity of the Global Futures Project at ICRISAT is to develop tools to improve evaluation of ex-ante 

returns to research, technology development, and adoption modeling. 


International Model for Policy Analysis and Commodity Trade (IMPACT) model offers a methodology for 

analyzing baseline and alternative scenarios for global food demand, supply, trade, income and population. The 

model can also be used to assess the impact of climate change on dryland cereal production and its impact on 

price, income and food security. The IMPACT model divide the whole Globe into a finer disaggregation of 

281 ‘food producing units’ – which represent the spatial intersection of 115 economic regions and 126 river 

basins – out of recognition of the fact that significant climate and hydrological variations within regions make 

the use of large spatial units inappropriate for water resource assessment and modeling. The model also covers 

40 commodities which include and major dryland cereals and legumes like sorghum, millet, barley, chickpea, 

and pigeonpea, groundnut, fish (both capture and aquaculture), cotton and fodder crops. IMPACT model also 

integrate the livestock model through feed and along with other fodder crops. This integrated model will help to 

fully understand the drivers behind projected future growth in global meat, and milk demand. 

76

The model simulates the behavior of a competitive world agricultural market for crops and livestock, and is 

specified as a set of food producing units (FPU) that can be aggregated to countries or regional sub-models, 

within each of which supply, demand and market clearing prices for agricultural commodities are generated for 

each year. The country and regional agricultural sub-models are linked through trade in a non-spatial way, such 

that the effect on country-level production, consumption and commodity prices is captured through net trade 

flows in global agricultural markets. Demand is a function of prices, income and population growth. Growth in 

crop production in each country is determined by crop prices and the rate of productivity growth. World 

agricultural commodity prices are determined annually at levels that clear international markets. The model 

uses a system of linear and nonlinear equations to approximate the underlying production and demand 

relationships, and is parameterized with country-level elasticities of supply and demand 

The modeling methodology used in the study integrate the limited spatial resolution of macro-level economic 

models that operate through equilibrium driven relationships (at a national or even more aggregate regional 

level) with detailed models of dynamic biophysical processes. The climate-change modeling system combines a 

biophysical model (the DSSAT crop modeling software suite, showing responses of selected crops to climate, 

soil, and nutrients). In recognizing that the long term change in water demand and supply – and particularly the 

rapid increasing demand in non-agricultural water uses – as well as the seasonal variability in rainfall and runoff 

would affect future food production, demand, and trade, the IMPACT model was integrated with Water 

simulation model (WSM). This framework will allow to explore the relationship between water availability and 

food demand at trade at different spatial scales like river basins, countries and more aggregated regions, to the 

global level. 


Key results area: Plausible Futures for Dryland Agriculture in the SAT in the changing Socio-economic and 

environment conditions; Evaluation of welfare benefits from the promising technologies and science based 

evidence for priority setting, strategic planning and research investment. 

1. The interdisciplinary research involving breeders, physiologists, modelers and economists discussed and 

identified priority crop traits to enhance productivity. The yield advantages of these traits in sorghum and 

groundnuts over the existing popular cultivars in different regions (WCA, ESA and Asia) were simulated 

using ‘virtual Crop Models’. The simulation results shows that 

a. For sorghum, drought is more important in current climate and temperature tolerance in future 

warmer climate in Asia. In WCA, temperature tolerant cultivars will greatly benefit the sorghum 

grain yields than drought tolerant cultivars in both current and future climates because of currently 

high temperatures in the region during the growing season. However, both temperature and 

drought tolerance traits could increase the grain yield of sorghum virtual cultivars by 13.5 to 15.8%. 

b. For groundnuts, in Asia, adjustments in crop duration and improved yield potential and drought 

tolerance are required for increasing the yield potential in current climate condition. Temperature 

may become important constraint to groundnut productivity in future with global warning in Asia. 

In WCA, temperature is an overriding constraint for groundnut productivity. Both temperature and 

drought tolerant cultivar would substantially increase the yields. 

2. The integrated modeling framework – IMPACT – which integrates partial equilibrium economic model, 

hydrology model, technology adoption model, crop simulation model and climate model is used to examine 

the ex-ante economic impact of developing and disseminating a drought tolerant sorghum and groundnut 

cultivar in target countries of Africa and Asia under no climate change and two different climate change 

scenarios (MIROC and CSIRO GCMs). 

a. The model result indicates that the economic benefits of drought tolerant sorghum cultivar 

adoption in the target countries outweighs the cost of developing this new technology. The 

development and release of this new technology in the target countries of Asia and Africa would 

provide a net economic benefit of about 256.3 million US$ for the entire world under no climate 

change condition. Under climate change scenarios the net benefits derived from adoption of new 

drought tolerant sorghum cultivar is higher than the no climate change condition. The new 

technology intervention may reduce the children malnourished under the age group of 5 in the 

target countries ranging from 13,933 in Nigeria to about 315 children in Eritrea for a million UD$ 

investment and reduced the population under hunger risk by about 31 million in Sudan, 25 million 

in India; and 19 million Tanzania. 

b. The likely global welfare benefits due to the adoption of drought tolerant groundnut cultivars 

under different climate change scenarios are about 2.3 billion US$ with IRR of 55%. The higher 

production after the new drought tolerant groundnut cultivars adopted by the farmers in the target 

77

countries increased the per capita Kilo calorie consumption ranging from 27.1 Kcal per person in 

Senegal to 2.9 Kcal per person in Tanzania. And also about 65933 children in Nigeria was escaped 

child malnourished after the adoption of new technology. 

Ongoing activities: 

• Virtual crop model: Based on an assessment of the validated crop growth models and available data 

sets, groundnut and sorghum as priority crop on which to initially focus the development of a “virtual 

crop” and test run the virtual crop coefficients using DSSAT model. 

• The minimum required data (weather, soil and crop growth parameters) collection for developing 

virtual crops for dryland crops (sorghum, millet and groundnut,) from WCA, ESA and Asia is 

underway. 

• The groundnut crop model for 2 popular cultivars in 2 locations in Asia and WCA is calibrated and this 

calibrated model will be used to develop virtual crop of identified groundnut potential new 

technologies. 

• Drought tolerant with higher yield potential is selected as promising technology for groundnut and 

sorghum and work has been initiated to develop virtual crop for this technologies to evaluate its 

potential and welfare benefits to the society. 

• The adoption pathway module in the socio-economic modeling framework for evaluating the impact of 

promising technologies is integrated with IMPACT model and collection of data on adoption rate and 

adoption lag for each countries by crops are underway. 

• Using spatial crop growth model, we are estimating the impact of the future climate change on yield of 

the groundnut and sorghum and also identifying the new potential area created for growing groundnut 

and sorghum in the next 50 years under the climate change scenarios. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 1.8 : Global Futures Project- Modeling virtual cultivars of groundnut and sorghum to estimate the 

benefits of drought and heat tolerance 

Countries Involved: Global project 


A major objective of the Global Futures project is to simulate the performance of promising cultivars that have 

traits which are targeted by crop improvement programs of the CGIAR centers. The first requirement is that the 

crop models adequately simulate current cultivars (baseline) growing in the current climate using typical 

management practices in the targeted regions. 

Methodology:/Approach: 

Using crops, soils and weather data of the trial sites in India and WCA, the genetic coefficients of baseline 

cultivars of groundnut (cvs. JL 24 and M 335 for India and cvs. Fleur 11 and 55-437 for WCA) and sorghum 

(cv. CSV 15 for India and cvs. CSM 63 and CSM 388 for WCA) were created through model calibration. Then 

the “virtual” cultivars of these crops were created that have the traits of short or long duration growth cycle, 

increased yield potential, drought tolerance and heat tolerance. The virtual crops so developed were simulated 

for current climate conditions and the change in yields were compared to yields simulated with “baseline” 

cultivars and management practices. 


The simulation results for groundnut revealed that at both Anantapur and Junagarh drought tolerance is 

relatively more important than heat tolerance. Combination of heat and drought tolerance increased pod yield by 

5% at Anantapur and 10% at Indore. At Samanko, heat tolerance is relatively more important than drought 

tolerance. Both heat and drought tolerance increased the groundnut pod yield by 30%. Combining these stress 

tolerant traits with proper crop duration and yield potential traits could increase the yield by 18 to 39% for the 

two Indian sites and 47% for Samanko. Similar results were obtained for sorghum in terms of relative 

importance of heat and drought tolerance at the target sites for increasing sorghum grain yield. Combination of 

heat and drought tolerance increased grain yield by 4% at Akola, 5.4% at Indore and 11% at Samanko. These 

stress traits when combined with proper crop duration and yield potential traits could increase the yield of 

sorghum by 38% for the Indian sites 33% for Samanko. With further warming of climate in future, the relative 

contribution of heat tolerance to increasing yields of these crops would increase. 

78

These results have implications for targeting of research efforts on incorporating plant traits for increasing 

productivity of groundnut and sorghum in current and future climates of SAT regions. Quality data collection on 

crops, soils and weather for the target sites and improvement of crop models for the future biotic and abiotic 

stresses would further improve these estimates. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 1.9: Development of hypotheses that will determine the IPG potential of ICRISAT’s downstream work 

on technology development, testing and adaptation. 

Countries Involved: The work plan covers three regional in-depth case studies (Asia, East and Southern Africa 

(ESA), and West and Central Africa (WCA)). The ICRISAT projects suggested include: a) development and 

deployment of the watershed-based approach in South Asia; b) seed supply systems in ESA; and c) fertilizer 

micro-dosing and African market Garden work in WCA. 


Despite ICRISAT successes, a range of obstacles has prevented many smallholder farm households from 

enjoying the benefits of these innovations. The overarching conceptual framework for the new ICRISAT 

strategic plan to 2020 is Inclusive Market-Oriented Development (IMOD). It maps out the pathway to inclusive 

prosperity through a systems perspective that ensures all important issues along the impact pathway are 

addressed through diverse, purposeful, innovative and action-oriented partnerships. On the other hand, 

development-oriented work has been criticized for placing emphasis on local development agendas at the 

expense of IPG delivery. This research draws lessons from ICRISAT experiences as a bridge, broker and 

catalyst to overcome development obstacles by bringing together researchers, farmers, processors and other 

stakeholders to find solutions under an innovation systems framework. It demonstrates that IARCs can use 

downstream, applied research to meet their mandate by ensuring that new knowledge is generated in line with 

the goal of producing IPGs. 

The study is aligned to ICRISAT Strategic Thrust on “Markets, Institutions and Policies: Harnessing 

development pathways for inclusive prosperity” as well as the cross-cutting focus on Monitoring, Evaluation 

and Impact Assessment. The expected outcomes are improved community cooperation and research delivery 

models, institutional strategies and options for enhancing participation of the poor in inclusive market-oriented 

agriculture and technology uptake. 


The approach uses process documentation, institutional histories and impact pathway analysis to identify lessons 

and testable hypotheses that offer new insights to facilitate scaling up of technologies. This is complemented by 

analysis relating internationality and IPGs with research spillovers across the Asia and sub-Saharan regions. 

Technical information relating to the research processes will be elicited through wider dialogues among 

scientists across research themes and locations. 

As approved by the GB, the workplan covers three in-depth case studies, one per region (Asia, ESA and WCA) 

to include: a) development and deployment of the watershed-based approach in South Asia; b) seed supply 

systems in ESA; and c) fertilizer micro-dosing work or African Market Gardens in WCA. The expected outputs 

include: 1) Review of the literature and discussions in various fora on the concept of IPGs; 2) Analysis of earlier 

adoption studies and impact assessments; 3) Three in-depth case studies for determining IPGs from downstream 

research; 4) A synthesis of results, identifying IPG characteristics of downstream technologies and including 

testable hypotheses that offer new insights to facilitate effective innovation. 


Key result area: Lessons learned from case studies of ICRISAT’s downstream work with IPG potential 

synthesized 

Outputs 

a) Working paper published “JO Kamanda and MCS Bantilan. 2010. The Strategic Potential of Applied 

Research: Developing International Public Goods from Development-oriented Projects. Working Paper 

Series no. 26. Patancheru 502 324, Andhra Pradesh, India: International Crops Research Institute for the 

Semi-Arid Tropics. 32 pp.” that covers: 

i. Discussion on the concept of IPGs and innovation systems in the CGIAR and global agricultural 

research community. 

79

ii. Analysis of past ICRISAT adoption studies, constraint analysis and impact assessments including 

documented spillovers. 

The key findings from the review include: 

i. Although production of IPGs is the core function of CGIAR centers, the perennial debate on 

positioning along the research for development continuum confirms that there is dilemma on this issue. 

ii. Synthesis of ICRISAT studies shows that lessons of IPG value can be drawn from location-specific, 

development-oriented work; IARCs can thus use downstream, applied research to meet their mandate. 

iii. Initial findings suggest the need to institutionalize learning approaches that will consciously develop 

and test hypotheses to assess how knowledge is generated and the process by which socio-economic 

value is extracted from it (see e.g. institutional learning and change - ILAC). 

iv. To achieve internationality, research must be hypothesis-based and strategic and at the end of the 

research process generate a package of improved technologies and institutional arrangements set within 

a contextual matrix of applicability across regions. 

v. Based on the research domain and potential for spillover, IPGs that could be generated from INRM 

research for development include technologies, tools, databases, methodologies and co-ordination 

principles. 

b) The initial case study on watershed management has advanced with review of published reports, 

elicitations with concerned scientists, partners and farmers in benchmark sites in India, China, Vietnam 

and Ethiopia. The study notes that production ecosystems cover large geographical areas often not 

related to political boundaries or research domains of single institutions. This together with variability 

in socio-economic and institutional contexts demands that a combination of scientific tools, innovation 

systems and broad-based partnerships to achieve impact in watershed management. 

However, the demand for end-user involvement in watershed research is seen to render it more location 

specific, and thus conflict with the mandate of CGIAR to produce IPGs. Based on the review it is 

demonstrated that IPGs can result from downstream research by developing key questions (hypotheses) 

and testing them across multiple contexts to draw lessons for practice that are applicable across 

countries/ regions. Conditions for success identified for watershed development include: 

i. Demand driven watershed approach - Acute water stress areas; Pre-disposition to work 

collectively 

ii. Equal partnership, trust and shared vision among the consortium partners - Transparency and 

social vigilance in the financial dealings; High confidence of the farmers 

iii. Decentralize decision-making process - Involve all stakeholders in program implementation; 

elected representatives (e.g. Panchayat) with clear responsibilities, women, landless laborers 

iv. Tangible Economic Benefits to Individuals and equitable sharing of benefits - Commensurate 

benefits of stakeholders; Targeted Activities for Women and Vulnerable Groups; 

v. Knowledge-based entry point activity rather than subsidy based 

vi. Targeting - Agro-ecoregion Specific Technologies (existing watershed management 

interventions have shown better impact in the 700-1100 mm rainfall agroecoregion), targeting 

poor regions. 

vii. Sustainability of the watershed project - Capacity building; Watershed Institutions/Self-Help 

Groups; Business model linking of with other institutions e.g. credit, input delivery, and 

technology transfer mechanism; Good local leadership; Low-cost structures 

viii. Leadership/ Champion - ICRISAT's Suhas Wani, with 30 years' experience of the programme 

and high-level influence by the ICRISAT DG in promoting reaching top policy makers 

Insights from the case of Vertisol Management in Ethiopia include: 

i. Client orientation to match interventions with actual problems of target beneficiaries and the 

resources and inputs available to them; 

ii. Need for sustained efforts through demonstrations and training to manage perceived and 

actual risks and encourage changes in attitudes and practices; 

iii. Leadership and co-ordination to champion for change and facilitate multi-stakeholder 

partnerships; 

iv. Synchronizing research approaches with the government's development strategy and priorities. 

c) Case studies 2 (microdosing) and Case Study 3 (Seed Systems): Draft reports are being prepared based 

on review of background materials and initial interactions with key experts, including current and 

former ICRISAT scientists, involved in research in these areas; Steve Twomlow, Joseph Rusike, Kizito 

80

Mazvimavi for microdosing, and Richard Jones, SVR Shetty, Mary Mgonja and Moses Siambi for seed 

systems. 

Past ICRISAT adoption studies, constraint analyses and impact assessment estimated the returns to 

research investment and captured the technology development, adaptation and dissemination strategies 

that were employed. Conditioning factors for technology uptake and diffusion were drawn helped 

identify important areas for further research. The recognition that seed availability was a major setback 

to adoption of new varieties triggered a series of in-depth seed systems studies. Efforts have been made 

in providing farmers with access to improved seed through seed policy harmonization, strengthening 

seed value chains. The need for focus on soil fertility management and enable resource-poor farmers 

get the highest returns from the fertilizer quantities they are able to purchase was also addressed by 

commencement of work on fertilizer micro-dosing. The report will document ICRISAT's experience in 

providing technical support to farmers, NGOs and the national extension services in ESA (Zimbabwe, 

Malawi) and WCA (Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger) and lessons drawn. 

This will continue with PhD thesis at the Food Security Center, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, 

Germany. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 1.10: Global Research Spillover Effects 

Countries Involved: The project covers regions of ICRISAT (Asia, East and Southern Africa (ESA), and West 

and Central Africa (WCA)). The introductory background and review process of this study include following 

projects: a) breeding programs of ICRISAT mandate crops in Asia and Africa; b) participatory community 

watersheds in Asia and Africa; c) VASAT in Asia; d) technology transfer through institutional systems in Asia 

(CFC); e) fertilizer micro-dosing in Africa; f) integrated NRM - Sahelian Eco-Farm and African Market Garden 

in Africa; g) sustainable land management in Africa; h) nutrient management extension practices – mother-baby 

approach, farmer field schools, junior farmer field schools, organic matter (OM) management in Africa. 


This initiative emerged from the EPMR recommendation #3, i.e. “the Panel recommends that a thorough 

analysis of past and likely future research spillovers between Africa and Asia to guide ICRISAT resource 

allocations between those two regions.” Panel was of the opinion that, a thorough analysis of the past and likely 

spillovers may be taken between Asia and SSA, starting with production statistics on an agro-ecological basis, 

which would help to inform priority setting for ICRISAT and its partners, and also help in allocating research 

resources between the two continents. 


A thorough literature review has been used to identify focus technologies for analysis. Several key parameters 

have been collected for estimating transfers and spillover effects. The necessary, socio-economic surveys will be 

conducted across regions. GIS technologies have been used to renew ICRISAT groundnut and sorghum domains 

in order to delineate direct effects target domains and spillover effects outside the target domains. This will be 

done for the other technologies analyzed in later stages. To estimate spillover and transfer benefits several 

models and approaches (Davis et al.; Maredia et al. / ACIAR model; Deb et al) have been reviewed and the 

ACIAR model will be applied to ICRISAT technologies. Initial estimates have been carried out and will be 

refined. Finally, key findings will be synthesized and lessons will be drawn for the ICRISAT research 

prioritization and resource allocations. 


Key results area: Research spillover benefits including the methodological approaches in determining 

quantitative estimates of research spillover benefits across targeted research zones; documentation for each 

selected ICRISAT innovation for systematic analysis of research spillovers; database on key parameters 

validated for the estimation of research spillovers 

- As a basis for the detailed analysis of transfers and spillover effects a short report on the dissemination 

system of ICRISAT research output was prepared. This included a complete documentation of groundnut 

and sorghum varieties released in more than one country as well as a brief review of the potential 

contribution of ICRISAT LSU. 

- A paper and poster on the generation of more systematically, more transparent and more relevant domains 

have been developed and presented at international conferences. They provide the basis for the delineation 

of transfers and spillover effects. Furthermore, the developed domains form the basis to delineate the 

regions which are most similar which enables ICRISAT to identify regions in which ready technologies 

81

should be equally applicable. Thereby, they will assist scientists in more efficient targeting and partnering 

in regions that are most likely to be suitable for a specific technology. 

- Collected review of literature on ICRISAT Spillovers research benefits in Inter-Regional Technology 

transfer in the SAT 

- Collection and development of database on key parameters for estimation of spillovers has been carried out 

and will be finalized. This was done and will be done in close collaboration with related projects like 

DIVA, TRIVSA and TL-II. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 1.11: Spillover Benefits of Pearl millet Research at ICRISAT 

Countries Involved: The project covers regions of ICRISAT (Asia, East and Southern Africa (ESA), and West 

and Central Africa (WCA)). The introductory background and review process of this study include following 

projects: a) breeding programs of ICRISAT mandate crops in Asia and Africa; b) participatory community 

watersheds in Asia and Africa; c) VASAT in Asia; d) technology transfer through institutional systems in Asia 

(CFC); e) fertilizer micro-dosing in Africa; f) integrated NRM - Sahelian Eco-Farm and African Market Garden 

in Africa; g) sustainable land management in Africa; h) nutrient management extension practices – mother-baby 

approach, farmer field schools, junior farmer field schools, organic matter (OM) management in Africa. 


Estimation of direct and spillover benefits of Pearl millet research at ICRISAT 


1. The research domains for pearl millet were revised and can be used for targeting pearl millet research. 

2. If ICRISAT focus its pearl millet research in warm tropics – short SAT production environment, it will 

gain around 783.1 m US$ with an IRR of 38%. 

3. The constraints for adoption of technology and adaptive capacity of the NARS partners were addressed 

or lifted, the potential benefits from WCA will be 850 m US$ which is more than the potential benefit 

from Asia. 

Research and Policy implications 

These results can be used to demonstrate the benefits of the drought research for dryland tropics small holder 

farmers to policy makers and donors and encourage them to fund the sorghum and groundnut research to 

develop more tolerant to droughts for these dryland crops, so that farmers can better cope and adapt to changing 

climate in the future. 

[RP MIP] 

Output 1.5. Capacity strengthening, knowledge-sharing and awareness-raising products and services for all 

stakeholders to enable subsistence smallholders to achieve food sufficiency 

Capacity Building 

Rationale 

Capacity building is the heart of the success of any initiatives that are addressing sustainable natural resource 

management, productivity improvement and betterment of farm based livelihoods. Capacity building initiatives 

can ensure sustainability of the program, inclusiveness of all stakeholders, distribution and maximization of the 

benefits. Capacity building of the stakeholders was particularly important to make aware of the advances in 

technologies targeting sustainable management of natural resources as well as productivity enhancement in 

tropical regions. Therefore, consortium of resource organizations to provide necessary capacity building support 

at various levels is a priority. 

Methodology: 

We adopted consortium approach to cater to the wide-ranging needs of stakeholders for addressing sustainable 

resource management and improvement of farm based livelihoods in tropical regions. Since the weakest link in 

watershed programmes is training and capacity building of all the stakeholders from farmers to policy makers, 

we have organized training programs for various stakeholders comprising of policy makers, line department 

staff, NGOs and SAUs staff at different levels. Capacity building initiatives were also undertaken thru training 

of master trainers, lead farmers and farm facilitators at the District and Taluk level thru organizing cluster level 

training programs. Interactive farmers’ days and exposure visits were organized to make farmers aware of the 

existing technologies and are made to visit and see the benefits of on-farm trails. Farmers’ Field Schools (FFS) 

were also organized with the help of NGOs to disseminate advances in crop management practices. 

82

Results: 

The pilot project on consortium approach for capacity building in WSM in Karnataka, Rajasthan and 

Uttarakhand, showed that sensitization of higher level officer for quick response is required along with 

appreciation and commitment at the decision making level for timely and effective implementation of projects. 

Capacity building is a continuous process and it should run concurrently during the entire project period. 

Convergence should be achieved at the top and must percolate into the bottom to realize for effective capacity 

building initiatives at different levels. Capacity building initiatives in Bhoochetana and Suvarna Bhoomi Yojane 

(SBY) in Karnataka helped to a greater extent to disseminate improved crop management practices to small and 

marginal farmers that resulted in extending the area under improved crop cultivation practices as well as yield 

enhancement. As part of SBY, there were 1210 Farm Facilitators (FFs) in kharif and 1040 FFs in rabi season 

along with NGO staff have been trained by 71 and 95 Master Trainers, respectively, at five clusters covering 30 

districts. 

More than 1100 lead farmers in Madhya Pradesh and around 900 farmers in Rajasthan benefited through Farmer 

Days; while >3000 farmers in Madhya Pradesh and around 500 in Rajasthan through farmers trainings benefited 

in upgrading their capacity in improved agricultural technologies as part of Sir Dorabjee Tata Trust (SDTT). 

Similarly as part of Sir Ratan Tata Trust (SRTT) project, around 900 farmers benefited through Farmer Days 

and >500 farmers through farmer trainings. Similarly, during January 2011 exposure visit, 20 farmers and 4 

NGO officials; while during November 2011 visit, 32 farmers and 6 officials from interior villages in Jhabua 

and Mandla were exposed to improved technologies. The capacity strengthening programs exposed and made 

learn >70 lead farmers the improved technologies of farming in SAT as part of NAIP project in Andhra Pradesh 

in addition to other benefiting through on-farm trainings and field days. These lead farmers are acting as our 

ambassadors to intensify, diversify smallholder farming while implementing inclusive market oriented 

development (IMOD) approach and improving social and production system resilience. 

Intensive training on IPM options with special emphasis on bio-pesticides production and utilization for 

sustainable watershed development was organized for our NARS partners 

During this year IPM team interacted with 78 agricultural officials in eco-friendly pest management strategies to 

implement Bhoochetana and Suvarna bhoomi programs in Karnataka. Two intensive training programs in 

Integrated watershed management with special emphasis on integrated pest management were organized 

covering 100 farmer facilitators in Gulbarga and Yadgiri districts. Extension hand outs covering IPM of 

vegetable crops were prepared and shared with all the partners in Karnataka project. 

The Capacity Building programs have improved upon farmers’ knowledge to effectively manage current 

constraints facing SAT agriculture and improve livelihoods through successfully intensifying smallholder 

farming and increasing social and production system resilience. 

Sources: 

Consortium Approach for Capacity Building in Watershed Management in Karnataka, Rajasthan and 

Uttarakhand: Experiences and Learnings. Resilient Dryland Systems. Patancheru 502 324, Andhra Pradesh, 

India; International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics. 

Mission Project on Rainfed Agriculture: Bridging Yield Gaps through Science-led Interventions for Sustainable 

Use of Natural Resources in Karnataka, Annual Report 2010-11. Submitted to Government of Karnataka. 

Report on Training of Master Trainers and Farm Facilitators, Submitted to Government of Karnataka, June 2011 

Half-yearly report on the progress of SBY in Karnataka, submitted to Government of Karnataka, December 

2011. 

SDTT Report, 2010-11 and SDTT Half Yearly Report, 2011 

SRTT Report, 2010-11 and SRTT Half Yearly Report, 2011 

IFAD-NAIP Completion Report, 2007-11; IFAD Report, 2010-11 

K Anantha, Suhas P Wani, Girish Chander, GV Ranga Rao, 

Gajanan Sawargaonkar, Sudi Raghavendra Rao, G Pardhasaradhi, 

KL Sahrawat, K Krishnappa, V Nageswara Rao, LS Jangawad, 

Ch Srinivasa Rao, V Rameshwar Rao, GK Mukunda, MG Patil, AK Rokade, 

MV Ravi, ST Hundekar and Ramachandrappa [RP RDS] 

83

MTP Output target in 2011 1.5.1 Tools, protocols and courses developed to strengthen capacity of 

stakeholders to implement IMOD 

Project 1.12: Tracking Varietal Change for future Assessment of the Impact of Crop Genetic Improvement 

Research in South Asia (TRIVSA) 

Countries Involved: India (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Haryana) 


Identification of major cultivars and preferred traits by farmers in different major sorghum growing states of 

India and assessing the cultivar-specific adoption estimates. 


ICRISAT Research programs on Markets, Institutions and Policies (RP-MIP) and Dryland Cereals (RP-DC) 

jointly conducted a one-day workshop on “Tracking of Sorghum Improved Varietal Adoption in India” at 

ICRISAT, Patancheru, on 11 th November 2011.The workshop also discussed about the major constraints in the 

adoption of sorghum improved cultivars, seed availability, seed replacement rates (SRR) and role of policy in 

promotion of technology adoption etc. 

Drs. MCS Bantilan and Belum Reddy gave a welcome address and explained about the importance of this 

particular exercise. Drs. Cynthia and Kumar made an elaborate presentation about TRIVSA project and 

specially the progress about sorghum crop. Dr. Belum Reddy gave a presentation on ‘Major cultivars and traits 

for breeding: Global and Indian perspective’. It was followed-up by state-wise presentations and discussions on 

preferred traits, major cultivars and adoption constraints. Hope Project Consultant, Dr. Borikar led the 

Maharashtra state team and shared his valuable experiences in sorghum crop improvement in rainy and postrainy 

seasons. Finally, the brain storming session was taken place with verification and validation of state-level 

secondary sources of information to bring more clarity in the variety wise adoption estimates. The last session 

was discussed about ‘critical issues on sorghum improved varietal adoption’ led by Cynthia and inputs from 

Belum, Partha, Aruna, Ashok and participants. 

[RP MIP] 

Activity 1.5.1: Tools, protocols and courses developed to strengthen capacity of stakeholders to implement IMOD 

i) Imparting training to farmers and extension personnel in chickpea crop and seed production 

technologies 

Rationale: 

Knowledge empowerment of extension personnel and farmers is needed to enhance adoption of improved 

cultivars and technologies by the farmers. 

Methodology: 

ICRISAT facilitated NARS partners in conducting training programs for farmers and extension personnel in 

improved chickpea production technologies. Most of these activities were conducted by NARS partners of 

Tropical Legumes II project and included Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Nandyal and 

Agricultural Research Station (ARS) Darsi in Andhra Pradesh and University of Agricultural Sciences, 

Dharwad and ARS, Gulbarga in Karnataka. 


A total of 908 (771 men and 137 women) farmers in Andhra Pradesh and 1001 (902 men and 99 women) 

farmers in Karnataka were provided training in improved chickpea technologies and seed production. A total of 

14 field days were conducted (11 in Andhra Pradesh and 3 in Karnataka). Four field days were conducted in 

Kurnool district and seven in Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh. All the three field days in Karnataka were 

conducted in Gulbarga district. The number of farmers that participated in these field days were 463 (434 men 

and 29 women) in Andhra Pradesh and 810 (all men) in Karnataka. Additionally two farmers’ fairs were 

organized in Andhra Pradesh and three in Karnataka. The number of farmers that participated in these fairs was 

2088 (1950 men and 138 women) in Andhra Pradesh and 12450 (11750 men and 700 women) in Karnataka. 

Training of extension personnel/NGOs/private sectors in improved chickpea production technology/seed 

production was also conducted. A total of 243 personnel (224 men and 19 women) were provided training in 

Kurnool and 153 (131 men and 22 women) in Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh. Similarly, 50 personnel (40 

men and 10 women) were provided training in Gulbarga district of Karnataka. 

PM Gaur, AK Jukanti, CLL Gowda and NARS partners [RP GL] 

84

ii) Capacity building and dissemination of information on the improved pulse production technologies 

Rationale: 

Organizing training programs for farmers, NGOs, and Self Help Groups and extension specialist in improved 

pulse production and protection technologies (IPPPT) components (IDM, IPM and INM) are needed to enhance 

pulse production and productivity. 

Materials and methods: 

IPPPT-orientation camps/ exposure visits were organized in each village or cluster of villages in MP, CG and 

JKD where farmers were given hands-on training on the components of IPPPT such as seeds of improved 

varieties, crop establishment using locally available seed drills and or local practices, IPM, IDM, and INM and 

seed production and storage etc for the introduction and expansion of chickpea in rainfed rice fallow lands. 

Result and discussion: 

Imparted training on IDM, IPM and INM components to 4630 farmers in the target villages (CG= 1677, 

MP=880 and JKD=2073) during the crop season. 


iii) Conduct capacity building and dissemination of information on improved cultivars/technologies to 

NARES/NGOs/farmers 

Rationale: 

Strengthen NARES/NGOs/farmers through trainings, seminars, workshops, and field demonstration trials with 

various aspects of crop improvement, biotechnology, crop management (integrated pest and disease 

management), and post production management for developing confidence and acquiring new knowledge and 

technologies in pigeonpea production. 

Methodology: 

NARES scientists, agricultural technicians, NGOs were trained on various aspects of crop improvement, 

biotechnology, and crop management. Likewise, farmers’ field days were organized at special project locations. 


NARES capacity building: A total of 50 scientists, agricultural technicians and NGOs from India, Philippines, 

and Africa were trained in seed production technology, postharvest technology to include processing and 

storage. They attended the specialized training courses on various aspects of pigeonpea, seed production 

technology, integrated crop management, disease and insect pest management, and post-harvest technologies at 

ICRISAT - Patancheru. Aside from the specialized training courses, 40 agricultural technicians and NGOs from 

the Orissa pigeonpea project benefitted the training on crop improvement and production practices and 

integrated pest and disease management conducted at Nauparha, Rayagada and Kalahandi districts. Details of 

these activities can be found in special project reports. 

Farmers’ capacity building: Farmers training on crop improvement, seed production and post-production 

technologies were also provided to 1,545 farmers including 154 women farmers of various projects (TL II – 405 

pax, Hybrid – 60 pax, Orissa – 1,080 pax). Structured programs conducted in integrated disease and pest 

management (IPM) practices and agronomy. In addition, seven farmer’s field days were organized to 840 

farmers of Nauparha, Rayagada and Kalahandi districts in Orissa, India to showcase new improved cultivars 

(hybrids and varieties). Details of these activities can be found in special project reports. 

Conclusions: 

NARES scientists, agricultural technicians, NGOs, and farmers were capacitated with various trainings on new 

approaches and technologies on pigeonpea hybrid and varieties on seed production, crop improvement and postproduction 

practices. 

MG Mula, KB Saxena and MI Vales [RP GL] 

iv) Upgrade skills and capacity (infrastructure) of NARES, including farmers 

Rationale: 

Capacity strengthening is needed at all levels. National scientist and technicians need to be trained and offered 

tools to enhance technology development and deployment. The users of the technologies (farmers) need the 

skills to evaluate and adopt the new technologies. 

85

Methodology: 

Various methods are used to impart knowledge to the stakeholder. The most commonly used is through shortformal 

courses of ranging from one week to 6 months and hands on training depending on the need. The other is 

the development of methodological guides, protocols and manuals for adaptation to local conditions. 


Under the project to strengthen seed systems in West Africa; agronomic and soil sampling protocols were 

prepared in partnership with the Common Wealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), 

Australia were shared with all country coordinators in the project countries (Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ghana 

and Mali). These protocols were to harmonize data capture procedures to be use in modeling cropping and seed 

systems in West Africa. A participatory research methodology based on the mother and baby trial approach was 

also prepared implemented across the participating countries. A guide to strengthen seed systems is being 

compiled from the wide range of publications on seed systems. This will help in formulating a prospectus of 

benefits in investing in improved seed and agricultural inputs supply. A capacity development plan for all 

stakeholders in the seed chain was developed and shared with country coordinators. 

Two students at the Agricultural training center near Samanko were provided hands-on training in integrated 

groundnut crop management. 

B Ntare [RP GL] 

Milestone: Knowledge sharing tools and protocols defined for Asia, ESA and WCA that targets subsistence 

smallholder farmers 

i) New knowledge on pigeonpea production synthesized, published and disseminated to partners 

(NARES, NGOs and farmers) 

Rationale: 

Disseminate information through farmer-friendly literatures and articles on crop management and seed 

production technology for enhanced adoption of technology in seed production. 

Methodology: 

Farmer-friendly literature of pigeonpea seed production technology, IPM and IDM, and cultural production 

management were produced and distributed to farmers, NGOs and agricultural technicians through pamphlets, 

booklets and brochures during farmers’ field day, trainings and seminars. Research articles of new knowledge 

on pigeonpea were submitted and published in reputed journals and internet. 


Farmer-friendly literature: To complement trainings, seminars and farmer field days, dissemination of 

information on pigeonpea cultivation and seed production technology, processing, storage, integrated crop 

management technologies, and dal milling through pamphlets, leaflets, brochures and booklets (in vernacular 

forms) were produced and distributed. In the TL II project, a total of 20,000 copies of pamphlets and 2,000 

booklets were distributed. In Orissa, 2,000 in booklet form on integrated pest management (disease and pest 

Management) and 1,000 in booklet form on pigeonpea cultural management were distributed in the project sites. 

Details of these publications can be obtained from special project reports. 

Pigeonpea on-line course: ICRISAT through the Learning System Unit launched its first on-line course on 

pigeonpea for wider reach of interest groups. 

Conclusions: 

To disseminate information through the production and distribution of pamphlets, leaflets, brochures and 

booklets have guided farmers, NGOs and NARES in project locations of improve agricultural practices and crop 

improvement technology on pigeonpea. Aside from these paraphernalia’s, the publication of research results 

(articles) to various journals and the launching of pigeonpea on-line course have provided a wider reach to 

interest groups. 

MG Mula [RP GL] 

86

Milestone: Awareness products developed to enhance stakeholder knowledge of solutions for subsistence 

smallholder farmers 

i) Publication of farmer-friendly literature on improved crop and seed production technologies for 

chickpea 

Rationale: 

Awareness of farmers about the improved technologies is one of the prerequisites for adoption of technologies 

by the farmers. 

Methodology: 

ICRISAT in partnership with NARS partners prepared information bulletins/manuals and leaflets for enhancing 

awareness and knowledge of farmers in improved crop and seed production technologies for chickpea. 


The “Chickpea Seed Production Manual” published by ICRISAT in English was translated in Kannada language 

and additional information was added for crop production technologies relevant to Karnataka state of India. It 

was jointly published by ICRISAT and University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad as “Chickpea Seed 

production manual for Karnataka” in Kannada language during 2011. In addition to this, one information 

bulletin “Chickpea (Garbanzos): an emerging crop for the rainfed and dryland areas of the Philippines” was 

published by ICRISAT during 2011. The bulletin provides information on traits of different chickpea cultivars 

being promoted to the farmers for adoption in the rainfed areas of the Philippines. The TL-II project partners in 

Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka also prepared leaflets on characteristics of improved chickpea cultivars and 

distributed to farmers during farmers’ fairs and field days. 

PM Gaur, CLL Gowda, HC Sharma, S Pande, 

Mamta Sharma, Myer Mula and NARS partners [RP GL] 

ii) Capacity strengthening activities 

Rationale: 

Awareness on new methodologies to address the constraints will build the capacity of NARS partners to develop 

better varieties. 

Methodology: 

Hands-on training at ICRISAT to NARS partners and strengthening infrastructure at partner institutes. The 

ICRISAT staff capacities are also strengthened. 


Two training programs were conducted for NARS scientists; training course on “Application of Molecular 

Markers for Improvement of Groundnut Oil Quality” was organized from 26-28 Sep 2011 involving 10 

participants and one month training was conducted on “Groundnut breeding methodology and seed systems” to 

three scientists from DGR, Junagadh and TNAU, Tamil Nadu from 19 September to 18 October. Both were 

hands-on training programs. University students and scientists from institutions around the world attained 

knowledge on groundnut breeding, new developments in groundnut, new varieties information etc. during their 

visit to ICRISAT. The staff of groundnut breeding unit attended the training on AGROBASE, a crop breeding 

database management software that is now being used by the staff in the unit. 

Conclusions: 

New data management system ‘AGROBASE’ is now being used in groundnut breeding program and last ten 

years data were also transferred to this system. NARS partners are engaged in breeding for oil content and 

quality both by conventional and molecular approaches. Oil estimation, seed processing and other molecular 

biology equipment (of US$ 45,000 worth) were facilitated to NARS partners in India under a special project 

during 2011. 

SN Nigam, P Janila and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

iii) Awareness products developed to enhance stakeholder knowledge of solutions for subsistence 

smallholder farmers in Malawi and Tanzania 

Rationale: 

Lack of awareness and knowledge of improved groundnut varieties as well as production practices prevents 

farmers from making informed decisions on growing suitable varieties within their localities. A well informed 

farming community is able to choose from the available technologies and management options in order to 

maximize productivity. 

87

Methodology: 

In order to create awareness on improved groundnut varieties and improved production practices, and elicit 

farmer feedback on the same and other promising varieties, farmer participatory variety assessment and field 

days were held across several sites where groundnut is produced. Notable approaches used include field days, 

seed fairs radios and TVs. 


A total of 13 field days were conducted across different locations and attended by 867 participants, comprising 

374 males and 493 females in Malawi. In Tanzania, 20 radio programs and 10 TV broadcasts were used to 

create awareness of developed technologies; 2 rural seed fairs were conducted in Nanyumbu and Tunduru 

districts and 1 Farmer Field day was conducted in Nanyumbu District. 

E S Monyo, H Charlie O Mponda, 

W Munthali, S Njoroge and A Chamango [RP GL] 

iv) Training on using crop simulation modelling to assess trait value on yield across environments in 

legumes crops 

Rationale: 

In our search of traits conferring adaptation to terminal drought, we are dependent on experimental data and 

often exposed to the possibility of having GxE interaction that may offset the important of certain traits under 

different environmental conditions. Also, a number of these traits are assessed under control conditions and/or in 

conditions where it is not relevant or impossible to assess yield. There is then an issue of the integration of any 

trait into conferring a yield advantage. The lysimetric system offers possibility for integrating several traits but 

still remain limited by the number of trials that can be carried out and then their representation of the range of 

possible environmental conditions. Therefore, the use of crop simulation modeling has become a necessary tool 

to test across location and years whether any putative trait of adaptation is indeed likely to bring a benefit, but 

also to explore other promising traits or trait combinations. 

Methodology: 

Training has taken place in North Carolina State University, with Pr TR Sinclair and Pr Afshin Soltani, both 

renowned modelers. The models they have developed are well known and published. 


From that training two papers are under review and a number of others are in progress. Robustness of the model 

has been confirmed for chickpea under Indian conditions, and for groundnut under both India and Niger 

conditions. A paper was developed to assess the putative advantage of a number of root related traits. A faster 

rate of rooting, hypothesized to be beneficial for the terminal drought adaptation of chickpea, actually turned out 

to be a negative trait (5-10%) yield decrease across 14 Indian locations. By contrast, a deeper water extraction 

brought about 5-10% yield increase. These data together showed that the current MABC breeding of the root 

QTL on LG5 needs to be linked to thorough assessment whether this QTL actually confers increased water 

extraction at depth (recent published work clearly shows that high root length density does not necessarily 

correlate to higher water uptake, see Zaman-Allah et al. 2011 J Exp Bot 62:4239-4252 or Ratnakumar and 

Vadez, 2011, Funct Plant Biol 38, 1016–1023). Interestingly, the most beneficial genetic factor brought only a 

5-10% increase in yield, whereas a 30 mm irrigation at the beginning of seed growth brought a 30-40% yield 

increase. Another paper explores whether chickpea breeding for the different latitudes of India need to have 

specific phenological requirement. The current assumption is that high latitude need long duration genotypes 

whereas lower latitude need short duration genotypes. Our analysis challenges these views and shows that a 

lines with about 43 biological days (days during which thermal time accumulation is optimal, equivalent to 817 

ºC-days) to flowering would fit most locations and that differences in phenological specificities across locations 

are actually related to season rainfall. A study assessing the value of a number of water saving traits is in 

progress. In another study we are testing whether the model outputs from the trait-testing exercise are similar 

when they are run with observed weather data, or when they are run with Marksim-generated weather data. 

Finally a study is on-going to test the value of a number of traits for groundnut production. 

Conclusions: 

Crop simulation modeling offers a great potential for tackling drought-related issues. It is a guide to decide the 

most important traits to breed for. It does integrate both the genetic and agronomic dimension of cropping 

system improvement. It allows comparing, side by side, the comparative advantage of different legume crops in 

any given region. 

M Zaman-Allah, J Kholova and V Vadez [RP GL] 

88

v) Training of African young scientists 

Rationale: 

Clearly, African National programs are under-sourced with qualified personnel and there is a generation gap 

between scientists of the GR era and young and newly recruited scientists. Furthermore, breeding approaches 

and techniques are changing and the type of training for young breeder needs to be adapted to these new 

requirements 

Methodology: 

We strongly believe that the training of young breeders/scientist needs to be based on long-term, hands-on 

experimental periods, whereas short term courses, while important, can only provide a glimpse of what has to be 

learnt. We also think that breeders of the NARS will need to be “multi-purpose” and will need to acquire a 

strong conventional breeding basis, to be conversant with modern breeding technique using molecular tools, and 

also to be capable of generating precise and scientifically relevant phenotypic data (not just number). 


We have progressed well with the training of several young scientists from different SSA NARS. This is 

reported in TLI-Objective 1 and TLI-Objective 5 reports. For each of them we have tailored the training 

according to their need, the need to acquire the capacity to develop crosses and carry out good field trials here, 

assistance for QTL mapping there, more focus on the generation of high quality physiological information on 

traits for another trainee. 

Conclusions: 

The basic principle taken to approach the training – long term-term and hands-on, “multi-purposeness” – is 

working well. We feel the trainees return to their location with a lot of motivation that can be seen by the work 

they undertake. 

M Zaman-Allah and V Vadez [RP GL] 

vi) Pigeonpea promotion activities in ESA 

Rationale: 

Large portion of smallholder pigeonpea farmers in ESA still growing traditional varieties or impure seed and not 

adopting improved production technology, hence it is essential to generate awareness through farmer field days, 

trainings and awareness products 

Methodology: 

All the stakeholders involved in pigeonpea research and development involved in promotion activities through 

field days, trainings and awareness products such as production manuals. 


In Tanzania, 544 farmers from 9 wards of Meru district council and 15 extension agents and research 

technicians trained on agronomy, seed production, marketing skills, and utilization of pigeonpea. Information 

bulletin on various aspects of pigeonpea production, insect pest management, post-harvest processing and 

utilization in Kiswahili “Kilimo Bora Cha Mbaazi” produced and distributed to farmers and other stakeholders 

during visits to Institute, farmers' field days, farmers assessments, nanenane Agricultural shows in Tanzania. 

The annual nanenane (meaning the eighth day of eighth month in Swahili) agricultural and livestock products 

and services show organized by the Tanzania Agricultural Society (TASO) coincides with farmers' day, a 

national holiday in Tanzania, on 8 August. A field day was with participation of 380 stake holders and 

smallholder farmers’ being a dominant group in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania and seen the benefits of micro dosing. 

Farmers were also trained on the utilization of pigeonpea and the participants prepared pigeonpea dishes like 

Bonko, Mseto, Dhali, Ng’ande. 

In Malawi, a manual for pigeonpea production was published in English and Chichewa. Flyers describing 

pigeonpea printed in Chichewa and Swahili and distributed to farmers in project sites (more than 5,000 flyers). 

50 frontline extension staff trained on pigeonpea crop management including quality seed production. The 

dissemination activities generated interest among the 1200 farmers around Zomba Under the Save Children 

program requested 1.5 t of pigeonpea for planting. 

Conclusions: 

Promotional activities are the critical components under technology dissemination and form the base for high 

technology adoption in shorter time frames. 

89

vii) Chickpea promotion activities in ESA 

Rationale: 

Large portion of smallholder chickpea farmers in ESA still growing traditional varieties or impure seed and not 

adopting improved production technology, hence it is essential to generate awareness through farmer field days, 

trainings and awareness products 

Methodology: 

All the stakeholders involved in chickpea research and development involved in promotion activities through 

field days, trainings and awareness products such as production manuals in Ethiopia and Tanzania 


In Ethiopia, 450 stakeholders ranging from farmers, researchers from DZARC and regional ARCs, 

representatives from private seed companies, WFP and media persons participated in 3 field days organized in 

Minjar, Lume, Adaa woredas. Information bulletin entitled ‘Improved chickpea technologies and seed 

production in Ethiopia’ produced and shared with all the stakeholders. In Tanzania, the annual nanenane show 

was the major selling place for newly released chickpea varieties and their promotion. During the on-station 

FPVS-cum-field day about 50 farmers exposed to new varieties (released and pre-released). 

Conclusions: 

Promotional activities are the critical components under technology dissemination and form the base for high 

technology adoption in shorter time frames. 


Training on Genotyping – By – Sequencing (GBS) was received during April – May 2011 at Cornell University, 

USA. Further, GBS pipelines were established successfully here at ICRISAT, Patancheru to process skim 

sequences data to call SNPs across the sorghum germplasm included in the study. 

Punna Ramu 

Rationale: 

There are no publications highlighting the quantitative and qualitative traits of improved sweet sorghum 

cultivars that have commercial implications. An attempt was made to bring the cultivar and hybrid parents 

information as a publication. 

Methodology: 

Hybrids, varieties and female hybrid parents were evaluated as separate trials in an RCBD with three 

replications in postrainy season, 2010. Data was collected on all agronomic traits (qualitative and quantitative) 

and biochemical traits as per Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Act (PPVFRA). 


Five sweet sorghum hybrids viz., ICSSH 28, ICSSH 58, ICSSH 25, ICSSH 76 and CSH 22SS, seven sweet 

sorghum varieties viz., ICSV 25279, ICSV 25284, SSV 84, SSV 74, ICSV 700, ICSV 93046 and RSSV 9 and 

five B-lines viz., ICSB 474, ICSB 731, ICSB 675, ICSB 38, ICSB 502, were characterized according to 

PPVFRA. 

Several publications published and released during 2011 were distributed to the stakeholders which will 

strengthen their capacity. A total of 1287 seed samples of hybrid seed parents/breeding lines were sent to 14 

countries. India received 991 samples followed by Venezuela 106 samples. Of the 991 samples supplied in India 

571 samples sent to public sector scientists, 296 samples to private sector scientists and the remaining 124 

samples to farmers and NGOs/collaboration. A total of 249 trial entries in ten sets (with 17 to 46 entries) were 

sent to five collaborators in India. 

Conclusion: 

Five sweet sorghum hybrids, seven varieties and five B-lines were characterized and documented. 

P Srinivasa Rao [RP DC] 

90

Outcome 2-Intensification: Smallholder farmers capturing additional market 

opportunities from sustainably intensified and value added grain legume and dryland 

cereal systems 

Once the food sufficiency is achieved, this outcome will help smallholder farmers with additional market 

opportunities by sustainably intensifying their farm activities and generate income through stronger market 

connections through four outputs under Grain Legume Research Program. 

Several activities were undertaken to increase on-farm productivity and profitability of the crop systems in Asia, 

ESA and WCA: 3294 IPPPT/PVS/VLSS demonstrations conducted in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and 

Jharkhand to enhance chickpea production in Rainfed Rice Fallow Lands (RRFL); to increase the profitability to 

farmers by developing large-seeded confectionary groundnut cultivars, 26 new crosses were made and 

selections carried out in advanced segregating generations; elite, advanced and preliminary trials conducted for 

Spanish and Virginia types during 2010 rainy, 2010-11 postrainy, and 2011 rainy seasons; 186 promising entries 

identified; one set of international nursery for confectionary traits shared with BAU, Bihar. A new program 

initiated to breed dual purpose groundnut varieties by making 10 crosses; seven genotypes with high pod and 

haulm yield with superior haulm quality traits identified; four high yielding entries identified from high/low oil 

content groundnut varietal trial (HLOGVT). Two high yielding genotypes with high Fe and Zn content 

identified and crosses made to develop mapping populations for Fe and Zn content. Hands-on training provided 

to 60 farmers in groundnut, chickpea and pigeonpea varieties and crop management technologies. Biocontrol 

agents (actinomycete) isolated, evaluated, conserved and supplied to researchers within and outside ICRISAT in 

India, Australia and Uzbekistan. Studies on the interaction of plant cell signaling molecules, salicylic acid (SA) 

and jasmonic acid (JA) with the mitochondria of Helicoverpa armigera indicated a direct interference of SA on 

insect growth and on mitochondrial bioenergetics of H. armigera thus providing additional evidence of its role 

in induced resistance to herbivores. Four pigeonpea and two chickpea high yielding pod borer resistant/tolerant 

cultivars identified and combined use of pod borer tolerant genotypes with insecticides recommended for 

fetching high grain yields by the farmers. Best-bet management options for rosette and aflatoxin available for 

use by farmers to improve groundnut productivity in Malawi. Two DArT markers associated with the carbon 

isotope discrimination (Δ 13 C) under terminal drought prone condition identified to improve the drought 

tolerance of chickpea. Fifty one scientists trained in the 9 th ICRISAT-CEG course on “Molecular Breeding for 

Crop Improvement” at ICRISAT, Patancheru, India. Established 100 community seed banks in Malawi and 50 

farmer research groups (FRGs) in Tanzania for availing seed of improved varieties at community level; seed 

road maps developed in Kenya, Malawi and Mozambique and seed production cycle started to produce seed by 

engaging seed companies/NGOs in seed production and delivery. 

[RP GL] 

Output Target 2.1 –Enhanced knowledge of drivers and enablers for sustainably intensifying smallholder 

farmer production of mandate crops and systems 2011 

MTP Output Target in 2011 2.1.1 Information on levels of production and major constraints to intensification 

of mandate crops assembled and made available as an IPG 















91


implemented by ICRISAT in partnership and close collaboration with national and international institutes. 


Poverty levels have declined substantially in the six traditional ICRISAT villages where long term panel data is 

now available. While there was a trend towards poverty declines before 2001, it has accelerated since then, 

except in the Akola villages that are more agricultural than the rest. Poverty declines were driven both by 

positive agricultural developments, such as canal irrigation and Bt cotton, and non-agricultural developments, 

such as factory jobs, temporary migration, or the new airport. The depth of poverty has not changed much in the 

entire period except in the village near Hyderabad airport. 

The study on aggregate supply response in Andhra Pradesh (India) found that aggregate output supply increases 

with output price, improvement in road connectivity, market access, irrigation facilities and availability of 

agricultural credit. On the other hand, climatic factors such as rainfall affect fertilizer use and in turn aggregate 

output significantly. Farm investments in tractors, pump sets and adoption of high yielding technology are 

strongly influenced by infrastructure variables like banks, market density, and literacy. It thus confirms the 

hypothesis that the relationship between public investment, financial institutions and farm investment of labor 

and capital in agriculture have not changed over the years. To enhance long term productivity growth and farm 

income of Andhra Pradesh agriculture the study highlights the appropriate design of public investment strategy 

to relax infrastructure and production constraints facing the farm sector. 

Another study in the supply response of paddy in South India, found that rice supply besides responding to its 

own price, also responds to public infrastructure like banks, roads, and markets. Technology factors like 

irrigation and HYV also influence rice production. 

The study on performance of food grain production in Bangladesh revealed that rice production has increased in 

recent years but wheat production has declined. Wheat production is now concentrated only in a number of 

districts. Increase in rice production was mainly due to the increase in production of Boro rice. Both area and 

yield of Boro rice has increased substantially in recent years. Performance in production of food grains varied 

across the districts. 

The study on groundnut production performance in Bangladesh showed that area and production gradually 

declined until 2001/02. Since then groundnut production is on the rise. Groundnut production in Bangladesh 

has increased at the rate of 5 percent per annum in the 2000s mainly due to growth in yield. In the late 2000s, 

five major groundnut producing districts were Noakhali, Dhaka, Faridpur, Kishoreganj and Pabna. These 

districts accounted for 59% of groundnut area and 55% of groundnut production in Bangladesh. In the 2000s, 

variability in groundnut yield was statistically insignificant at the country level but it was high and statistically 

significant in Tangail, Kushtia and Rangpur districts. Results of the study suggest that groundnut breeders need 

to focus priority on yield enhancement for groundnut rather than reduction in variability in groundnut yield. 

Hybrid rice cultivation expanded rapidly in Bangladesh in the recent years. There is good potential for 

expansion of hybrid rice. Bangladesh has made limited progress in developing hybrid rice varieties and 

producing seeds. Hybrid rice cultivars provide 20-30 percent higher yield compared to the best inbred varieties. 

Hybrid rice is highly profitable despite lower prices due to inferior grain quality. Hybrid rice can play a vital 

role in future food security of Bangladesh. Bangladesh should promote hybrid rice farming. Seed (price, supply, 

quality), production risks, poor grain quality, low market demand, and low market prices are main obstacles for 

spread of hybrid rice in Bangladesh. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 2.2.1 : Harnessing opportunities for productivity enhancement of sorghum and millets in Sub-Sahara 

Africa and South Asia -Objective-1: Targeting Opportunities for Technology Development and Delivery to 

Maximize Adoption and Impacts of Innovations on Livelihoods in WCA. 

Countries Involved: Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Nigeria 


Assess ex-ante the impacts of pearl millet and sorghum based technologies and innovations to guide priority 

setting. 

92


Three technologies were targeted mainly modern sorghum and pearl millet varieties, use of microdosing 

technologies and warrantage schemes. Parameters used to assess ex-ante impacts are listed below (table 1) in 

addition to data collected from the Project FAO Intrants in Niger and data on demand and supply elasticities 

from secondary literature. FAO data were used to calibrate area cultivated and yield in year 2009. 

Table 1: Values of key parameters used in the projection of sorghum and pearl millet impacts by country. 

Values 

Parameter 

Burkina Faso Mali Niger Nigeria 

PM S PM S PM PM S 

Productivity change (%) 

Crop 

10 15 15 15 15 10 15 

improvement 

Crop management 20 25 25 30 30 30 35 

Maximum adoption (%) 

Crop 

20 25 30 30 25 30 30 

improvement 

Crop management 10 15 20 25 15 10 10 

Gestation lag (years until start 

of adoption) 

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 

Adoption lag (years until 

10 10 10 10 10 10 10 

maximum adoption) 

Elasticity of supply 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 

Elasticity of demand PE PE PE PE PE PE PE 

Discount rate (%) 5 5 5 5 5 

Project duration 2009-19 2009-19 2009-19 2009-19 2009-19 2009-19 2009-19 

Time path of benefits from 2012─19 2012─19 2012─19 2012─19 2012─19 2012─19 2012─19 

investments 

PM means Pearl millet; S means Sorghum, PE perfectly elastic 


Results indicate that the aggregate discounted gross benefits from HOPE project interventions (2009 – 2019) are 

estimated to more than US$100 million more than the estimated costs estimated to about US$20 million. The 

combined effects of these interventions have not been explored. Further enhancements are pursued. The use of 

the DREAM model to finalize these estimations is being used. 

Development Interventions (aggregate gross-benefits US 000) 

Variety improvement Microdosing Warrantage 

Pearl millet 18,125.55 18,069.15 10,525.18 

Sorghum 21,624.03 16,220.86 25,678.02 

Total 39,749.59 34,290.01 26,203.20 - 

[RP MIP] 

MTP Target Output in 2011 2.2 Assessments on potential value-added products and markets from ICRISAT 

mandated crops conducted and results made available as IPGs 

Project 2.2.2: Exploring the Scope of Cost-Effective Aflatoxin Risk Reduction Strategies in Maize and 

Groundnut Value Chains so as to Improve Market Access of the Poor in ESA 

Countries Involved: Mali 


To assess the willingness to pay for groundnut aflatoxin free products by consumers in rural Mali 


Data was collected from 1187 household and farm units (UPAs) using structured questionnaires. The survey 

instruments were developed after the focus group discussions conducted in two villages per cercle (one near the 

road and the other far from the road), and tested a month prior to the implementation of the survey. The survey 

93

was conducted from October 2010 to January 2011 by four teams, each consisting six enumerators and a 

supervisor, with an overall coordinator from IER/Kene Consulting, and technical support from the IFPRI and 

ICRISAT collaborators. Either the head of the UPA or the spouse of the head, in function of availability, was 

interviewed. The questionnaire included modules on: 1) characteristics of the respondents, the households and 

the farm, 2) awareness and knowledge of the respondents on aflatoxins, and e) willingness to pay (WTP) for 

groundnuts grain of different qualities using BDM. 

The experiment 

Experimental methods such as the Becker-DeGroot-Marschak (BDM) auction mechanism was used. Individual 

participants make bids for products, which are compared to a randomly generated number, simulating an auction 

(Becker et al., 1964). If the bid offered is higher than the random number, the bidder purchases the good at a 

price equal to that number. The BDM mechanism is incentive-compatible, because participants have an 

incentive to set their bids according to their true preferences. The expected value of profits from the game is 

maximized when bidders state their real willingness to pay. The bids were collected for three groundnuts types: 

clean but unlabeled groundnuts, contaminated groundnuts, and clean groundnuts tested for aflatoxins, all in 2-kg 

clear polythene bags. The tested groundnuts had a label indicating no traceable amount of aflatoxins was found 

in the laboratory (technically, this means less than 2 ppb). The respondents were first provided with CFCA 1250 

cash (or $2.65 using 1 US$ = CFCA 470) and were explained that this was their participation fee for agreeing to 

do the auction. They could use it for the auction or they could keep the money by bidding 0 CFCA for each 

product. Any part of the fee left over after the auction was kept by the respondent. The fee was calculated to be 

twice as large as the estimated average market price for a 2kg bag of clean-looking groundnuts during the period 

of time when the survey was implemented. This was to ensure that lack of readily available funds did not inhibit 

respondents from reporting their true willingness to pay. Then they were presented each type of groundnuts, one 

at a time, in random order, and invited to make a bid for each product. One of the three products was randomly 

selected to be auctioned and the bid for that product was compared to a number drawn from a uniformly 

distributed set ranging from 1 to 1000 (with mean of CFCA 500 which was the average price of 2kg 

groundnuts). If the bid was larger than the randomly drawn number, the respondent had to pay the price of the 

drawn number. 


Results indicate that rural consumers are willing to pay a premium for groundnuts that are labeled and tested for 

aflatoxins with a high discount compared to contaminated and cleaned non tested groundnut seed. Knowledge of 

aflatoxin and awareness were limited and its effects on WTP were significantly negative. These findings imply 

that policy makers should promote awareness of the health impacts of poor quality nuts and should 

institutionalize and enforce norms and standards in the groundnut markets to enhance the consumption of good 

quality nuts. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 2.2.3: Harnessing opportunities for productivity enhancement of sorghum and millets in Sub-Sahara 

Africa and South Asia-To identify the drivers of consumer demand for sorghum and pearl millet in project 

countries in West Africa 

Countries Involved: Mali, Niger and Nigeria 


To identify the drivers of consumer demand for sorghum and pearl millet in project countries in West Africa 


The project applies the linear approximate of the Almost Ideal demand systems to identify the drivers of 

consumer demand and estimate the own- and cross price elasticities of demand for cereals in Mali and Niger. 

Data from the national consumer expenditure surveys was used. 

In Niger, data from the ENBC (Enquete Nationale de Base sur la Cosnommation des Menages) survey was 

carried out on a sample of 4050 households including 1845 in urban and 2205 rural households. These 

households were divided in 450 survey zones (ZDs), and drawn by a two-stage stratified random sampling. All 

the 8 regions as well as the rural and urban area were considered. Thus, 18 explicit layers of survey were 

retained on this basis: Niamey, urban communities of Maradi, Tahoua and Zinder and urban environments and 

rural of the seven areas. 

94

In Mali, data on household consumption and expenditure surveys carried out by INSTAT were used to identify 

the drivers and estimate elasticities. Data was collected from a sample of 4454 households from all regions 

based poverty level (non-poor (61% and poor (30%)) and location (urban (35%) and rural (65%) areas). 


Results indicate that overall, demand for coarse grains is largely explained by the price of the coarse grains and 

substitutes such as rice, maize and even a leguminous such as cowpea that is largely produced in Niger. The 

demand for coarse grains is largely explained by socio-economic profile of consumers such as the location 

(urban vs rural area), poverty status (poor non-poor), gender and the number of people to feed at household 

levels. These results differ when the analysis is done taking into account the location and poverty status. 

Results also showed that overall in Mali, sorghum and millet are luxury goods as expenditure elasticities are 

greater than 1 (Table 1). But rice is a necessary good. Sorghum and pearl millet are perfectly demand elastic. 

Sorghum is substitute to millet or cowpea and is complement to rice, maize and fonio. Pearl millet is substitute 

to sorghum, rice cowpea and maize and complement to fonio. However, this trend differ based on location and 

income groups. 

Table 1: Expenditure and Marshallian price and income elasticities for Malian households by poverty groups 

Product 

Overall sample Sorghum Rice Cowpea Maize Millet Fonio 

Sorghum -1.68 -0.44 -4.55 3.36 0.20 12.49 

Rice -0.46 -0.69 1.36 0.27 0.26 -30.02 

Cowpea 0.26 0.46 -0.93 0.18 0.29 -46.89 

Maize -0.10 0.00 0.13 -1.07 0.10 -1.72 

Millet 0.76 0.05 -0.87 0.24 -1.08 -12.50 

Fonio -0.09 -0.19 0.24 0.12 -0.01 9.92 

Income 1.30 0.72 1.24 1.33 1.11 2.13 

In Niger, results showed that except for cowpea that is an inferior good, and rice that is a necessary good, pearl 

millet and sorghum are luxury goods (Table 2). Sorghum and millet are not demand elastic. Sorghum is 

substitute to imported rice or cowpea and is complement to local rice, maize and pearl millet,. However, this 

trend differs based on location and income groups. 

Table 2. Expenditure and Marshallian price and income elasticities for Nigerien households by poverty groups 

Product 

Overall sample Sorghum Imp rice Loc. rice Cowpea maize millet 

Sorghum -0.578 0.172 0.002 0.678 -0.272 -0.256 

Imported rice 1.204 -1.329 0.014 1.318 0.127 -0.102 

Local rice -0.038 -0.024 -0.271 0.107 -0.089 -0.009 

Cowpea 0.823 0.228 0.002 -2.267 0.033 -0.108 

Maize -0.311 0.044 0.002 0.088 -0.863 -0.130 

Millet -2.452 0.078 0.016 -0.192 -0.299 -0.746 

Expenditures 1.320 0.803 0.963 -0.038 1.293 1.250 

Understanding the demand shifters are important in formulating policies that will enhance the demand for 

sorghum and pearl millet. In Niger, recent policies aimed at boosting cowpea production with price support 

from the government to encourage farmers have produced unexpected effects. Since cowpea and pearl millet 

complements, an increase in the price of cowpea led to a decrease in the quantity of pearl millet supplied and de 

facto led to an increase in pearl millet price. In fact these have affected the food security of millions of 

smallholder farmers who rely on pearl millet as the major staple foods. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 2.2.4 : To establish the seasonal demand for sorghum and pearl millet in Niger, Mali and Nigeria 

Countries Involved: Mali, Niger and Nigeria 

95


To establish the seasonal demand for sorghum and pearl millet in Niger, Mali and Nigeria 


Focus group and structured interviews with major actors along the value chain and specifically processors such 

as flour millers, biscuits manufacturers, poultry raisers and other small-scale processors were used to assess the 

demand for coarse grains. 


Market demand for pearl millet and sorghum for the processing industries is still very limited in Niger and Mali. 

This is estimated to about 130 tons of pearl millet and sorghum in Niger and 3000 tons in Mali. This is largely 

insignificant with regard to the production. However in Nigeria, it is estimated that about 600,000 MT of 

sorghum alone is being used in the malting industry, the poultry sector and confectionary sectors. Breweries 

have invested in organizing farmers and in the development of OPV and hybrids with higher yield and good 

malting properties. Currently, the ABA malting plant is supplying about 40,000 tons of sorghum malt to the 

NIGERIAN breweries. The latter has invested in the development of 2 OPV (CSR01 and CSR02) and 3 hybrids 

currently tested by IAR. Likewise GUINNESS breweries has contracted is contracting with more than 12,000 

farmers for the supply of the yellowish type SK 5912. The market demand for pearl millet is estimated to about 

60,000 MT of which Nestle is using about 20,000 MT. 

Major constraints limiting the efficiency of sorghum and pearl millet value chain in all the 3 countries are (1) the 

lack of consistent supply of high quality homogenous grains, (2) lack of access to credit, (3) norms and 

regulations for registering products especially in Nigeria, (4) inconsistent policies to enhance the supply of 

business and development services. 

Entry points for reducing unreliable and large fluctuations of raw material cost lie in the strengthening of 

farmers’ organizations at production and sourcing input through group purchasing and ensuring access to credit 

to farmers and processors. Investment in storage facilities are essential for processors. 

Project 2.2.5: Harnessing Opportunities for Productivity Enhancement (HOPE) of Sorghum and Millets in Sub- 

Saharan Africa and South Asia 

Objective-1: Targeting Opportunities for Technology Development and Delivery to Maximize Adoption and 

Impacts of Innovations on Livelihoods in South Asia 

Countries Involved: India 

• For sorghum- Maharashtra 

• For pearl millet –Rajasthan, Haryana and Gujarat 


Identification of target markets and value chain survey for sorghum and finger millet. Targeting opportunities 

for technology development and delivery to maximize adoption and impacts of innovations on livelihood in 

South Asia 


Working with different partners on consortium approach and capitalize on new science tools to capture data, 

including GIS for gathering on-going M&E information. Using International Model for Policy Analysis and 

Commodity Trade (IMPACT) model, alternative scenarios for global demand for sorghum and pearl millet is 

projected. GIS maps have been developed characterizing the geographical areas, beneficiary clusters and 

interventions. Survey instruments have been used to collect baseline data from 1080 households comprising 4 

states (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Haryana and Rajasthan), 12 clusters and 36 villages by following stratified random 

sampling based on population proportional method. Monitoring framework and monitoring indicators have been 

developed to track the progress. Documentation of available technologies for post-rainy season sorghum and 

pearl millet is done through review of literature, interaction with scientists and farmers. The ex-ante impact of 

available crop technologies has been estimated considering the improved interventions and their respective 

adoption rate for post-rainy season sorghum and for pearl millet. Feasible investment options were identified by 

rigorous interaction with selected farmers and scientists considering the existing resource situation, technology, 

production and market constraints. The relevancy rating was done in order to know the relative importance of 

feasible R & D investment. 

96


Demand for sorghum in South East Asian countries like China, Thailand is increasing from 34.02 million tons in 

2010 to 47.31 million tons in 2050. The main driving forces for surging demand are increased demand for feed 

and industrial uses, income rise and consumers preference for diversified diets (meat and milk products). There 

has been a positive trend in supply and demand for sorghum in all regions of Asia. 

The preliminary findings of the commodity future outlook indicate post-rainy season sorghum grain in 

Maharashtra is mainly utilized for food consumption to the extent of 90% and a small proportion goes for 

processed food sector. Overall, in western India 62% of production of pearl millet grain goes to food, 30% goes 

to cattle feed, 3% goes to poultry feed and only 5% goes to alcohol industry. 

The household demand for post-rainy season sorghum in Maharashtra is expected to be around 3-3.5 million 

tons with moderate income growth and 2.95-3.5 million tons by 2020. However, non-household food 

consumption (dhabas, restaurants) and alternative uses (food processing) would drive the future demand for 

post-rainy season sorghum. For pearl millet grain, while food use is projected to increase, demand from 

industrial uses will increase faster. It is estimated that the total demand for sorghum fodder would be 14-15 

million tons by 2020. In case of pearl millet, fodder production will increase by more than 5% per annum and 

there will be a deficit in the main demand centers. 

Based on GIS maps developed, critical areas have been identified for targeting technologies and management 

practices to enhance productivity of rabi sorghum and pearl millet. 

Documentation of available technologies for post-rainy season sorghum reveal that more than 80 % of the rabi 

sorghum is still dominated by two important cultivars viz., Maldandi, a local land race and M35-1 and 

replacement of the same by hybrids has been sluggish due to poor grain and fodder quality. 

The average replacement rate for sorghum in rabi is 16 years. Rabi sorghum is highly valued as food and fodder 

because of its excellent grain and fodder quality. The economic contribution of fodder to the total income is 

estimated at 45 to 57 % in varieties (Pray, C. E., and Nagarajan 2009). 

In case of pearl millet, currently 66 % of total area under pearl millet is under improved varieties, where hybrids 

occupied more than 50 % of the total area under pearl millets in all the 3 states. In Gujarat and Haryana more 

than 70 of the pearl millet area is under private hybrids 

The ex-ante impact of available crop technologies indicated that in case of sorghum with the introduction of 

improved variety along with management practices with supplementary irrigation the net gain increases to the 

tune of $ 300.38 per ha with incremental returns to cost ratio of 3.78 compare to the base level. In case of pearl 

millet, the net gain increased to the tune of $ 119.54 per ha with incremental returns to cost ratio of 2.98. 

The estimation of incremental returns at macro level considering crop improvement and crop management 

technologies shows that, If the potential technologies are adopted, the expected net gain will be around $ 65.92 

per ha for rabi sorghum and $ 43.73 to 51.25 per ha in case of pearl millet. Furthermore, if the market linkages 

are improved, the economic gain will increase by 20 % in both the crops. 

Analysis of investment opportunities for research and development in crop improvement (CI), crop management 

(CM) and market access (MA) indicated that the thrust areas for R & D investment in rabi sorghum are, firstly, 

crop improvement followed by selective mechanization, crop management, marketing and soil and water 

conservation. In case of pearl millet, the order of priority is soil and water conservation followed by crop 

management, marketing, crop improvement, and selective mechanization. According to other stakeholders like 

private seed companies, the R&D investment options could be in improving fodder quality & nutrition, more 

extension support for wider adoption of improved management practices, marketability of the grain and value 

added products, innovation in value additions. The government policies for increasing Minimum Support Price 

(MSP), first hand procurement of the grains, and more importantly distribution of grains in Public Distribution 

System (PDS) is prime concern. 

In Rajasthan, the baseline analysis shows the productivity of pearl millet ranged between 12.0 to 13.5 

quintals/hectare in a normal year. While, after implementing the project interventions, the productivity enhanced 

to the tune of 23.4 quintals per hectare as reflected in the first year M&E survey. In Gujarat, the productivity in 

the normal year ranged between 7.0 to 7.2 quintals per hectare as against 3.5-3.75 quintals/hectare as reflected in 

the first year M&E survey. 

97

The policy brief on future outlooks and policy options for sorghum and pearl millet has been developed. The 

policy recommendations include: 

1. In order to improve productivity of rabi sorghum and pearl millet, besides targeting improved varieties, 

targeting on the key recommended technologies, management practices like drilling of fertilizer along with seed, 

seed treatment, deep sowing, wide row spacing, optimum plant population, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) 

and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) is crucial. 

2. Exploring non-conventional uses and extrusion products is another important area for future investment in 

these crops. 

3. Farmers have been resistant to switchover to improved varieties in case of rabi sorghum because of fodder 

quality. Thus, high yielding varieties with fodder quality on par with local races are required to improve the 

profitability of rabi sorghum. 

4. Even though Minimum support prices are offered for dry land cereals similar to rice and wheat, farmers are 

not responding to millet cultivation due to (1) absence of procurement operations (2) lack of consumer demand 

as dry land cereals are treated inferior goods (3) poor value addition (4) poor consumer awareness and (5) 

lopsided policy support compared to rice, wheat and other commercial crops. 

5. Labor scarcity particularly during the harvesting is a critical constraint reducing the profit margin of rabi 

sorghum hence selective mechanization needs to be promoted 

6. Need to investment in market institutions, value chains, processing and innovations to reduce marketing costs 

and better provision of market information 

Trainings organized: for the benefit of partner institutions economists training were organized in the focused 

areas viz., analysis of adoption of technologies, evaluation of developmental program/projects using economic 

surplus method, ex-ante impact analysis of available technologies and hands on training on impact assessment. 

[RP MIP] 




Impacts of Innovations on Livelihoods in South Asia 


• For sorghum- Maharashtra 

• For pearl millet –Rajasthan, Haryana and Gujarat 


Discover and develop strategies for improving markets for sorghum, pearl millet and finger millet to stimulate 

adoption of improved technologies by small holder farmers in South Asia 


Working with different partners on consortium approach and capitalize on new science tools to capture data, 

including GIS for gathering on-going M&E information. Using International Model for Policy Analysis and 

Commodity Trade (IMPACT) model, alternative scenarios for global demand for sorghum and pearl millet is 

projected. GIS maps have been developed characterizing the geographical areas, beneficiary clusters and 

interventions. Survey instruments have been used to collect baseline data from 1080 households comprising 4 

states (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Haryana and Rajasthan), 12 clusters and 36 villages by following stratified random 

sampling based on population proportional method. Monitoring framework and monitoring indicators have been 

developed to track the progress. Documentation of available technologies for post-rainy season sorghum and 

pearl millet is done through review of literature, interaction with scientists and farmers. The ex-ante impact of 

available crop technologies has been estimated considering the improved interventions and their respective 

adoption rate for post-rainy season sorghum and for pearl millet. Feasible investment options were identified by 

rigorous interaction with selected farmers and scientists considering the existing resource situation, technology, 

production and market constraints. The relevancy rating was done in order to know the relative importance of 

feasible R & D investment. 


• Market opportunities along the value chain identified for sorghum grain and fodder 

• The existing marketing strategies of the farmers, traders, processors and other end users are identified 

with an intention to intervene in the value chains and increase producers share in consumer’s price 

• Changing pattern of consumer preference towards ready-to-eat / cook foods and healthy food made 

from sorghum and pearl millet despite a decline in their consumption at household level 

98

• Demand projections done separately for the State of Maharashtra with computed demand elasticities. 

Potential demand for post-rainy season sorghum household consumption and for other uses, estimated 

through surveys conducted on grain demand in hotels, restaurants and dhabas (motels) and traders 

exporting for seed purpose to neighboring states. 

• Demand for sorghum will grow in response to the growing demand for meat and milk. Unless 

production is increased to meet the demand, prices will increase adding to milk and meat production 

costs in the major growing regions. Fodder demand could drive the increase in area under sorghum 

both for rainy and post-rainy season sorghum. 

• The findings of the consumption analysis indicate that post-rainy season sorghum forms the staple food 

commodity in rural areas of HOPE project clusters and consumption is more prominent in Marathwada 

region compared to Western Maharashtra region. Color and size are the two most important quality 

attributes preferred by consumers for sorghum grain while smoothness and texture are two important 

quality attributes for sorghum flour. 

• Regional consumption analysis of sorghum and millet by disaggregating the consumption data at 

regional level has shown that they are still important in the consumption basket. 

Policy Implications 

• To stimulate market demand through post-harvest processing and value addition. 

• Create awareness about the nutrient and other health benefits of sorghum and millet in consumption 

basket. 

• Provide investment options/credit facility for post-harvest processing and value addition of sorghum 

and millet at farm level 

• Options for development and promotion of village level agro enterprise/small scale entrepreneurs 

which will aid to stimulate demand through value addition and processing of sorghum and millet 

[RP MIP] 




Impacts of Innovations on Livelihoods in sub Saharan Africa 

Countries Involved: Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya and Ethiopia 


Tanzania 

- adoption rates of improved sorghum varieties are low 

- sorghum is mostly used for home consumption and thus competing with maize 

- brewing industry and P4P have an interest in sorghum 

- small scale processors already use sorghum for flour production 

- for finger millet improved varieties are not yet released 

- finger millet is the major cash crop in the survey area 

- small scale processors already use finger millet for flour production 

- demand higher than for sorghum 

- demand is driven by the nutritional value of the two crops 

Uganda and Kenya 

- lack of information about finger millet and sorghum production details will be filled by MSc. thesis 

- finger millet is a more important cash crop than sorghum 

- various processors already use finger millet for flour production 

- the brewing industry has an interest in sorghum 

- on a household level finger millet is consumed more widely than sorghum 

Ethiopia 

- data from the baseline survey is still analysed 

- sorghum is consumed more widely than finger millet 

- processing industry is currently not dealing with these crops 

Policy implication 

- improving seed systems for sorghum and finger millet 

- providing training to farmers in particular in regard to post harvest handling and quality standards 

- allow cross border trade between Tanzania and Kenya 

- promotion of sorghum and finger millet 

99

Future projects/funding requirements 

- HOPE will continue another 1,5 years 

- 2 nd phase is planned 

Constraints 

- too little time to prepare proper reports 

- action phase of HOPE will start in the fourth year and 2 nd phase 

- so far, no problems in implementing ideas 

[RP MIP] 

Output 2.2 – Integrated, sustainably intensified germplasm/management options that elevate the productivity 

and profitability of mandate crops and systems (including crop livestock systems) in smallholder market 

connected contexts 

Bridging the yield Gaps through scaling up of the PR4D: Bhoochetana – A Mission 

Rationale: 

Karnataka state in India has the second largest area under rainfed agriculture after Rajasthan. Crop yields in dry 

land areas are quite low (1-1.5 t ha -1 ) and two to five folds less than the yield from researcher managed plots. 

Rainfed crop yields can be increased substantially through enhanced water use efficiency measures. Based on 

the success of Sujala-ICRISAT initiative, Government of Karnataka initiated a mission mode project named 

“Bhoo Chetana” meaning “reviving the soils” during 2009-10 with a goal to make a difference in the lives of 

farmers (3.6 million families) in 30 districts (3 m ha) in Karnataka through increasing average productivity of 

selected crops by 20% in four years. 

Methodology: 

“Bhoo Chetana” initiative adopted the principle of consortium, convergence, capacity building and collective 

action as proposed by ICRISAT to address the issues of efficiency, economics, equity and environmental 

protection. Consortium partners involved in Bhoochetana are three State Agricultural Universities (UAS, 

Bangalore, Dharwad and Raichur), Watershed Development Department (WDD), Department of economics and 

Statistics (DES), and other line departments of Government of Karnataka, ICRISAT and Department of 

Agriculture as the nodal agency for the mission project. The approach to reach large number of farmers for 

collective action and capacity building is achieved through using the concept of Farm Facilitators and Lead 

Farmers as trainers to train large number of farmers. Bhoochetana mission program is a novel and unique of its 

kind pilot in the country where science-led integrated approach is operatinalized on large scale covering the 

entire state to unlock the potential of agriculture. This is also unique initiative for developing an effective 

alternate extension system by adopting consortium approach for building the capacity of the DoA officials, 

extension agents and farm facilitators which enabled to link knowledge generating institutions with knowledgedisseminating 

line departments using the farm facilitators. The mission program has also adopted and 

operationalized a scientific approach for data recording, data tracking and integrated crop cutting experiments 

into state statistics using Bhoochentana beneficiaries. 

Results: 

A video film for the duration of 30 minutes was produced with the help of DoA staff coordinated by ICRISAT 

with an aim to introduce farmers, policy makers in the newly introduced districts to understand the goal and 

objectives of Bhoochetana and quickly acquaint themselves of the technologies, and the success of these 

technologies from the real beneficiary farmers’ groups of the neighbouring districts, as the video includes 

farmers assessment of the program in enhancing their crops productivity and incomes 

The large geographical area was covered in phases – 6 districts (Kolar, Chikkaballapur, Tumkur, Chitradurga, 

Haveri and Dharwad) in 1 st (2009-10) year, additional 10 districts (Bengaluru Rural, Bidar, Bijapur, 

Chamrajnagar, Davangere, Gadag, Gulberga, Hassan, Raichur, Yadgir) in 2 nd (2010-11) year and more 9 

districts are being covered in 3 rd (2011-12) year. GIS based soil health mapping based on stratified soil sampling 

to diagnose soil related constraints showed wide spread deficiencies of sulfur, zinc and boron scattered 

differently across the districts in addition to the deficiency of nitrogen and phosphorus. So we developed taluk 

level fertilizer recommendations to address soil fertility variability by adopting the principle to recommend full 

dose of a nutrient if deficiency is on >50% farms and half dose of nutrient if deficiency is on

In rainy season 2010-11, Bhoochetana activities were targeted to cover an area of 13.16 lakh hectares with 

improved management to enhance rainfed crop productivity in 16 districts, and achieved a coverage of 12.02 

lakh hectares, which was 91.3% of the target area with four major food grain cereals (finger millet, maize, 

sorghum and pearl millet), four major grain legumes (pigeonpea, green gram, black gram, and cowpea) and four 

major oilseed crops (soybean, sunflower, cotton and groundnut) of Karnataka. 

During 1 st year in 2009-10, groundnut pod yields increased with improved management across all six targeted 

districts in the range of 32% to 41%. Farmers harvested additional 35% to 66% in ragi, 39 to 44% in maize and 

39% soybean yields by adopting improved management. Similarly, during 2010-11, farmers in the state 

harvested increased yields with improved management practice - 33 to 49% in groundnut, 31 to 57% in green 

gram, 26 to 42% in maize, 30 to 49% in finger millet, 24 to 27% in soybean, 21 to 37% in pearl millet, 25 to 

39% in sorghum, 26 to 38% in pigeonpea, 27 to 39% in chickpea and 33 to 42% in rabi sorghum. The cost 

benefit ratio for additional investment particularly on micronutrients in different taluks in Karnataka while 

taking the full cost without any incentive ranged between 1: 1.2 to 14.6 indicating economic viability, rather far 

more profits through the interventions. Agriculture sector in Karnataka during the year 2010-11 showed a 

satisfying growth of 6% achieved on account of implementation of “Bhoo Chetana”. 

Conclusion: 

“Bhoo Chetana” is one of its kind mission initiative in the country designed and planned by ICRISAT which is 

implemented by the Government of Karnataka with the technical support from ICRISAT – led consortium and 

has the potential to become the torch bearer program for the whole SAT to increase on-farm productivity and 

resilience building. 

Source: 

Bhoochetana Annual Reports, 2009-10 & 2010-11, Soil Fertility Atlas of Karnataka 

Suhas P Wani, KV Sarvesh, K Krishnappa, KL Sahrawat, Babu Rao Mudbi, 

Sandeep Dave, Girish Chander, Sudi Raghavendra Rao, K Anantha, 

V Nageswara Rao, G Pardhasaradhi, LS Jangawad, 

Ch Srinivasa Rao and V Rameshwar Rao [RP RDS] 

Sustainable Crop Intensification with Balanced nutrient management: 

Rationale: 

Earlier ICRISAT works have shown serious nutrient mining in SAT soils and increasing sulphur, boron and zinc 

deficiencies along with that of nitrogen and phosphorus, which are apparently holding back the realization of 

on-farm productivity potential and increasing vulnerability of SAT agriculture to climate risks. Soil test based 

balanced nutrient management is the technology to address variable soil fertility needs for sustainable crop 

intensification. 

Methodology: 

With this hypothesis, on-farm participatory trials for impact were conducted during post-rainy season, 2010-11 

on implementation of soil test based balanced nutrition in Madhya Pradesh (800 trials) and Rajasthan (1000 

trials) under the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and Sir Ratan Tata Trust projects; and in Andhra Pradesh (50 trials) 

under the NAIP project. The target districts were Raisen, Sagar, Sehore, Shajapur, Vidisha, Rajgarh in Madhya 

Pradesh; Banswara, Bundi, Jhalawar, Tonk, Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan; and Adilabad, Ananthapur, Kadapa, 

Khammam, Mahabubnagar, Nalgonda, Rangareddy and Warangal in Andhra Pradesh. As % nutrient deficiency 

is indicative of nutrient mining, we developed fertilizer recommendations in a way to apply full dose of nutrient 

if deficiency is on >50% farms and half dose of nutrient if deficiency is on

ecorded yields which were at par or even more than the balanced nutrition solely through the use of chemical 

fertilizers. 

The central part of India like in Madhya Pradesh state we have around 2.0 m ha rainy season fallow which 

account for 6.5% of the total area of the state. However, in on-station experiments at ICRISAT, we have found 

that Vertisols can be used to grow short duration rainy season crop by adopting sound land form management. 

Hence, after taking rainy season crop with recommended technology, 27 trials were conducted in Raisen, Sehore 

and Shajapur districts with post rainy wheat and chickpea crops. The data showed increased wheat (15 to 20%) 

and chickpea (22 to 48%) grain yields in plots having landform management and balanced nutrition as 

compared to farmers’ practice of growing only one crop in post-rainy season. 

Similarly, in Jharkhand, productivity could be substantially enhanced through bringing vast rice fallow areas 

under cultivation with simple technology of seed priming which is well evaluated and standardized by 

ICRISAT. The farmer participatory trials were conducted during post-rainy season 2010-11 with KAK-2, 

ICCV-2 varieties of chickpea in Gumla district in Jharkhand and similar trials were conducted in Saraikela- 

Kharsaw district with KAK-2, ICCV-2 and JG-11 varieties of chickpea. The chickpea varieties were sown under 

residual soil moisture of rice fields with seed priming technique using Rhizobium culture and sodium molybdate 

solution. The results also clearly demonstrated substantial increase in the productivity in Jharkhand by 25-40% 

over practice of single cropping. Farmers have access to market opportunities to sell chickpea as green pod and 

so most of the crop they are selling before ripening and earning good returns with the sale of green pod itself. 

Conclusion: 

The findings demonstrated the benefit of balanced nutrition not only in crop intensification, but in sustainability 

of yield benefits also and thus building production system resilience. The recycling of farm wastes into 

vermicompost and its use in crop production offers opportunities to cut cost of balanced nutrition and get even 

better yields. The study prove very precisely that seed priming along with suitable chickpea cultivars is a suited 

technology to take crop in rice fallows leading to sustained intensification, linking to markets and resilience 

building. 

Source: 

SDTT, SRTT Annual (2010-11) & Half Yearly (2011) reports; IFAD-NAIP completion report; IFAD, 2010-11 report. 

Girish Chander, KL Sahrawat, Suhas P Wani, DK Pal, 

Prasad Kamdi, TP Mathur, CK Pal, G Pardhasaradhi, C Rajesh, 

P Narsimha Rao, SK Desai, JP Sharma, Akhilesh Singh Yadav, 

Amol Gawande, Rajesh Kumar, Deepak Sharma, 

Bacchu Singh Chadhari, Dadan Singh and Rajeev Ranjan [RP RDS] 

Biological Nitrification Inhibition (BNI) for enhancing nitrogen use efficiency 

Rationale: 

Biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) has potential to increase N-use efficiency. Previous study suggested that 

sorghum has considerable capacity of the BNI. Sweet sorghum has a very good potential as an alternative 

feedstock for ethanol production. So clarification of the BNI of sweet sorghum may contribute for the 

diversification options for smallholder farmers in SAT. 

Methodology: 

Experiments were con ducted at ICRISAT to develop methods to clarify and evaluate the BNI in grain sorghum 

and sweet sorghum in fields. Quantify N dynamics in sweet sorghum fields and evaluate quantitatively how and 

how much BNI affects the dynamics. Evaluate of yield responses of sweet sorghums to N applications 

quantitatively. Based on these results, develop a new nitrogen fertilization guideline for sweet sorghum. 


• Proofs of the BNI in sweet sorghum field of Alfisols in the rainy seasons were acquired. Our data suggested 

that the BNI by sweet sorghum is caused by acidification of the rhizosphere soil. 

• A method for estimating populations of soil microorganisms was established. 

• Nitrogen flows in sweet sorghum field in Alfisol were quantified. It turned out that considerable nitrogen 

was lost from the field and ammonia volatilization seemed largest pathway of the loss. 

• Nitrous oxide (N 2 O) emission from the field was quantified. 

102

• It turned that the senescence of sorghums was not affected by the N status within plants, but by some other 

factors. Therefore, a different approach needs to be taken if “stay-green” phenotype to be achieved for 

active photosynthesis even after heading or flowering. 

Source: 

Project report for the annual meeting of the BNY project for FY2010 

T Watanabe, K Ramu, T Kurai and PV Satish [RP RDS] 

Enhance water use efficiency (WUE) of supplemental irrigation in the rainfed production 

systems 

Rationale: 

Water scarcity and low water productivity of production systems are the major problems limiting crop 

production in rainfed systems. A long-term experiment was initiated in BW5 watershed at ICRISAT, Patancheru 

in partnership with Jain Irrigation systems Ltd., (JISL) to enhance the water use efficiency of rainfall and 

supplemental irrigation of cropping systems with adoption of appropriate land, crop and water management 

practices on the Vertisols. 

Methodology: 

The BW5 watershed experiment comprise of two land forms (flat and BBF), two methods of irrigation (flood 

and drip) and two levels of crop management (farmers’ level of soil fertility and optimum level of soil fertility 

management). The cropping system being evaluated is maize (rainy season)-chickpea (post-rainy season)- 

vegetables (summer season). 

Results: 

During 2010, landforms did not affect yield of maize and chickpea. Improved soil fertility increased yield of 

maize by 20% and of chickpea by 12%. Land management x fertility management interaction for chickpea yield 

was significant. During summer season of 2010, drip irrigation increased the yield of okra by 36% and BBF 

system by 17% over the flat landform. Drip irrigation was more effective on BBF than on flat landform and 

increased the yield by 32%. There was no difference between BBF and flat under flood irrigation. 

During 2011, BBF increased the yield of maize by 16% and chick pea by 36% over the flat landform. Maize 

yields were comparatively higher in plots where drip irrigation was given in the summer season to okra whereas 

it has increased yield of chick pea by 10 %. Improved soil fertility management increased the maize yield by 7 

% and chickpea by 29 %. 

Conclusion: 

These results indicate that BBF system, improved soil fertility management and summer cropping are 

contributing towards increasing water use and water use efficiency. These results showed that BBF system 

along with integrated nutrient management and drip irrigation enhanced the productivity and water use 

efficiency of the production systems being evaluated. These results are to be further confirmed in the following 

seasons 

Gajanan Sawargaonkar, Kaushal K Garg, Suhas P Wani, 

PS Soman, E Pavani and R. Velmurugan [RP RDS] 

Regional activities of CCAFS program in West Africa 

Synthesis of research activities 

During year 2011, a number of research activities have been initiated in West Africa to characterize CCAFS’ 

benchmark sites, to collate agricultural trials data with NARS and Universities, to document current status of 

climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts for agriculture in countries, to inventory existing knowledge 

and information re adaptation and mitigation practices, to diagnosis baseline conditions towards the introduction 

of a weather-based insurance scheme to the Lawra farming community in Northern Ghana, to test climate risk 

management tools, as well as tools and methodologies for research on gender and climate change, agriculture, 

food security and rural development. The outputs from these activities will be the basis for the development of 

transformational adaption strategies with low carbon emissions that will contribute improving the adaptive 

capacity of communities and food security. 

103

The participatory action research has been also initiated through partnering with ICRAF Sahel node and 

ICRISAT (center-led activity), the aim being to develop in the five CCAFS benchmark sites, community-based 

climate smart agriculture options that are up-scalable across the sub-region. ICRISAT has also been actively 

involved in the assessment study on the Up-scaling Potential of Mali's Innovative Agrometeorology Advisory 

program, and has also contributed (through bilateral funds) to the participatory identification of climate-proof 

crop varieties for the sahelian zone. 

Training activities have been also undertaken to strengthen the capacity of sub-regional and national experts to 

use relevant research approaches, methodologies and tools for the implementation of CCAFS-related activities 

in the sub-region, including analogue methods, regional breeding strategies, gender-related tools and methods... 

Synthesis of regional engagement activities 

The engagement with sub-regional level partners such as CORAF, AGRHYMET, ACMAD, INSAH, ROPPA, 

has been strengthened through concrete actions implemented collaboratively with CCAFS (e.g. scenario 

workshops, exchange platform between researchers and policy makers) and through their active involvement in 

major international events (International conference on Climate Smart Agriculture, ARDD, COP17-Africa 

pavilion events). Also, through presentations in major regional meetings, CCAFS has been more exposed to 

other potential partners such as IRD, CIRAD, FARA, ENDA-TM, and networks (e.g.: RIPIECSA-AMMA-Net). 

Similarly at country level, CCAFS working partnership with NARS, universities, national met services, NGOs, 

has been reinforced through the implementation by them of diverse research activities as listed in the above 

synthesis. A regional team of scientists for the development of GHG quantification methods has been 

established and benefits from the support of CGIAR scientists (ICRAF and ICRISAT). The regional team 

scientists will share experiences from their own research and with the global level technical working group on 

agricultural greenhouse gases. It is envisaged to link-up this scientific team with a technical team composed of 

representatives from national departments and institutions in charge of Agricultural, Environmental and Food 

security policy orientation (e.g. EPA-Ghana, CNEDD-Niger, CONEDD-SP/CPSA, SE/CNSA-Burkina Faso, 

AEDD-Mali, CSE-Senegal, NAPAs, UNFCCC focal points). This technical group will be regularly up-dated by 

the regional quantification team on existing approaches and tools that could be used to define intervention 

priorities at country level in order to inform decision making. 

In addition to the above mentioned stakeholders, civil society and private sector are also engaged with CCAFS 

through the process of regional development scenarios where diverse stakeholders discuss and develop plausible 

future development scenarios for the sub-region. 

Robert Zougmoré [RP RDS] 

Effect of Zn fertilization quantified over two years at multiple sites, and data available in a data base (Y3, 

Y4) (Mar 2012, 2013) 

Rationale: 

According to (Black et al. 2008) nearly 500,000 children under 5 years of age die annually because of Zn and Fe 

deficiencies. In countries with a high incidence of micronutrient deficiencies, cereal-based foods represent the 

largest proportion of the daily diet (Cakmak 2008). Which means that these crops are inherently very low in 

grain Zn concentrations, and growing them on potentially Zn-deficient soils further reduces its concentration in 

grain (Cakmak et al. 2010). Thus, biofortification of cereal crops with Zn is a high-priority global issue. 

Methodology: 

One local land race and one ICRISAT improved millet varieties were grown under 10 options of nutrient 

management at two sites in Niger, and two sorghum varieties in Mali and Nigeria in a split plot design in 4 

replications. The main plots are the nutrient management options. Leaf application was the method used for 

Sulfate Zn, Agrolyser and Boot Extra. Crop production was evaluated in addition to grain and stover nutrient 

content 


Treatment effect on grain yield. 

Grain yield was affected by the options of nutrients managements. However NPK alone or combined with 

Sulfate Zn or Boost extra has very high effect (Figure 1). The application of 2.5 kg.ha -1 of sulfate Zinc has 

similar effect as 5 kg ha -1 . The combination of NPK and Agrolyser resulted in a lower yield like Agrolyser and 

Boot extra are applied alone. This is an indication that those fertilizer are meant for grain quality improvement 

but not necessarily for yield increase. Further analysis of the grain samples will allow understanding how they 

104

would affect the quality of the grain. There was no effect of variety on the performance of the crop. No 

statistically significant differences were observed between the treatments in terms of stover production also. 

14 00 

12 00 

10 00 

800 

600 

400 

200 

0 

Control NPK NPK + 

Agrolyser 

NPK + 

Boost 

Extra 

NPK + 

ZnSO4 

2.5 kg/ha 

NPK + 

ZnSO4 5 

kg/ha 

ZnSO4 ZnSO4 5 

2.5 kg/ha kg/ha 

Boost 

Extra 

Agrolyser 

Figure 1: Effect of nutrient management on millet grain yield. Sadore 2011 

Conclusion: 

These preliminary results show that we can increase millet grain yield through foliar application of sulfate Zn. 

For the sake of improving fertilizer use, it would be advisable to apply 2.5 kg/ha 

Source: 

HOPE project annual report for 2011. 

Dougbedji Fatondji [RP RDS] 

Optimizing livelihood and environmental benefits from crop residues in smallholder crop-livestock 

systems in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia: regional case studies 

Rationale: 

Mixed crop livestock systems are very dynamic and are evolving rapidly in response to external drivers such as 

demographic pressure, development of urban markets and increased demand for crop and livestock products, 

climate variability and change. This study aims at better understanding the tradeoffs in crop residue uses in 

cereal based systems in four regions: millet, sorghum, maize based systems in West Africa, maize based systems 

in Eastern and Southern Africa (SSA); and wheat/rice based systems in South Asia (SA). 

Methodology: 

The study was implemented in 11 sites across eight countries in four (sub)tropical regions and targeted sites 

with different agro-ecologies, intensification levels and market accessibility to cover some of the diversity of 

mixed farming systems in SSA and SA. The regions involved were Eastern Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya), Southern 

Africa (Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe), Western Africa (Niger) and SA (Bangladesh and India). In Ethiopia, 

India and Niger, two contrasting sites were selected, while one site was selected in each of the other countries. 

In each site, one or two main regional markets were selected, around which a set of 4-8 villages was selected 

according to distance to the selected markets and major roads. 

In southern Africa the study was implemented in Mzimba district (northern Malawi), Nkayi district (southeast 

Zimbabwe) and Changara district (central Mozambique). The same research tools were applied as across all 

sites. Quantitative village surveys were conducted in 2010 and early 2011 in all villages (n=24) for better 

understanding local context, land use and crop residue utilization. About 30 farmers of different age, gender, 

land and livestock ownership participated in the discussions. The household surveys were conducted during the 

same time. Households were randomly selected across all villages stratified by four wealth categories, derived 

from preceding village census lists (n=480). 

105


Results from the global study show that although high density sites (Bangladesh, India, Kenya) face higher 

potential pressure on resources on an area basis, biomass production tends to be more substantial in these sites 

covering demands for livestock feed and allowing part of the residues to be used as mulch. In medium-density 

sites (Ethiopia, India), although population and livestock densities are relatively lower, biomass is scarce and 

pressure on land and feed are high, increasing the pressure on crop residues and their opportunity cost as mulch. 

In low-density areas (all sites in southern and West Africa), population and livestock densities are relatively low 

and communal feed and fuel resources exist, resulting in lower potential pressure on residues on an area basis. 

Yet, biomass production is low and farmers largely rely on crop residues to feed livestock during the long dry 

season, implying substantial opportunity costs to their use as mulch. Despite its potential benefit for smallholder 

farmers across the density gradient, the introduction of CA-based mulching practices appears potentially easier 

in sites where biomass production is high enough to fulfill existing demands for feed and fuel. In sites with 

relatively high feed and fuel pressure, the eventual introduction of CA needs complementary R&D efforts to 

increase biomass production and/or develop alternative sources to alleviate the opportunity costs of leaving 

some crop residues as mulch. The study thereby highlights the important complementary role of agricultural 

intensification 1. the intensification gradient helps better target and adapt CA-based mulching interventions; 2. 

intensification enables the introduction of CA-based mulching practices. 

The regional study in southern Africa clearly illustrates that mixed crop-livestock systems in the semi-arid areas 

are a function of the interplay between agro-ecological conditions, human population densities, local and 

national drivers: Northern Malawi has relatively high rainfall, high human population density and policies 

promoting input subsidies for crop production. Farmers invest substantially in crop production, but greater 

integration of livestock in farming systems could be a major opportunity and help to reduce current high levels 

of imports of livestock products. In southwest Zimbabwe livestock densities are higher despite lower rainfall 

and limited support to agricultural production. Crop-livestock is more integrated, but is constrained by feed 

deficits and non-functional input and output markets. Central Mozambique in southern Tete province is the most 

extensive case, with a focus on livestock production but frequent food and feed shortages. Basic infrastructure 

and services are lacking. Development programs should take recognizance of mixed farming systems in the 

context of the local and national drivers, and align interventions with those factors as well as with farmers’ 

aspirations and resource endowments. They should strengthen the growth potential in livestock at sites like in 

Zimbabwe and Mozambique; markets need to be improved to enhance impact; interventions in Malawi can learn 

from this. Increases in both crop and crop residue production to feed livestock are needed in these countries for 

successful intensification and to promote food security. The Malawian case shows that investment in 

agricultural inputs pays off; government support can kick-start this. Livestock production and market 

development can lead to greater crop-livestock integration and cross-subsidization, sustainable intensification. 

Sabine Homann [RP RDS] 

The effect of fertilization of millet crop with different sources of Zinc on grain yield and quality 

Rationale: 

Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient, but its deficiencies and that of other micro-nutrients a growing public 

health and socioeconomic issue, particularly in the developing world. Zinc deficiency appears to be the most 

widespread and frequent micronutrient deficiency problem in crops worldwide. Zinc is an essential 

micronutrient needed not only by people but also by crops. The bio-fortification of cereal crops with Zn is a 

high-priority global issue. 

Methodology: 

A trial was conducted to study, the performance of millet crop in terms of grain yield and quality when planted 

with different source of nutrients when combined with Zn fertilizer. The experiment was conducted at two 

locations each in Niger (Sadore and Maradi), Nigeria (Gumel and Minjibir) and Mali (Samako). Four sources of 

mineral nutrients were tested: NPK 15-15-15, Boost Extra, Agrolyser and Zinc sulfate. Two millet varieties: 

Niger (Local variety, SOSAT and/or ICMV IS 89305 (depending of the site)); Nigeria (SOSAT and Ex-Borno). 

The experimental design was a split-plot design with 4 replications. Fertilizer treatments were the main plot and 

millet varieties the sub-plot. Sub-plot size was 6 lines of 4 m. Row to row distance were 75 cm. Data collection 

included soil samples, plant samples, agronomic and physiological data. 


Preliminary analysis indicated a significant effect of the fertilizer treatments on growth and yield of grain and 

stalk of the millet varieties. 

Hakeem Ajeigbe [RP RDS] 

106

Milestone 

Germplasm/management options that can result in up to a 20% increase in on-farm productivity and/or doubling 

of profitability of target crop system fully tested by 10% of the smallholder farmers in Asia, ESA and WCA 

i) Enhancing chickpea production for drought tolerance by using marker assisted backcrossing 

(MABC) approach 

Rationale: 

Analysis of phenotypic and genotypic data of the ICC 4958 × ICC 1882, ICC 283 × ICC 8261 populations led to 

the identification of a ‘hotspot’ harbored several QTL for root-related traits contributed >30% of phenotypic 

variation on LG5. This genomic region is therefore being introgressed into elite cultivars to enhance the drought 

tolerance in chickpea. 

Methodology: 

Three chickpea cultivars (a) ICCV 92318 (kabuli type), released as Chefe in Ethiopia and as Hawata in Sudan 

and performing well in Kenya and Tanzania; (b) ICCV 92311 (kabuli type), released as KAK 2 in India and 

performing well in Kenya and Tanzania; and (c) ICCV 93954 (desi type), released as JG 11 in India and 

expected to perform well in SSA were selected for introgression of drought avoidance root trait QTL through 

marker assisted backcrossing (MABC). Two SSR markers (TAA170 and ICCM0249) and six AFLP primer 

combinations were used for foreground and background selection for selecting heterozygous and homozygous 

plants with higher recurrent parent genome recovery in different generations of backcrossing and selfing. Root 

screening of introgression lines was done under rainout shelter (ROS) for assessing root traits using cylinder 

culture technique. 


With an aim of introgressing root traits for drought tolerance in farmer preferred cultivars through MABC, two 

genotypes ICC 8261 and ICC 4958 were chosen as donor parents based on their high performance for root 

length density and drought tolerance. The following three crosses (ICCV 92318 × ICC 8261; ICCV 92311 × 

ICC 8261; ICCV 93954 × ICC 4958) were made during crop season 2005/06. F 1 s from these crosses were 

grown in field during the crop season in 2006/2007 and were backcrossed to the recurrent parent. For initiating 

foreground selection, root trait phenotyping data and SSR genotyping data obtained from intraspecific mapping 

population ICC 4958 × ICC 1882, a hotspot harboring several root trait QTLs with about 30% phenotypic 

variation have been identified on LG 5, with flanking markers TAA 170 and ICCM 0249. Genomic region 

bracketed by SSR markers (TAA 170 and ICCM 0249) has been used to select heterozygote plants carrying 

drought resistance gene for foreground selection, while 6 AFLP primer combinations were used to select the 

plants with higher genome recovery of the recurrent parent for background selection. After completing three 

cycles of MABC 2008 and 2009 and three cycles of selfing in 2010 and 2011 at present 22 BC 3 F 4 progenies 

from JG11× ICC 4958 cross are being evaluated for their agronomic performance under rainfed and irrigated 

conditions in India, Kenya, Ethiopia and Tanzania. The root evolution studies of several BC 3 F 3 lines showed 

superior drought tolerance related traits as compared to JG11. The other two populations (ICCV 92318 × ICC 

8161 and ICCV 92311 × ICC 8261) BC 3 F 4 progenies are being planted in the crop season 2011 for seed 

multiplication. 

Conclusions: 

MABC has provided BC 3 F 4 progenies for JG11 cross are being evaluated for their agronomic performance 

under rainfed and irrigated conditions in India, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. 

PM Gaur, SK Chamarthi, L Krishnamurthy, P Kimurto (Egerton Uni), 

A Fikre (EIAR) and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

ii) Enhancing chickpea production for disease resistance by using marker assisted backcrossing 

(MABC) approach 

Rationale: 

Genetic linkage maps and molecular markers associated with QTL/gene for resistance to FW and AB diseases 

have become available in public domain (Varshney et al. 2010, Plant Breed Rev 33: 257-304; Singh et al. 2008, 

Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev 25: 27-314). They have not been utilized in chickpea breeding so far. The present 

study was aimed to validate and deploy these markers into breeding with an objective to develop cultivars with 

enhanced resistance to FW and AB. 

Methodology: 

C 214 an elite cultivar, previously popular variety in Punjab, which has now become susceptible to FW and AB, 

has been selected as a recurrent parent to be improved for resistance to both the (FW and AB) diseases. WR 315 

107

as a donor for resistance to FW race 1 (foc 1) & 3 (foc 3) and ILC 3279 as a donor for resistance to AB were 

chosen based on their disease reaction and their earlier mapping studies (Sharma et al. 2004, Theor Appl Genet 

108: 1243-1248; Sharma and Muehlbauer 2005, International Food Legume Research Conference-IV, IARI, 

New Delhi, 18-22; Udupa and Baum 2003, Theor Appl Genet 106:1196-1202; Iruela et al. 2006, Theor Appl 

Genet 112:278-287; Iruela et al. 2007, Theor Appl Genet 119:29-37). SSR markers have been used for 

foreground and background selection for selecting heterozygous and homozygous plants with high recurrent 

parent genome recovery in different generations of backcrossing and selfing. 


With an aim of pyramiding FW and AB resistance in farmer preferred cultivars C 214 through MABC, two 

genotypes WR 315 and ILC 3279 were chosen as donor parents based on their high performance. The following 

two crosses C 214 (FWS) × WR315 (FWR) and C 214 (ABS) × ILC 3279 (ABR) were made during crop season 

2009 to generate F 1 s. F 1 s from these crosses were grown in off-season in April 2010 and were backcrossed to 

the recurrent parent. For initiating foreground selection, SSR markers TR19, TAA60, TA194, GA16, TS82 and 

TA110 for FW; and TR58, TA194, TS82, GA16, TA130, TA2, GAA47 and SCY17 for AB resistance have 

been used as foreground markers to select heterozygous and homozygous plants. Background selection was 

performed with 30 to 46 SSR markers for selecting plants with higher recurrent parent genome. After 

completing three cycles of backcrossing (BC 1 F 1 , BC 2 F 1 and BC 3 F 1 ) and two cycles of selfing (BC 3 F 2 , BC 3 F 3 ), 

22 BC 3 F 3 progenies for FW and 4 BC 3 F 3 progenies for AB resistance are being screened in wilt sick plots. 

Conclusions: 

MABC has provided BC 3 F 3 homozygous lines for FW and AB for C 214 are being screened in wilt sick plots. 

PM Gaur, SK Chamarthi, SM Mohan, M Sharma, S Pande, N Swapna, 

T Vinay, S Singh (PAU) and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

iii) Evaluation and promotion of improved pulse production (PVS, IDM, IPM, and INM) technologies 

for the management of legumes diseases in chickpea rainfed rice fallow lands of Chhattisgarh, 

Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand 

Rationale: 

To enhance chickpea production in Rainfed Rice Fallow Lands (RRFL) of Chhattisgarh (CG) and Madhya 

Pradesh (MP) and Jharkhand (JKD) states of India, it is imperative to evaluate and promote management 

techniques following Improved Pulse Production and Protection Technologies (IPPPT). 

Methodology: 

Three on-farm activities IPPPT, PVS and VLSS were conducted in the 4 target districts in MP (Jabalpur, Rewa, 

Satna and Damoh), 4 districts in CG (Raipur, Durg, Rajnandgaon and Kabirdham) (CG) and 2 districts (Ranchi 

and Palamau) in JKD. Total 1976 IPPPT, 14 PVS and 27 VLSS demonstrations were conducted in MP and CG 

and 1271 IPPPT, 4 PVS and 2 VLSS in JKD. Site specific components of IPPPT such as seeds of improved 

cultivars, seed treatment with fungicides (Thiram, Bavistin) and Rhizobium, fertilizer application, line sowing 

following locally available seed cum fertilizer drill and or local adopted methods were used in establishing the 

trials. Participatory monitoring of IPPPT interventions during the critical crop growth stages was organized in 

each village to identify and share the observations, constraints and perception of the pilot farmers with nonparticipating 

farmers. 

Result and discussion: 

PVS: Chickpea variety Vijay was the highest yielder (1.34 t ha -1 ) across locations in CG. JG 16 was the highest 

yielder (1.12 t ha -1 ) across locations in MP. Farmers preferred Birsa chana-3 followed by KWR 108 and KPG 59 

in all the targeted blocks in JKD. 

IPPPT: Total 1976 IPPPT on-farm demonstrations [CG (984) and MP (992)] were successfully conducted for 

seed yield and individual household seed systems. Mean yield of chickpea cultivar JG 74 and JG 11 were 0.81 t 

ha -1 and 0.88 t ha -1 in CG. Among the three improved varieties (JG 130, JG 16 and JG 74) evaluated in MP; JG 

16 gave grain yield of 1.71 t ha -1 . The mean grain yield across chickpea varieties and locations was 1.30 t ha -1 in 

MP. In JKD, out of 1271, 855 demonstrations were successfully harvested. Mean yield of KPG 59 was 0.90 t ha - 

1 

across locations and villages in Ranchi. The mean grain yield of KAK 2 in Palamau district was 0.81 t ha -1 . 

The mean yield of linseed cultivar (T 397), Mustard (Shivani), field pea (Prakash) were 0.89 t ha -1 of 0.41 t ha -1 

and 0.81 t ha -1 respectively in Ranchi district. 

VLSS: A total of 27 VLSS seed multiplication demonstrations [CG (9) and MP (18)] were conducted and 39.47 

t of seeds of farmers preferred varieties [Vaibhav (9.91 t), JG 130 (9.38 t), JG 315 (5.88 t), JG 11 (7.10 t) and 

108

Vijay (7.20 t)] were obtained. In addition to seeds stored from VLSS, 166.85 tons of seeds [CG= 63.91 t and 

MP= 10294 t] were stored by farmers in CG and MP from IPPPT demonstrations (20% individual household 

level). In JKD, total 15.95 t seeds of chickpea, 0.12 t of linseed, 1.65 t mustard and 1.0 t of field pea were stored 

by farmers from VLSS and IPPPT. 

Conclusions: 

The IPPPT technology for enhancing the chickpea and other crops production in RRFL was highly profitable 

and preferred by farmers. 


iv) Breeding groundnuts for confectionary traits 

Rationale: 

Breeding groundnut genotypes for confectionary traits like large seeds that have high value in the market will 

increase profitability to the farmers. 

Methodology: 

Conventional breeding approaches are adopted. To develop and study mapping populations for confectionary 

traits (seed weight and kernel protein content) to understand genetic basis of these traits for better use in 

breeding. 


Six new crosses were made during 2011 rainy season; the new parents were ICG 6767 and ICG 1706. In 2010- 

11, 20 new crosses were made. In 2010 rainy season, 369 F 2 -F 11 bulks and 114 single plants were selected from 

260 bulks and 220 plant progenies. From these 415 bulks and 69 single plants were selected in 2010-11 

postrainy season. 127 advanced breeding lines were evaluated in the 2010 rainy and 2010-11 postrainy seasons. 

During 2011 rainy season 173 entries were evaluated. New crosses for mapping populations were made. 

2010 rainy season: In Elite Trials ICGV 08052 (2.5 t ha -1 , 60% shelling outturn, 51 g 100-seed weight -1 ) was 

better over check among Spanish types and in Virginia group, ICGV 08134 (2.1t ha -1 , 61 % shelling outturn, 55 

g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 08125 (2.1t ha -1 , 61 % shelling outturn, 60 g 100-seed weight -1 ) were better over 

best check. In Advanced Trials ICGV 09191 (1.6 t ha -1 , 57% shelling outturn, 47 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and 

ICGV 09194 (1.4 t ha -1 , 58% shelling outturn, 43 g 100-seed weight -1 ) were better over check among Spanish 

group and in Virginia, ICGV 09221 (2.3t ha -1 , 62 % shelling outturn, 54 g 100-seed weight -1 ) was better over 

check. In Preliminary Trials, 10 entries (2.5-3.7±0.22 t ha-1) were significantly superior over the check, TKE 

19A (1.8.0 t ha -1 , 61% shelling outturn, 58 g 100-seed weight -1 ) among Spanish group and in Virginia, three 

entries (3.1-3.6±0.23 t ha -1 ) were superior over check, ICGV 00440 (2.2 t ha -1 , 53% shelling outturn, 60 g 100- 

seed weight -1 ). 

2010-11 postrainy season: In Elite Trial (Spanish) ICGV 08047 (6.3±0.21 t ha -1 pod yield, 70% shelling outturn 

and 77 g 100-seed weight -1 ) was significantly superior over control ICGV 97045 (5.6 t ha -1 pod yield, 71% 

shelling outturn and 100 g 100-seed weight -1 ). Elite Trial (Virginia), ICGV 08086 (6.6 t ha -1 , with 62% shelling 

outturn and 58 g 100-seed weight -1 ) was better over best check ICGV 00440 (6.0 t ha -1 , with 69% shelling 

outturn and 83 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In Advanced Trial (Virginia), ICGV 09223 (5.3 t ha -1 with 70% shelling 

outturn and 103 g 100-seed weight -1 was better over best check ICGV 00440 (5.0 t ha -1 , with 69% shelling 

outturn and 84 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In Advanced Trial (Spanish) ICGV 09196 (6.2±0.58 t ha -1 pod yield, 74% 

shelling outturn and 106 g 100-seed weight -1 ) was significantly superior over best check ICGV 97045 (4.0 t ha -1 

pod yield, 76% shelling outturn and 100 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In Preliminary Trial (Spanish), 8 entries 

outperformed best check TEK19-A (5.5 t ha -1 , with 73% shelling outturn and 82 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In 

Preliminary Trial (Virginia), sixteen test entries (5.8-6.5±0.23 t ha -1 pod yield) were significantly superior over 

best check ICGV 86564 (5.1 t ha -1 pod yield, 75% shelling outturn, and 90 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

2011 rainy season: In Elite Trials, ICGV 09191 (4.5 t ha -1 , 62% shelling outturn, 62 g 100-seed weight -1 ) among 

Spanish group and ICGV 09221 (4.5t ha -1 ; with 69 % shelling outturn and 55 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 

09200 (3.8t ha -1 , 61 % shelling outturn, 48 g 100-seed weight -1 ) among Virginia were found superior over 

check. In Advanced seven Spanish entries (4.7-6.1±0.22 t ha -1 ) were significantly superior over best check TKE 

19A (3.8 t ha -1 , 65% shelling outturn, 47 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and seven Virginia entries (3.9-5.3±0.28 t ha -1 ) 

were significantly superior over best check ICGV 86564 (2.9 t ha -1 , 71% shelling outturn, 59 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

In Preliminary Trial (Spanish), 33 entries outperformed (4.8-7.7 + 0.22 t ha -1 ) over best check TKE 19A (3.7 t 

ha -1 , 69% shelling outturn, 50 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

109

Conclusions: 

From the results of 2010 rainy and 2010-11 postrainy, 186 entries were identified for inclusion in 2011 yield 

trials. One set of international nursery for confectionary traits was shared with BAU, Bihar on request. 5 low oil 

content entries are under multilocation evaluation at 5 locations in 2011 rainy season. Two F 8 generation RIL 

populations of the crosses ICGV 01393 x Chico (678) and ICGV 02251 x Chico (781) are available for seed 

weight. 


v) Breeding groundnut varieties for dual purpose 

Rationale: 

Groundnut haulm fodder is nutritious (8-15% protein and 9-17% minerals) to livestock and the income can be 

substantial from haulm through livestock. It is feasible to simultaneously improve for both, pod yield and haulm 

yield and quality as no inverse relation is observed between them. 

Methodology: 

Conventional breeding methods are adopted and the fodder quality is assessed at ILRI. 


A new program was initiated in 2011 to breed groundnut varieties with superior haulm traits. 10 new crosses 

were attempted. Superior performing elite entries from the groundnut breeding program were evaluated for 

fodder quality traits at ILRI and the best genotypes identified were based on pod and haulm yield and haulm 

quality measured as ndm (haulm nitrogen content in %) and OMD (in vitro organic matter digestibility as %). 

The best genotypes identified were ICGV 02266 (2.3 ndm and 61.23 OMD), ICGV 94361 (2.38 ndm and 62.97 

IMD), ICGV 97182 (2.21 ndm and 62.44 OMD), ICGV-86011 (2.5ndm and 60.9 OMD), ICGV 02290 (2.4 ndm 

and 62.1 OMD), ICGV 97182 (2.2 ndm and 62.4 OMD), ICGV 02022 (2.3 ndm and 62.8 OMD). 

Conclusions: 

Genotypes with high pod and haulm yield and possessing superior haulm quality traits were identified and new 

crossing program was initiated for breeding dual purpose genotypes and derive mapping populations. 

SN Nigam, P Janila and M Blummel [RP GL] 

vi) Breeding for enhanced oil content and oil quality in groundnut 

Rationale: 

The oil content in the currently cultivated groundnut varieties is about 48 per cent even a slight increase in the 

oil content would significantly increase oil yield per unit area, profitability of the oil mills and thus the income 

level of the farmers. The oleic: linoleic acid ratio (O/L ratio) in normal groundnut varieties ranges from 1.0 to 

4.0 while in high O/L mutants (mutations in ahFAD2A and ahFAD2B genes) the ratio can reach up to 35 to 40. 

High O/L ratio of edible oil has both, health benefits and increase shelf life. 

Methodology: 

Conventional methods and marker assisted breeding technologies. Introgression of O/L ratio trait from SunOleic 

95 R through marker assisted backcrossing (MABC) 


150 high yielding elite groundnut genotypes were tested over six seasons (3 rainy and 3 postrainy) during 2008- 

10 for yield potential and oil content at ICRISAT location. Based on their performance a new trial (High/low oil 

content groundnut varietal trial (HLOGVT)) with 52 genotypes were tested at five locations (including 

ICRISAT) along with 12 local checks under rainfed and irrigated conditions during 2011 rainy season. From the 

results obtained at ICRISAT center, four entries outperformed best check ICGV 87846 (3.6 t ha -1 , 60% shelling 

outturn, 39 g 100-seed weight -1 ); they are ICGV 05097 (5.7 t ha -1 , 57% shelling outturn, 29 g 100-seed weight -1 ) 

and ICGV 06139 (4.6 t ha- 1 pod yield, 58% shelling outturn and 25 g 100-seed weight -1 ). Oil content analysis is 

under process. The trial is repeated in 2011-12 postrainy season at five locations under irrigated and imposed stress. 

For genetic studies and mapping of oil content, populations were developed from the crosses, ICGV 07368 x 

ICGV 06420 and ICGV 06110 x ICGV 07023 and their reciprocals. For mapping of high oil content, F 1 plants 

were raised in glasshouse (true F1s identified by both morphological traits and markers) and parental 

polymorphism studies were completed. An experiment to study the effect of high oil content on viability and 

vigour of groundnut seed upon storage was initiated in 2011 with 64 genotypes of HLOGVT trial and 4 other 

110

genotypes. Initial results indicate significant differences in seedling vigour among the genotypes. 21 new 

crosses were made with SunOleic 95R as donor parent and elite high oil lines as recurrent parents. Parental 

polymorphisms studies were completed. PCR-based markers for FAD 2 alleles (high O/L ratio) in A and B 

genomes of cultivated groundnut were found to be suitable for MAS and they will be used to follow the mutant 

alleles in segregating generations. 

Conclusions: 

Multilocation testing of 52 high/low oil genotypes in five locations for local adaptation for 2011 rainy season is 

completed and the nest season testing is under progress, based on the results of these two seasons locally 

adapted genotypes will be advanced to farmers participatory varietal selection (FPVS). Near infrared 

spectroscopy (NIRS) was ordered for rapid, single seed, non-destructive estimation of oil content in segregating 

generations for advancement. 

SN Nigam, P Janila and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

vii) Breeding for high iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) content in groundnut 

Rationale: 

Magnitude of Fe and Zn deficiency is alarming among the children and women. Crops with high Fe and Zn can 

complement the efforts underway to provide fortified foods to the vulnerable groups and biofortification is the 

most cost effective and sustainable solution. Groundnut is rich in several micronutrients and with elevated levels 

of Fe and Zn it will become a multi-micronutrient rich crop. 

Methodology: 

Conventional breeding methods are used. The Fe and Zn content are estimated using triacid digestion method. 

Develop mapping populations for Fe and Zn content to understand genetics for use in breeding. 


Fifty seven elite lines along with seven checks were evaluated for yield and kernel Fe and Zn in rainy 2010 

(under irrigated and rainfed conditions) and postrainy 2010-11 (irrigated and imposed stress). High yielding 

genotypes with high Fe and Zn content were identified based on the results over five seasons, they include, 

ICGV 06099 (60 ppm Fe and 81 ppm Zn), ICGV 06040 (58 ppm Fe and 79 ppm Zn), ICGV 04149 (53 ppm Fe 

and 70 ppm Zn), ICGV 86699 (53 ppm Fe and 70 ppm Zn), and ICGV 07220 (50 ppm Fe and 70 ppm Zn).Two 

crosses were made to develop mapping populations for Fe and Zn content during 2011-12 postrainy season. 

2010 rainy season: Under irrigated condition three entries were superior over check TAG 24 (5.2 t ha -1 with 

64% shelling outturn, 32 g 100-seed weight -1 , oil content 51%, protein 19%, 52 ppm Fe 55 ppm Zn); top entry 

was ICGV 06040 (5.3 t ha -1 with 67% shelling outturn, 49 g 100-seed weight -1 , oil content 57%, protein 23%, 51 

ppm Fe and 65 ppm Zn). Under rainfed condition fifteen entries were found superior over check JL 24 (4.7 t ha -1 

with 57% shelling outturn, 32 g 100-seed weight -1 , oil content 53%, protein 18%, 46 ppm Fe and 63 ppm Zn); 

top entry with was ICGV 86590 (6.0 t ha -1 with 67% shelling outturn, 41 g v, oil content 52%, protein 20%, 46 

ppm Fe and 58 ppm Zn). 

2010-11 postrainy season: Under irrigated condition, ICGV 00440 performed well over check for all traits (8.3 t 

ha -1 , 52% shelling outturn, 65 g 100-seed weight -1 , oil content 48%, protein 28%, 55 ppm Fe and 72 ppm Zn). 

Under imposed stress, ICGV 06040 performed well over check for all traits (3.3 t ha -1 , 38% shelling outturn, 38 

g 100-seed weight -1 , oil content 47%, protein 30%, 57 ppm Fe and 84 ppm Zn). 

Conclusions: 

Among 64 improved genotypes tested over five seasons (3 rainy and 2 postrainy) at ICRISAT Center, a large 

variation was observed for both Fe (3.6-6.9 mg/100g) and Zn (4.5-9.3 mg/100g). ICGV 06040 and ICGV 06099 

were found to be the best genotypes with yield potential and possessing high Fe and Zn content. 


viii) Molecular breeding for enhancing rust resistance in elite varieties of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) 

Rationale: 

Rust, caused by Puccinia arachidis, is widespread in most of the tropical countries and severely affects the crop 

productivity and quality of the groundnut seed/oil. Despite the fact that several fungicides are available to 

control, host-plant resistance is considered as the best approach to manage this disease and to overcome 

hazardous effect of fungicides. Furthermore, since the trait is governed by recessive genes, use of tightly linked 

markers will enhance precision in selection of the trait as well as shorten the breeding duration. 

111

Methodology: 

The linked markers to rust resistance were validated in a set of germplasm and one RIL population. A typical 

marker-assisted backcrossing (MABC) scheme was deployed for introgression of QTL controlling rust 

resistance from donor (GPBD 4) to three elite recipient parents (TAG 24, JL 24 and ICGV 91114). Foreground 

markers were used for selecting heterozygous and homozygous plants in different generations of backcrossing 

and selfing. Disease screening of introgression lines was done under artificial disease epiphytotics rust 

resistance using “spreader row technique”. 


Using a mapping population derived from the cross TAG 24 × GPBD 4 (RIL-1), a major QTL (QTL rust 01) 

associated with tightly linked SSR markers (IPAHM103, GM2079, GM2301, GM1536) contributing upto 

82.96% phenotypic variation was identified. After validating these markers in germplasm as well as another 

mapping population (TG 26 × GPBD 4), molecular breeding has been initiated in three elite groundnut varieties 

namely ICGV 91114, JL 24 and TAG 24 for enhancing rust resistance. GPBD 4, highly resistant cultivar, has 

been used as a donor in transferring rust resistance through marker-assisted backcrossing (MABC). Linked 

markers (IPAHM103, GM2079, GM2301 and GM1536) were used to select heterozygous plants during F 1 , 

BC 1 F 1 , BC 2 F 1 and BC 3 F 1 and homozygous plants during BC 2 F 2 and BC 3 F 2 generations. As a result, 76 BC 3 F 2 

and 158 BC 2 F 3 homozygous lines have been generated and initial screening of these lines for rust has identified 

several promising lines that showed remarkable reduction in disease spread. 

Conclusions: 

Initial screening of introgression lines has proved the worth of QTL by enhancing rust resistance in the genetic 

background of three elite cultivars. Further selection and multiplication of seeds from the selected introgression 

lines will be undertaken in next season to identify the most promising lines with enhanced resistance to rust. 

SN Nigam, MK Pandey, P Janila, MVC Gowda (UAS-D) and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

ix) Nucleus/Breeder seed of farmer preferred varieties and hybrid of ICRISAT advanced breeding lines 

released to partner countries through NARES and member seed companies to sustain the 

requirements of smallholder farmers 

Rationale: 

Nucleus/breeder seeds of farmer preferred varieties and hybrids were produced and maintained to sustain 

requirements of partner NARES countries, member seed companies, and farmers. 

Methodology: 

High yielding varieties and hybrids were selected, distributed and produced at identified farmers’ fields and 

research institutions. 


Variety re-constitution program: The following lines of early and medium duration pigeonpea were selected for 

variety re-constitution: (Maruti, Asha, Laksmi, ICP 7035, ICP 8094, ICP 13092, ICPL 20116, ICP 20092, ICPL 

87051, ICPL 96053, ICPL 96058, ICPL 88039, Kanchan, MN 1, MN 5, MN8, ICPL 87, ICPL 87091, and ICPL 

92016). The plants were selfed and progeny row evaluations were done during 2011-2012 cropping season. 

Plants were evaluated for disease resistance under field and glass house conditions. Single plant progenies of 

these selected plants were evaluated during 2011-2012 cropping season. A total 0.5 ha with 16 early maturing 

varieties was re-constituted with a total harvest of 250 kg. Medium duration varieties sown in 0.5 ha will be 

harvested on March 2012. 

Seed production program: During 2011, a total of 500 kg breeder seed of early duration variety (ICPL 88039), 

600 kg of Maruti and 54 kg of Laksmi were harvested on-station to sustain production chain of NARES 

partners. Asha and Kamica together with hybrid seeds will be harvested till early of March 2012. Aside from 

breeder seed multiplication, ten ha of on-farm large-scale seed production of Asha and Maruti, Laksmi, ICP 

7035, ICPL 88039 varieties and ICPH 2671 and 2740 hybrids and their parents were sown at farmers field. In 

addition, breeder seed multiplication and production was also implemented by KVK Nawarangapur, Orissa to 

sustain seed production requirement of the Orissa pigeonpea project. Also 100 kg of Asha and 100 kg of Maruti 

were provided by ICRISAT. 

Conclusions: 

Seed production program at farmers’ fields (rainfed areas) during the 2011 was not as good as anticipated due to 

very low rainfall with prolonged drought. The annual rainfall registered in 2011 such in the case of Orissa and 

112

Andhra Pradesh was well below the normal rainfall. Supposedly, in Orissa and Andhra Pradesh, the normal 

annual rainfall is around 1,200 mm and 800 mm, respectively. However in 2011 cropping season, the registered 

rainfall was below 540 mm for both states. But in seed production areas with irrigation facilities, yield of 

selected varieties and hybrids showed promising results. 

KB Saxena and MG Mula [RP GL] 

x) Screening groundnut for insect-pests 

Rationale: 

ICRISAT has large collection of groundnut germplasm and elite breeding material that need to be screened 

against biotic stresses such as insect pests and diseases before they reach multi-location testing. Among various 

biotic constraints defoliators and bud necrosis disease are recognized economically important throughout Asia. 

Identifying the resistant sources against the above constraints with suitable agronomic traits is of prime 

importance. 

Methodology: 

Various germplasm lines and different elite breeding material of international trials that were sown at ICRISAT 

farm during both rainy and postrainy seasons were screened against defoliators and BND at peak incidence for 

the above biotic traits. Defoliation was scored using 1-9 scale (where 1= 10% damage and 9= 80-100 % 

damage). The incidence of BND was recorded as % plant infection. 


During postrainy 2010-11 season, eight hundred thirty eight groundnut elite breeding lines (covering 35 trials), 

and five hundred seventy six germplasm lines were evaluated for resistance to bud necrosis disease (BND) and 

insect defoliation under field condition. Among the defoliating insect pests, Spodoptera litura was the most 

significant one with maximum of 40% defoliation and BND was up to 7.5%. During rainy season 2011, three 

hundred four groundnut elite material covering 11 trials and three hundred fifty six germplasm were evaluated 

for the above traits. Incidence of defoliation was up to 30% and BND up to 12.5%. This exercise revealed 

fifteen breeding lines with good levels of resistance for these biotic traits (< 20% defoliation and >2.6% BND) 

during rainy season with superior yield (3.1-5.2 t ha -1 ). Among germplasm eighteen were found superior in 

respect to these traits and yield (1.6-4.7 t ha -1 ). 

GV Range Rao, SN Nigam and HD Upadhyaya [RP GL] 

xi) Strengthening NARES capacity in eco-friendly approach 

Rationale: 

NARES capacity to meet the growing demand for enhancing the productivity to address the food security is 

limited in acquiring technologies and utilize them. Hence human resource development in various fields has 

been considered as the high priority. 

Methodology: 

Selection and training the NARES partners in stipulated time. 


During this year, 60 farmers including 2 women representing Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Madhya 

Pradesh had an opportunity to interact with ICRISAT legume scientists to have hands-on training in groundnut, 

chickpea and pigeonpea varieties and crop management technologies. Besides farmers, 27 researchers also 

attended in-depth training in various integrated crop management activities at ICRISAT. During this year IPM 

team was also involved in organizing on- farm farmers interactions in Karnataka, Odisha and Tamil Nadu 

through farmer days’, field days’ and regular interaction during field visits. 

Conclusions: 

It is an on-going exercise in all outputs. 

GV Ranga Rao, PM Gaur, SN Nigam, KB Saxena, 

S Pande, Mayer Mula and Rosana Mula [RP GL] 

xii) Insect-pest dynamics in relation to abiotic factors 

Rationale: 

113

One of the problems in addressing pest management is inadequate knowledge about the factors influencing pest 

population dynamics. To understand pest dynamics several researchers collect pest surveillance data and related 

agricultural operations and other weather parameters. Correlations between some of these factors and pest 

incidence based on statistical models have been developed. However, a functionally viable model for pest 

forecast is still needed by farmers for efficient and effective pest management. 

Methodology: 

Pest surveillance data collected at ICRISAT on key pests of chickpea, pigeonpea and groundnut during 1991- 

2011 was correlated with daily weather in the farm. 


Historic pest surveillance data of twenty years on key pests of groundnut, chickpea and pigeonpea crops has 

been summarized according to standard week and shared with agro-climatologist for critical analysis. Analysis 

of pheromone trap data over these years during chickpea season (Oct-Mar) indicated large year-to-year variation 

in the Helicoverpa adult population. During 1991-92 highest catch of 3174 adults trap -1 season -1 was recorded 

against lowest of 371 during 2010-11. Though a cyclic variation was observed, overall a significant decline in 

population was noticed in the past 20 years. Trends in weather parameters of corresponding period were not 

observed. Hence further analysis relating Helicoverpa adult population in relation to other biological parameters 

such as egg, larva with daily and overlapping period weather data is considered for further analysis. 

GV Ranga Rao and AVR Kesev Rao [RP GL] 

xiii) Enhancing the pollinator activity for better seed production 

Rationale: 

As pigeonpea hybrids are becoming popular across the country, the issue of pure parent material due to 

outcrossing in nature is posing a greater threat to the technology. In order to produce high quality parent material 

for effective hybridization the present research is taken up. 

Methodology: 

Three sowings of both A and B lines (3:1 ratio) of pigeonpea were sown in an area of 0.5 ha at ICRISAT farm 

during rainy season with one week interval starting from 7 th July 2011. Around flower initiation during October 

the crop was covered with 10 feet height net to restrict bee activity (domestic bees) in the experimental area. 

Bee population @ 10 hives ha -1 was used as pollinator in this caged trial. 


This is the second year of the innovative attempt to try domesticated bees Apis mellifera to utilize them as 

pollinators under captivity. During peak pigeonpea flowering time, observations clearly showed presence of 2-3 

bees plant -1 indicating the satisfactory bee activity. In general, the trial of this kind with bees under captivity to 

maintain the purity of parents as well as hybrid has been successfully completed with the harvest of 110 pods 

plant -1 on “A” line, however, the quality of the hybrid and parent material will be evaluated by the breeders. This 

activity will be farther strengthened by evaluating pollinator preference to A& B lines, and their feeding 

behavior. 

GV Ranga Rao, KB Saxena and MI Vales [RP GL] 

xiv) Antagonistic, entomopathogenic and plant growth promoting (PGP) microbes conserved 

Rationale: 

Preserving the cultures to save their potential traits and their life is necessary for future use. 

Methodology: 

The cultures were preserved by lyophilization methods. 


A total of 38 cultures were preserved which includes compost actinomycete isolate (CAI) series: CAI-8, CAI- 

13, CAI-54, CAI-67, CAI-70, CAI-84, CAI-85, CAI-87, CAI-88, CAI-93, CAI-97, CAI-98, CAI-99, CAI-103, 

CAI-104, CAI-106, CAI-132, CAI-133, CAI-134, CAI-140, CAI-155, CAI-159 and CAI-160 (23 cultures); 

Karnataka actinomycete isolates (KAI) series: KAI-35, KAI-161 and KAI-180 (3 cultures); Biocontrol 

actinomycete (BCA) series: BCA-546, BCA-656, BCA-657, BCA-659, BCA-667, BCA-671, BCA-679, BCA- 

687, BCA-689, BCA-690, BCA-696 and BCA-698 (12 cultures). 

S Gopalkrishnan [RP GL] 

114

xv) Potential antagonistic, entomopathogenic and PGP microbes identified 

Rationale: 

Determining genus and species of cultures is important for the correct identification and appropriate use. 

Methodology: 

The cultures were identified by 16S rDNA analysis. In brief, the pure cultures of potential antagonistic or 

entomopathogenic actinomycetes or bacteria were grown in starch casein broth (for actinomycetes) or Luria 

broth (for bacteria) until log phase and genomic DNA was isolated. The amplification of 16S rDNA gene was 

done by using universal primer 1492R (5'-TAC GGY TAC CTT GTT ACG ACT T-3') and 27F (5'- AGA GTT 

TGA TCM TGG CTC AG-3'). The PCR product was sequenced at Macrogen Inc. Seoul, Korea. The sequences 

obtained were compared with those from the GenBank using the BLAST program, aligned using the Clustal W 

software, and phylogenetic trees inferred using the neighbor-joining method in the MEGA version 4 program. 


A total of 29 potential isolates were identified which includes CAI-24 (Streptomyces anulatus), CAI-121 (S. 

setonii), CAI-127, (S. setonii), CAI-17 (S. parvus), CAI-21 (S. albus), CAI-26 (S. champavathi), CAI-78 (S. 

globisporus), KAI-26 (S. sampsonii), KAI-27 (S. koyangensis), KAI-32 (S. tendae), KAI-90 (S. africanus), 

MMA-32 (S. roseoviolaceus), SRI-156 (Pseudomonas plecoglossicida), SRI-158 (Brevibacterium 

aurantiacum), SRI-178 (Bacillus pumilus), SRI-211 (Enterobacter asburiae), SRI-229 (E. agglomerans), SRI- 

305 (Acietobacter johnsonii), SRI-360 (P. monteilii), CAI-13 (S. globispporus strain 13638A), CAI-85 (S. 

griseoruber strain cfcc3080), CAI-87 (S. parvus strain 3151), CAI-93 (S. fungicidicus strain YH04), CAI-97 (S. 

litmocidini strain NRRL B-3635), CAI-132 (S. antibioticus strain 1022-257), CAI-140 (S. coelicolor strain 

WBF-16), CAI-155 (S. analatus strain Malaysia), KAI-35 (S. maritimus) and KAI-161 (S. rochei strain A-1). 


xvi) Actinomycetes characterized for their usefulness 

Rationale: 

The cultures were characterized for their biocontrol and PGP traits in order to understand their usefulness. 

Methodology: 

A total of 48 actinomycetes isolated from various herbal vermicompost and rhizosphere soil samples from 

system of rice intensification [SRI] fields were evaluated for their plant growth promoting and biocontrol traits 

which includes the production for lipase, protease, cellulase, siderophore, P- solubilization, hydrocyanic acid 

[HCN], indole acetic acid [IAA], chitinase, lignin sulfonate and dual culture assay on Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. 

ciceri [FOC; causes wilt in chickpea], Sclerotium rolfsii [collar rot in chickpea, R. bataticola [three strains RB- 

6, 24 and -115; dry root in chickpea], B. cinerea [BGM in chickpea], Macrophomina phaseolina [charcoal rot in 

sorghum], F. prolifieratum [grain mould in sorghum] and F. andiyazii [grain mould in sorghum. 


The 48 isolates studied were as follows: Biocontrol actinomycete [BCA] series: BCA-546, BCA-656, BCA-657, 

BCA-659, BCA-667, BCA-671, BCA-679, BCA-687, BCA-689, BCA-690, BCA-696, BCA-698 (Total 12 

cultures).Compost actinomycete isolates (CAI) series: CAI-8, CAI-13, CAI-17, CAI-24, CAI-54, CAI-67, CAI- 

68, CAI-70, CAI-78, CAI-84, CAI-85, CAI-87, CAI-88, CAI-93, CAI-97, CAI-98, CAI-99, CAI-103, CAI-104, 

CAI-106, CAI-121, CAI-127, CAI-132, CAI-133, CAI-134, CAI-140, CAI-155, CAI-159, CAI-160 (Total 29 

cultures). Karnataka actinomycete isolates (KAI) series: KAI-26, KAI-27, KAI-32, KAI-35, KAI-90, KAI-161, 

KAI-180 (Total 7 cultures). 


xvii) Supply of Rhizobium and other PGP microbes to ICRISAT and NARS scientists 

Rationale: 

The rhizobia and other PGP cultures are supplied to evaluate their usefulness and potential. 

Methodology: 

The pure cultures were quantified and formulated as per the standard protocols and supplied as requested. 

115


Six units of Rhizobium inoculants, ten units of Rhizobium cultures and seven units of actinomycetes were 

supplied to Australia, Uzbekistan, New Delhi and ICIRAT scientists. 


xviii) Metabolite production capability of the promising microbes identified 

Rationale: 

Number of actinomycetes was found to be antagonistic to pathogens of chickpea and sorghum in dual culture 

assay. In order to identify the active ingredients responsible for such inhibition, the metabolite production 

capability of the promising microbes were studied. 

Methodology: 

It was done by evaluating either culture filtrate or solvent partitioning methods. 


a) Ethyl acetate partitioning method: Twenty five actinomycetes were studied which includes: CAI-13, -54, - 

84, 85, -87, -93, -97, -104, -132, -134, -140, -155, KAI-35. KAI-161, CAI-17, 24, -68, -78, -121, -127, KAI-26, 

-27, -32, -90 and -180. The culture filtrates of the actinomycetes were partitioned against ethyl acetate and the 

resultant organic and aqueous phases were evaluated for their antagonistic activity against plant pathogens of 

chickpea and sorghum. Among the 14 actinomycetes the organic phases of twelve (CAI-13, -87, -155, -17, -24, - 

68, -78 and KAI-35, -26, -27, -90 and -180) exhibited a broad spectrum of inhibition. Of the above twelve broad 

spectrum isolates CAI-17 and -87 inhibited six fungal pathogens viz. FOC (causes wilt in chickpea), Sclerotium 

rolfsii (causes collar rot in chickpea), Botrytis cinerea (causes BGM in chickpea), Rhizoctonia bataticola strain- 

6 (causes DRR in chickpea) , R. bataticola-24 and R. bataticola-115. b) Culture filtrate method: Fifteen 

actinomycetes were studied by this method which includes (CAI-8, -67, -70, -98, -133, BCA-546, -657, -659, - 

667, -671, -679, -687, -689, -690 and -698). The culture filtrate of the actinomycete was mixed with starch 

casein agar and evaluated the growth of fungal pathogens in it. If the culture filtrate contained any active 

metabolite it would not support the growth of pathogens. Culture filtrates of all the actinomycetes (except CAI- 

98, -133 and BCA-687) exhibited a broad spectrum of inhibition. Of the 12 broad spectrum actinomycetes four, 

BCA-546, -667, -689 and -690, inhibited all the tested pathogens tested except S. rolfsii. 


xix) Partial purification of the active ingredients responsible for the inhibition of fungal pathogens 

Rationale: 

Isolation and identification of the active ingredients responsible for inhibition of fungal pathogens adds great 

value of the bio-product. 

Methodology: 

Some of the previously isolated potential biocontrol actinomycetes (CAI-21, CAI-26 and MMA-32) were 

evaluated against plant pathogens of chickpea and sorghum and H. armigera. Fractionation was done using 

solvent partitioning, SPE, TLC, open column chromatography and HPLC. 


The culture filtrates of the actinomycetes were partitioned against ethyl acetate and the resultant organic and 

aqueous phases were evaluated against the pathogens. In case of S. rolfsii, the organic phases of CAI-21, CAI- 

26, and MMA-32 showed 98%, 97%, and 98% inhibition respectively while in case of FOC the organic phases 

of CAI-21, CAI-26, and MMA-32 showed 95%, 50%, and 50%, respectively and in case of M. phaseolina, the 

organic phases of CAI-21, MMA-32 showed 17% and CAI-26 showed no inhibition. When all the above 3 

actinomycetes were evaluated against neonates (3 rd instar larvae) of H. armigera, the undiluted sample of the 

organic phase of MMA-32 was more effective. From the above results, it was concluded that the organic phase 

of CAI-21 inhibited the FOC (95%) and so the secondary metabolites present in this isolate was planned to 

purify. Though the organic phases of all the three actinomycetes showed inhibition towards S. rolfsii the fungus 

was sensitive towards higher concentrations of methanol, hence S. rolfsii was not considered. The culture filtrate 

of CAI-21 was mass produced and the crude metabolites were partitioned against ethyl acetate and resultant 

organic phase were further fractionated on open column chromatography, resulting in seven fractions (nonadsorbed 

fraction of open column, 10%, 20%, 40%, 60, 80% and 100% MeOH). Before injecting the above 

sample into the open column, the samples were filtered and the crystallized samples were collected in acetone 

and called as acetone extract, followed by passing into the C18 SPE cartridge. The resultant non-adsorbed 

116

material was called Non-adsorbed fraction of C18 cartridge. All the fractions were evaluated for their 

effectiveness against FOC in the bioassay. The results showed that only acetone extract, NAF of C18 and 80% 

adsorbed fraction were proved effective towards the fungus. Further purification of the acetone extract was done 

using TLC and HPLC. In the TLC 8-9 bands were found whereas in HPLC 6-8 peaks, hence further purification 

is required for the active metabolites. 


xx) Role of Helicoverpa-resistant cultivars in pest management in chickpea and pigeonpea 

Rationale: 

Pod borer, H. armigera is one of the important pests of pigeonpea, and host plant resistance is an important 

component for the management of this pest under subsistence farming conditions. However, the levels of 

resistance are low to moderate, and farmers undertake insecticide sprays on a calendar basis. Therefore, we 

evaluated insecticides with systemic and contact mode of action for the management of this pest on pigeonpea 

and chickpea. 

Pigeonpea 

Methodology: 

Efficacy of different protection regimes for the management of pod borer, H. armigera was studied on the 

resistant (ICPL 332 WR) and susceptible (ICP 8863) varieties of pigeonpea to quantify the contribution of host 

plant resistance in H. armigera management, and develop a package for effective management of this pest. The 

treatments consisted of Methomyl/DDVT + flubendiamide + imidacloprid; Bt + methomyl + spinosad; Neem 

seed kernel extract (NSKE) + Bt + spinosad; and untreated control. The plots were sprayed at the 10% 

flowering, 75% flowering, 50% podding, and dough stages in different combinations. There were three 

replications in a randomized complete block design for each variety. Each plot consisted of 8 rows, 4 m long. 

The outer two rows were considered as guard rows. Untreated plots served as a control. 


In the plots treated with methomyl + flubendiamide + imidacloprid, pod damage by H. armigera was 2.4 and 

4.9% compared to 81.7 and 34.1% in the untreated control plots of ICP 8863 and ICPL 332 WR, respectively. 

Grain yield was 617 and 248 kg ha -1 in this treatment compared to 159 and 56 kg ha -1 under untreated 

conditions. However, grain yield in plots treated with Bt + methomyl + spinosad was 421 kg ha -1 in ICP 8863 

and 490 kg ha -1 in ICPL 332 WR. Wilt incidence was 11.37 - 20.32% in ICP 8863 and 4.34 - 7.03% in ICPL 

332WR in different treatments, suggesting that ICPL 332 WR has wilt resistance comparable to the wiltresistance 

in commercially released cultivars. The results did provide an indication of the usefulness of 

combining resistant varieties with insecticides for management of H. armigera. 

Chickpea 

Methodology: 

To develop a module for the management of pod borer, H. armigera in chickpea, we selected two genotypes JG 

11 - a high yielding commercial cultivar, and ICCV 10 - a genotype tolerant to pod borer damage. The 

treatments were: T1: Methomyl + Bt + spinosad, T2: Methomyl + spinosad + flubendiamide, T3: NSKE + 

HaNPV + Bt, and T4: Untreated control. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design, and there were three 

replications. Each plot had 8 rows, 4 m long. Data were recorded on larval numbers before and after each spray 

and grain yield. 


The H. armigera larval numbers were lower (1.0 to 2.0 larvae per 5 plants) in plots treated with methomyl + 

spinosad + flubendiamide as compared to the untreated control plots (2.7 - 3.7 larvae per 5 plants). Pod damage 

was 1.8 - 3.6% in plots sprayed with methomyl + spinosad + flubendiamide as compared to 5.3 - 5.4% in NSKE 

+ HaNPV + Bt treated plots and 9.9 - 10.5% in untreated control plots. 

Conclusions: 

The insecticides were more effective in reducing the damage by H. armigera on resistant/tolerant cultivars of 

both chickpea and pigeonpea than on the susceptible cultivars. Application of neem seed kernel extract, HaNPV 

and Bt did not provide satisfactory control of the pod borer. 

HC Sharma, PM Gaur, CLL Gowda, JB Gopali, 

Sree Lakshmi and S Kumar [RP GL] 

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xxi) Defensive responses to H. armigera and Aphis craccivora in groundnut 

Rationale: 

Induced resistance plays an important role in pest management; therefore, we studied induced defense responses 

of five groundnut genotypes: ICGV 86699, ICGV 86031, ICG 2271, ICG 1697(resistant) and JL 24 

(susceptible) to a chewing, H. armigera, and a phloem feeding, Aphis craccivora insect under greenhouse 

conditions. 

Methodology: 

The activity of the defensive enzymes [peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), phenylalanine ammonia 

lyase (PAL), superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and catalase (CAT)] and secondary 

metabolites [total phenols, hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), malondialdehyde (MDA), proline], and proteins were 

recorded at six days after infestation. Data were recorded on plant damage, larval survival, and larval weights. 

Relative amounts of secondary metabolites in infested and control plants were monitored through HPLC. 


A quick response to insect infestation was manifested in terms of increased enzyme activity, and amounts of 

secondary metabolites. However, induction in activity of different enzymes and the amounts of secondary 

metabolites varied across treatments and the genotypes tested. Induction of enzyme activity was greater in insect 

resistant genotypes infested with H. armigera (POD 0.29 IU g -1 FW; PPO 0.032 IU g -1 FW) than in plants 

infested with A. craccivora (POD 0.23 IU g -1 FW; PPO 0.026 IU g -1 FW). The susceptible check, JL 24 showed 

lower induction in enzyme activity in Helicoverpa (POD 0.15 and PPO 0.019 IU g -1 FW), and aphid (POD 0.13 

and PPO 0.017 IU g -1 FW) infested plants than the resistant ones. The HPLC fingerprinting of the phenolic 

compounds differed qualitatively and quantitatively across genotypes/ treatments. 

Conclusions: 

A mild infestation by insects could be utilized for induction of plant defense against insect pests to minimize the 

extent of losses caused by insect pests on insect-resistant genotypes, and reduce the amounts of pesticides used 

for insect control. 



xxii) Interaction of plant cell signaling molecules, salicylic acid and jasmonic acid with the mitochondria 

of H. armigera 

Rationale: 

The cotton bollworm, H. armigera is a polyphagous pest on several crops in Asia, Africa, and the Mediterranean 

Europe. Salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) are the cell signaling molecules produced in response to 

insect attack in plants. Effect of these signaling molecules was investigated on the mitochondria and oxidative 

stress in H. armigera. 

Methodology: 

Mitochondrial oxygen uptake was measured in the presence/absence of SA and JA, using Clark type oxygen 

electrode under in vitro and in vivo conditions. SA significantly inhibited state III respiration, respiratory control 

index (RCI), respiratory complexes I and II, and induced state IV respiration (at lower concentrations,

xxiii) Study the interaction of Helicoverpa-resistant cultivars with bio-control agents for Helicoverpa 

management 

Rationale: 

To study the tri-trophic interactions between the parasitoid, Campoletis chlorideae and the host genotypes on 

parasitization of the pod borer, H. armigera, we screened a number of pigeonpea genotypes for the presence of 

trichome types and their density, which influences the insect - host - natural enemy interactions. 

Methodology: 

From a preliminary screening of 200 lines, eight lines were evaluated for their interaction with larval parasitoid 

of the pod borer, H. armigera under laboratory conditions. Under no-choice conditions, the adults of C. 

chlorideae were allowed to parasitize twenty H. armigera (2 nd instar) larvae released on pigeonpea 

inflorescences (30 cm long), and kept in 200 ml conical flasks inside the cage (30 x 30 x 30 cm) for 24 h. 


There were significant differences in larval parasitization on different genotypes, and the larval parasitization 

ranged from 0.00 to 61.74%, and


Grain yield of ICCV 07105, and ICCV 07106 was significantly greater (1604 - 1651 kg ha -1 ) as compared to 

that of ICCC 37 (1341 kg ha -1 ) and JG 11 (1387 kg ha -1 ) under unprotected conditions. Under insecticide 

protected conditions, the larval incidence was lower on ICCV 07105 and ICCV 07106 than on ICCC 37 and JG 

11. Grain yield of ICCV 07105 (1921 kg ha -1 ) and ICCV 07106 (1738 kg ha -1 ) was significantly greater than 

that of ICCC 37 (1422 kg ha -1 ) and JG 11 (1185 kg ha -1 ), suggesting that genotypes with resistance/tolerance to 

pod borer result in greater grain yield in combination with insecticide protection. 

Pigeonpea 

Methodology: 

Fifteen pigeonpea genotypes were evaluated for their susceptibility to pod borer, H. armigera and grain yield 

potential under unprotected and protected conditions. There were three replications under each test. Insect pest 

incidence (pod borer, H. armigera, spotted pod borer, M. vitrata, pod fly, M. obtusa, and pod bug, C. gibbosa) 

was very high and no significant differences were observed among the genotypes tested because of the damage 

by several insect pests under unprotected conditions. 


In the insecticide protected plots, wilt incidence was lower on ICPL 20058, ICPL 87119, ICPL 332 WR, 

ICPHaRL 4978-4, ICPHaRL 4985-4, ICPHaRL 4985-11 (5.5 - 22.1% incidence) as compared to 81.4% in ICPL 

85063. Pod damage was lower (22.0 - 39.4%) on ICPL 187-1, ICPL 84060, ICPL 332 WS, ICPL 88039, 

ICPHaRL 4985-4, ICPHaRL 4989-7, and ICPHaRL 4985-11 as compared to 74.4% damage in ICPL 87119. 

The genotypes ICPL 20058 (933 kg ha -1 ), ICPHaRL 4985-4 (1081 kg ha -1 ), ICPHaRL 4989-7 (760 kg ha -1 ), and 

ICPHaRL 4985-11 (660 kg ha -1 ) yielded more than ICP 8863 (444 kg ha -1 ). 

Conclusions: 

Pigeonpea genotypes ICPL 20058, ICPHaRL 4985-4, ICPHaRL 4989-7, and ICPHaRL 4985-11; and the 

chickpea genotypes ICCV 07105 and ICCV 07106 exhibited high yield potential, and also suffered low pod 

borer damage, and these could be used either in crop improvement or released for cultivation by the farmers. 



xxv) Evaluation of Helicoverpa tolerant pigeonpea and chickpea cultivars on farmers’ fields 

Rationale: 

To assess the usefulness of pod borer resistant/tolerant cultivars for reducing the losses due to H. armigera, we 

evaluated three pigeonpea and three chickpea cultivars on farmers’ fields in Tandur and Gulburga regions of 

Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, respectively, which are the major pulse producing areas in southern India. 

Pigeonpea 

Methodology: 

The seeds of H. armigera resistant line, ICPL 332 WR; commercial cultivar, Asha (ICPL 87119) and Maruti 

(ICP 8863) were distributed to 20 farmers (in 3 kg bags) in Tandur region, Andhra Pradesh, in collaboration 

with the scientists at the ANGRA University, Agricultural Research Station, Tandur, which has a large 

pigeonpea growing area in the country. 

The seeds of H. armigera resistant line, ICPL 332 WR; commercial cultivar, Asha (ICPL 87119) and Maruti 

(ICP 8863) were distributed to 24 farmers (in 3 kg bags) in Gulburga region in Karnataka, in collaboration with 

the scientists at the UAS, Agricultural Research Station, Gulburga, which has a large pigeonpea growing area in 

the country. 


In Tandur region, there was a complete crop loss at seven locations due to heavy flooding. The yields of ICPL 

332 WR ranged from 812 to 1250 kg ha -1 , and of Asha (ICPL 87119) varied from 875 to 1865 kg ha -1 and of 

Maruti (ICP 8863) from 780 to 1076 kg ha -1 . Most of the farmers reported a better control and lower insecticide 

use in ICPL 332 WR than on Asha. Among the improved varieties, ICPL 85063, ICPL 187-1, ICPL 84060, 

ICPL 20058, and ENT 11 yielded 785 - 950, 625 - 1200, 675 - 1050, 800 - 1075, and 750 - 975 kg ha -1 , 

respectively. 

120

In Gulburga region, there were no significant differences in pod borer egg and larval numbers, wilt incidence, 

and SMD, and pod damage. The average grain yields were 1111 kg ha -1 in ICPL 332 WR, 1478 kg ha -1 in Asha, 

1228 kg ha -1 in Maruti, and 1530 kg ha -1 in the hybrid ICPH 2740. Among the improved varieties, ICPL 85063, 

ICPL 187-1, ICPL 84060, ICPL 20058, and ENT 11 yielded 1147, 1080, 1220, 1367, 679 kg ha -1 , respectively; 

while ICPHaRL 4978-8, ICPHaRL 4978-4, ICPHaRL 4978-5, ICPHaRL 4979-7, and ICPHaRL 4975-11 

yielded 1100, 1154, 1321, 1538, and 1367 kg ha -1 , respectively. 

Chickpea 

Methodology: 

Seeds of three chickpea varieties (ICCC 37 desi type commercial cultivar, KAK 2 - kabuli type, JG 11 - high 

yielding commercial cultivar, and ICCV 10 - pod borer tolerant) were distributed to 10 farmers in four villages 

(3 kg seed of each variety). Data were recorded on grain yield at harvest. 


Average grain yield of ICCV 10, JG 11, ICCC 37, and KAK 2 ranged from 750 - 950, 968 - 1575, 798 - 1025, 

and 350 - 875 kg ha -1 , respectively. Among the breeding lines, grain yields of ICCV 07118 (1007 kg ha -1 ), and 

JG 11(1214 kg ha -1 ) on the research station were greater than that of ICCC 37 (800 kg ha -1 ). On farmers’ fields, 

the grain yields of JG 11 (1087 kg ha -1 ), ICCV 07113 (958 kg ha -1 ) and ICCV 07118 (997 kg ha -1 ) were greater 

than that of ICCC 37 (836 kg ha -1 ). 

Conclusions: 

Pod borer tolerant genotypes in combination with insecticides resulted in harvesting of high grain yields by the 

farmers. Spotted pod borer, Maruca vitrata, and pod sucking bug, Clavigralla gibbosa damage was very high on 

pigeonpea during the 2010 rainy season. It is important to scout the fields for the presence of pod sucking bugs 

and the damage by pod fly (which can only be seen by splitting the pods), and take appropriate control measures 

(sprays of systemic insecticides such as methomyl and monocrotophos) to harvest quality produce. 



xxvi) Management of rosette and aflatoxin contamination in Malawi 

Rationale: 

Aflatoxin also continues to be a major limitation to trade in groundnuts in ESA. In Malawi for example, 42% 

(by volume) of exports were rejected by the EU market in 2005 due to aflatoxin contamination. Similarly, 

rosette disease continues to be a major constraint to groundnut production in the region. During epidemic years, 

yield losses of up to 100% can be recorded. Thus, any improvement in management of rosette and aflatoxin 

contamination at farm level would potentially result in increased production and trade with regional and 

international partners. 

Methodology: 

Best-bet management option for groundnut rosette disease (GRD) and aflatoxin were evaluated under farmers’ 

fields. For aflatoxin we implemented a three factor factorial design trial, with varieties at two (2) levels (J11, 

resistant and ICGV-SM 99568, a susceptible check), water management at two levels (tied ridges vs open 

ridges) and soil amendment factors at three (3) levels (manure 0 kg/ha vs 1.75 t/ha, lime, 0 kg/ha vs 200kg/ha 

and P-fertilize, 0 kg/ha vs 400kg/ha of single super phosphate). Three options for management of GRD were 

evaluated. These included: Varieties, time of planning and planting densities. 


Results for aflatoxin B1 contamination (AFB1) revealed significant differences, p = 0.05, for varieties. J 11 

(resistant variety) was less contaminated (321.2ppb) compared to ICGV-SM 99568 (susceptible variety) which 

recorded 1110.9ppb. Even though no significant differences, p=0.05, were observed for water management and 

soil amendment treatments, lower levels of aflatoxin contamination were observed for tied ridges (650.9ppb) 

compared to 781.2 ppb for open ridges. Lower contaminations were also observed with use of lime (743ppb vs 

805.9ppb for no lime), manure (426ppb vs 837 for no manure), and P-fertilizer (614.7ppb vs 869.5ppb for no 

phosphate). Rosette resistant varieties yielded more than susceptible varieties, 835.5kg/ha and 651.1kg/ha 

respectively and showed lower average rosette incidences (0.59%) compared to 6.82% for susceptible varieties 

under farmers conditions. Similarly, high population density and early planting gave superior yield performance 

over low population density and late planting; 888.32kg/ha versus 598.83kg/ha and 848 versus 639.4kg/ha and 

lower GRD incidences of 3.05% versus 4.37% and 2.6% versus 4.81% respectively 

121

Conclusions: 

Best-bet management options for rosette and aflatoxin are available for use by farmers to improve groundnut 

productivity that will ensure food sufficiency and income through sale of surpluses. 

E S Monyo, S Njoroge, W Munthali, E Chilumpha, 

H Charlie, O Mponda, and A Chamango [RP GL] 

xxvii) Explore the scope of reproductive stage tolerance to multiple abiotic stress 

Rationale: 

Salinity tolerance in chickpea is largely explained by differences in how reproduction (flowering, podding and 

seed set) occurs under salt stress, with tolerant genotypes having a larger numbers of flowers and a lower seed 

abortion rate. Under heat stress, reproduction also appears to be the factor most affected by the stress, whereas 

biomass production seems to be less affected. So, in addition to the need of managing and capturing water under 

drought, the question we addressed here is whether, some of the drought tolerance is related to the capacity of 

genotype to have a more successful reproduction under stressful conditions. 

Methodology: 

It consisted in assessing plant reproduction under a controlled drought imposition (by ensuring that all plants are 

always at similar soil water content), to offset possible other plant traits that could alter soil water (eg rooting, 

faster/slower growth). The stress was imposed at the beginning of flowering. It took about 3 weeks to reach a 

level where the transpiration of the water stressed plants fell below 10% of the well-watered plants (no more soil 

water available for transpiration) and at that time, stress was relieved and plants maintained under fully irrigated 

conditions until maturity. We applied these methods to a set of contrasting chickpea and groundnut lines. In the 

course of the stress application, flowers were tagged and followed up to maturity. 


In chickpea, a trial was carried out with 10 genotypes contrasting for terminal drought tolerance. A thorough 

follow up of flowers was done up to maturity to assess the stress level (based on soil moisture content), when 

each flower was produced. Yield was reduced about 35% overall but there was variation among the genotypes 

in the grain yield achieved at maturity. A repeat of that experiment is on-going. In the case of groundnut, a 

similar protocol was carried out and led to less than 20% yield reduction because of drought, with small 

variations between the genotypes. However, clear flowering pattern were identified between tolerant lines 

(mostly Spanish type) and sensitive lines (mostly Virginia). Tolerant has a more determinate flowering, with a 

peak flowering coming soon after beginning of flowering whereas the sensitive produced the same number of 

flowers over a much longer period of time. Interestingly, while flowering came to almost a complete stoppage 

upon exposure to water deficit, especially nearing the point where soil moisture available for transpiration came 

to zero, there was a clear flush of flowers in the tolerant lines about 2-3 days after re-watering. Work on this is 

currently on going. 

Conclusions: 

The work on how abiotic stress affects reproduction is new in the physiology group and we still need to gather 

more evidence on its role in drought adaptation. The reproduction sensitivity to salt stress plays a major role and 

explains the genotypic differences in seed yield. The focus of the forthcoming work will be to increase our 

understanding of what stage of reproduction is affected under salt stress, and whether it can have commonality 

with heat and drought tolerance. 

V Vadez, R Pushpavalli, L Krishnamurthy and PL Ratnakumar [RP GL] 

xxviii) Summarize results and report to GCP on the special project GCP –SP3 G4008.12 and uploading 

data on TE-related traits to GCP central registry 

Rationale: 

Better transpiration efficiency (TE) is expected to improve the drought tolerance of chickpea as 90% of world’s 

chickpea is terminal drought stress prone. Measuring TE through its easily measurable surrogates such as the 

carbon isotope discrimination (Δ 13 C), specific leaf area (SLA) or SPAD chlorophyll meter readings (SCMR) has 

been contemplated as one of the best options. The objective of this work was to phenotype and characterize the 

reference collection of chickpea for the traits Δ 13 C, SPAD, and SLA and perform association mapping through 

genome scanning approach. 

Methodology: 

Phenotyping activities 

The phenotyping activities were carried out at ICRISAT, Patancheru on a Vertisol in two season of 2008-09 and 

2009-10. Evaluation of the cultivated accessions of the reference collection of chickpea germplasm (n=280) was 

122

conducted both under drought stressed (terminal drought imposed with a characteristic receding soil moisture 

condition) and optimally irrigated environments. Phenology, yields of shoot and seed, and other TE related 

characters such as Δ 13 C, SLA and SCMR were measured in collaboration with JIRCAS, Japan and UAS, 

Bangalore. 


Yield and yield components variation 

The data from 2008-09 and 2009-10 had shown a large and significant variation across the soil moisture regimes 

for most of the traits monitored including Δ 13 C with good performance semblance between years. An average 

seed yield of 1500 kg ha -1 is the usual performance under drought stress with twice that of the shoot biomass 

inclusive of seed. The yield and other components of yield were also normal both under drought stressed and 

optimally irrigated environments. The observations during 2009-10 like in 2008-09 showed that under drought 

stress, there was a large range in Δ 13 C value of the accessions and this ranged between -27.2 to -24.2. However, 

it was very narrow and between -28.6 to -27.4 under optimally irrigated conditions. The seed yield per day (seed 

yield/ days of reproductive growth duration) or water use efficiency (WUE) under terminal drought stress prone 

condition was significantly associated with the Δ 13 C. It was interesting to note that Δ 13 C was not only related to 

WUE but also with the phenology, shoot biomass, seed yield. A high range of variation for both SLA and SPAD 

chlorophyll meter readings was recorded in the reference collection. Surprisingly Δ 13 C was not correlated with 

SLA or SPAD values. But there was a good negative correlation between SLA and SPAD values(r = -0.38 *** ). 

The narrow range of Δ 13 C values observed under optimally irrigated condition was not associated with the 

phenology or the yield component traits. 

As a result of association mapping with DArT markers, markers associated with various root traits like root 

volume (cpPb-172290, cpPb-324158), root length (cpPb-677692), root dry weight (cpPb-489251), root surface 

area (cpPb-324158, cpPb-172290), rooting depth (cpPb-325441) and root length density (cpPb-677692) and 

carbon isotope discrimination trait (cpPb-680078, cpPb-490776) were identified. 

Conclusions: 

A good relationship of per day productivity under drought stress with Δ 13 C was seen. Also Δ 13 C recorded under 

terminal drought as well as under optimal irrigation was closely associated indicating that this trait is a 

constitutive one. There were two DArT markers that were identified to be associated with the Δ 13 C trait under 

terminal drought prone condition. 

L Krishnamurthy, RK Varshney, HD Upadhyaya, 

J Kashiwagi, S Tobita, O Ito and PM Gaur [RP GL] 

xxix) Sustainable intensification of pigeonpea under maize based cropping systems 

Rationale: 

In ESA, pigeonpea is mostly grown in maize mixed (66.4% of total area) and root crop-cereal/millet mixed 

(29%)and sustainable intensification of these cropping systems are critical to smallholder farming systems in 

this region. In general, research and development activities in maize/cereals and legumes are being conducted in 

isolation; however, combined research on maize-pigeonpea under prevailing cropping systems is highly useful. 

Methodology: 

Sustainable intensification of maize and pigeonpea intercropping experiments were conducted by on-farm 

FPVS, demonstrations and farmers’ field days duly involving NARES partners in Tanzania (SARI-Arusha, 

IARI-Ilonga), Malawi (CARS-Lilongwe), Kenya (KARI-Embu) and Mozambique (IIAM-Maputo) under 

SIMLESA; and SARI-Arusha under AGRA funded project. 


In Kenya, two maize-pigeonpea intercropping trials (1 each in TharkaNithi and Imenti south districts) and in 

Tanzania, 18 PVS trials were conducted in Kilosa, Gairo and Mvomero districts. Seven and six PVS, 

respectively in Malawi and Mozambique were conducted involving both medium and long duration varieties. 

New breeding material in the form of international nurseries supplied to Tanzania to identify best varieties 

suitable for maize-based cropping systems for further evaluation in on-farm trials. 100 demos were organized to 

disseminate the P- micro dosing in maize-pigeonpea intercropping to optimize yields and organized field day 

with participation of 380 stake holders and smallholder farmers’ being a dominant group in Kilimanjaro, 

Tanzania and seen the benefits of micro dosing. Farmers were also trained on the utilization of pigeonpea and 

the participants prepared pigeonpea dishes like Bonko, Mseto, Dhali, Ng’ande. 

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Conclusions: 

Sustainable intensification of maize based cropping systems through legumes and application of micro doses of 

P fertilizer is a key to improve productivity without degrading the soil fertility status. 


Development, designation and dissemination of at least 15 high yielding and DM resistant hybrid parents (both 

A/B- pairs and R-lines): 18 hybrid parents (9 A-/B- pairs of seed parent and 9 restorer parents) of diverse 

parentage and morphological traits were designated in 2011. Of the 9 A-/B- pairs, 3 A-lines were in A1, 2 in A4, 

1 in A5, 1 on both A1 and A4, 1 on both A4 and A5 , and 1 on three A1, A4 and A5 cytoplasmic backgrounds. 

Of the 9 restorer lines, 8 lines were restorer of the A1 CMS system and 1 was restorer on both A1 and A4 CMS 

system. All of these hybrid parents were highly resistant to at least two of the five diverse pathotypes of downy 

mildew (≤10% disease incidence) under high disease pressure in greenhouse inoculation. 

Development and distribution of at least 200 advanced breeding lines (A/B– pairs, B-lines and R-lines) with 

high yield potential, DM resistance and adaptation to diverse agro-regions: About 98 diverse B-lines were 

selected and further advanced to conversion (> BC5 and above) to different cytoplasmic backgrounds. Of these, 

26 were in A1, 45 in A4 and 70 were in A5 cytoplasmic background. Also, 162 potential restorer lines for 

adaptation to diverse agro-regions were selected and tested for restoration reaction for A1, A4 and A5 

cytoplasm. All these advanced B- and R- lines were evaluated for resistance to five diverse pathotypes of downy 

mildew. Also, trait-specific and adaptation-specific B-lines (140) and R-lines (115) were distributed and tested 

across 12 locations in ICAR-ICRISAT trials during rainy season 2011. 

Development and dissemination of three composites (1 composite each for seed and restorer parent with 

combined resistance to DM and blast, and 1 Arid-type pollinator composite): Five designated seed parents 

found resistant to both blast (Patancheru isolate) and DM (2-5 pathotypes) underwent third cycle of random 

mating in summer 2011 to constitute Blast and DM Resistant Maintainer Composite (BDMRMC). Likewise, 9 

promising restorer progenies in superior agronomic background and resistant to blast (Patancheru isolate) and 

DM (2-5 pathotypes) also underwent third cycle of random mating in summer 2011 to finally constitute Blast 

and DM Resistant Restorer Composite (BDMRRC). These new composites were shared with partners. Also, 82 

and 60 half sibs were selected from BDMRMC and BDMRRC respectively and will be evaluated in 2012. An 

Arid-type Pollinator Composite underwent third and final random mating in post-rainy season of 2010-2011 and 

was distributed to partners in Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat states in arid zone. 

SK Gupta [RP DC] 

Identification of sorghum germplasm with high sugar and biomass 

Rationale: 

Germplasm is a potential source for identifying new donors for candidate traits like sugar and biomass. 

Evaluation of germplasm accessions provides an opportunity to assess their performance and identify suitable 

accessions for use in the introgression breeding. 

Methodology: 

The germplasm accessions were evaluated in randomized complete block designs (RCBD). The germplasm 

trials were grouped based on maturity period, traits and origin. The season specific selection approach is 

followed owing to highly significant genotype x season interactions. 

Postrainy season 2010 evaluations: 

High biomass sorghum trial: A total of 412 high biomass lines identified from ICRISAT’s gene bank, 

Generation Challenge Program (GCP) on sorghum, sweet sorghum program at ICRISAT and DSR as well as the 

imported lines from US Department of Agriculture (USDA) were categorized in to six groups, i.e. G1 (15 

entries), G2 (57 entries), G3 (81 entries), G4 (119 entries), G5 (98 entries), G6 (42 entries) based on maturity 

and screened for biomass and related traits in alpha lattice design with two replications in postrainy season 2010 

at ICRISAT-Patancheru. The checks used in the study are JK Recova, RSSV 9, CSH 22SS and SSV 84. The 

data was collected on days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), plant girth (mm), fresh biomass (t ha -1 ), dry 

biomass (t ha -1 ), juice weight (t ha -1 ), bagasse weight (t ha -1 ) and sugar yield (t ha -1 ). There is a good correlation 

between fresh biomass and dry biomass. As many as 35 lines were advanced for further screening in 

multilocation trials based on the fresh biomass production (selection criteria: >35 t ha -1 ). The highest biomass 

was recorded by germplasm accession IS 17526 (60.6 t ha -1 ) followed by IS 25303 (50.32 t ha-1) vis-a-vis the 

best check CSH 22SS (25.2 t ha -1 ). As many as 18 genotypes were selected from group 4 followed by group 5 

with 8 genotypes. 

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Sweet sorghum germplasm accessions trial (SSGAT): A total of 31 germplasm accessions selected 

previously in 2009 postrainy season were evaluated during postrainy season, 2010 along with four checks i.e., 

ICSV 93046, Urja, RSSV 9 and CSH 22SS. The trial was conducted in RCBD with three replications. Sugar 

yield ranged from 0.1 to 0.5 t ha -1 (RSSV 9: 0.5 t ha -1 ). None of the genotypes were found to be superior in 

sugar yield compared to the best check RSSV 9. However, the accessions IS 29641 (0.3 t ha -1 ) and IS 40959 

(0.3 t ha -1 ) recorded the superior sugar yields at par to the second best check CSH 22SS (0.3 t ha -1 ). Brix % 

ranged 11 to 17 % (CSH 22SS: 14 %). Days to 50 % flowering ranged from 58 days to 87 days (RSSV 9: 65 

days). Plant height ranged from 1.2 m to 2.4 m (CSH 22SS: 2.1 m) while, grain yield ranged from 1.2 to 2.3 t 

ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 0.2 t ha -1 ). 

Sorghum germplasm (PJ and NJ) accessions trial: A trial consisting of 70 germplasm accessions collected 

from the ICRISAT gene bank that were originated in Maharastra along with five checks Urja, RSSV 9, CSH 

22SS, JK Recova and SSV 84 was conducted in postrainy season, 2010 in RCBD with two replications. The top 

five performing lines in the trial are IS 2244 (2.0 t ha -1 ), IS17959 (1.8 t ah -1 ), IS 1044 (1.6 t ha -1 ), IS 18340 and 

IS 18333 (1.3 t ha -1 ) compared to CSH 22SS (1.0 t ha -1 ) Brix% ranged from 9 to 19 %. Four entries viz, IS 

18362 (16.0%); IS 18378 (16 %) and IS 2244 (15%) recorded higher Brix % over the best check, CSH 22SS (12 

%). Days to 50% flowering ranged between 88 to 125 days; IS 17961 is the earliest to flower (88 days). Plant 

height ranged from 0.6 to 2.7 m (Urja 2.6 m). 

Sorghum reference collection trial: A reference collection trial with 142 test entries were screened in 

postrainy season, 2010 along with five checks viz., CSH 22SS, Urja, JK Recova, RSSV9 and SSV 84 in RCBD 

with two replications. The accessions IS 29310 (3.5 t ha -1 ), IS 22282 (3.4 t ha -1 ) and 22332 (2.8 t ha -1 ), are 

superior to the best check Urja (2.4 t ha -1 ). The Brix% ranged from 5 to19 %. (Urja: 19%) while 50% flowering, 

varied from 77 days to126 days (CSH 22SS: 90 days). 

Screening of Generation Challenge Program (GCP) lines: A total of 176 genotypes selected from selections 

made from Generation challenge program (GCP), were evaluated in postrainy season, 2010. The trial was 

conducted in RCBD with three replications along with four checks i.e., RSSV 9, CSH 22SS, Moulee and B 35. 

Sugar yield in nine genotypes recorded significantly higher to the best performing check Moulee (0.4 t ha -1 ) 

which varied from 0.4 to 0.9 t ha -1 , the top five genotypes for sugar yield are GCP-Sb-0016 (0.9 t ha -1 ), GCP-Sb- 

0033, GCP-Sb-0072 and GCP-Sb-0023 (0.7 t ha -1 ) and GCP-Sb-0108 (0.6 t ha -1 ). Brix % ranged from 5 to 18 % 

(Moulee: 15%). The best performing lines are GCP-Sb-0108 (18%), GCP-Sb-0016 (17%) and GCP-Sb-0033 

(16%) were superior in Brix% Days to 50 % flowering ranged from 49 days to 96 days (RSSV 9: 61 days). 

Plant height ranged from 1.0 m to 2.5 m (CSH 22SS: 2.1 m). Grain yield in the genotypes ranged from 1.0 to 3.5 

(Moulee: 1.2 t ha -1 ). 

Rainy season 2011 evaluations: 

High biomass sorghum trial: A total of 412 high biomass lines identified from ICRISAT’s gene bank, 

Generation Challenge Program (GCP) on sorghum, sweet sorghum program at ICRISAT and DSR as well as the 

imported lines from US Department of Agriculture (USDA) were screened for biomass and related traits in 

alpha lattice design with two replications in rainy season 2011 at ICRISAT-Patancheru. The checks used in the 

study are JK Recova, RSSV 9, CSH 22SS and SSV 84. The analysis of variance revealed that there is no dearth 

of inter group variability for plant height (2.2 to 5.2 m), days to 50% flowering (80 to 129 days) and fresh 

biomass (10.6 to 84.5 t ha -1 ). The variability for stem girth is also high both at 3 rd (14.7 to 28.3) and 10 th (10.8 to 

19.4 mm) internodes. The group-wise mean, range and standard deviation of all the traits studied showed that 

Group 4 recorded the highest average fresh biomass of 48.7 t ha -1 followed by group 3 with 48.3 t ha -1 ; Group 5 

is at par with 3 with an average yield of 48.0 t ha -1 fresh biomass yield. The average biomass from earliest 

maturing group, i.e. group 5 was at par with the high biomass groups 4 and 3. As many as 35 lines were 

advanced for further screening in multilocation trials based on the fresh biomass production (selection criteria: 

>35 t ha -1 ). The highest biomass was recorded in germplasm accessions IS 23487 (84.5 t ha-1) followed by IS 

25280 (83.0 t ha -1 ), IS 15102 (80.1 t ha -1 ), IS 11861-1 (78.7 t ha -1 ), IS 27988 (76.8 t ha -1 ), vis-a-vis the best 

check CSH 22SS (74.6 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum reference collection trial: A sweet sorghum reference collection trial was conducted in rainy 

season 2011 using 312 sweet sorghum genotypes with three checks CSH 22SS, Urja and RSSV 9 in RCBD with 

two replications. Sugar yield in the genotypes ranged from 0.1 to 4.0 t ha -1 (Urja: 4.0 t ha -1 ). None of the entires 

had higher sugar yields compared to the best check Urja but, two genotypes viz., GCP_Sb_0223 and IS 23254 

with sugar yields 3.8 t ha -1 are numerically at par with the best check. Brix % ranged from 6 to 22% (Urja: 

22%). Days to 50% flowering varied from 52 to 116 days (Urja: 68 days) and GCP-Sb-0177 was the earliest to 

flower with 52 days. Plant height ranged from 0.7 to 5.1 m (CSH 22SS: 3.9 m). 

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Conclusion: 

The accessions IS 29310 (3.5 t ha -1 ), IS 22282 (3.4 t ha -1 ) and 22332 (2.8 t ha -1 ), are superior for sugar yield 

with postrainy season adapation while two GCP lines GCP-Sb-0023 and IS 23524 are best for rainy season 

adaptation (>3.8 t ha -1 ) and eleven lines IS 2979, IS 7599, IS 11861-1, IS 13527, IS 15102, IS 23120, IS 23487, 

IS 25280, IS 25301, IS 27988 and IS 27968 yielding (>70 t ha -1 ) are good for biomass. These lines will be used 

in crossing program to breed high sugar and biomass yielding lines and hybrids. 


Sorghum hybrids for the Sudanian zone of West Africa 

The development of hybrid varieties has been a commercially successful way of providing farmers with new 

productive varieties. Although sorghum hybrids have been commercialized for several decades in many parts of 

the world, this has not been the case for West Africa. One reason for this is the lack of hybrids with the required 

adaptation. The first hybrids produced in the region were based on introduced parents. These hybrids were not 

commercially viable owing to their susceptiblity to grain mold and insect attack, and the poor quality grain that 

resulted. However new hybrid parents based on local germplasm have been developed in Mali by ICRISAT and 

IER over the past decade with support of the Rockefeller Foundation. New hybrids produced with these parents 

were extensively yield tested in on-farm trials to assess their productivity under farmer-managed conditions. 

A set of 15 hybrids were tested in Farmer Participatory Variety and Hybrid Yield Trials in Mali in 2009 and 

2010. The test entries were subdivided into two sets based on plant height, with taller (>3m) and shorter entries 

tested in separate “Short” and “Tall” on-farm yield trials. A total of 32 farmers conducted both the Short- and 

the Tall-Trials across three zones in Mali. These farmers came from three different villages per zone, with two 

farmers coming from each village. Each farmers’ trial consisted of 16 entries in a two replicate alpha design, 

and plots of 15 m2. Analysis of the “Tall Height Trial” is under way, and analysis of the “Short Height Trial” 

trial is described below. 

Initial analyses of the 31 Short-Height trials from which results were obtained indicated that the newly bred 

hybrids and varieties were exposed to a wide range of soil types, soil-fertility levels (Bray-1P from 1.7 to 

30.5ppm), sowing dates (from 14 June to 27 July), and intensity of management. The mean yields of individual 

farmer’s trials varied from 0.7 to 3.4t/ha . The broad-sense heritabilities (repeatabilities ) of individual trials 

ranged from 0.00 to 0.93. Seven trials that had heritability estimates lower than 0.35 or extensive losses due to 

animal grazing were eliminated from the combined analysis. 

The combined analysis over 24 on-farm test environments showed significant (P

incidence at 14 and 21 days after seedling emergence and leaf damage and deadheart formation by stem borer at 

25 days after artificial infestation. Overall resistance to shoot fly and stem borer damage was recorded at 

maturity on a 1 to 9 scale (taking into account the number of main plants and tiller stalks, and the stalks with 

productive panicles). 

The shoot fly incidence was quite heavy during the 2010/11 post rainy season (19.4 to 97.7% plants with 

deadhearts). Seeds of ICSV 700 and ICSV 93046 treated with imidacloprid, thaimethoxam, and carbofuran 

granules applied in plant whorls were moderately effective in controlling shoot fly, A. soccata damage (600 q ha -1 in plots of CSH 22SS treated with imidacloprid, carbofuran granules, and 

deltamethrin, methomyl and endosulfan sprays; and SSV 84 treated with thaimethoxam, deltamethrin and 

methomyl sprays. 

Effect of stem borer, Chilo partellus damage on juice and stalk yield in sweet sorghum 

To assess the effect of stem borer damage on stalk and juice yield in sweet sorghum, four varieties (ICSV 700, 

ICSV 93046, SSV 84, and SP 4511-1) were infested with 0, 100, 200, and 300 egg masses per 80 g of carrier 

(khuskhus – poppy seed)) in a Bazooka applicator. There were three replications for all varieties and infestation 

treatments in a randomized complete block design. Observations were recorded on leaf damage and deadheart 

formation by stem borer at 25 days after artificial infestation. Overall resistance to stem borer damage was 

recorded at maturity on a 1 to 9 scale (taking into account the number of main plants and tiller stalks, and the 

stalks with productive panicles). Data were also recorded on juice yield, brick value, fructose, sucrose, glucose, 

and stalk and grain yield. There was a progressive increase in leaf damage (damage rating 2.5 to 6.33), and a 

reduction in stalk yield, juice yield, and brick value with an increase in borer infestation, and such a reduction 

was greater in the SPV 5411-2 and SSV 84 than in the borer-resistant cultivars ICSV 700 and ICSV 93046. 

IPM of shoot fly, Atherigona soccata during the post rainy season 

To develop a schedule for controlling sorghum shoot fly, Atherigona soccata during the post-rainy season, four 

varieties (Akola Kranti, Parbhani Moti, M-35-1, and Phule Vasudha) were tested under insecticide treated and 

untreated conditions across two planting dates. The insecticide treatments included seed treatment with 

thiamethoxam (3.5 g ai kg -1 seed), thaimethoxan seed treatment + sprays of deltamethrin, and foliar spray of 

deltamethrin (12 g ai ha -1 ). Untreated plots served as a control. There were three replications for each variety 

and insecticide combination in a factorial design. Observations were recorded on shoot fly incidence at 21 days 

after seedling emergence, and grain yield. Deltamethrin spray in Phule Vasudha, thaimethoxam seed treatment 

in Akola Kranti and M-35-1, and thaimethoxam seed treatment + deltamethrin sprays on Akola Kranti and 

Phule Vasudha were effective for shoot fly control (22.4 to 42.5% plants with deadhearts compared to 67% 

plants with deadhearts in p\Phule Vasudha under untreated conditions). Akola Kranti and Phule Vasudha 

yielded significantly greater than M-35-1 under insecticide protection. Maximum yields were recorded in plots 

treated with thiamethoxam and thiamethoxan + deltamethrin sprays. 

HC Sharma [RP DC] 

Anthracnose resistance in sorghum 

Foliar anthracnose is the most pronounced and devastating on forage and grain sorghum especially on sweet 

sorgum cultivars, therefore, attempts were made to identify rtesistance in sweet sorghum breeding lines. 

Evaluation of Sweet Sorghum lines for anthracnose resistance. Forty three sweet sorghum advanced 

varieties/restorer lines, 39 high biomass lines and 19 advanced hybrids were evaluated for anthracnose 

resistance in RCBD with 3 replications, 2 rows of 2m long/entry in each replication through artificial 

inoculation in the anthracnose nursery. Seven hybrids ICSA 438 × NTJ 2, SP 97036 A × SPV 422, ICSA 433 × 

SPV 422, ICSA 475 x NTJ 2 JK Recova, ICSA 344 x AKSV 22, ICSA 25002 x ICSV 93046 and SP 97030 A x 

SPV 422 were resistant (score ≤3.0) and remaining 12 hybrids had moderate resistance (score 3.1-5.0) to 

anthracnose. Anthracnose resistance was also observed in one high biomass line Sel.B pop10 PR and four R- 

lines ((ICSV 93046 x SSV 84)-7-2-3 x SSV 74-6-2)-1-2-1-1, (ICSB 702 x SSV 84-7-2)-2-3-1-1, (ICSR 93034 x 

SSV 74-5-1)-1-3-1-1 and Ch 4. Thirty one R-lines and 27 high biomass lines exhibited moderate resistance to 

127

anthracnose. Resistant lines will be carried forward in the breeding program aimed at sweet sorghum hybrid 

development. 

Downy mildew resistance in pearl millet: ICRISAT has a major research focus on development of parental 

lines, especially diversifying the genetic base of male-sterile lines, which are disseminated to public 

organizations and private seed companies for use in developing F 1 hybrid cultivars. As part of breeding for 

downy mildew resistance, breeding lines are screened against different pathotypes of S. graminicola in 

greenhouse under high disease pressure (>85% disease incidence in the susceptible check) and those found 

resistant (≤10% disease incidence) to at least two pathotypes are designated and disseminated as seed parents. 

Evaluation of parental lines of pearl millet for resistance to new pathotypes. One hundred ninety seven lines 

including hybrids and parents from HOPE project, 100 R-lines and 49 entries from population trial were 

evaluated in CRD with 2 replications, 1 pots/entry in greenhouse against three new pathotypes Sg 445 

(Banaskantha), Sg 519 (Riwadi) and Sg 526 (Jodhpur). Of the 197 lines, 47 were resistant (DM incidence 

≤10%) to Sg 445, 30 to Sg 519 and 33 to Sg 526. 

Of the 100 R-lines, 13 lines were resistant to all the three pathotypes, whereas, 12 were resistant to Sg 445 and 

Sg 526, and six were resistant to Sg 519 and Sg 526. 

Among populations, three entries were resistant to all the three pathotypes, and eight lines were resistant to Sg 

519 and Sg 526. 

High yielding DM resistant hybrids will be promoted in the technology demonstration trials in the HOPE project. 

Evaluation of B-lines of pearl millet. One hundred sixty six B-lines generated through backcrossing were 

evaluated in non-replicated trial with 1 pot/entry in greenhouse against 5 pathotypes (Jodhpur, Durgapura, Jalna, 

Jamnagar and Aligarh). Of 166 lines, 86, 93, 85, 90 and 73 lines were DM-free against Jodhpur, Jalna, 

Jamnagar, Durgapura and Aligarh pathotypes, respectively, compared to 100% incidence in a known susceptible 7042S. 

Similarly, 141 potential B-lines were evaluated in the greenhouse against 5 pathotypes Sg200 (Jamnagar), 

Sg212 (Durgapura), Sg139 (Jodhpur), Sg298 (New Delhi) and Sg150 (Jalna). Eleven lines were resistant to all 

the five pathotypes and twelve lines were resistant to any four pathotypes. 

Agronomically superior DM resistant lines will be selected for designation of B-lines for 2011 and 

dissemination for use both by public and private sector partners for new hybrid development. 


Output 2.3 – Value chain innovations that deliver higher levels of agricultural inputs required to elevate 

productivity; and that increase value capture for smallholders in output markets 

Sorghum, pearl millet and groundnut value chain development in Nigeria 

Rationale: 

Millet and sorghum are the main cereal crops and staple diets consumed by millions of people in Northern 

Nigeria. These crops account for more than 62% of the production of cereals and occupy over 66% of the area 

under cereals. For decades, governments, donors and non-governmental organizations and research institutions 

invested in the promotion of these crops. These efforts have not generated the expected results. Indeed, many 

investments focused more on enhancing productivity (production sub-sector) neglecting the sub-sectors of 

processing and marketing that the essential pullers of the commodity chains. It is becoming increasingly clear 

that without lifting the constraints facing all players in the value chain, it is difficult to make the commodity 

chains efficient. 

Methodology: 

A three-day stakeholder workshop on sorghum, pearl millet and groundnut value chain development in Nigeria 

was organized by ICRISAT Kano, Nigeria from 23 to 25 November. The workshop was organized under the 

auspices of HOPE and WASA-SP projects. 


The workshop was attended by more than 75 value chain participants from the policy and institutional 

environment, the business and development services, the Media, and direct value chain actors, representative of 

128

sorghum, pearl millet and groundnut farmers’ associations in Nigeria, processors including the malting 

industries, the biscuit manufacturers, oil millers, machine fabricators, and the representative of the largest cereal 

market in West Africa, the Dawanu market. 

Seven major issues were consistently raised on (1) the lack of consistent and reliable supply of raw grains, (2) 

low access to credit, (3) limited knowledge of agri-business and marketing skills, (4) poor quality standards for 

processed products, (5) difficulties for registration and accreditation of small agro-enterprises, (6) need for 

further research on high yielding sorghum varieties suitable for malting and poultry feed, and (7) strategies for 

linking processors to supermarkets and potential large outlets. The workshop proceedings are being reviewed 

and would be published. 

Hakeem Ajeigbe [RP RDS] 

Activity 2.3.1 Innovative formal and informal seed/input delivery systems to provide smallholder farmers access 

to modern varieties and hybrids of mandate crops and other required inputs designed 

i) Generate new CMS systems to diversify the cytoplasmic base of pigeonpea 

Rationale: 

With the development of pigeonpea CMS systems to exploit heterosis, it is imperative to diversify the 

cytoplasmic base. 

Methodology: 

Crosses between pigeonpea and wild Cajanus species were made to identify new sources of CMS. 


Maintainers of A 5 CMS system identified 

Many Pigeonpea cultivars restore fertility but A 5 CMS system had few maintainers. In the years from 2008 to 

2010 fertile siblings were found to maintain male sterility. In 2008 fertility in fertile siblings ranged from 50-95 

%. In order to purify and maintain the maintainers, crosses with fertile siblings continued and in 2011, crosses 

with fertile siblings gave rise to populations with all the plants in male sterile lines with 100% male sterility and 

a smaller proportion of fertile siblings with 85-98 % fertility (Fig. 4). CMS lines are ready for exploiting 

heterosis and the CMS system is ready to be handed over to breeders. 

Percent sterile and fertile plants in 

A5 CMS populations 

Percent sterile and fertile 

plants 

14 

12 

10 

8 

6 

4 

2 

0 

Pop 

1 

Pop 

2 

Pop Pop Pop 

3 4 5 

Populations 

Pop 

6 

Pop 

7 

Series1 

Series2 

Figure 4. Sterile and fertile plants in 7 A 5 CMS populations. 

A 7 CMS system 

Cultivar ICPL 85010 continued to maintain male sterility in A7 CMS system and cultivars ICP 1444 and ICP 

14471 were found to be restorers. 

DR Jadhav, KB Saxena, MI Vales and N Mallikarjuna [RP GL] 

ii) Establishment of community seed banks in Malawi and Tanzania 

Rationale: 

Despite efforts to liberalize market for seed and grain, the response by the commercial seed sector has been very 

slow especially for legumes where farmers can save their own seed and plant in the subsequent growing season. 

129

There are also other entry barriers such as poor road infrastructure that limit participation of the commercial 

seed sector in the rural areas. Use of community seed banks is one way of availing seed of good quality among 

the farming communities. 

Methodology: 

Community seed banks were established in the districts of Mchinji and Mzimba in Malawi to act as conduits for 

community seed supply. Similarly in Tanzania, Farmer Research Groups (FRGs) and Farmer Field Schools 

(FFS) were organized for the same purpose. The districts involved were Masasi, Nanyumbu, Tunduru Newala, 

Tandahimba and Mtwara in Southern Tanzania involving 40 FRGs and Dodoma, Bahi, Kondoa and Kongwa 

from central Tanzania involving 10 FRGs. 


In Malawi: 110 community seed banks (CSBs) have been established. CSBs membership is 3270, each 

producing 0.25 ha (total 817.5ha) - Approx 800t improved groundnut seed supplied to the community and 12t 

(ICGV-SM 90704) sold to ICRISAT during 2010/11 season. In Tanzania: 50 farmer research groups (FRGs) 

were established (membership 750 households). They supplied to their community 185t of the groundnut variety 

ICGMS 33, - of which 40t was sold to the Agricultural Seed Agency (ASA) during 2010/11. In all these, the 

seed production fields are used as learning points. 

Conclusions: 

The community seed banks are proving the alternative way of availing seed of improved varieties at community 

level, however they lack the capacity to meet seed demand in the desired quantities and quality. 

E S Monyo, W Munthali, H Charlie, O Mponda, and A Chamango [RP GL] 

iii) Production of basic seed and development/implementation of seed road maps. 

Rationale: 

Seed is the essential input to transfer proven agricultural technologies in to small holder farmers under maize 

based cropping systems through sustainable intensification. 

Methodology: 

Increased the basic seed of all the varieties of pigeonpea identified for their use through NARES partners in 

Tanzania (SARI-Arusha, IARI-Ilonga), Malawi (CARS-Lilongwe), Kenya (KARI-Embu) and Mozambique 

(IIAM-Maputo) under SIMLESA; and SARI-Arusha under AGRA funded project. 


In Kenya, seed road maps have been developed to produce the seed required for on-farm trials, large scale 

demonstrations and more critically to reach the target households. Seed production cycle involving ICEAPs 

0054 and 00040 started to produce 16 t of seed to cover about 1600 ha of area by 2014 crop season duly 

engaging seed companies (Wakala Africa, Fresh co) and NGOs( one acre fund) in seed production and delivery. 

In Tanzania, 1.77 t of breeder seed of 6 pigeonpea varieties were produced along with 5.5 t QDS seed of Mali 

variety. Private seed companies (SATEC, Mt. Meru, Kilimo markets and Tanzania International) and NGO 

(Brac Tanzania Ltd) also engaged in seed production and delivery. Similarly, seed road maps were developed in 

Malawi (to produce 40 t of ICEAPs 00557 and 01514/15) and Mozambique (32 t of ICEAPs 00554, 00557, 

00040). Both formal and informal seed systems including revolving seed scheme being used in pigeonpea seed 

production and seed delivery. 

Conclusions: 

Under SIMLESA project by end of the 2014, targeted to reach legume seed to about 16,000 ha in each target 

country and the present seed road maps are robust enough to meet the targets with due consideration to both 

formal and informal seed systems. 


Milestone: Value chain innovations for smallholder farmers to increase value capture in output markets 

evaluated 

Postrainy season evaluations: 

Sweet sorghum multi-location trials for post rainy season adaptation: A multilocation sweet sorghum 

hybrid trial (MSSHT) consisting of twelve hybrids (ICSSH 31, ICSSH 25, ICSSH 39, ICSSH 30, ICSSH 29, 

ICSSH 28, ICSSH 58, JKSSH 02, JKSSH 03, PAC 52093, JK Recova and CSH 22SS) were evaluated in a 

three-replicated RCBD design at three stages (flowering, dough and maturity) in three locations (ICRISAT- 

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Patancheru, Praj industries-Pune,and ANGRAU- Nandyal) during 2010 postrainy season. The pooled ANOVA 

revealed significant differences between locations for all the traits studied and significant interaction effect for 

genotype x location for all traits studied, except plant height. Stalk yield increased from flowering (22.5 t ha -1 ) 

to maturity (22.9 t ha -1 ), highest stalk yield was observed at dough stage (23.1 t ha -1 ), juice yield increased from 

flowering (7.4 t ha -1 ) to maturity (7.5 t ha -1 ), highest juice yield was observed at dough stage (8.0 t ha -1 ), while 

the Brix% increased from flowering (9 %) to maturity (15 %). Sugar yield (t ha -1 ) increased from flowering 

stage (0.5 t ha -1 ) to maturity stage (0.9 t ha -1 ).The hybrid ICSSH 58 (1.2 t ha -1 ) has recorded the highest sugar 

yield at maturity stage. 

A multilocation sweet sorghum varietal trial (MSSVT) consisting of twelve varieties (SPV 422, NTJ 2, ICSV 

25274, ICSV 25280, ICSV 25272, ICSV 25275, PA-27, RSSV 106, RSSV 138, RSSV 167, Urja and RSSV 9) 

were screened in the above locations. The ANOVA revealed significant genotype × location interaction effects 

for all traits studied. Stalk yield increased from flowering (17.2 t ha -1 ) to maturity (18.3 t ha -1 ) highest stalk yield 

was observed at dough stage (21.3 t ha -1 ), juice yield decreased from flowering (5.2 t ha -1 ) to maturity (5.0 t ha -1 ) 

highest juice yield was observed at dough stage (6.7 t ha -1 ), and the Brix % increased from flowering (11 %) to 

maturity (16 %). Sugar yield increased from flowering stage (0.4 t ha -1 ) to maturity stage (0.6 t ha -1 ), highest 

sugar yield was observed at dough stage (0.72 t ha -1 ) The variety Urja (1.3 t ha -1 ) has recorded the highest sugar 

yield at maturity stage. 

Rainy season evaluations 

High biomass lines multi location trial: A high biomass multi location trial was conducted with 39 high 

biomass sorghum lines in RCBD with three replications in rainy season 2011 at three locations i.e., ICRISAT- 

Patancheru, SSS-NIRE (Sardar swaran singh national institute of renewable energy) – Kapurthala and Praj 

industries – Pune. There was a significant G x E interaction for all the traits under study. The interaction was 

highly significant for the traits influencing biomass yield like plant height, stem girth, number of internodes, 

fresh biomass yield and stower weight. Fresh stalk yield varied between 16.9 to 77.7 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 45.7 t 

ha -1 ) and eleven entries were superior compared to the best check CSH 22SS. The top five superior fresh 

biomass (stalk) yielding entries are IS 16529 (77.7 t ha -1 ), IS 13553 (58.4 t ha -1 ), IS 16575 (57.6 t ha -1 ), IS 13554 

(50.8 t ha -1 ) and IS 16527 (50.5 t ha -1 ). Days to 50% flowering ranged from 70 to 135 days (CSH 22SS: 90 

days), the entry IS 12930 was the earliest to flower, plant height ranged from 1.9 to 4.2 m (CSH 22SS: 3.4 m), 

mean stem diameter (measured as a mean at 3 rd and 10 th internode ranged from 14.0 to 26.1 mm (CSH 22SS: 

21.3 mm). The number of internodes in the genotypes varied from 10 to 16 (ICSV 93046: 15). Dry biomass 

samples of the superior entries (60 samples) in all the locations were sent to Praj industries, Pune for 

biochemical analysis for estimating actual ethanol yield productivity from lignocellulose. 

Conclusions: 

Two high biomass lines with biomass (>55 t ha -1 ) suitable for different agroecological sorghum locations 

identified and five hybrids with sugar yields (>3.0 t ha -1 ) are being identified. 


Diffusion of improved variety seed of sorghum and millet in Mali through mini-packs 

The use of improved variety seed is seen more than ever as a necessary measure for increasing production in 

traditional cereals such as sorghum and pearl millet for agricultural intensification in West Africa. Seed of 

improved, farmer preferred varieties in West-Africa is not easily available to farmers, and farmers are not used 

to buying or selling seed of these traditional crops, furthermore the commercial seed sector is poorly developed 

for these crops, also due to the high varietal diversity required to meet the specific needs of farmers in different 

agro-ecologies, and with different preferences. Thus the dissemination of new varieties tends to be slow and not 

reaching farmers on a large scale. Since 2010, in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Nigeria around 27 improved 

varieties and hybrids for sorghum and more than 15 improved pearl millet varieties are being diffused via “minipacks”. 

The “mini-pack” strategy consists of diffusing small packs of improved variety seed. The aim of the 

strategy is twofold: to stimulate the commercialization of the traditional cereals of sorghum and pearl millet and 

to increase the adoption of improved variety seed. 

Methodology: 

Important components of the mini-pack strategy are a uniform packaging with informative labels in the local 

language. Seed quantities are in general between 100 and 500g per pack. The price for one pack of 100g is 

between 50 and 100 Fcfa. The production of the seed for mini-packs is for the most part ensured by farmer 

cooperatives. The diffusion is guaranteed by a diversity of actors dealing with agricultural inputs using a 

multitude of selling points and channels for distribution. Since 2010 eight farmer seed cooperatives produced 

seed and used the mini-pack strategy for seed diffusion in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. They further 

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collaborated with agrodealers and private seed enterprises. In Nigeria the CBARDP and specific projects 

(MARKET, WASA, KNARDA) were responsible for the distribution. Training programs on varieties, seed 

production and marketing reinforced knowledge on varieties and seed sale were conducted. The principal points 

of sale were cooperative seed stores, local markets, village meetings agricultural input shops, seed fairs, etc. The 

diversification of information sources (radio, markets, meetings, fairs, television) also supported the diffusion. 

The vendors documented the varieties purchase and maintained lists of buyers, the numbers of packets sold, as 

well as the name and village of the buyer, to facilitate monitoring and evaluation 

Results: 

The mini-pack strategy increased awareness and access of improved varieties currently produced and facilitated 

comparing these varieties with the farmers’ own varieties under their own conditions. Feedback studies and 

analysis of the impact of the strategy were carried out by two students and are ongoing (Niccoleau, 2011 (master 

study) and C. Jones (Phd studies). Approx. 9403 pearl millet and 10476 sorghum mini-packs (OPV and hybrids) 

were sold in 2010 in Mali, Niger, Nigeria and Burkina Faso. In South Mali about 68% of mini-pack buyers are 

planning to increase the area sown with the improved sorghum variety they tested. In these region, the minipack 

strategy reached all different socio-economic classes of farmers. Most of the farmer organisations 

increased mini-pack production in 2011, as for example the ULPC seed cooperative in Mali which sold 2000 

packs more in 2011 compared to 2010. More than 9000 sales were registered for 2011 for sorghum (data from 

Nigeria not yet received) and more than 3000 for millet (Niger and Nigeria not yet included). A further positive 

effect was that seed cooperative increased local seed sales as farmers, after having tested the seed in 2010, 

moved forward to buy higher quantities of bulk seed. This was the case for the Malian seed cooperative UACT 

who sold 400kg certified bulk seed, but also for UGCPA in Burkina Faso. The collaboration with agro-dealer 

networks allowed the farmer seed cooperatives to expand selling points outside of their zones of intervention 

and to create links with input shops. In 2011 more than 2000 seed packs were sold alone in Mali through Agrodealer 

networks and private seed enterprises. Due to the promising results of hybrid mini-pack sales and hybrid 

performance in Mali in 2010, CNFA and EUCORD (AGRA Microdose) included hybrid demonstrations in their 

2011 program. 

Kirsten vom Brocke, Anna Niccoleau, Eva Weltzien, Kristal Jones, 

Tahirou Boye, Yalali Traore, Roger Kabore, Karim Diarra, 

Adama Sidibe, Ali Aminou, Mamadou Coulibaly, Bocar Diallo, Tom van Mourik, 

Hakeem Ajeigbe, Bettina Haussmann and Ignatius Angarawai [RP DC] 

Output 2.4. Value-added products and markets for mandate crops that enhance smallholder incomes 

Project 2.3: Optimizing livelihood and environmental benefits from crop residues in smallholder croplivestock 

systems in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia: regional case studies. 

Countries Involved: Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, representing the case study in southern Africa. 


Mixed crop livestock systems are very dynamic and are evolving rapidly in response to external drivers such as 

demographic pressure, development of urban markets and increased demand for crop and livestock products, 

climate variability and change. In addition, the recent interest for bio-fuel production exacerbates further the 

pressure on biomass in production systems. This study aims at better understanding the tradeoffs in crop residue 

uses in cereal based systems in four regions: millet, sorghum, maize based systems in West Africa, maize based 

systems in Eastern and Southern Africa (SSA); and wheat/rice based systems in South Asia (SA). The major 

tradeoff in most systems is the short term benefits of using crop residues to feed livestock versus leaving the 

crop residues in the field to improve soil productivity. 

The regional case study southern Africa uses farming systems analysis to shed further light on the process of 

crop livestock intensification and integration, in the context of the national and local drivers to determine site 

specific entry points for moving farmers in mixed crop-livestock systems up the development pathways. We 

investigate in economic analysis to quantify and compare potential economic trade-offs between using crop 

residues as livestock feed or as soil amendment/protection. 


The global scoping study focuses on crop residues tradeoff analysis at multiple levels in a range of specific 

socio-economic and bio-physical environments in order to better target technical, institutional and policy 

options to improve livelihood without comprising long term system sustainability. The study was implemented 

in 11 sites across 8 countries in 4 (sub)tropical regions and targeted sites with different agro-ecologies, 

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intensification levels and market accessibility to cover some of the diversity of mixed farming systems in SSA 

and SA. The regions involved were Eastern Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya), Southern Africa (Malawi, Mozambique, 

Zimbabwe), Western Africa (Niger) and SA (Bangladesh and India). In Ethiopia, India and Niger, two 

contrasting sites were selected, while one site was selected in each of the other countries. In each site, one or 

two main regional markets were selected, around which a set of 4-8 villages was selected according to distance 

to the selected markets and major roads. 

In southern Africa the study was implemented in Mzimba district (northern Malawi), Nkayi district (southeast 

Zimbabwe) and Changara district (central Mozambique). The same research tools were applied as across all 

sites. Quantitative village surveys were conducted in 2010 and early 2011 in all villages (n=24) for better 

understanding local context, land use and crop residue utilization. About 30 farmers of different age, gender, 

land and livestock ownership participated in the discussions. The household surveys were conducted during the 

same time. Households were randomly selected across all villages stratified by four wealth categories, derived 

from preceding village census lists (n=480). The questionnaire included household’s socio-economic situation; 

crop land, management and uses; livestock ownership, feeding management and product uses. So far descriptive 

analyses have been used to characterize the farming systems by their states of crop livestock intensification and 

integration, and in the context of national and local drivers, in order to determine site specific entry points for 

moving farmers in mixed crop-livestock systems up the development pathways. Further analysis is in process, 

on profitability analysis of intensification options, economic trade offs on crop residues uses and maize as food 

feed crop in southern Africa. 


Results from the global study show that although high density sites (Bangladesh, India 1, Kenya) face higher 

potential pressure on resources on an area basis, biomass production tends to be more substantial in these sites 

covering demands for livestock feed and allowing part of the residues to be used as mulch. In medium-density 

sites (Ethiopia 1 and 2, India 2), although population and livestock densities are relatively lower, biomass is 

scarce and pressure on land and feed are high, increasing the pressure on crop residues and their opportunity 

cost as mulch. In low-density areas (all sites in southern and West Africa), population and livestock densities are 

relatively low and communal feed and fuel resources exist, resulting in lower potential pressure on residues on 

an area basis. Yet, biomass production is low and farmers largely rely on crop residues to feed livestock during 

the long dry season, implying substantial opportunity costs to their use as mulch. Despite its potential benefit for 

smallholder farmers across the density gradient, the introduction of CA-based mulching practices appears 

potentially easier in sites where biomass production is high enough to fulfill existing demands for feed and fuel. 

In sites with relatively high feed and fuel pressure, the eventual introduction of CA needs complementary R&D 

efforts to increase biomass production and/or develop alternative sources to alleviate the opportunity costs of 

leaving some crop residues as mulch. The study thereby highlights the important complementary role of 

agricultural intensification 1. the intensification gradient helps better target and adapt CA-based mulching 

interventions; 2. intensification enables the introduction of CA-based mulching practices. 

The regional study in southern Africa clearly illustrates that mixed crop-livestock systems in the semi-arid areas 

are a function of the interplay between agro-ecological conditions, human population densities, local and 

national drivers: Northern Malawi has relatively high rainfall, high human population density and policies 

promoting input subsidies for crop production. Farmers invest substantially in crop production, but greater 

integration of livestock in farming systems could be a major opportunity and help to reduce current high levels 

of imports of livestock products. In southwest Zimbabwe livestock densities are higher despite lower rainfall 

and limited support to agricultural production. Crop-livestock is more integrated, but is constrained by feed 

deficits and non-functional input and output markets. Central Mozambique in southern Tete province is the most 

extensive case, with a focus on livestock production but frequent food and feed shortages. Basic infrastructure 

and services are lacking. Development programs should take recognizance of mixed farming systems in the 

context of the local and national drivers, and align interventions with those factors as well as with farmers’ 

aspirations and resource endowments. They should strengthen the growth potential in livestock at sites like in 

Zimbabwe and Mozambique; markets need to be improved to enhance impact; interventions in Malawi can learn 

from this. Increases in both crop and crop residue production to feed livestock are needed in these countries for 

successful intensification and to promote food security. The Malawian case shows that investment in 

agricultural inputs pays off; government support can kick-start this. Livestock production and market 

development can lead to greater crop-livestock integration and cross-subsidization, sustainable intensification. 

[RP MIP] 

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Project 2.4: Harnessing opportunities for productivity enhancement of sorghum and millets in Sub-Saharan 

Africa and South Asia. 

Countries Involved: ESA-Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia and Tanzania 


The project applies the value chain approach to analyse the sub-sector of sorghum and finger millet in selected 

countries in ESA. In the socioeconomic objectives, this includes among others the following activities: farm 

household (Ethiopia and Tanzania), trader and processor (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Ethiopia) and consumer 

surveys (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Ethiopia). Moreover, large data sets on household expenditures, 

including sorghum and finger millet, are available for Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda. The collection of 

information at different levels of the value chain and the triangulation of results leads to a comprehensive 

overview of the sub sector. Thus, bottlenecks for the development of specific value chains can be identified at 

different stages of the chain. This enables researchers to propose a development strategy that considers the 

whole value chain and the needs of the various actors in the chain. The inclusion of all relevant stakeholders is a 

precondition for their acceptance of the proposed pathway of development and its success and sustainability. 


Key result area: Lessons learned from farm household, trader and processor surveys. 

The analysis of the data from the farm household survey in Central Tanzania has the following preliminary 

results in regard to adoption of improved varieties: (1) 56.2% of the interviewed 253 sorghum farmers know at 

least one improved sorghum variety. Of these, 77.3% have ever cultivated an improved variety. However, only 

48.9% have cultivated an improved variety in the 2009/10 cropping season. These figures demand for 

intervention on two levels. First, access to information about improved sorghum varieties needs to be improved. 

Second, entry barriers for adoption, once improved varieties are known, must be reduced. The two most 

important reasons for non-adoption that were mentioned by farmers are non-availability of seeds and 

susceptibility of the variety for diseases and pests. (2) Improved finger millet varieties are not yet released in 

Tanzania. However, farmers are interested in them. Their preferred variety traits are dark colour, short maturity 

and high yields. 

Interviews with traders and processors reveal the following picture for Kenya and Tanzania: (1) There is an 

increasing demand for sorghum and finger millet in the flour industry. Whereas the sector is dominated by 

medium to large scale companies in Kenya, many women and other self help groups are involved in the 

processing of sorghum and finger millet in Tanzania and only few medium scale companies so far show an 

interest in these two crops. However, the constraints are the same in both countries. Demand exceeds supply and 

the supplied quality is not satisfactory. (2) For sorghum, there is also an increasing demand from breweries in 

Kenya and Tanzania. However, they face the same problems than the flour industry. 

[RP MIP] 

MTP Output target 2.5 – Evidence-based policy advice that fosters the sustainable intensification of 

smallholder farming 

Intermediate Output Target in 2011 2.5.1 Research data on the policy changes required for smallholder farmers 

to intensify their cropping systems acquired and made available as IPGs 

[RP MIP] 

Project 2.5: Assessment of Conservation Agriculture (CA) Adoption and Impacts. Protracted Relief Program (PRP) 

Countries Involved: Zimbabwe 


The present study is continuation of the previous panel survey completed as per the MTP Output target 2009 

1.10.2. The study sought to assess the conservation agriculture practices, constraints and contribution to food 

security 


The study is based on a panel survey approach, being implemented annually since 2007, targeting 450 farmers 

from 15 districts known to practice CA. The districts are stratified under different agro-ecological regions so as 

to compare the impact of the technology for farmers living in diverse environments. 

134


Key result area: Lessons learnt from CA panel survey: assessing adoption of CA practices and determining 

how it can contribute to sustained food security and improved livelihoods for rural farm based communities. 

Review of findings from the panel survey and how these impact on livelihoods of rural farmers with the 

following key findings: 

a. CA contributed to increase in maize yield to 1546kg/ha compared to 970kg/ha on conventional plots 

b. Area under CA increased from 0.1 of hectare to 0.25ha during the first years of promotion 

c. Expansion of the area under CA has been undermined by the labor requirements associated with the 

technology. 

d. Attaining 30% permanent cover is still limited with farmers using most of the residues as livestock 

feed. 

Identifying recommendations for improving the CA technology transfer, with the following key findings: a) 

Targeting farmers for CA promotion. There were concerns about the extent to which vulnerable groups could 

maximize input and technology support. The targeting process has excluded better resource endowed farmers 

who could be better positioned to maximize input and technology support. The 2010/11 panel survey has 

included a sample of resource endowed CA farmers and the results are still pending b) NGO level support. 

Sustained CA promotions should move from NGO related input support to market led interventions such as 

input credit facilities. Since 2009/10 season NGOs also started the voucher system, so as to revitalize the local 

market input system c) Weed practices. Introduction of herbicides where appropriate should be considered to 

reduce labor requirements associated with weeding. Use of cover crops and other mulch sources can also assist 

in weed suppression d) Mechanization of CA. Introduction of mechanized CA can be an innovation in 

addressing the high labor requirements associated with the technology. e) Disaggregating the CA package. 

Instead of promoting CA as a package, it would be better to disaggregate it so that farmers can pick components 

that are suitable for the different environments. 

Policy implications 

• There is need to strengthen extension support to farmers through AGRITEX (Include CA in Government’s 

master farmer training curriculum) 

• Strengthen research initiatives in improving the efficiency of CA technology 

• Improve markets (Input and output market) to ensure that farmers will have an incentive to invest in the 

technology. 

• Involve better-off farmers who have capacity to take risk and embrace innovation 

• Development of industries that support mechanized CA equipment. 

Constraints 

• CA technology has been viewed as a NGO program because of lack of coordinated effort with Government 

in promoting CA technique. Government has not yet included CA in the master farmer training curriculum. 

• Financial challenges - Getting inadequate funding and delays in getting funding also undermines effective 

research on impact of CA on smallholder farmer’s livelihoods 

Future support projects 

• Impact assessment of mechanized CA in Zimbabwe 

• Engage in programs/activities that will facilitate a platform for functional agricultural markets (Input and 

output market) 

• PRP is ending August 2012, and future funding on this work is not clear. All the support projects (CNFA, 

smaller contracts with Implementing NGOs are all aligned to PRP funding period. 

[RP MIP] 

Milestone: Assessments on potential value-added products and markets from ICRISAT mandated crops 

conducted and results made available as IPGs 

[RP GL] 

Output 2.6. Capacity strengthening, knowledge sharing and awareness raising products and services for all 

stakeholders to enable smallholders to sustainably intensify mandate crops and systems 

Enhancing Water Use Efficiency in SAT 

Rationale: 

Large scope exists to increase agricultural productivity in developing and water scarce regions in the World as 

current level of water productivity is in between 35 and 45%. Current farmers’ crop yields are lower by two to 

four folds that of achievable potential. Although, the total amount of rainfall in the SAT regions is adequate in 

135

many cases to meet the total water requirements of the crops and cropping systems, its erratic distribution results 

in periods of both excess and deficit water availability. Several land and water management technologies were 

developed and tested by ICRISAT scientists within experimental stations for enhancing water use efficiency are 

required to be scaled-out. Moreover, to enhance water productivity in agriculture, it is important to utilize 

available water resource properly and required to adopt need based and efficient irrigation methods. 

Methodology: 

A large cultivable area is left fallow in rainy season due to poor drainage and water logging situations in 

Vertisol in Central part of the India (e.g., Madhya Pradesh). In such areas, we recommended to cultivate short 

duration crops (e.g., soybean) in Kharif period by adopting appropriate land form interventions (Broad bed and 

furrow practice). To enhance water use efficiency in these areas, Sir Dorabji Tata Trust (SDTT) and Sir Ratan 

Tata Trust (SRTT) supported ICRISAT to scale-out such technologies to farmer’s fields. Thus, farmer 

participatory trials were conducted in total 72 and 64 fields to address rainy season fallow management and rice 

fallow management in several districts of Madhya Pradesh, India, respectively. 

In order to enhance water use efficiency Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI) supported ICRISAT to develop 

science-based but simple tool called as Water Impact Calculator (WIC) to guide farmers to decide frequency 

and quantity of irrigation based on water balance rather than calendar-based irrigation. WIC has developed 

using data from strategic experiment through a desktop study. The WIC has been tested at five experimental 

locations in Gujarat, Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh. 

Results: 

Farmers’ participatory trials conducted in Madhya Pradesh shows that adopting land form interventions, like 

broad bed and furrow (BBF) practices along with balanced application of fertilizer, farmers could successfully 

take soybean crop in rainy season (Kharif) and wheat or chickpea in post-rainy (Rabi) season. Similarly, 

chickpea cultivation in Rabi after rice yielded nearly on an average 1 ton/ha. Both the systems enhanced 

cropping intensity and total crop yield. Farmers’ income enhanced by 30-50% compares to traditionally adopted 

one-crop based system. 

A simple and farmer friendly Water Impact Calculator (WIC) is developed for better use of available water 

resources. Data collected at pilot sites in Rajasthan, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh showed that WIC-based 

irrigations could save up to 50 per cent water as compared to calendar-based irrigation scheduling. Results 

showed that number of irrigations and amount could have been reduced to 30-40 per cent by WIC-based 

irrigation scheduling without compensating crop yields. Validation results show that WIC could be used to 

analyze water balance components at watershed scale of 1-10 km 2 . WIC provides principle water balance 

components i.e., ET, surface runoff, deep percolation, change in soil moisture storages in root zone and amount 

of water stored by storage structures in watershed and spilled over amount at downstream location. 

Conclusion: 

Large scope exists to enhance agricultural productivity in rainfed areas of semi arid tropics by adopting various 

IWMP interventions. WIC holds huge potential as a decision making tools for managing water resources of 

small and marginal farmers field and micro-watershed scale. 

Source: 

SRTT progress Report, 2011. 

SAI final report submitted in Dec 2011. 

Girish Chander, P Pathak, Suhas P Wani, Sudi Raghavendra Rao, 

KL Sahrawat, Prasad Kamdi, CK Pal, DK Pal, G Pardhasaradhi, 

K Sammi Reddy, Pitam Chandra, SK Srivastava, Ramesh Singh, 

B Suresh Kumar, B Venkateswarlu, Mohd. Osman, Aparna Mahajan, 

JP Sharma, Akhilesh Singh Yadav, SK Desai, Bacchu Singh Chadhari, 

AK Chourasia, Amol Gawande, Rajesh Kumar, Deepak Sharma, 

Nand Kishore Trivedi, Dadan Singh, Rajeev Ranjan, Arun Pujari, 

VS Tomar and SS Chahal [RP RDS] 

Rationale: 

CBFFS for ISSFM have been successfully tested and piloted by ICRISAT. These technologies and experiences 

need sharing and promoting to scale-up the benefits. 

136


• A guide for installing cluster based farmer field schools (CBFFS) for integrated Striga and soil fertility 

management (ISSFM) has been drafted in English and French for use by research technicians and field 

agents in West Africa. Versions of this guide have already been used in training workshops in Mali, Niger, 

Nigeria and Ghana with the purpose to initiate CBFFS on ISSFM. 

• Information booklets on Striga and ISSFM have been produced in French, English, Bamanakan (Mali) and 

Haussa (drafted for Niger, Nigeria) with pictorial material and minimal text as support tools for farmer 

training by technicians, but also for farmer-to-farmer training. 

• Farmer-to-farmer training videos on technologies and issues related to ISSFM have been produced by video 

production teams from Mali, Niger, Nigeria and Ghana. These videos are currently available in French and 

English and will be translated into six major West-African languages in 2012, that is Bamanakan, More and 

Bobo (mainly Mali and Burkina Faso), Zerma and Haussa (mainly Niger and Nigeria) and Peuhl (West 

African subregion). Large scale production and dissemination of DVD’s (>10.000 DVDs) with these videos 

is being planned to reach large number of farmers. 

Tom van Mourik [RP RDS] 

Capacity building IPM 

Rationale: 

NARES capacity to meet the growing demand for enhancing the productivity to address the food security is 

limited in acquiring technologies and utilize them. Hence human resource development in various fields has 

been considered as the high priority. 

Methodology: 

Selection and training the NARES partners in stipulated time. 


During this year IPM team interacted with 78 agricultural officials in eco-friendly pest management 

strategies to implement Bhoochetana and Suvarna bhoomi programs in Karnataka. Two intensive training 

programs in Integrated watershed management with special emphasis on integrated pest management were 

organized covering 100 farmer facilitators in Gulbarga and Yadgiri districts. Extension hand outs covering 

IPM of vegetable crops were prepared and shared with all the partners in Karnataka project. 

GV RangaRao [RP RDS] 

Rationale: 

Boron (B) deficiency frequency is increasing in rainfed systems and hence the need to diagnose the deficiency. 

Methodology: 

At the ICRISAT analytical laboratory, we use inductively plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) for 

determining extractable or available B. However, colorimetric methods are still widely used in soil testing 

laboratories in India for measuring B. There is little information on the comparative evaluation of the 

colorimetric and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) methods for determining extractable B in soils. 


We describe results on the comparative evaluation of these methods for measuring extractable B in 57 soil 

samples with pH ranging from 5.0 to 9.5. Soil samples were selected from a large number of samples for the 

study to have a wide range in pH (5.0 to 9.5) and organic carbon (0.10 to1.96 g 100g -1 ). The soils samples 

generally belonged to Alfisols and Vertisols and associated soils. To enhance the pH range, a few soil samples 

belonging to Entisols and Ultisols orders were also included. For determining hot water-extractable B in soil 

samples, 20 g soil sample was refluxed with 40 ml hot water (boiling) for a period of 5 min. One aliquot from 

the filtered extract was used for measuring B using ICP-AES and a second aliquot was used to determine B 

using the azomethine-H colorimetric method. All the analyses were made in three replications and the results 

reported are mean of three replications. 

The results on extractable B in the 57 soil samples analyzed by ICP-AES (ICP-B) and colorimetric (Color-B) 

methods showed that they had a range in extractable B. There was a highly significant interaction (p

the correlation coefficient (R 2 ) of extractable B with soil pH was low (R 2 = 0.2538, n = 57). The correlation 

between extractable B and soil organic C was not significant (R 2 = 0.0518, n = 57). The correlation between 

ICP-B and color-B was highly significant (R 2 = 0.9701, n = 57). 

Conclusion: 

The resultant regression equations can be used to calculate the ICP-B values from the color-B values in soil 

samples for extractable B. Such results are also useful and required for the calibration of soil tests using ICP-B 

results in field and greenhouse studies for various crops. 

Source: 

Sahrawat et al. 2011. Comparative evaluation of ICP-AES and colorimetric methods for determining hot waterextractable 

boron in soils. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis. 

KL Sahrawat, K Shirisha, KVS Murthy, and SP Wani [RP RDS] 

Milestones 

‐ Tools, protocols and courses developed to strengthen capacity of stakeholders to intensify 

smallholder farming in the dryland tropics 

‐ Knowledge sharing tools and protocols defined for Asia, ESA and WCA that targets 

intensification of smallholder farming 

‐ Awareness products developed to enhance stakeholder knowledge of options for 

intensifying smallholder farming in the dryland tropics 

i) The Ninth ICRISAT-CEG course on “Molecular Breeding for Crop Improvement” was held during 

7-18 November 2011 at ICRISAT Campus, Patancheru. 

Rationale: 

To improve the precision and efficiency of plant breeding programs, there is a need that plant breeders have 

access to new tools and technology – molecular markers extensively used by plant breeders in developed and 

developing world for trait specific newer and better crops. Therefore there is a need to organize such training 

courses for plant breeders to learn such techniques to integrate new tools into their crop improvement programs. 

Methodology: 

Course included presentations and/or hands-on training on topics like overview of molecular marker technology 

especially SSRs and SNPs, experimental design and data analysis components of phenotypic traits, construction 

of linkage maps, marker-trait association based on linkage mapping, marker-assisted backcrossing (MABC), 

marker-assisted recurrent selection (MARS), genome-wide selection (GWS), and use of decision support tools 

in modern breeding approaches. The course participants were also introduced to high-throughput genotyping 

platforms like DArT, BeadXpress system, etc. 


Twenty-eight scientists including five from overseas (Sri Lanka, Nigeria and Chile) who were self-supported 

and twenty three Indian participants from Indian ICAR centers, State Agricultural Universities, Research 

Foundations, medium-sized seed companies were trained in the two-week interactive course. The interactive 

course exposed them to advanced methodologies of molecular plant breeding with a major focus was on 

analysis and the use of marker genotyping data rather than on data generation. 

Conclusions: 

The training course will help plant breeders to learn modern molecular breeding techniques to integrate these 

tools into their crop improvement programs. 

RK Varshney, A Rathore, TM Shah, RR Mir, M Thudi, O Riera-Lizarazu 

and several others from ICRISAT and other partner institutes [RP GL] 

ii) Training program on “Application of molecular markers for improvement of groundnut oil quality” 

during 26-28 September, 2011 ICRISAT, Patancheru, India 

Rationale: 

To enable plant breeders in implementing molecular breeding programs with improved precision and efficiency 

at their centers which are involved in the DOAC, GOI project on “Development and promotion of promising 

varieties / lines with high yield and high oil content with enhanced O/L ratio for enhancing production and 

quality of groundnut oil in drought-prone environments to boost the income of small and marginal groundnut 

farmers in India”, using new tools and technology. 

138

Methodology: 

Course included presentations and/or hands-on training on DNA isolation, DNA quality assessment, PCR 

amplification, pooling of PCR products, running agarose/ polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, gel 

documentation, ABI analysis, allele scoring and interpretation. Topics on molecular marker technology and 

marker-assisted breeding with special emphasis on marker-assisted backcrossing (MABC) for oil quality have 

been discussed. 


A total of 9 participants from four collaborating centers (TNAU, Coimbatore; DGR and JAU, Junagarh; and 

RARS, Tirupati) participated in a three day hands-on training program on “Application of molecular markers for 

improvement of groundnut oil quality” which was conducted during 26-28 September 2011 at ICRISAT. 

Participants were trained in DNA isolation, DNA quality assessment, PCR amplification, pooling of PCR 

products, running agarose/ polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, gel documentation, ABI analysis, allele scoring 

and interpretation. As a part of the proposed MABC approach to transfer high O/L ratio trait into high / low oil 

content groundnut lines, cleaved amplified polymorphic markers (CAPS) and allele specific markers were 

validated among a set of parental genotypes at ICRISAT. Allele specific markers could differentiate the parents 

with normal and high O/L ratio. Participants were also involved in interpretation of results and decision making 

during selection of desired breeding lines based on genotyping data. 

Conclusions: 

Although the genotyping can be done on a simple agarose gel and PAGE but interpretation is not straight 

forward during selection of desired breeding line. Hence, after learning genotyping work, participants were 

exposed to extensive and lengthy discussion on result interpretation to make them enable in implementing the 

project work at their centre to meet the objectives of the above mentioned project. This course will help 

groundnut breeders in using modern breeding techniques for oil quality improvement to meet the objectives of 

the project. 

MK Pandey, SN Nigam, P Janila and RK Varshney[RP GL] 

Developing multi-purpose high value crops: sweet sorghum breeding in Mali 

Identification of farmer preferred, high potential sweet sorghum varieties 

Based on results of field trials on-station and on-farm, which indicated a superior performance (brix values over 

15% and grain yield performance on-station of more than 2t) for the double objective grain yield/sugar yield for 

about ten caudatum race and caudatum/guinea race germplasm accessions and breeding lines from IER and 

ICRISAT, four varieties were selected for a collaborative initiative on sweet sorghum production for fodder, 

grain and biofuel with the private industry (Malibiocarburant au Mali). A local seed cooperative was contracted 

to produce sufficient seed to cover 200ha in 2012. Altogether 1.2t were produced by the seed cooperative. 

Development of new sweet sorghum varieties for the soudanian zone in Mali 

Most of the elite and advanced sweet sorghum cultivars from India showed variable results and were in general 

little promising regarding grain quality. Whereas different environmental conditions in the different trial years 

did not affect the local sweet sorghum landraces, breeding material from India lost between 30 and 50% of its 

biomass performance under less favorable conditions in Samanko. Based on these experiences, a local sweet 

sorghum breeding program was initiated using local sweet sorghum landraces, IS accessions from Ethiopia and 

elite guinea grain sorghum varieties in crossing programs. Crosses are aimed to develop OPVs with high grain 

and sugar yield with a special focus on grain quality (i.e. highly vitreous grains). About 50 promising F4 lines 

were identified in 2011 for further testing. Ten of these lines involving the parent IS15401 (Soumalemba), 

present especially interesting characteristics such as a long growing cycle with high biomass production, sweet 

juicy stems, acceptable grain quality and resistance to head bug and end of season drought. 

Further, about 48 test crosses between ICRISAT/Patancheru sweet sorghum A-lines and high-potential sweet 

sorghum varieties were evaluated by ICRISAT and IER for fertility restoration and desirable sweet sorghum 

traits in 2010. Preliminary results show that F1 hybrids derived from a bicolor male parent (Malian sweet 

sorghum landraces) were the most promising for sugar-yield related traits. Highest sugar potential (brix>16%), 

juiciness and vigorous appearance were observed in hybrid F1s from the male parents “local de Namakan” and 

“F60” crossed with A lines from India. Fertility restoration assessments identified maintainers in both of these 

parents and a backcross program has been started to produce new A/B-lines at IER Sotuba in 2011 for high 

biomass, juice and sugar production. 

Kirsten vom Brocke, Sabine Togola, Abocar Toure, Abdoulaye Diallo [RP DC] 

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Output 2.6 – Capacity strengthening, knowledge--‐sharing and awareness--‐raising products and services for 

all stakeholders to enable smallholders to sustainably intensify mandate crops and systems 

MTP Output Target in 2011 2.6.1 Tools, protocols and courses developed to strengthen capacity of 

stakeholdres to intensify smallholder farming in the dryland tropics. 

MTP Output Target in 2011 2.6.2 Knowledge sharing tools and protocols defined for Asia, ESA and WCA 

that targets intensification of smallholder farming 

Project 2.6: Capacity Strengthening through Strategic Analysis and Knowledge Support for Agricultural 

Development in Mozambique (MozSAKSS Phase II) 

Countries Involved: Mozambique 


The overall objective of is to provide Mozambique government and private sector with credible data and 

analysis that will enable them to make investment and policy decisions based on evidence. 


Innovative Project Approach 

ICRISAT has been actively involved in the project Capacity Strengthening through Strategic Analysis and 

Knowledge Support for Agricultural Development in Mozambique (MozSAKSS Phase II). Within MozSAKSS 

the ICRISAT-lead area focuses on special studies were on providing options for expanded access and utilization 

of agricultural input and output markets. This involved a) Review and summary evidence on the performance of 

input and output markets, b) Analysis of strengths, weaknesses and opportunities of input and output markets, 

and c) Contrasting the performance of input and output markets in high and low potential areas. In response to 

these requirements, ICRISAT has completed a literature review based analysis of the performance of input and 

output markets in Mozambique. This was followed by key informant interviews describing the agricultural 

markets in the country. Based on the two reports, a household survey is to be implemented in August and 

September to assess the key factors affecting smallholder farmer’s access to and utilization of input and output 

markets in Mozambique. 


A number of factors have either promoted or stifled the performance of agricultural input and output markets in 

Mozambique. The war for independence and the follow on protracted civil unrest which lasted for over a decade 

hampered agricultural production in the country. There was widespread breakdown of the transport and 

communication infrastructure which negatively affected agricultural trade and because of civil wars there were 

massive displacements which forced farmers to abandon their agricultural and marketing. The decline in 

agricultural production was also worsened by recurrent natural disasters such as floods which affects the greater 

part of the country. Unfavorable government policies have also negatively affected the efficiency of agricultural 

markets. This has been through policies such as subsidization of fertilizer without clear regard on issues like 

proper targeting, roles of private sector and crowding out of efforts. And because subsidy is just one factor in the 

value chain, efforts to boost agricultural productivity were not realized because the subsidy program was not 

accompanied with provision of good quality and improved seed as well as proper knowledge on the use of 

fertilizer. It is argued that only if governments could be patient and invest in short and medium term 

organizational and infrastructural requirements, this would at the end yield more than the impact of subsidies. 

This could be through investment in providing an enabling environment and supporting the private sector 

through provision of clearer lines of credit, tax credit as well as helping to get farmers organized to enable the 

private sector operate more efficiently. Structures such as farmer groups is a good model in strengthening 

farmers’ bargaining power as well as reducing transaction costs in the acquisition of inputs and disposal of farm 

output. 

• Several government policy strategies, but lacked funding, clear monitoring and realistic time frame 

(recently adopted PEDSA, and signed the CAADP compact) 

• Use of hybrid seed low 

• Over reliance on recycled seeds by smallholder farmers 

• Low purchase power of farmers – no formal credit 

• Low fertilizer use by smallholder farmers (4%). Some farmers even don’t know fertilizer in the 

southern parts of the country. 

• Weak extension support on seed and fertilizer use 

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• Inadequate fertilizer market infrastructure: One Fertilizer Company serving the nation (MFC) 

• Poor physical infrastructure –in some areas roads are inaccessible 

• Pigeon pea – High production in northern parts accompanied with bulk exports to Asia (India, 

Bangladesh etc) but trade data and details seem elusive. 

Policy implications 

• Enhance the role of extension in training farmers on use of improved seeds and fertilizer 

• Use of improved technology (seed, fertilizer, mechanized, irrigation) to be supported by credit lines to 

agro dealers and farmers 

• Implement demonstrations to show the contribution of fertilizers to crop productivity 

• Need for development of a viable agricultural input value chain (Manufacturers > distributors > 

wholesalers > local agro dealers) to improve input access 

• Enhance private sector support to agricultural markets 

• Monitor the production and trade of pigeon peas and develop sound policy support. 

Constraints in project implementation 

• Accounting: Financial risks associated with moving hard currency from Zimbabwe to Mozambique 

• Staff turnover: High staff turnover responsible for project within ICRISAT and MOZSAKSS, delayed 

project execution 

• Cost recovery: Too high, vehicle rates resulted in expensive travel costs unsustainable to the budget 

• Language: More costs for translation and interpretation in Portuguese 

Future projects 

• Continue with capacity strengthening MINAG staff on evidence based policy research relevant for 

input and output markets. The key strength is that there exist a mutual collaborative drive between 

ICRISAT Bulawayo and MINAG 

• Policy support in the development of a viable agricultural input value chain 

• A new project supported by Australian Development Agency (ADA) will continue ICRISAT initiatives 

in exploring efficient agricultural systems in Mozambique – through systems analysis (will partner with 

MINAG/IIAM). 

[RP MIP] 

Project 2.7: Harnessing Opportunities for Productivity Enhancement (HOPE) of Sorghum and Millets in Sub- 

Saharan Africa and South Asia- Objective 5: Discover and develop improved market strategies for sorghum, 

pearl millet and finger millet to stimulate adoption of improved technologies in WCA, ESA and SA; Objective 

6: Enable technology adoption of sorghum, pearl millet, and finger millet by improving access to inputs and 

markets differentiated according to both women’s and men’s needs in WCA, ESA, and SA 



To transfer of the state of the art technologies developed and fine tuned by ICRISAT and their partners. . 


The project involves all stakeholders’ that includes research organizations like ICRISAT, State Agricultural 

Universities, as partners, working with input suppliers, credit agencies, processors and farmers. The SAU’s 

work at the grass roots level with project farmers to discover, develop and deliver improved technologies and 

marketing strategies for producing and marketing sorghum and millets with a view to increasing productivity 

under the framework of IMOD (Inclusive Market Oriented Development) through transfer of the state of the art 

technologies developed and fine tuned by ICRISAT and their partners. . 


Discover and develop improved market strategies: The existing marketing strategies of the farmers, traders, 

processors and other end users are studied with an intention to intervene in the value chains and increase 

producers share in consumer’s price. The key findings are: (1) Changing pattern of consumer preference 

towards ready-to-eat / cook foods and healthy food made from sorghum and pearl millet despite a decline in 

their consumption at household level. (2) Exponential growth in demand for pearl millet grain from feed and 

non-food industry (alcohol, starch, beverages etc.) albeit from a low base (3) Demand for sorghum and pearl 

millet straw will grow faster (than grain) to meet the feed demand for the growing livestock population to meet 

the demand for meat and milk. Unless production is increased to meet the demand prices of their straw will 

increase adding to milk and meat production costs in the major growing regions. 

141

To realize this potential, active participation of crop scientists, food processors feed, alcohol and starch industry 

including farmers in the value chain are required to come together to develop varieties with desirable quality 

trait (for example varieties with high starch content, post rainy sorghum varieties suitable for value added 

products etc), and modification of processing equipment suitable to millets. Based on analysis of secondary data 

on consumption of sorghum across major sorghum producing and consuming states in India, crop scientists are 

informed on the variations in consumption pattern of sorghum for food and alternative uses across regions of 

these major States. Estimates of demand potential for sorghum grain and fodder by 2020 are also made 

available. 

Enable technology adoption: Farmers Associations were promoted and strengthened in all HOPE clusters to 

link farmers to identified input/output markets and processing units. Insights from HOPE projects include: (1) 

Participation of all stakeholders is necessary for institutional innovations in value chains with cost effective and 

suitable technology (2) Empowering local leadership (both in public and in private sector) and recognition of 

progressive farmers will enhance sustainability of local impacts (3) Identification of local technology/business 

partners in the rapidly changing business environment (in processing, market information, agricultural finance 

and insurance etc) will enhance adoptability of improved technology and its marketing. 

[RP MIP] 

One international training course entitled “Second International Training on Pearl Millet Improvement and 

Seed Production” was organized from 25 th April to 3 rd May, 2011 at ICRISAT, Patancheru. 31 trainees from 

Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Syria Tunisia, Egypt and India participated in this training. 


With the rich experience in fundamental, applied and participatory research of ICRISAT and partners 

concerning integrated Striga and soil fertility management, three types of tools have been produced for use by 

researchers, research technicians, extension agents and farmers. 

A guide for installing cluster based farmer field schools (CBFFS) for integrated Striga and soil fertility 

management (ISSFM) has been drafted in English and French for use by research technicians and field agents in 

West Africa. Versions of this guide have already been used in training workshops in Mali, Niger, Nigeria and 

Ghana with the purpose to initiate CBFFS on ISSFM. 

Information booklets on Striga and ISSFM have been produced in French, Englsih, Bamanakan (Mali) and 

Haussa (drafted for Niger, Nigeria) with pictorial material and minimal text as support tools for farmer training 

by technicians, but also for farmer-to-farmer training. 

Farmer-to-farmer training videos on technologies and issues related to ISSFM have been produced by video 

production teams from Mali, Niger, Nigeria and Ghana. These videos are currently available in French and 

English and will be translated into 6 major West-African languages in 2012, that is Bamanakan, More and Bobo 

(mainly Mali and Burkina Faso), Zerma and Haussa (mainly Niger and Nigeria) and Peuhl (West African 

subregion). Large scale production and dissemination of DVD’s (>10.000 DVDs) with these videos is being 

planned to reach large number of farmers. 

Thomas Alexander Van Mourik [RP DC] 

Strengthen capacity of partners in Mali and Burkina Faso to conduct two-stage multi-location 

evaluations of advanced breeding lines in WCA 

The methodology for facilitating farmers’ observations, and assessments into the first stage of evaluation 

(results described above for hybrids) on a large scale was improved upon during a training workshop held with 

partners from 5 francophone countries. The objective of the changes in procedure were to ensure that not only 

the farmers who are conducting the trials, but also those who visit the trials prior to harvest evaluate a range of 

traits important for them, and that each entry is evaluated for these traits by the visiting farmers. In addition it is 

important that farmers identify those varieties, which they think are worth maintaining for their growing 

conditions and situations, after careful assessments. 

The revised method for eliciting farmers’ input into these evaluations builds on experiences from work in 

Burkina Faso (vom Brocke et al 2010), working with small, rather homogeneous groups of farmers, who visit 

the entire trial at the evaluation site before noting anything specifically. Once all the small groups have visited 

all the plots, a general discussion is facilitated to identify traits which show a good range of diversity among the 

test entries and which are important to a wide range of farmers. This discussion itself is instructive for the 

142

participating scientists, as farmers’ preferences and reasoning become clear and evident. Once the three most 

important traits for scoring have been agreed upon, small groups of men or women farmers visit all the plots 

with a literate person, who can write down the scores for each variety (from 1 to 5) and each trait, and one 

overall appreciation score. Again during the group scoring process, discussions among the farmers about 

specific trait expressions and preferences are useful for the participating scientists. After the group evaluations, 

individual farmers express their own individual overall assessment of each variety using a color coded score 

with three levels only. These scores are used to calculate overall farmer preference for each variety. 

This procedure was used this year for the evaluation of all trials with 32 plots per farmer. Feedback from 

farmers was generally positive, as they indicated that this really allowed them to observe carefully each variety, 

thus giving them an opportunity to start to become familiar with new varieties, as well as express their opinion 

to other farmers, and to the researchers present. While tools for the analysis of such data have been explored by 

vom Brocke et al (2010), and have been used by ICRISAT scientists, it is now urgent that partners also receive 

training in the use and application of these analytical tools. 

The second stage of testing of the selection from the first year trial is conducted under farmer management 

conditions, as a variety by crop management trial. A group of women and men farmers in a village agree on a 

section target, and 2-4 varieties they would like to evaluate for their trial. In discussion with the scientists they 

develop the crop management procedure to use for the trial, where one half of each variety plot is treated with 

the management procedure used in the sorghum field around the trial, and the other half with one set of 

management practices designed to achieve significant yield improvements with sustainable intensification, 

within the reach of the participating farmers. 

With many partners from 6 West African countries, we have reached agreements on standards for the planning, 

implementation and evaluation of such mini trials. The procedures have been condensed into field instruction 

sheets for technical staff and experienced farmers. The sheets are being printed in English and French 

languages. 

Eva Weltzien Rattunde, Mamourou Sidibe, Kirsten vom Brocke, 

Bocar Diallo, Yalali Traore, and Mamadou Coulibaly [RP DC] 

Strengthening capacities of local seed production partners in West Africa 

While this is a long-term goal of our work, and engenders long-term collaboration, the year 2011 provided a 

boost to the activities of many of our seed producing partners, as well as to other working more directly with 

national sorghum or pearl millet breeding programs. This was triggered by a short-term fund, made available to 

ICRISAT, and its wide range of partners in six WCA countries from the EU Food facility. 

In each of the six countries, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Benin, Ghana and Senegal, training programs with 

functioning seed cooperatives, or other groups of farmer seed producers were conducted on issues related to 

producing certified seed of sorghum and pearl millet. Manuals for seed production were produced in French and 

English and several local languages. Variety descriptions were widely made available to farmers and extension 

services and others interested in variety and seed dissemination. 

During the 2011 sowing the demand for certified seed of sorghum and pearl millet was higher than seed 

producers had expected, in part due to the success of the mini-pack sales the season before. They were thus keen 

to expand seed production of both varieties and hybrids, based on farmers’ demands, and their own experiences 

with the hybrids. To facilitate the increases in seed production, the PROMISO 2 funding was used to expand the 

capacity of experienced seed producer groups to finance credit for fertilizers for seed production, by increasing, 

or establishing their rolling funds or operating capital. This went along with training on financial management, 

and arrangements for assistance with book keeping. 

For those cooperatives and groups who produced large quantities of seed, the funding was also used to equip 

some groups with needed cleaning equipment, additional storage space, or shelving for their existing stores. 

The increased demand for certified seeds is also increasing demand for foundation or breeder seed. It was thus 

very opportune that also NARS partners and ICRISAT could expand their own capacity for producing and 

storing high quality seeds for extended periods of time. 

Eva Weltzien, Kirsten vom Brocke, Fred Rattunde, Abdoulaye Diallo, 

Clarisse PK Barro, Mamourou Sidibe, Tahirou Boye, Roger Kabore, 

Yalali Traore, Bettina Haussmann, Ignatius Angarawai, C Tom Hash [RP DC] 

143

Training on disease screening 

Capacity building through training of NARS partners is a regular activity and during 2010, two International 

training courses were organized and training was imparted both for sorghum and pearl millet disease screening 

and identification of resistance sources. 

Second International Training Course on Pearl Millet Improvement and Seed Production was held from 25th 

April- 3rd May, 2011 at ICRISAT, Patancheru and training was imparted to 23 participants (9 from Asia, 8 from 

WCA and 4 from WANA) on pearl millet disease screening and identification of disease resistance sources. 

Similarly training was imparted to 22 participants (13 from Asia, 8 from ESA and 1 from WCA) on sorghum 

disease screening and identification of disease resistance sources in the International Training course, held 

during 7-11 Feb. 2011. 

To accomplish one of the activities in HOPE project on strengthening of field screening for pearl millet downy 

mildew resistance, training program was organized on 8th Oct. 2011. Three Pathologists from SAUs involved in 

HOPE project in Rajasthan, Gujarat and Haryana were trained on field screening of pearl millet for downy 

mildew resistance to strengthen field screening facilities at their respective units. 


Outcome 3-Diversification: Smallholder farmers diversifying their crops, systems and 

products achieving major value gains 

This outcome will help smallholder farmers in identifying additional agricultural options by enhancing their 

knowledge of diverse crops, dietry diversification, systems, value chains and innovations as well as of agroenterprises 

and marketing strategies to generate income through four outputs under Grain Legumes Research 

Program. 

Under ever changing climatic conditions, development of climate resilient cultivars will help to ensure 

diversification. Several activities were undertaken to achieve this outcome: to develop short duration groundnut 

varieties, 30 new crosses were made; elite, advanced and preliminary trials conducted to identify promising 

entries; 38 superior lines identified for inclusion in replicated yield trials in 2011 rainy season; best adapted 

short duration genotypes promoted for Spring-Summer season in Uttar Pradesh following FPVS in 2011. For 

improving drought and heat tolerance in chickpea, already identified drought tolerant high yielding accessions 

were used to develop new breeding populations at ICRISAT-Nairobi under TL-I project; Field screening for 

heat tolerance carried out at Kabete (cool site) and Kiboko (hot site) for two seasons to identify heat tolerant 

genotypes; screening at Kabete cool site identified most potential high yielding genotypes under favourable 

temperatures in desi and kabuli backgrounds. In Malawi, two sets of FPVS trials consisting of 12 Virginia and 

Spanish genotypes of groundnut were conducted and three genotypes in the Virginia and four in the Spanish set 

rated as good/very good by farmers. 

[RP GL] 

Output Target 3.1 – Enhanced knowledge of diverse crops, systems, value chains and innovations for 

diversifying smallholder systems 

Water requirement of Jatropha a biodiesel crop for rehabilitating degraded lands: 

Rationale: 

A substantial wasteland area consists of degraded lands that are deteriorating due to lack of appropriate soil and 

water management, or due to natural causes, and which can be brought into more productive use. Jatropha 

curcas has the potential to reclaim wastelands, enhance socio-economic development and conserve and / or 

restore soil fertility in degraded areas. Assessment of water requirements of J. curcas is an important step for 

promoting its wide-scale cultivation. 

Methodology: 

ArcSWAT modeling tool was used to assess the establishment of Jatropha plantation on a wasteland located in 

the Velchal watershed, Andhra Pradesh, India, which recently was converted to a biofuel plantation with 

Jatropha. The previous land use, in this case grazing, could continue in the Jatropha plantations. Water use of 

Jatropha curcas plantations in the semi-arid tropical location at ICRISAT, Patancheru was assessed using 

neutron probe soil moisture measurements and water balance approach during 2006-2009. Out of 124 accessions 

collected and planted in ICRISAT, clonal evaluation trials with 32 accessions with high oil yield were 

established. 

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Results: 

Results from the field experiments at ICRISAT indicated that highest seed yield of 1630 kg ha -1 was recorded 

by ICJC 06003 accession, followed by ICJC 06004 (1550 kg ha -1 ) and 1340 kg ha -1 in ICJC 06002 and ICJC 

06006 accessions. ArcSWAT modeling results at Velchal watershed indicated several desirable effects occurred 

as a result of the land-use conversion: non-productive soil evaporation was reduced as a larger share of the 

rainfall was channelled to productive plant transpiration and groundwater recharge, and at the same time a more 

stable (less erosive) runoff resulted in reduced soil erosion and improved downstream water conditions. A winwin 

situation between improved land productivity and soil carbon content was observed for the Jatropha 

plantations. On the other hand, the results indicate that at the sub-basin scale, reductions in runoff generation as 

a result of large-scale conversion of wastelands to Jatropha cropping may pose problems to downstream water 

users and ecosystems. Establishment of biofuel plantations is considered an option for rehabilitating wastelands, 

enhancing energy security, and providing employment opportunities and better livelihoods in rural areas. 

Water use assessment of Jatropha curcas plantations at ICRISAT indicated that crop evapotranspiration of 

Jatropha curcas under no moisture stress varied from 1410–1538 mm per year during 2006-2009. Patterns of 

soil water depletion indicated that with growing plant age from two to five years, depth of soil water extraction 

increased from 100 cm to 150 cm by fifth year. Monthly water use of Jatropha varied from 10-20 mm (leaf 

shedding period) to 140 mm depending on water availability and environmental demand. Jatropha plantation 

yield varied from 600 kg ha -1 at third year to 1560 kg ha -1 varying mainly with the distribution of rainfall during 

the season rather than with total rainfall amount during the year and plant age. Jatropha curcas has a good 

drought tolerance mechanism, however under favourable soil moisture conditions, Jatropha could use large 

amounts of water for luxurious growth and high yield. These findings highlight the need to carefully assess the 

implications of large Jatropha curcas plantations on water availability and use under different agroecosystems, 

particularly so in water scarce regions such as semi-arid and arid regions in the tropics. 

Jatropha being a good source of biofuel, it can improve fertility status of degraded lands thru C sequestration 

and act as a good plant nutrient source thru De-oiled cake. Establishment of biomass plantations on wastelands 

is likely to affect local livelihoods and can affect surrounding ecosystems by influencing hydrologic flows and 

processes such as erosion. There is a need to identify suitable niche areas for Jatropha cultivation and to assess 

the implications of large Jatropha curcas plantations on water availability and use under different 

agroecosystems, particularly so in semi-arid and arid regions in the tropics. Research investments are needed 

urgently to harness the potential of these plants for biofuel. 

Source: 

Kaushal K. Garg, Louise Karlberg, Suhas P. Wani and Goran Berndes. (2011). Biofuel production on 

wastelands in India: opportunities and trade-offs for soil and water management at the watershed scale. Biofuels, 

Bioproducts & Biorefining, 5(4): 410-430. 

Kesava Rao AVR, Suhas P Wani, Piara Singh, Srinivas K and Srinivasa Rao Ch (2012). Water requirement and 

use by Jatropha curcas in a semi-arid tropical location. International Journal “Biomass & Bioenergy” (In 

press). 

Progress Report of the IFAD Project on “Harnessing potential of Jatropha plantations for improving livelihoods 

and rehabilitating degrading lands”. 

Kaushal K Garg, Louise Karlberg, AVR Kesava Rao, Suhas P Wani, 

Goran Berndes, Ch Srinivasa Rao, K Srinivas and Piara Singh [RP RDS] 

MTP Output Target in 2011 3.1 Diversification options for smallholder farmers identified and characterized in 

one or more countries in Asia, and two countries each in ESA and WCA, and the data made available as an IPG 









145








implemented by ICRISAT in partnership and close collaboration with national and international institutes. 


Analysis of the VDSA panel data covering about three decades from 1975 with focus on the Dynamics of 

Livelihoods and Poverty in SAT India revealed the varying agricultural transformation pathways of the VLS 

villages as they progressed over time. As the agrarian structure, access to technology, infrastructure (irrigation 

and roads), markets and social/governance networks changed in varying paces, the village and household 

sources of income and cropping pattern diversified. Except in Akola district, households diversified towards 

non-farm income sources, with most of the changes occurring since 2001. Accordingly, real wages and per 

capita real income increased significantly. As in India as a whole, non-farm wages have always exceeded farm 

wages. Crop productivity has increased with adoption of improved technologies. As a consequence of increased 

productivity, employment opportunities and per capita income of households improved; consumption level has 

gone up alongside asset accumulation and savings, and consumption has been smoothened through years. 

However, although per capita real income has risen over time, income inequality has worsened especially in the 

recent years. 

A study on Agricultural Diversification in Andhra Pradesh has observed that diversification towards high value 

crops (fruits, vegetables, spices, cotton and sugarcane) is higher in those districts where urbanization rate is 

high. There is spatial variation in the level of diversification among regions and districts. Rayalaseema region 

and resource poor districts (such as Anantapur, Srikakulam, Adilabad) are lagging behind. Small farmer’s 

participation in diversification towards high value crops was limited. 

Preliminary analysis also indicates diversification of agriculture in India towards high value crops like fruits, 

vegetables, milk, meat, fish etc. Income growth, urbanization, and change in tastes and preferences are driving 

these changes. The change is most marked in peri-urban and urban surrounded districts where high value 

commodities constitute more than 50% of the value of agricultural production. One of the key policy 

implications is to what extent small scale farmers can benefit from the demand led diversification or what are 

the institutions and policies required to ensure their participation. 

Nishaiganj village in Mymensingh district of Bangladesh has been transformed from a crop farming to fish 

farming village within a span of two decades. In the 1980s and early 1990s, major sources of livelihood were 

crop agriculture, especially rice. In the 1970s, villagers mostly used to grow local varieties of rice. With the 

availability of irrigation facilities in the 1980s, villagers gradually adopted modern rice varieties. However, the 

crop agriculture was always risky due to frequent floods. Frequent floods used to damage their rainy season rice 

crops. To combat it, the villagers converted rice fields into fish ponds. The fish farming has been intensified 

with modern technologies during last 5 years. With intensification of fish culture, household income has 

increased and the life-style of the villagers has changed. Employment and earning opportunities has increased 

in fish cultivation, non-crop (small poultry firms) and non-farm activities (transport labor, petty business, etc.). 

Economic conditions and per capita income of the villagers in general has improved but the gap between the 

rich and poor has widened. 

Household’s asset endowments have increased over time in Rasunsimulbari village of Kurigram district in 

Bangladesh. Contribution of different sources to rural livelihoods has been changing with growth in non-farm 

sectors. Importance of agriculture on livelihoods is declining over time. Farm size is declining and land tenancy 

market is developing. ‘Rice-Rice’ is the dominant cropping pattern and agricultural diversification is low in this 

village. Adoption of modern rice technologies is very high. Cost of rice cultivation increased significantly but 

profitability level maintained as rice prices also increased in recent years. Poverty declined substantially. 

However, the rate of poverty reduction in the village was less than national level reduction in poverty. Land, 

agricultural technologies, human capital, non-farm employment, food prices, socio-cultural norms and values, 

and climate were the main factors which contributed towards poverty reduction. 

146

Project 3.2: Enhanced Livelihood Opportunities of Smallholders in Asia: Linking Smallholder Sweet Sorghum 

Farmers with the Bioethanol Industry 

Countries Involved: India and China 


The overall objective of the project Enhanced Livelihood Opportunities of Smallholders in Asia: Linking 

Smallholder Sweet Sorghum Farmers with the Bioethanol Industry is to improve the livelihoods of sorghum 

farmers and their dependents by establishing a sustainable commodity chain among farmers, development 

workers, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and distilleries for increased sweet sorghum production and 

ethanol production. The project will thus empower the farmers to take advantage of new market opportunities 

and for sweet sorghum stalk and supply the feedstock in large quantities on regular scale to the industrial sector. 

To these ends, an innovative Ethanol Value Chain Model involving collective action and partnership of all 

stakeholders in the value chain is proposed encompassing the establishment of centralized unit where the 

farmers supply sweet sorghum stalk to the industry and a decentralized model where a crushing unit is 

established in one of the cluster villages itself. 


In India. two models for supply chain management of sweet sorghum for use as biofuel feedstock are being pilot 

tested under the above projects. Under the Centralized model the farmers grow sweet sorghum around the 

distillery and supply stalks to distillery for ethanol production and under the decentralized model farmers 

located away from the distillery grow sweet sorghum and supply stalks to decentralize crushing unit where 

sweet sorghum juice is extracted and converted into syrup with 70% brix content. The syrup is transported to the 

ethanol industry for further processing into ethanol. The advantage of converting juice into syrup is that syrup 

can be stored for several months before being processed into ethanol and the transport cost to the industry is also 

considerably reduced. In China, only the Centralized model is being implemented. 


• National Biofuel Policy of India was also reviewed and distortions in promotion of alternate feedstock 

(sweet sorghum) were highlighted for bioethanol production in the existing policy. 

Policy Implications: 

• The support required in promotion of alternate feedstock like sweet sorghum is highlighted. 

• The amount of subsidies required for production of ethanol from sweet sorghum is quantified and 

highlighted. 

In India, initial baseline survey results indicate that sorghum accounts for 27% of the gross cropped area, 

followed by pulses (chickpea, pigeonpea, greengram) and cotton at 23% each, and oilseeds (oilseeds, safflower) 

at 17%. Parbhani is called as store house of rabi sorghum as it supplies its grain to the entire state. Rabi sorghum 

yields are close to 1 t/ha which is higher than the state average of 0.7 t/ha. Cotton, the other important crop, the 

average yields are higher than the state yields by 20%. For all other crop groups, the district average yields are 

marginally lower than the state averages. 

Among the sample farmers, the net returns from soybean intercropped with pigeonpea were the highest (Rs. 27, 

300/ha), followed closely by cotton intercropped with pigeonpea (Rs. 26, 000/ha) (table 23). The net returns for 

sole cotton are slightly lower at Rs. 24, 700 /ha. For greengram and soybean the net returns are about one half 

cotton i.e., Rs. 12, 000 / ha. Farmers grow these crops since the land will be available after harvest for growing 

post-rainy season crops. The net returns for all the crops excluding family labor are higher by about Rs.500- 

1000 / ha and the order of returns does not change. For the intercrops the gross returns from soybean and its 

by-product are higher at Rs. 22,509/ha, the gross revenue from pigeonpea and its by product are not too far 

behind at Rs. 16, 700/ha. For cotton-pigeonpea intercrop the gross returns from pigeonpea are about one half of 

the returns from cotton. 

Cost of cultivation is highest for cotton-pigeonpea intercrop followed by sole cotton and soybean-pigeonpea 

intercrop. The cost of cultivation is 25% lower for sole greengram and soybean. 

In the project area in China, the order of crops in importance (by area under the crop) is corn>sorghum>corn+ 

millet>corn+ soybean+ millet>sorghum+ corn>corn+ sorghum>Tobacco+ corn>Tobacco>Millet+ buckwheat. 

The dominant crop is corn in the dryland area of sample farmers (62.3%), followed by sorghum (17.6). 

147

The average yield of grain sorghum is 0.40 ton/mu, price is 1,620 Yuan/ton, the gross income is 648 Yuan/mu. 

The total input cost of planting grain sorghum is 280.5 Yuan/mu, including labor cost of 198 Yuan. Thus net 

returns work out to 367 Yuan /mu. Excluding costs of human family labor (188 Yuan /mu) the net returns are 

555 Yuan /mu. Similarly for corn, the average yield of corn is 0.46 ton/mu, price of grain is 1471 Yuan/ton, 

gross returns are 670 Yuan/mu. The total input cost of planting corn is 182.5 Yuan/mu, including labor cost 

145.4 Yuan. Net returns work out to 488 Yuan /mu. Excluding family labor (98 yuan /mu) the net returns works 

out to be 586 Yuan /mu. 

[RP MIP] 

Output 3.2 – Integrated, resilience enhancing, high value crop germplasm and management options for 

smallholder based diversification of crops and systems 

Hope Dryland Cereals Project Objective 6: Enabling technology adoption of Pearl millet - Asia 

Rationale: 

Pearl millet is the most drought tolerant warm season coarse grain cereal grown on 30 million ha in some of the 

harshest semi-arid tropical environments of south Asia and is often grown on infertile soils and under waterlimited 

conditions where no other cereal crop can be successfully grown. However, lower yield in Rajasthan 

compared to both Haryana and Gujarat needs to be addressed to increase competitiveness and production in the 

largest pearl millet cultivating state. So only way to expand production is through adoption of yield enhancing 

technology both in more harsh climatic condition in Kharif season and also in summer season under irrigated 

condition. 

Methodology: 

To tackle the issue of productivity enhancement thru integrated balanced nutrient management, twenty soil 

samples per cluster were collected from the farmers’ fields in Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat and were 

chemically analyzed in the soil testing laboratories identified for each state. The results revealed that, in 

Haryana, the soils in selected cluster villages were found deficit in available nitrogen (95 %), available P 2 O 5 (50 

%) and micronutrients viz., Fe (50%) whereas it is in normal range for Zn and S (Annexure 1). In Rajasthan, the 

soils are deficit in available nitrogen (100%), available P2O5 (50%) and micronutrients viz., Zn (100%), Cu 

(100%) whereas it is in normal range for Fe and Mn. The results of the soil test analysis reports were discussed 

with the farmers during the seeds and fertilizer distribution and they were advised to use balanced fertilizer 

based on soil test reports. In view of deficiencies observed w.r.t S, Zn and B in soil analyses; in addition to 

major nutrients viz., NPK, gypsum, zinc sulphate and borax have been advised for application at the rate of 200, 

50 and 5 kg ha -1 , respectively. 

The superimposed agronomic trials on pearl millet were superimposed mainly on improved management 

practice for weed control through herbicide, insect pest management with Chloropyriphos and foliar spraying of 

0.5 % ZnSo4 + 0.2 % Boron at knee high stage. 

Results: 

The results clearly revealed that the grain and fodder yield were significantly higher with herbicidal weed 

control treatment as compared to control. In Bhiwani cluster in Haryana, the extent of increase in grain yield and 

fodder yield over control was 14 and 25 % respectively whereas in Mahendergarh cluster, it was 15 and 20 per 

cent, respectively. 

In Rajasthan, It was observed that application of Chloropyriphos increased grain yield of pearl millet by 13 and 

15 %, respectively over control in Kherapa and Gotan cluster, respectively. Similarly, foliar spraying of 0.5 % 

ZnSo4 + 0.2 % Boron at knee high stage resulted in increase in grain yield of pearl millet by 18 % and 19 % in 

Kherapa and Gotan cluster, respectively as compared to control plot. In Gujarat, basal application of ZnSO 4 @ 

20 kg ha -1 resulted in increase in pearl millet yield by 10-11 % whereas increase in yield with Parathion dust 

was to the extent of 7-8 %. 

Conclusion: 

As the analysis report shows that almost all soils in targeted regions are deficient in Zn, the positive response to 

ZnSO 4 application or spraying clearly illustrate its importance in balanced nutrition. In nutshell, the results 

clearly highlight the importance of improved package of practices in increasing the yield and their by obtaining 

the resilience in the lives of marginal and small holder people. 

Gajanan Sawargaonkar, Suhas P Wani, Rajan Sharma, 

PS Shekhawat, DS Shah and HPYadav [RP RDS] 

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Market Garden activities in Tanka (Niger, West Africa) 

Rationale: 

In their attempt to fight against poverty in the village of Tanka, the NGO ASEFER have solicited the technical 

support of ICRISAT to a womens’ group of this village in their effort to establish market gardens for vegetable 

and fruit trees production. 

Methodology: 

Fifty women are allotted 3 ha of which 1 ha is for vegetable production and 2ha for fruit production. 

First of all, the effort of ICRISAT was around rehabilitation the nursery for tree production where we provided 

seedlings for the purpose. Then in terms of vegetable production, as the women’s choice for the season was 

cabbage and onion production, ICRISAT helped them to acquire onion seeds from the federation of onion 

producer. Cabbage seeds were proved from the previous season stock which they got from FAO. 

Transplantation of cabbage was done on 9 th of December and 25 th of December for the onion. 


In terms of fruit trees plantation, as planned from the beginning of the project, each woman has 50 plants of 

Moringa and 200 m 2 of fruits trees. The fruit of Pomme de Sahel are being sold by the women on the local 

market. The Moringa trees were pruned in November to prepare for the next harvest which is scheduled for 

January 2012. 

ICRISAT provided the technical support for the repair of the irrigation system which is now functional. For the 

next trimester onion, cabbage and Moringa will be harvested and commercialized. Thereafter the field will be 

prepared for the hot season gardening with plantation of cucumber, melon, and okra. In the meantime the 

women will be trained in January in compost production 

Sources: 

Quarterly technical report of ICRISAT to ASEFER on backstopping activities to the market garden production 

activities on the AMG site of Tanka – 15 September to 31 st December 2011 

D Fatondji, R Martinez and S Abdoussalam [RP RDS] 

Milestone: Multiple purpose, high value crop germplasm with end user traits identified and associated 

management options developed 

i) Breeding short-duration groundnut varieties 

Rationale: 

The climate change, agriculture and food security (CCAFS) research has indicated that the length of the growing 

period declines by 5% or more across a broad range of the tropics. Thus, breeding for earliness becomes even 

more relevant to enhance climate resilience and also as a drought escape mechanism. 

Methodology: 

Conventional breeding methods are used. Mapping population were developed and evaluated to study genetics. 

The concept of cumulative thermal time (CTT) is used and the standard CTTs for the 75- and 90- day crop 

growing periods is 1240 and 1470 0 Cd, respectively. The elite trials are harvested at both CTTs. 


In 2011 rainy season, 8 new crosses were made using ICG 4558, ICG 3540, DH-8 and ICGV-91116 as sources 

for earliness. 22 new crosses were made involving the parents ICGV-06183, ICGV-8043, ICGV-09009, ICGV- 

09007, ICGV-09119 and ICGV-09137 in 2010-11. In 2010 rainy season 358 bulk populations and 374 single 

plant progenies were grown from which 429 F 2 -F 14 bulks and 758 single plant selections were made. In 2010- 

11postrainy a total 967 (bulk populations and single plant) selections were made and 260 F 2 to F 13 bulks and 222 

single plant selections were made 2011 rainy season. Six generations (P 1 , P 2 , F 1 , F 2 , BC 1 and BC 2 ) derived from 

four crosses (ICGS 76 x ICGV 93291, JL 24 x ICGV 86031, ICGV 99029 x ICGV 91284 and ICR 48 x ICGV 

99029) were evaluated for WUE traits in 2010/11 postrainy season. 

2010 rainy season: In Advanced Trial three entries (2.2± 0.17 t ha -1 ) were significantly superior over the best 

check JL 24 (1.0 t ha -1 , 63 % shelling outturn, 23 g 100-seed weight -1 ) at 90 DAS. ICGV 09014 (2.2 t ha -1 , 76 % 

shelling outturn, 28 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 09009 (1.9 t ha -1 , 59 % shelling outturn and 23 g 100-seed 

weight -1 ) were best entries. In Preliminary Trial two entries were superior over check, DH 86 (1.6 t ha -1 , 67 % 

shelling outturn, 25 g 100-seed weight -1 ) at 90 DAS. 

149

2010-11 postrainy season: In Advanced Trial, two entries outperformed the best check ICGV 91114 (3.2 t ha -1 , 

70% shelling outturn, 40 g 100-seed weight -1 ); top entry was ICGV 09009 (3.7 t ha -1 , 65% shelling outturn, 35 g 

100-seed weight -1 ). In Preliminary trial, four test entries outperformed best check JL 24 (2.9 t ha -1 , 37% shelling 

outturn, 36 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

2011 rainy season: In Elite Trial, at 75 DAS best entry was ICGV 09003 (2.9 t ha -1 , 68% shelling outturn, 28 g 

100-seed weight -1 ) over best check JL 24 (2.2 t ha -1 , 61% shelling outturn, 24 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and at 95 

DAS top entry was ICGV 09009 (3.6 t ha -1 , 63% shelling outturn, 33 g 100-seed weight -1 ) over best check JL 24 

(2.9 t ha -1 , with 71% shelling outturn and 29 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In Advance Trial, eight entries significantly 

outperformed the best check JL 24 (2.4 t ha -1 pod yield, 67% shelling out-turn and 27 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

ICGV 10018 ranked first (4.4 t ha -1 pod yield, 61% shelling outturn and 28 g 100-seed weight -1 ) followed by 

ICGV 10004 (4.3 t ha -1 pod yield, 60% shelling outturn and 30g 100-seed weight -1 ). In five preliminary trials, 

240 entries were tested of which 66 were found significantly superior over their respective best checks. 

Conclusions: 

38 superior lines were identified for inclusion in replicated yield trials in 2011 rainy season. Short duration 

genotypes were tested and best adapted genotype was promoted for Spring-Summer season in Uttar Pradesh 

thus introduced a new season of cultivation. To expand this new FPVS were constituted in 2011 for testing in 

Bihar state for Spring-Summer season. 


ii) Groundnut stem and pod rot management through antagonistic actinomycetes 

Rationale: 

Management of soilborne diseases in any field crop is always a challenging mainly due to their erratic 

distribution and difficult to control nature. In groundnut, stem and pod rot caused by Sclerotium rolfsii is an 

important soilborne disease and causes 10-25% yield losses annually in many groundnut growing regions across 

the world. Hitherto no resistance sources were identified against this soilborne pathogen. Though good 

fungicides are available in the market, high cost involved makes this option non-viable for resource poor 

farmers in semi-arid tropics. On the other hand antifungal microorganisms especially actinomycetes from 

groundnut rhizosphere which acts as potential biocontrol agents for stem rot is an important area of research to 

explore. 

Methodology: 

Soil samples were collected randomly from 10-15cm deep groundnut rhizosphere of different fields at 

ICRISAT. Samples were immediately transferred to lab and air dried for one week in order to decrease gram 

negative bacteria population. Soil suspensions were spread on Starch Casein Agar (SCA) to isolate 

actinomycetes. In-vitro antagonistic assays were conducted in order to see the controlling/inhibiting behavior of 

isolated actinomycetes on Sclerotium rolfsii. 


From all the samples, a total of 27 actinomycetes were isolated. And further investigations on their antagonistic 

properties against Sclerotium rolfsii and growth promoting activities are in progress. 

HK Sudini [RP GL] 

iii) Identification of drought and heat tolerant chickpea germplasm and their use in breeding programs 

Rationale: 

Chickpea is mostly grown as a postrainy season crop using residual moisture in Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania and 

Malawi. Quite often crop is subjected to end season drought due to depleting moisture in the soil profile and 

leading to significant yield losses in tolerant and susceptible types. Similarly, under changing climate scenarios 

high temperature also limits realizable yield potential. 

Methodology: 

Phenotyping of 289 reference set, 80 selected lines from two mapping populations in Ethiopia, Kenya and 

Tanzania resulted in identification of most promising drought tolerant-cum-high yielding genotypes. Thus, 

selected genotypes are being used as parents in crossing program along with proven elite and adapted varieties 

in ESA region and developed new breeding populations at ICRISAT-Nairobi under TL-I project. Field 

screening was carried out at Kabete (cool site) and Kiboko (hot site) for two seasons and identified few 

promising traits for heat tolerance. 

150


Most promising genotypes such as ICCV 10, ICC 8261, ICC 4958, ICC 1052, ICC 15333, ICCRIL03-0135 and 

ICCRIL04-0239 with high grain yield, high harvest index, stable across locations(low ASV value)coupled with 

early maturity were selectedand used them in crossing program along with elite desi (ICCVs 97105,00108, 

92944) and kabuli varieties (ICCVs 00305, 92318). Heat tolerance screening at heat prone and cool sites 

resulted in identification of heat tolerant (ICCVs 2, 07307, 07303, 04311, 01303) and susceptible genotypes 

(ICCVs 06101, 07112, 07111, JAKI 9218). Screening at Kabete cool site resulted in identification of most 

potential high yielding genotypes under favourable temperatures in desi (ICCVs 06102, 03211, 07110, 97110, 

07108, 07101, 07112, 07113, 07114, and 06107) and kabuli backgrounds(ICCVs 03404, 01308, 04312, 03307, 

04307, 03407). 

Conclusions: 

Development of highly adaptable, high yielding, climate resilient breeding populations with drought tolerance 

and/or heat tolerance sustains productivity of chickpea under prevailing and future climatic conditions. 


iv) Optimization of A line maintenance by using net houses and honey bees under captivity 

Rationale: 

Maintenance of A lines (A x B) and generation of hybrid seed (A x R) requires isolation, at least 500 m from a 

commercial pigeonpea field. An alternative to the isolation would be to maintain A lines and produce hybrid 

seed under cages using honey bee hives that would allow to produce quality seed without manual labor. 

Methodology: 

ICPB 2043 and ICPA 2043 were planted in a 1:3 ratio at Patancheru-ICRISAT in the 2010-2011 seasons. The 

treatments included materials planted under net houses, outside net houses. Inside the net houses there were 

additional treatments: interplanting with sunflower every one m and sole crop and spray of 5% sugar solution 

versus non-spray. Data collected included days to 50% flowering, days to 75% maturity, plant height, and 

agronomic traits (seed size, seed number, number of pods and yield). 


The presence of sunflower induced earlier flowering (around five days earlier). Honey bees preferred to visit 

sunflower over pigeonpea. When sunflower was cut the bees took time to adjust to pigeonpea. No clear 

difference was observed when comparing the sugar spray versus not spray on seed production. Overall seed 

production of the A lines was low. 

Conclusions: 

Further optimization is required. Suggestions include staggering planting every 7/15 days, pay attention to the 

behavior of bees to observe if there are differences in terms of preferences in terms of visiting A vs B lines, 

frequency of visits and approach to visit the flowers of A and B lines. 

MI Vales and R Sultana [RP GL] 

Identification of forage type breeding lines for (i). Initiation of high forage type A-lines, (ii). Constitution 

of forage maintainer composite 

Fourteen high-biomass forage-type maintainer lines were identified and initiated for backcrossing on A5 CMS 

background. BC1’s were generated for these forage-type materials in rainy season of 2011. Also, 29 forage-type 

seed parents with superior agronomic background were involved in constitution of a forage maintainer 

composite. This composite underwent a third and final cycle of random mating in rainy 2011, from which 150 

half sibs (S1s) were selected for further evaluation. The seed of this composite is now available for evaluation 

and utilization. 


Identification of highly heterotic, biotic and abiotic stress resistant lines towards hybrids development 

Rationale: 

Agronomic and genetic diversity of parental lines is one of the major factors for developing good hybrids which 

are highly heterotic, tolerant to biotic and abiotic stress and with greater adaptability. Hence, assessing the true 

variation present in the material for different parameters is very critical. The best performers will be used in the 

crossing program to derive improved hybrids and varieties. 

Methodology: 

151

The pedigree method and population improvement approaches were followed in general. The sweet sorghum 

lines were evaluated in a randomized complete block designs (RCBD). Data were recorded on parameters like 

days to 50% flowering, plant height, biomass yield, Brix% and sugar yield was calculated as sugar yield (t ha -1 ) 

= juice weight (t ha -1 ) X Brix% X 0.0075. 

Postrainy season 2010 evaluations: 

Sweet sorghum R-lines /varieties development: The following progenies obtained from crosses involving elite 

sweet sorghum varieties and sorghum germplasm lines were evaluated during the 2010 postrainy season along 

with checks i.e., RSSV 9, CSH 22SS and 296 B. A total of 521 lines from 735 F 6 ’s, 117 F 6 ’s from 668 F 5 ’s were 

selected based on > 16.0 Brix %, high biomass, high stem juiciness and high stem girth. A total 920 F 5 s (from 

392 F 4 s), 1829 F 4 s (from 1189 F 3 s), 770 F 3 s (from 157 F 2 s) were selected based on high stem juiciness, green 

pith, high biomass and high stem girth. These progenies further will be advanced based on Brix% and biomass 

production in postrainy season, 2011. 

Back cross conversion program: A total of 39 BC 3 F 1 s were backcrossed to the recurrent (elite sweet sorghum) 

parent and advanced to BC 4 F 1 . 

B-line development: A total of 42 B x B sweet sorghum F 1 ’s which were previously made in postrainy season, 

2010 were screened and 33 were advanced to F 2’ s in postrainy season, 2011. 

Sweet sorghum B & R Populations: Forty five sterile and 125 fertile plants were selected based on Brix% and 

biomass in 2010 postrainy season and mixed in 3:1 ratio to form C3 B-population bulk. and 138 steriles and 40 

fertiles were selected based on Brix% and biomass in 2010 postrainy season and mixed in 3:1 ratio to form C3 

R-population bulk and are being evaluated during 2011 post rainy season. 

Sweet sorghum advanced B-line trial (SSABT): A total of ten sweet sorghum advanced B-lines selected 

previously, were evaluated in postrainy season, 2010 in RCBD with three replications along with the check 

ICSB 38. . As many as eight B-lines were significantly higher in sugar yield ( 0.7 to 1.3 t ha -1 compared to the 

check ICSB 38 (0.5 t ha -1 ). The top five sugar yielding B-lines in comparison with ICSB 38 are SP 08 1052-2 

(2.2 t ha- 1 ), SP 93089, SP 08 2036-2, SP 93103 (1.2 t ha -1 ) and SP 08 1026-2 (1.1 t ha -1 ). Brix% in the B-lines 

ranged from 12 to 18% (ICSB 38: 12%). The days to 50 % flowering ranged from 81 to 95 days (SSV 84: 81 

days). The plant height in the genotypes ranged 1.2 m to 1.7 m (SSV 84: 1.6m). Grain yield in the genotypes 

ranged 2.0 t ha -1 to 6.7 t ha -1 (SSV 84: 4.0 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum preliminary hybrid trial (SS PHT-1): A total of twenty nine sweet sorghum preliminary 

hybrids were evaluated in 2010 postrainy season along with two checks i.e., JK Recova and CSH 22SS in 

RCBD with three replications. Fourteen hybrids have recorded significantly higher sugar yield which ranged 

from: 0.8 t ha -1 to 1.7 t ha -1 compared to the best performing check JK Recova (0.6 t ha -1 ). The top five sugar 

yielding hybrids are ICSA 24005 x ICSV 93046 (1.7 t ha -1 ), ICSA 25002 x ICSV 93046 (1.5 t ha -1 ), ICSA 361 x 

SP 4511-2 and ICSA 369 x SP 4511-3 (1.2 t ha -1 ) and ICSA SP 97038 x SPV 422 (1.0 t ha -1 ). Brix % ranged 

from 6 to 17 % (JK Recova: 14 %). Among the genotypes, days to 50 % flowering ranged from 60 days to 87 

days (JK Recova: 63 days). The hybrid ICSA 565 x IS 2284 flowered early in 60 days, and grain yield ranged 

from 1.0 to 5.5 t ha -1 (JK Recova: 1.7 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum preliminary hybrid trial (SS PHT-2): A total of 164 sweet sorghum preliminary hybrids 

evaluated as PHT-2 in postrainy season, 2010 in RCBD with three replications along with two checks JK 

Recova and CSH 22SS. Fifty seven hybrids had significantly higher sugar yield which ranged from 0.3 to 1.5 t 

ha -1 compared to the best performing check (CSH 22SS: 0.8 t ha -1 ). The top five sugar yielding hybrids are 

ICSA 320 x Ch 7 (1.5 t ha -1 ), ICSA 480 x Ch 11, ICSA 95 x Ch 7 and ICSA 211 x Ch 1 (1.4 t ha -1 ) and ICSA 

24002 A x Ch 11 (1.3 t ha -1 ), Brix % ranged from 17 to 18 % (CSH 22SS: 11 %). Days to 50 % flowering 

ranged from 60 to 87 days (JK Recova: 62 days).The hybrids i.e., ICSA 372 x Ch 7 and ICSA 374 x Ch 7 

flowered early in 60 days. Plant height in the genotypes ranged from 1.2 m to 2.5 m (JK Recova 2.4m). Grain 

yield in the genotypes ranged from 0.5 to 5.5 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 2.5 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum preliminary hybrid trial (SS PHT-3): A total of 72 sweet sorghum preliminary hybrids were 

evaluated as a preliminary hybrid trial in postrainy season, 2010 in RCBD with three replications along with two 

checks i.e., CSH 22SS and JK Recova. Sixty three hybrids were significantly higher in sugar yield which ranged 

from 0.5 t ha -1 to 2.3 t ha -1 compared to the best performing check JK Recova (0.7 t ha -1 ). The top five hybrids 

superior in sugar yield are ICSSH 33, ICSA 749 x SP 4511-2 (2.3 t ha -1 ), ICSA 724 x SP 4484-2 (2.1 t ha -1 ), 

ICSA 724 x SP 4511-3 and ICSA 724 x SP 4511-2 (1.8 t ha -1 ). The Brix % ranged from 13 % to 20 % (JK 

152

Recova: 17 %). Days to 50% flowering ranged from 60 days to 91 days (JK Recova : 63 days).The hybrid ICSA 

766 x IS 2284 flowered early in 60 days. Plant height varied from 1.4 m to 2.4 m (JK Recova: 2.2 m), while the 

grain yield ranged from 1.2 to 3.9 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 3.9 t ha -1 ). 

Non-milo cytoplasmic sweet sorghum hybrid trial-I: The hybrids developed on non-milo cytoplasmic sterile 

sources (A2, A3 and A4) usually do not produce seed as there are no good restorers available now. A trial was 

constituted in postrainy season, 2010 using advanced non-milo cytoplasmic hybrids in RCBD design in two 

replications with seventeen test hybrids in vertisol along with two self-fertile checks, CSH 22SS and Urja . Data 

was collected on two stages (dough and maturity stage). Sugar yield at maturity ranged from 0.8 t ha -1 to 2.0 t 

ha -1 (Urja: 1.2 t ha -1 ).The genotype ICSA 675 x SP 4495 (2.0 t ha -1 ) recorded highest sugar yield at maturity, 

while the sugar yield at dough stage ranged from 0.5 to 1.3 t ha -1 (Urja :1.5 t ha -1 ). Mean sugar yield increased 

from dough stage (1.2 t ha -1 ) to maturity stage (1.4 t ha -1 ). The top five sugar yielding hybrids at maturity are 

ICSA 675 x SP 4495 (2.0 t ha -1 ), ICSA 95 x SPV 422 (1.9 t ha -1 ), ICSSH 16 (1.8 t ha-1), ICSA 511 x ICSV 

93046 and ICSA 73 x SP 4481-1 (1.5 t ha -1 ). Brix % at maturity ranged from 10 to 20 % (Urja: 19%), the hybrid 

ICSA 675 x SP 4495 has both high sugar yield and Brix% (20%). Days to 50 % flowering ranged from 64 days 

to 93 days (CSH 22SS: 67 days). The genotype ICSSH 42 flowered early in 64 days. Plant height ranged from 

2.0 to 2.7 m (Urja: 2.6 m). 

Non-milo cytoplasmic sweet sorghum hybrid trial-II: A trial was constituted in postrainy season, 2010 using 

advanced non-milo cytoplasmic hybrids in RCBD design in two replications with seventeen test hybrids along 

with CSH 22SS and Urja as checks. At maturity a total of ten hybrids were superior in sugar yields compared to 

the best check Urja (1.1 t ha-1). Sugar yield at maturity ranged from 0.5 t ha -1 to 2.5 t ha -1 (Urja: 1.1 t ha -1 ). The 

mean sugar yield increased form dough stage (1.2 t ha -1 ) to maturity (1.4 t ha -1 ). The top five sugar yielding 

hybrids at maturity are ICSSH 58 (2.5 t ha -1 ), ICSSH 33 (2.4 t ha -1 ), ICSA 749 x SPV 1411 (1.7 t ha -1 ), ICSA 73 

x SP 4481-1 (1.7 t ha -1 ) and ICSA 657 x SP 4504-3 (1.6 t ha -1 ). The Brix % at maturity ranged from 7 to 17 % 

(Urja: 17 %); days to 50 % flowering ranged from 64 days to 82 days (Urja: 76 days).The genotype ICSSH 42 

was the earliest to flower in 64 days. 

Sweet sorghum elite varietal and restorer lines trial (SSEVRT): A trial was constituted using eleven elite 

sweet sorghum varieties selected previously were evaluated during postrainy season, 2010 in RCBD with three 

replications and with five checks i.e., Urja, SSV 84, CSH 22SS, JK Recova and RSSV 9. At maturity sugar 

yield in the varieties ranged from 0.5 to 1.6 t ha -1 (Urja: 1.6 t ha -1 ). Although, none of the varieties were superior 

to Urjanine varieties recorded higher sugar yield than the second best check JK recova (0.6 t ha -1 ) Days to 50 % 

flowering ranged from 63 days to 87 days (JK Recova: 63 days). Plant height ranged from 1.7 to 2.2 m (CSH 

22SS: 2.2 m). Grain yield in the genotypes ranged from 1.3 to 2.4 t ha -1 (Urja 1.7 t ha -1 ) 

Sweet sorghum preliminary varietal trial (SSPVT): A total of 171 varieties selected from sweet sorghum 

advanced F 6 progenies in postrainy season 2009 were evaluated during 2010 postrainy season along with five 

checks i.e., Wray, CSH 22SS, Urja, JK Recova and SSV 84.. The trial was conducted in RCBD with two 

replications. Fourteen varieties were numerically higher in sugar yield compared to the best performing check 

SPSSV 30 (2.0 t ha -1 ). The top five sugar yielding varieties are (RSV 106 x IS 11496)-1-1-1-3 and (Ch-1 x 

(ICSV 93046 x SSV 84)-7-2-1-1)-4-1-1-6 ) (2.6 t ha -1 ), (Ch-1 x (ICSV 93046 x SSV 84)-7-2-1-1)-4-1-1-7 (2.5 t 

ha -1 ), (Ch-1 x (DSV 4 x SSV 84)-1-2-1-1)-13-1-1-5 and (Ch-1 x (ICSV 93046 x SSV 84)-7-2-1-1)-4-1-2-5 (2.3 t 

ha -1 ). The Brix % ranged from 9 to 21 % (SPSSV 30: 21 %), days to 50 % flowering ranged from 60 days to 96 

days (RSSV 9: 60 days). The plant height ranged from 1.6 to 2.9 m (SPSSV 30: 2.6 m). Grain yield in the 

genotypes ranged from 1.5 to 6.3 t ha -1 (JK Recova: 3.1 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum advanced varietal lines trial (SSAVT): A total of six varieties selected from sweet sorghum 

preliminary varietal lines trial during in 2009 postrainy season, were evaluated as sweet sorghum advanced 

varietal trial in 2010 postrainy season along with three checks i.e., Urja, RSSV 9 and SPSSV 30. The trial was 

conducted in RCBD with three replications. Sugar yield among all the varieties ranged from 0.5 to 2.6 t ha -1 

(SPSSV 30: 1.3 t ha -1 ). For sugar yield, three varieties viz., SP 08 16440 (2.6 t ha -1 ), SP 08 16447-2 (1.6 t ha -1 ) 

and SP 08 16460 (1.3 t ha -1 ) were superior to the best performing check SPSSV 30 (1.2 t ha -1 ). Brix % ranged 

from 11 to 20 % (Urja: 120 %). The days to 50 % flowering ranged from 63 days to 85 days (RSSV 9: 63 days) 

whileplant height ranged from 1.9 m to 2.4 m (SPSSV 30:2.3 m). Grain yield in the genotypes ranged from 1.6 t 

ha -1 to 2.9 t ha -1 (SPSSV 30: 1.2 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum On-farm evaluation trial (SSOFT): A total of eight entries selected from the sweet sorghum 

elite varietal & elite hybrid trial 2009 postrainy season were evaluated in 2010 postrainy season along with the 

four checks SSV 84 and CSH 22SS, Urja and JK Recova in RCBD with three replications. For sugar yield only 

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four genotypes SP 4511-2 (1.65 t ha -1 ), ICSA 475 x SP 4482-1 (1.2 t ha -1 ), ICSV 93046 (1.0 t ha -1 ) performed 

superior over the best performing check Urja (0.9 t ha -1 ), and the hybrid ICSA 675 x SP 4495 (0.9 t ha -1 ) was at 

par with Urja. The sugar yield ranged from the 0.6 t ha -1 to 1.7 t ha -1 while Brix% ranged from 12 to 17 % 

(RSSV 9: 17 %). Highest Brix % was also recorded by (ICSSH 76) (17 %). The days to 50 % flowering ranged 

from 63 days to 93 days (CSH 22SS: 63 days). The hybrid (ICSSH 36) flowered early in 63 days (CSH 22SS: 

63 days). Plant height ranged from 2.6 m to 3.0 m (Urja: 2.2 m) and grain yield ranged from 1.5 t ha -1 to 3.3 t ha -1 

(Urja: 1.5 t ha -1 ). 

Postrainy season adaptation trial: A total of 42 genotypes comprising sweet sorghum hybrids, varieties and 

B-lines were evaluated along with five checks (ICSV 112: high grain yielding variety, R 16: drought susceptible 

check, B 35: stay green, drought tolerant check, E 36-1: both stay green, drought tolerant and sweet sorghum 

variety and NTJ 2: a popular local cultivar) in RCBD with two replications during 2010 postrainy season for 

identifying genotypes with postrainy season adaptation. Among the genotypes tested for sugar yield, one entry 

i.e. ICSSH 58 (1.6 t ha -1 ) was found to be superior in sugar yield ranging compared to the best check ICSV 112 

(1.5 t ha -1 ). Another entry SSV 74 (1.4 t ha -1 ) was found to be at par with the best check ICSV 112 in sugar 

yield. Brix% ranged from 10 to 20% (ICSV 112: 17%). Days to 50% flowering ranged between 60 and 88 (R 

16: 70 days). Plant height in the genotypes ranged from 1.3 to 2.1 m (ICSV 112 (1.7 m) while grain yield in the 

genotypes ranged from 1.2 t ha -1 to 3.5 t ha -1 (B 35: 1.6 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum terminal moisture stress trial: A total of 42 genotypes were evaluated along with five checks 

(ICSV 112: high grain yielding variety, R 16: drought susceptible check, B 35: stay green, drought tolerant 

check, E 36-1: both stay green, drought tolerant and sweet sorghum variety and NTJ 2: a popular local cultivar) 

in RCBD during 2010 postrainy season for identifying genotypes with terminal moisture stress tolerance. The 

ANOVA for mean sum of squares shows that the genotypic differences are significant for sugar yield and 

related traits. A total of fifteen entries had higher sugar yield compared to the best check NTJ 2 (0.65 t ha -1 ) 

which ranged from 0.2 to 2.5 t ha -1 . The top five sugar yielding entries are ICSSH 58 (2.5 t ha -1 ), SP 4484-3 (1.9 

t ha -1 ), SSV 74 (1.7 t ha -1 ), ICSA 502 x SP 4487-1 (1.6 t ha -1 ) and ICSSH 39 (1.4 t ha -1 ). The Brix% ranged from 

12 to 18% (E 36-1: 16%); days to 50% flowering ranged between 63 and 94 days (E 36-1: 73 days) while plant 

height in the genotypes ranged 1.6 to 2.3 m (ICSV 112: 1.8m). 

Sweet sorghum mid-season moisture stress trial: A total of 95 genotypes comprising sweet sorghum hybrids 

and varieties were evaluated along with five checks (ICSV 112: high grain yielding variety, R 16: drought 

susceptible check, B 35: stay green, drought tolerant check, E 36-1: both stay green, drought tolerant and sweet 

sorghum variety and CSH 22SS: prominent sweet sorghum hybrid) in RCBD during 2011 summer season for 

identifying genotypes with mid-season moisture stress tolerance. The ANOVA for mean sum of squares shows 

that the genotypic differences are significant for sugar yield and related traits. The interaction effects are 

significant for vigor score at 14 and 21 days after stopping irrigation and also for sugar yield and related traits. 

Sugar yield ranged from 0.4 to 3.3 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 1.3 t ha -1 ). Sugar yield ranged from 0.4 to 3.3 t ha -1 (CSH 

22SS: 1.3 t ha -1 ). The top five performers for sugar yield are Ch-1 x (DSV 4 x SSV 84)-1-2-1-1)-13-3-3-3 (3.3 t 

ha -1 ) , SP 08 2070-1 (3.2 t ha -1 ), (Ch-11 x E 36-1)-10-4-1-4 (2.8 t ha -1 ), AVRT 2054-3 (2.5 t ha -1 ) and ICSV 

25316 (2.4 t ha -1 ). The Brix% varied between 10 to 19.8% (ICSV 112: 17%) and the days to 50% flowering 

ranged between 63 and 94 days (R 16: 70 days). 

Sweet sorghum photo insensitive lines trial (SSPIT): A total of 37 germplasm lines selected previously in 

2009 postrainy season, were evaluated in SSPIT during postrainy season, 2010 along with three checks i.e., 

Urja, RSSV 9 and CSH 22SS in RCBD with three replications. The sugar yield ranged from 0.1 t ha -1 to 0.9 t 

ha -1 (RSSV 9 & Urja: 0.9 t ha -1 )and IS 3147 with 0.9 t ha -1 is at par with the best checks Urja and RSSV 9. The 

Brix % ranged from 9 to 16 % (Urja: 20 %); days to 50 % flowering ranged from 53 days to 92 days (RSSV 9 & 

CSH 22SS: 64 days). The plant height ranged from 1.4 to 2.9 m (Urja: 2.5 m) while grain yield ranged from 1.6 

to 4.2 t ha -1 (RSSV 9: 1.7 t ha -1 ). 

Rainy season evaluations 

R-line development: A total of 293 RxR sweet sorghum F 1 ’s were screened in rainy season, 2011 and 233 F 1 ’s 

were advanced to F 2 s. The following progenies obtained from crosses involving sweet sorghum varieties and 

sweet sorghum germplasm lines were evaluated during the 2011 rainy season and a total of 272 F 5 s from 315 

F 4 s ; 11 F 6 ’s from 92 F 5 ’s ; were selected based on higher Brix% (>19%), high stem juiciness, green pith and 

high biomass. 

Sweet sorghum B-lines trial (SSABT): A total of twenty B-lines were evaluated in a sweet sorghum advanced 

B-lines trial during 2011 rainy season along with two checks, viz., CSH 22SS and RSSV 9 in RCBD with three 

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eplications. The sugar yield in the B-lines ranged from 0.4 to 4.3 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 4.3 t ha -1 ) and none of the 

B-lines were found to be superior to the hybrid check CSH 22SS in sugar yield. However, a total of eight B- 

lines viz., ICSB 729 (3.1 t ha -1 ), SP 08 1026-2 (2.9t ha -1 ), SP 08 1052-2 (2.6t ha -1 ), SP 93101, SP 54819-1, ICSB 

731 and ICSB 480 (2.2 t ha -1 ) and SP 93103 (2.1 t ha -1 ) performed superior than the varietal check RSSV 9 (2.1 

t ha -1 ). The Brix% varied from 14 to 19% (CSH 22SS: 18%) and ICSB 729 had the highest Brix% (19%). The 

days to 50% flowering ranged from 64 to 81 days (RSSV 9: 74days) while grain yield in the B-lines ranged 

from 1.1 to 2.5 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 4.7 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum preliminary varietal trial (SSPVT-1): A total of 46 varieties selected from the sweet sorghum 

advanced progenies trial during 2010 rainy season, were evaluated in SSPVT-1 during 2011 rainy season along 

with three checks, viz, CSH 22SS, Urja and RSSV 9. The trial was conducted in RCBD with three replications. 

Sugar yield in the varieties in the trial ranged from 0.2 to 4.8 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 4.6 t ha -1 ). For sugar yield, only 

one variety (Ch-11 x SPV 422)-6-1-1-4 (4.8 t ha -1 ) was superior to the best performing check CSH 22SS. The 

variety (Ch-11 x E 36-1)-9-3-1-3 (4.4 t ha -1 ) was at par with the best check in sugar yield. Brix % ranged from 8 

to 22 % (CSH 22SS: 20 %), the best performing variety (Ch-11 x SPV 422)-6-1-1-4 also had high Brix% (19%). 

Among the varieties, days to 50% flowering ranged from 52 to 100 days (Urja: 64 days), plant height ranged 

from 1.1 to 4.3 m (CSH 22SS: 4.0 m). 

Sweet sorghum preliminary hybrid trial (SSPHT): 

A total of 396 sweet sorghum preliminary hybrids selected previously, were evaluated during 2011 rainy season 

along with three checks CSH 22SS, RSSV 9 and Urja in RCBD in two replications. Sugar yield in the hybrids 

ranged from 0.1 t ha -1 to 5.2 t ha -1 (Urja: 3.5 t ha -1 ). Sixteen hybrids were found to be superior in sugar yield 

compared to the best performing check (Urja: 3.8 t ha -1 ). The top five hybrids are ICSA 37 x Ch-4 (5.2 t ha -1 ), 

ICSA 677 x Ch-4 and ICSA 52 x Ch-4 (4.9 t ha -1 ), ICSA 319 x SPSSV 30 (4.8 t ha -1 ) and ICSA 309 x Ch-) (4.3 

t ha -1 ). Brix % ranged from 7 to 22 % (Urja: 22 %). Among the genotypes, days to 50% flowering ranged from 

54 days to 78 days (Urja: 70 days), plant height ranged from 0.4 to 4.1 m (CSH 22SS: 3.7 m). 

Sweet sorghum advanced hybrid trial (SSAHT): A total of twenty three hybrids were evaluated in a sweet 

sorghum advanced hybrid trial during 2011 rainy season along with three checks, viz., CSH 22SS, Urja and 

RSSV 9 in RCBD with three replications. Five hybrids viz., SP 97030 A x E 36-1 (4.5 t ha -1 ), ICSA 309 x E 36- 

1 (3.3 t ha -1 ), ICSA 511 x Ch 7 (2.9 t ha -1 ), ICSA 724 x SP 4511-2 (2.8 t ha -1 ) and ICSA 401 x Ch 7 (2.7 t ha-1) 

were found to be significantly superior over the best performing check (CSH 22SS: 2.6 t ha -1 ) . Brix% ranged 

from 12 to 18% (Urja: 18%). Among the hybrids tested days to 50% flowering ranged from 62 to 76 days (Urja: 

66 days). Plant height ranged from 2.7 to 4.3 m (CSH 22SS: 4.3 m) while grain yield in the genotypes varied 

from 1.0 to 4.1 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 4.0 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum elite varietal and restorer’s trial (SSEVRT): A trial consisting of fifteen elite sweet 

sorghum varieties and restorers was conducted during rainy season 2011 in RCBD with three replications along 

with three checks CSH 22SS, RSSV9 and Urja. The sugar yield ranged from 0.8 to 1.7 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 1.5 t 

ha -1 ). Five entries i.e. SP 85084-1-2 (1.7 t ha -1 ) and SP 85089-4-1 (1.6 t ha -1 ), SP 85061-2-3, SP 85082-1-1 and 

SP 85061-1-4 (1.5 t ha -1 ) had significantly higher sugar yields over the best performing check CSH 22SS (1.5 t 

ha -1 ). The Brix% ranged from 13 to 18% (CSH 22SS: 17%). The variety SP 85084-1-2 has recorded high 

sugaryield (1.7 t ha -1 ) and Brix% (18%). Days to 50% flowering ranged from 63 to 88 days (Urja: 63 days). 

Plant height ranged from 3.7 to 4.5 m (CSH 22SS: 4.5 m), grain yield in the genotypes varied from 1.2 to 7.8 t 

ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 6.4 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum advanced varietal lines trial (SSAVT): A total of eighteen varieties selected from the sweet 

sorghum preliminary varietal lines trial during the 2010 rainy season, were evaluated as sweet sorghum 

advanced varietal lines trial in 2011 rainy season along with the three checks viz, CSH 22SS, Urja and RSSV 9. 

The trial was conducted in RCBD with three replications. The sugar yield in these varieties ranged from 0.7 to 

1.6 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 1.6 t ha -1 ), though none of the varieties were found to be superior to the hybrid check CSH 

22SS in sugar yield, two varieties Ch5 (1.6 t ha -1 ) and SP 08 16439-1 (1.6 t ha -1 ) were numerically at par with 

the hybrid check CSH 22SS and superior to the varietal check Urja (1.5 t ha -1 ). Brix% ranged from 11 to 18% 

(Urja: 18%); days to 50% flowering ranged from 61 to 83 days (Urja: 65 days) while grain yield ranged from 

1.0 to 3.1 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 1.6 t ha -1 ). 

Sweet sorghum On-farm trial (SSOFT): A sweet sorghum on-farm trial was conducted in rainy season 2011 

involving ten sweet sorghum entries along with two checks CSH 22 SS and RSSV 9 in RCBD in three 

replications. Data was recorded in the trial at three stages flowering, dough and maturity. There were significant 

differences in the genotypes tested for candidate sugar traits.. Sugar yield was high for the genotypes IS 23526 

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and ICSA 344 x AKSV 22 (2.4 t ha -1 ) at all the stages. At maturity 3 genotypes i.e. IS 23526 and ICSA 344 x 

AKSV 22 (2.4 t ha -1 ) and ICSA 675 x SP 4484-1 (2.2 t ha -1 ) were superior in sugar yields than the best check 

CSH 22 SS (1.95 t ha -1 ). At maturity ICSSH 76 (1.9 t ha -1 ) was at par with the best check CSH 22 SS in sugar 

yield. Brix% at maturity ranged from 12 to 18% (RSSV 9: 15%), Brix% increased from flowering (11%) to 

maturity (14%) and Brix% was highest for the entry IS 23526 at all the stages. 

Three way and double cross hybrids trial: A total of thirty three-way and double cross hybrids were evaluated 

in RCBD with three replications during 2011 rainy season along with three checks, viz., CSH 22SS, Urja and 

RSSV 9 . Sugar yield in the hybrids ranged from 1.0 to 3.7 t ha -1 (Urja: 3.7 t ha -1 ). Two entries i.e. ICSSH 28 

(3.2 t ha -1 ) and ICSSH 16 (3.0 t ha -1 ) were found to be numerically at par in sugar yield compared to the best 

check Urja. Days to 50% flowering ranged from 64 to 91 days (Urja: 67 days) and Brix% varied from 10 to 19% 

(Urja: 19%). 

Non-milo cytoplasmic sweet sorghum hybrid trial: A trial was conducted in 2011rainy season, involving 

non-milo cytoplasmic hybrids (21) in RCBD design in three replications along with two self-fertile checks CSH 

22SS and Urja. The sugar yield ranged from 0.4 to 3.6 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 2.7 t ha -1 ). Only one hybrid SP 97030 

A x Ch 1 recorded the highest sugar yield 3.6 t ha -1 over the best check CSH 22SS (2.7 t ha -1 ), two more hybrids 

SP 97032 A x RSSV 9 (2.5 t ha -1 ) and SP 97038 A x SPV 422 (2.4 t ha -1 ) were found to be at par with the best 

check CSH 22SS. Brix% ranged from 8 to 20 % (Urja: 20%). Days to 50% flowering ranged from 61 to 80 days 

(Urja: 66 days) and plant height varied from 1.8 to 3.9 m (CSH 22SS: 3.9 m). 

Sweet sorghum rainy season adaptation trial: A sweet sorghum rainy season adaptation trial was conducted 

with 59 genotypes in rainy season 2011 to select suitable lines adapted to rainy season. The trial was conducted 

in a RCBD with three replications along with five checks, viz., CSH 22SS, Urja, JK Recova, RSSV 9 and ICSV 

93046. The sugar yield in the lines ranged from 0.1 to 4.9 t ha -1 (CSH 22SS: 2.9 t ha -1 ). Sixteen entries were 

found to be significantly superior in sugar yield to the best check CSH 22SS. The top five entries for sugar yield 

are (SSV 74 x AKSV 22)-2-1-1 (4.9 t ha -1 ), ICSA 309 x SSV 84 (4.3 t ha -1 ), ICSA 731 x SP 4484-2 (4.1 t ha -1 ), 

(Ch-14 x SSV 84)-10-1-1 (3.5 t ha -1 ) and SP 85089-1-2 (3.4 t ha -1 ). Brix% from 12 to 21% (Urja: 21%). The 

days to 50% flowering ranged from 64 to 92 days (ICSV 93046: 60days) and the entry (SSV 74 x AKSV 22)-2- 

1-1 showed both higher Brix% (20%) and sugar yield (4.4 t ha -1 ) while grain yield in the hybrids ranged from 

1.2 to 2.8 t ha -1 (RSSV 9: 2.1 t ha -1 ). 

Conclusions: 

The selected lines will be further evaluated for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses and for adaptation to 

postrainy and rainy seasons. 


Plant quarantine activities for import and export of germplasm 

Germplasm exchange of ICRISAT mandate crops is a regular activity of Plant Quarantine Laboratory (PQL) in 

collaboration with NBPGR, GOI for the better utilization of germplasm/breeding material by the scientists 

around the world. Import/export facilitated by PQL during 2011 is described below: 

Export 

Plant Quarantine Laboratory (PQL) facilitated export of 10352 seed/grain samples of ICRISAT’s mandate crops 

to 37 countries. Of the 10352 samples, 5390 were seed samples and remaining 4962 were grain samples. 5390 

seed samples (sorghum-2674, pearl millet-183, chickpea-1631, pigeonpea-425, groundnut-174 and small 

millets-303) were processed for phytosanitary measures through NBPGR Hyderabad and sent to various 

countries along with 96 phytosanitary certificates. Grain samples of pearl millet (4962) were sent to Australia 

without Phytosanitary certificate for chemical analysis following phytosanitary regulations. A total of 75 (0.72% 

of the total processed samples) seed samples (sorghum-20, pearl millet-7, Chickpea-27, pigeonpea-18 and minor 

millets-3) were rejected by plant quarantine authority (NBPGR, Hyderabad) either due to poor germination, 

and/or association with seedborne fungi (Acremonium spp., Bipolaris setariae, Botryodiplodia theobromae, 

Colletotrichum graminicola, Cercospora spp., Fusarium spp., Phyllosticta cajani, Rhizoctonia bataticola), gram 

-ve bacteria, store-grain pests, bacteria of unknown etiology and non-established FAO designation status of the 

samples. 

PQL also arranged export of 4 bulk consignments of sorghum to three countries viz., Italy (9kg), UAE (118 kg) 

and Uzbekistan (20.5kg), and 3 consignment of pearlmillet to Azerbaijan (20kg), UAE (23.5kg) and Uzbekistan 

(17.4kg) with phytosanitary certificate. All the consignments were subjected to phytosanitary measures 

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(inspections and issuance of phytosanitary certificates) through Plant Quarantine Station, Hyderabad, 

Department of Plant Protection Quarantine and Storage of Ministry of Agriculture, India. 

Import 

Applications processed for Import permits. Of the 17 import permits requests, 13 import permits were 

obtained to import various plant materials and seed germplasm. Among these one import request was processed 

through Department of Plant Protection and Quarantine and Storage (DPPQS), Faridabad to import 350 samples 

of straw/stover, cowpea hay, groundnut haulms, pearl millet and sorghum bran and remaining 12 import 

requests were processed through NBPGR to import 5154 seed germplasm samples from 9 countries. 

Imports Released. NBPGR, Hyderabad released 417 germplasm samples of different crops (sorghum-119, 

pearl millet-101, chickpea-66, small millets-131) from 8 countries. We also facilitated release of one 

consignment containing 350 samples of straw/stover cowpea hay, groundnut haulms, pearl millet and sorghum 

bran received from Mali for ILRI after fumigation. This was imported under the special import permission 

granted by DPPQS, Faridabad. 

Evaluation in Post Entry Quarantine Isolation Area (PEQIA). Grow out tests were carried out for 342 

sorghum accessions received from 7 countries, 261 pearl millet accessions from Niger, 120 finger millet 

samples from Uganda & Kenya and 2 samples of maize from Ghana in PEQIA. Scientists from NBPGR visited 

nine times during the crop growth period. After inspection healthy seeds were released for use by the concerned 

scientists. 


Output 3.3. Value chain driven input supply systems and marketing innovations that capture high value for 

smallholders from sales of diversified crops/products 

Challenge Program on Water and Food_Limpopo Basin 

Rationale: 

Mixed crop-livestock farming is the predominant system of production in the Limpopo Basin, but livestock 

production constitutes the main income source in these systems. It offers the most established form of market 

engagement by small holders and is the more resilient production system under highly variable rainfall. 

However, crop production for food is widely pursued by smallholder famers under these dry conditions, even in 

regions receiving as little as 350 mm of rain. This raises the question: would small-scale farmers achieve higher 

levels of food security, income and water productivity by devoting resources to fodder production in the dry 

conditions of the Limpopo Basin, especially as fodder is a more resilient production system than grain? Further, 

from a systems perspective—what farm management practices can be employed by farmers based on their 

particular skill and resource levels in a specific environment? 

Methodology: 

• Innovation Platforms (IP): The main entry point for the project will be the IP, which brings together value 

chain actors: input suppliers, farmers, traders, processors, etc in a shared forum to explore their challenges 

and opportunities. 

• Crop and Livestock Modelling: Participatory modelling will be an entry point to develop scenarios based on 

local knowledge, to be tested with farmers using on-farm participatory trials. 

• Technology interventions linked to market development: Targeting the private sector, NGO and CBO 

agents to bring about market-related changes for smallholder farmers. 


So far we have managed to have stakeholder meetings in all our study sites (in South Africa; Lambane and 

Nebo, while in Zimbabwe; Gwanda, Insiza and Matobo districts). Local and external partners have been 

identified and the challenges and opportunities for the different sites have been explored and prioritized by the 

stakeholders. Across the study sites the top three challenges related to crop production were high input costs, 

poor market accessibility and poor soil management while for livestock it was poor breeds, feed shortages and 

uncompetitive output markets. Using the participatory modeling exercises we have managed to develop 

scenarios with the farmers using the APSIM model. Initially the model was evaluated using the farmers’ past 

season experiences and later on long-term simulations were done and results presented to farmers. Part of the 

outcome here is increased interest in forage production in Zimbabwe and comparison of costs and benefits of 

cereal and legume production in South Africa. With the assistance of the other stakeholders we have identified 

farmers and other stakeholders who will work on establishing, monitoring and evaluating potential technologies 

157

and market related issues. The on-farm experiences and crop-production experiments will substantiate the 

efficacy of the technologies and the potential for out-scaling. The project is using the market access as a driver 

of crop and livestock technology uptake. World Vision in Zimbabwe has used the closed voucher system to 

supply inputs to farmers in the past season and currently is using the open voucher system this will assist to 

evaluate farmers’ preferences of the different types and sizes of crop production inputs. In South Africa Progress 

Milling is locating areas where they can put depots which can be used as input and output markets. All in all the 

stakeholders aim to make farmers understand and invest in improved production technologies and making sure 

that market actors are aware of the potential in smallholder farming systems for market expansion, and develop 

market strategies suited to systems’ resource capacity. 

Source: 

Innovation Platform establishment report-Shamba village ward 19 Insiza district (22-23 June 2011). 

P. Masikati-Hlanguyo and A. Van Rooyen, ICRISAT Bulawayo; Participatory Modeling Exercise (PME) on 

crop and livestock production in Gwanda (Ward 24- Nhwali), 8 to 10 December 2010. 

Patricia Masikati and Andre van Rooyen [RP RDS] 

Milestones 

‐ Innovative formal and informal seed/input delivery systems to provide smallholder farmers access to 

modern varieties and hybrids of high value, diverse crops and other required inputs designed 

‐ Value chain innovations for smallholder farmers to increase value capture from diversified crops in 

output markets evaluated 

[RP GL] 

Output 3.4. Value added novel products from diversified crops/systems, along with requisite marketing outlets 

and value chain systems 

MTP Output target in 2011 3.4.1 Assessments on potential value--‐added products and markets from 

diversified crops and systems conducted and results made available as IPGs 

Project 3.3: Value Chain Model for Bio ethanol Production from Sweet Sorghum in Rainfed Areas through 

Collective Action and Partnership ICRISAT 



Assess economic and environmental viability, enabling policies and institutions for promoting cultivation of 

sweet sorghum for bio-ethanol production and its impact on environment, rural incomes, livelihoods and social 

capital development-Linking Smallholder Sweet Sorghum Farmers to Markets 


A value chain approach model of sweet sorghum as a food-feed-fodder-fuel is being tested on a pilot basis to 

augment the income of the farmers while promoting a sustainable sweet sorghum ethanol value chain by linking 

small scale farmers cultivating sweet sorghum to their demand sources specifically to the ethanol industry. Two 

models for supply chain management of sweet sorghum for use as biofuel feedstock are being pilot tested under 

the above projects. Under the Centralized model the farmers grow sweet sorghum around the distillery and 

supply stalks to distillery for ethanol production and under the decentralized model farmers located away from 

the distillery grow sweet sorghum and supply stalks to decentralize crushing unit where sweet sorghum juice is 

extracted and converted into syrup with 70% brix content. The syrup is transported to the ethanol industry for 

further processing into ethanol. The advantage of converting juice into syrup is that syrup can be stored for 

several months before being processed into ethanol and the transport cost to the industry is also considerably 

reduced. 


Sweet sorghum is found to be a viable crop in the farmers’ field under rainfed conditions competing with crops 

like sorghum, pigeonpea and maize. The observation from the case studies of centralized and decentralized units 

of production and crushing of sweet sorghum for bio ethanol has shown that there is opportunity to increase 

efficiency both at production and processing level. The findings also show that there should be effective 

linkages established among all the stakeholders in the value chain and better co-ordination from production 

source to processing of sweet sorghum to ethanol for the success of the value chain. 

158

The results of the economic assessment of crushing sweet sorghum under decentralized unit has shown that 

production of syrup can be made viable by improving yield of sweet sorghum, system efficiencies like crushing, 

labor use and sale of surplus by-product (bagasse) through value addition, there by bringing down the 

processing cost of syrup production from sweet sorghum that would benefit both the farmers and the industry. 

Although the biofuel policy in India includes sweet sorghum as viable crop for ethanol production the policy 

emphasis is on molasses obtained from sugar industry. There is thus a need to make the policies friendly for 

crops like sweet sorghum to meet the future energy requirement. 

• Two models for supply chain management of sweet sorghum for use as biofuel feedstock are being 

pilot tested under the project 

• Economic analysis of competitiveness of sweet sorghum for ethanol production across locations 

conducted which will help in targeting and understanding the guiding factors responsible for enhancing 

the incomes of farmers in sweet sorghum ethanol production. 

• Economic and financial feasibility assessment of ethanol production was conducted and scenarios were 

provided by changing the key parameters that affect ethanol production. The feasibility assessment 

shows the ethanol production is highly sensitive to recovery rate, ethanol price and feedstock price. 

• An assessment on the land required for cultivation of sweet sorghum for ethanol production was made 

taking into consideration the mandatory ethanol blending requirements. The estimates show that to 

meet deficit at 10% blending by 2020 (3.47 billion liters), at 20 ton/hectare productivity and 4% 

recovery, the area required will be about 1.30 million hectares with the assumption that 30 % of the 

deficit is met from sweet sorghum. 


• The results of economic viability and land requirement assessment show case for justifying policy 

support and enabling policy environment. 

Future Project and Funding Requirement: 

• There exists scope for evaluating environmental benefits of ethanol production from sweet sorghum. 

The evaluation will help in incorporating the benefits for economic justification and modeling for 

enabling policy environment and support 

[RP MIP] 

Milestone: Assessments on potential value added products and markets from diversified crops and systems 

conducted and results made available as IPGs 

[RP GL] 

Exploitation of the brown midrib (bmr) mutation in sorghum 

Rationale: 

Brown midrib (bmr) lines are sorghum mutant lines characterized by brown leaf mid rib as a morphological 

marker which have low lignin content. The bmr mutants were originally developed in USA by researchers at the 

Purdue university by chemically induced mutagenesis. The bmr mutants are a potential source for developing 

fodder sorghums and high biomass sorghums suitable for lignocellulosic ethanol production as the processing of 

low lignin biomass is cost effective. 

Methodology: 

A bmr lines trial was conducted with 20 bmr lines to select lines for tall plant height, increased biomass, bmr 

score 1, low lignin and high digestibility. 


A trial consisting of 20 bmr sources and 4 varieties along with two white midrib checks viz, RSSV 9 and ICSV 

93046 was conducted in RCBD during 2010 postrainy season at ICRISAT, Patancheru. Data was collected on 

acid detergent lignin (ADL); in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD %); nitrogen content (NC), neutral 

detergent fiber (NDF); acid detergent fiber (ADF); metabolic energy (ME) and dry matter (DM) contents. Days 

to 50% flowering in the entries ranged from 52 to 85 days (RSSV 9: 64 days). Plant height ranged from 1.0 to 

2.7 m (RSSV 9:2.1m). Analysis for fodder quality traits showed that the digestibility in the tested lines ranged 

from 47.6 to 57.5% (RSSV 9: 51.5 %; ICSV 93046: 50.5%), the line Rox orange has the highest digestibility of 

57.5%, followed by IS 23789 (55.8%) and IS 23765 (55.1%). Acid detergent lignin (ADL) in the lines ranged 

from 3.2 to 5.1% (RSSV 9: 4.4 %; ICSV 93046: 4.3%). 

159

Conclusions: 

Two lines IS 23789 and IS 23765 with high digestibility and high biomass were identified. These lines are being 

used in crossing program to introgress the bmr traits in elite sorghum lines in postrainy season 2011. Presently 

five crosses are being backcrossed to the recurrent sweet sorghum parent. 


Output 3.5– Evidence--‐based policy advice that encourages crop/system diversification in ways that 

especially benefit smallholders 

MTP output target in 2011 3.5.1 Research data on the policy changes required for smallholder farmers to 

diversify their cropping systems acquired and made available as IPGs 

Project 3.4: Sweet Sorghum: An alternative Energy Crop 



Economic implications of sweet sorghum cultivation under different energy and climatic scenarios 


• Document for methodology was developed to address the goal and scope questions of economic 

assessment and life cycle costing of different energy pathways of sweet sorghum under different 

climatic scenarios. 

• Policy Analysis Matrix framework is employed to assess the competitiveness of sweet sorghum and 

sugarcane for ethanol production 


• Results will be useful in determining areas/regions with differing rainfall and soil moisture regimes and 

cropping patterns where sweet sorghum production would have comparative advantage and policy 

options to promote the same 

[RP MIP] 


stakeholders to enhance and expand smallholder crop/system diversification 

MTP Output Target in 2011 3.6.1 Tools, protocols and courses developed to strengthen capacity of 

stakeholders to diversify smallholder farming in the dryland tropics. 

MTP Output Target in 2011 3.6.2 Knowledge sharing tools and protocols defined for all regions that target 

diversification of smallholder farming 

Project 3.5 : Harnessing Opportunities for Productivity Enhancement (HOPE) of Sorghum and Millets in Sub- 


Objective 6: Enable technology adoption of sorghum, pearl millet, and finger millet by improving access to 

inputs and markets differentiated according to both women’s and men’s needs in WCA, ESA, and SA 



Working with consortium approach with partners and all the stakeholders in order to enhance the knowledge 

base of the small holder farmers from production to value addition in a value chain 


• Self-Help groups and Farmers Associations were established and strengthened in all HOPE clusters and 

linked to retail market chain of grain and fodder in case of pearl millet in the targeted areas. This has 

reduced the transaction cost of marketing. 

• Identified key financial institution’s and informed the business opportunities along the value chain. This 

has enabled farmers access to credit in the targeted areas 

160

• Imparted training programmes for the benefit of smallholder farmers on credit, market linkage and value 

addition by bringing all the stakeholders. The training programmes enhanced knowledge of smallholder 

farmer preferences regarding improved varieties and hybrids suitable for food, feed, processing, and 

industrial use. 

[RP MIP] 

Milestones: 

• Tools, protocols and courses developed to strengthen capacity of stakeholders to diversify smallholder 

farming in the dryland tropics 

• Knowledge sharing tools and protocols defined for all regions that target diversification of smallholder 

farming 

• Awareness products developed to enhance stakeholder knowledge of options for diversifying 

smallholder farming in the dryland tropics 

i) Awareness products developed to enhance stakeholder knowledge of options for diversifying 

smallholder farming in Malawi 

Rationale: 

Farmer engagement at an early stage in the technology development process has been found to enhance the adoption 

of improved technologies. As such, farmers participating in farmer participatory variety selection (FPVS) 

activities are more knowledgeable and have upfront information and understanding of the varieties they are 

evaluating with researchers and this enhances adoption. 

Methodology: 

Two sets of trials comprising six Virginia groundnut genotypes, ICGV-SM series, 01708, 01724, 01728, 01731, 

99772 and 92R/70-4 for the first set and six Spanish genotypes comprising ICGV-SM series 99566, 99551, 99567, 

03572, 03576, and 01514 for the second set were evaluated on-farm in farmer participatory variety selection trials in 

selected districts during the 2010/2011 crop season. Virginia cultivar, Nsinjiro was used as a check for the elite 

Virginia trial while Chitala and Kakoma were included as controls for the Spanish trial set. The trials were evaluated 

by farmers in 9 extension planning areas (EPAs) namely Mchinji, Lisasadzi in Kasungu, Chinguluwe in Salima, 

Bazale, Rivirivi and Phalula in Balaka, Naminjiwa and Waruma in Phalombe and, Neno. 


Performance across genotypes among the Virginia varieties revealed superior kernel yield above 1000 kg/ha for 

ICGV-SM 01708 (1153 kg/ha), ICGV-SM 01728 (1097 kg/ha), and ICGV-SM 01724 (1021 kg/ha) compared to 

Nsinjiro (902 kg/ha). 100-seed weight ranged from 42g for 92/R70-4, 70g for ICGV-SM 01728 in Kasungu. The 

mean seed weight across sites (Mchinji, Kasungu, Balaka, Phalombe and Neno) was generally good, ranging 

from 52g to 57g while that across genotypes varied from 44g (92/R70-4) to 66g (ICGV-SM 01728). Farmer 

assessment of the genotypes revealed that the checks (Nsinjiro) was rated as very good (score=2), emerging as 

the most preferred. However, ICGV-SM series 01724, 01728 and 01731 were rated as good varieties (score=3). 

Farmers generally considered early maturity, drought tolerance, good pod filling, high pod load and absence of 

disease as the most important attributes qualifying a variety as a choice for production in their respective areas. 

Performance across genotypes among the Spanish revealed superior kernel yields for ICGV-SM 01514 (1031 

kg/ha), ICGV-SM 99567 (843 kg/ha), ICGV-99551 (819 kg/ha) and ICGV-SM 99556 (815 kg/ha) compared to 

Kakoma (747 kg/ha), while only ICGV-SM 01514 out-yielded Chitala (913 kg/ha). The genotypes were 

generally rated as either very good or good implying that the varieties displayed desirable traits in as far as 

farmers criteria was concerned. ICGV-SM series 03576, 99551 and Chitala were considered as being very good 

according to the farmers’ criteria. 

Conclusions: 

Three genotypes in the Virginia set (ICGV-SM 01708, ICGV-SM 01728, and ICGV-SM 01724) and four 

genotypes in the Spanish set (ICGV-SM 01514, ICGV-SM 99567, ICGV-99551 and ICGV-SM 99556) were 

rated as being either good or very good by farmers, as they comprised traits that were consistent with farmers 

needs. The results suggest the importance of incorporating farmer criteria for variety choice in order to ensure 

that new varieties take into account farmers’ needs, which eventually determine the final adoption by farmers. 

E S Monyo, S Njoroge, W Munthali, E Chilumpha, H Charlie, 

O Mponda, and A Chamango [RP GL] 

161

Outcome 4-Resilience: Smallholder farmers/households maintaining food, nutritional 

and economic security during periods of environmental and economic shocks 

Output 4.1 – Enhanced understanding of resilience in tropical dryland smallholder systems and 

researchable actions to increase resilience 

Ex-ante assessment of risk associated with selected technologies: 

Rationale: 

One of the constraints to adoption of improved technologies by smallholder farmers in semi-arid areas is the risk 

associated with investments made. Rainfall across semi-arid areas is low and highly variable, both within and 

across the seasons, which makes returns on investments uncertain. Poor semi-arid farmers are generally risk 

averse and tend to favor adoption of low risk low productivity technologies. Hence, quantifying and valuing risk 

is an important first in managing it. 

Methodology: 

The methodology involves assessing the long-term trends in productivity as a function of climate and analyzing 

the same for returns on investment. We have used crop simulation model APSIM with long-term climate data to 

assess the productivity of crops and management technologies in different seasons. To capture adequately the 

impact of climate variability at any given location, climate data for periods in excess of 30 years is required. The 

results were used to construct risk and return profiles for various technologies by constructing probability of 

exceedence charts. 


An ex-ante analysis to assess risks and returns associated with technologies recommended for semi-arid areas in 

Kenya was carried out with long-term climate data for five locations viz., Machakos, Makindu, Kitui, Mwingi 

and Mutomo. The technologies selected for this analysis included different levels of fertilizer, soil and water 

conservation practices, crops and cropping systems and seasonal climate forecast based decisions. Results 

indicate that substantial risk exists at all the locations except Kitui which receives >400 mm rain during the crop 

season. For example, farmers at Machakos will get back their investment on fertilizer when applied at 

recommended rate of 40 kg N on maize in 69% of the years while benefit cost ratios of 2 and above can be 

achieved in 56% of the years. The risk can substantially be reduced by adopting practices such as microdosing 

and combining water conservation with fertilizer use. 

Conclusions: 

Risk associated with investments in agriculture is one of the important factors influencing adoption of improved 

technologies by smallholder farmers. Crop simulation model when used with long-term climate data provide 

valuable insights into potential risks and options for their management. 

(Percentage achieved: 80%) 

KPC Rao [RP RDS] 

Adapting agriculture to climate change: Developing promising strategies using analogue locations in 

Eastern and Southern Africa (CALESA) 

Rationale: 

To evaluate agricultural production strategies to climate change through the use of analogue locations, with 

special reference to predicted temperature increases. 

Methodology: 

Over the next three years (2011-2013), the performance of various crop varieties across pairs of analogue 

locations in Kenya and Zimbabwe, corresponding to dry and wet climates within the SAT. Trial data will help 

calibrate crop models which could then be used to estimate crop performance in relation to climate change and 

extrapolate the impact on agricultural productivity at a larger scale. Crops to be tested in field research stations 

include maize, sorghum, groundnut, common bean, pigeonpea and cowpea. In addition, various improved farm 

management practices will be tested such as: tied-ridge-and-furrow, a soil tillage technique that helps conserve 

water at the plant roots; microdosing application of fertilizer; testing various sowing rates to match crop 

densities to changing conditions; simple seed priming and seed treatment interventions. In Zimbabwe trials were 

established in November 2011 at the following research stations (analogue sites): Henderson (cool, wet), 

Kadoma (hot, wet), Matopos (cool, dry) and Chiredzi (hot, dry). In addition experiments to determine water 

runoff and soil erosion under the test crops were also established at Makoholi Research Station in Masvingo 

District where relevant facilities exist. 

162

A socio-economic survey was conducted in smallholder areas surrounding the analogue sites to assess how 

farmers have responded to the effects of climate change and variability. A minimum of 150 households were 

interviewed per site and data analysis is still in progress. 


Experimentation is still in progress. 

David Harris, KPC Rao and Justice Nyamangara [RP RDS] 

MTP Output Target in 2011 4.1.1 Practical indicators to understand and quantify risk, vulnerability and 

resilience in the smallholder tropical dryland context identified and database made available for each region 





• Enhance the availability of reliable household-, individual-, and field-specific, high-frequency, 

time-series data in purposely selected villages in the semi-arid and humid tropics of South Asia 

• Increase the availability of updated and expanded meso-level (e.g. district-level) agricultural data 

in India and Bangladesh 

• Nurture policy analysis and strengthen capacity building to fully exploit the data collected and 







implemented by ICRISAT in partnership and close collaboration with national and international institutes 


Based on the VLS surveys, insights on farmer’s resilience were better understood. Farmers have been adapting 

their agriculture in response to changes in climatic condition. Villages with better access to technology, markets, 

and infrastructure have been able to adjust with changed climatic situations but villages lacking in these 

enabling opportunities are lagging in the adjustment process. Poor and marginal farmers are unable to adjust on 

their own. 

[RP MIP] 

MTP Output Target in 2011 4.1.2 Research domains and study sites characterized for risk, vulnerability and 

resilience in each region 

Project 4.2: Vulnerability to Climate Change: Adaptation Strategies and layers of resilience 

Countries Involved: India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Thailand, Vietnam and People’s Republic of China 


The identification of adaptation strategies and layers of resilience at the grassroots level is an essential step in 

addressing vulnerability to climate change (water scarcity, drought, desertification, land degradation and further 

marginalization of rainfed areas) especially on the rural livelihoods of the people dependent on agriculture. The 

three-year research project entitled “Vulnerability to climate change: adaptation strategies and layers of 

resilience (RETA-6439)” is envisioned to provide science-based solutions and pro-poor approaches to adapting 

agricultural systems to climate change for the benefit of the rural poor and the most vulnerable farmers in the 

semi-arid regions of Asia, particularly Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Sri 

Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. This will enable the prioritization of sectors most at risk and development of 

gender-equitable adaptation and mitigation strategies as an integral part of agricultural development programs in 

these less-favored regions. 

163


A systematic planned methodology was adopted for this study and it was uniformly followed for all the 

countries. The similar methodology was adopted for the different country partners to have a regional perceptive 

of the findings. The research approach encompasses all the three components of climate agenda, namely 

exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity. 

The activities of the project include: 

1. Collection and analysis of secondary data on weather parameters, and on cropping patterns, incomes, 

employment, consumption levels, enterprise economics etc. from representative sample of target countries. 

2. Survey and comparison of farmers’ perceptions about climate change and variability compared with 

detailed trend analyses of long-term climate data from nearby stations. 

3. Assessment and analysis of past and present adaptation practices, using a social lens, along with 

biophysical lens to identify what works and what does not. 

4. Mapping alternate channels and institutional arrangements for strategies and mechanisms to mitigate the 

effects of climate change. 

5. Documentation of changes, if any, related to climate variability; and report of the cause-and-effect 

relationships between changes in cropping patterns and productivity levels, changes in weather parameters, 

length of growing period, policy changes and institutional innovations on the other, employing appropriate 

statistical tools. 

6. Preparing policy briefs and conducting policy workshops to advocate the necessary policy changes to 

alleviate poverty and reduce the impact of income shocks caused by weather aberrations 


• Significant evidence of rise in atmospheric temperatures and the extent of increased rainfall variability 

(onset, quantum and distribution); together with the frequency of occurrence of extreme events viz. 

drought and floods are becoming highly discernible at different levels (meso and micro level) 

• Majority of the regions and districts under SAT are highly vulnerable to climate change and variability 

in south Asia; revealed the similar observations in composite vulnerability taking set of indicators from 

exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity component 

• For climate change analysis of meso level climatic information would not adequately represent the 

micro level environment. Hence, micro level and long term information is essential to understand the 

dynamics of household response behavior to quantify climate related impacts and to identify adaptation 

strategies at micro level 

• Set of key “best fit” adaptation strategies were identified at different levels (Household Community 

Government International Community) from the respective partner countries 

o Adoption of Improved technologies (drought tolerant, short duration crop varieties) to 

maintain the optimum level of output and that are well suited to the changed environment 

o Conserving natural resources and revitalizing Common Property Resources, their 

management, equitable accessibility and protection 

o Need of institutional innovation in improving transparency and equity in filtering support 

o 

programs to enhancing resilience to climatic shocks 

Establishing public awareness on climate, technology, markets, price etc. and enabling 

farmers to take decisions appropriately 

• These local experiences and knowledge on adaptation strategies at micro level need to be channelized 

these information in formulating policies at aggregated levels 

• Further, road map were drawn to ensure enabling environment at various levels (Household 

Community Government International Community) to adapt to climate related shocks and 

changes thereby building resilience 

Foreseeing Opportunities 

• Further in depth socio-economic analysis of each factor responsible for building grass root level 

resilience to climate change and shocks is imminent. A study on estimating economic impacts, costs of 

adaptation and prioritizing adaptation strategies will be pursued. 

• A set of policy statement evolved from the country level finding will be voiced to the apex policy 

maker and various stake holders through policy dialogues and follow-up dialogue in the 5 partner 

countries 

• A next phase submission will be proposed to ADB during the concluding meeting 

164

• Proposal submitted to the call from CCAFS, on vulnerability assessment to climate change in South 

Asia and with IRRAD & TERI for DFID on Adaptation to Climate Change in Drylands of 

Asia/alongside other donors will be pursued aggressively 

• Positioning ICRISAT’s research outcome in international arena in addressing climate change agenda 

for south Asia (policy dialogues, international conferences) 

Constraints faced in achieving the objectives. 

• Partner selection should be made appropriately according to their expertise in the subject area in terms 

of capacity, quality and access/network. The capabilities of the project partners were reflected in the 

deliverables, which was a major constraint 

• Identification and retention of key researchers/project staff with experience in this field was also 

challenging 

[RP MIP] 

Output 4.2 Technical innovations to increase resilience in tropical dryland smallholder systems Identification 

of at least 3 sources (hybrid parents and populations) of high temperature tolerance at reproductive stage 

An inventory of agricultural technologies for semi-arid Kenya 

Rationale: 

Over the past few decades, extensive research efforts have led to development of a large number of improved 

technologies with potential to increase crop yields by several folds. They include crop varieties with high 

genetic yield potential, soil and water management practices that arrest degradation and make efficient use of 

the natural resource base, and crop management technologies that reduce the impacts of various biotic and 

abiotic stresses. Though risk and returns associated with investments on these technologies is an important 

factor in the adoption of these technologies by smallholder farmers, promotion of these technologies is often 

carried out without evaluating the for the associated risks. 

Methodology: 

An inventory of all agricultural technologies that are recommended by the Kenya Agricultural Research Institute 

(KARI) for semi-arid Eastern Kenya was prepared through an extensive review of literature that includes 

extension bulletins and interviews with the concerned researchers. These technologies are grouped into four 

categories viz., technologies with low risk and low return/impact, technologies with low risk and high 

return/impact, technologies with high risk and low return/impact and technologies with high risk and high 

return/impact. 


An inventory of all available technologies related crops and varieties, soil fertility management, soil and water 

conservation and livestock management was compiled with a description that includes name and description of 

the technology, acceptability and ease of adoption by end users, potential benefit/profitability, sensitivity to 

climate variability, potential constraints to adoption and recommendation domain. However, due to lack of 

availability of accurate information on some of the descriptors, the information is not very well supported by 

clear evidence from research. But the compiled information is reviewed by relevant subject matter specialists for 

its accuracy. A database with all these technologies is currently being created which will be linked to seasonal 

climate forecast based advisory system currently being developed. 

Conclusions: 

The inventory serves as a key document for government and non-government extension workers who currently 

do not have access to such information. When linked with seasonal climate forecasts it assists farm level 

planning in choosing appropriate crops and management practices that can make best use of the predicted 

seasonal conditions. 

Percentage achieved: 80% 


Weather based agro-advisories to make informed decisions 

Rationale: 

In a situation where important farming decisions, whose outcome is highly sensitive to the amount and 

distribution of rainfall during the season, are to be made well before knowing the seasonal conditions, advance 

information about the rainfall during the forthcoming season has the potential to help farmers make more 

165

tactical decisions about investments and adopt management practices that make best use of the season. Today, 

climate models can predict conditions months in advance, for many parts of the world. Currently, seasonal 

climate forecasts relevant to Kenya are available from the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) (Figure 2), 

IGAD Climate Prediction and Application Center (ICPAC), the International Research Institute for Climate and 

Society (IRI) and the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMF) but their use in farm 

level decision making is limited. The main constraint to use forecast information by smallholder farmers is in 

accessing the information at the right time from the right source in a format that can easily be understood. 

Methodology: 

The weather based agro-advisory service that was tested in Machakos, Makueni, Mwingi, Mutomo and Kitui 

districts in Kenya was aimed at bridging the gap between information availability and usability. The weatherbased 

agro-advisory is a succinct summary of agricultural activities that a team of agricultural experts drawn 

from the Ministry of Agriculture, Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI) and Kenya Meteorological 

Department (KMD) have by consensus agreed as the most appropriate/feasible for the type of season forecasted. 

The forecast was made available to farmers through local extension officers. 


Farmers have shown that more informed decisions can be made if the forecast information is made available to 

them. Investments could be restricted during predicted bad years, and expanded when good rainfall is forecast. 

Though a forecast that includes information on the amount and distribution of rainfall is extremely useful, a 

broad indication of the season type (season likely to be good, average, poor) is usually sufficient for making 

good decisions. The reliability of the forecasts has increased when forecasts from different sources were used. In 

all the districts farmers showed a keen interest in receiving the advisory and expressed a strong interest in 

receiving them on a regular basis. A recent survey conducted to evaluate the usefulness of the advisories showed 

that most farmers considered the advisories as extremely useful in planning farm operations, an observation well 

supported by a willingness of 87% of the farmers interviewed to pay for the service if required (Table 1). 

Table 1: Farmer assessment of usefulness of advisories in planning farm operations and their willingness to pay 

for the service 

Usefulness (%) 

Willingness to pay 

Location 

Extremely useful Somewhat useful Not very useful 

Kitui 59% 33% 0% 81% 

Mwingi 77% 29% 3% 85% 

Mutomo 69% 22% 3% 96% 

Conclusions: 

The forecast based advisories were found to be very useful in planning farm operations and have the potential to 

reduce the risk and capitalize on opportunities created by variable weather conditions. We are currently working 

to develop an automated system to prepare and disseminate advisories through radio and local extension 

officers. 



Reducing risk through adoption low risk and high impact technologies 

Rationale: 

There are several well researched options which when adopted have the potential to reduce risk and even take 

advantage of the conditions depending on how the season progresses. These are simple, inexpensive and 

efficient technologies requiring low levels of investment but the potential benefits from these technologies are 

very high. Some of them are based on indigenous knowledge and are easy to adopt. 

Methodology: 

On station and on farm trials were conducted in five districts of Eastern Kenya to assess effectiveness of small 

doses of fertilizer in reducing risk and improving productivity. On station trials included three different varieties 

of maize with 20 and 40 kg N/ha applied as Calcium Ammonium Nitrate with and without tied ridges as soil and 

water conservation measure. The on farm trials were conducted by farmer field schools that were established by 

the district extension department in an earlier project and included farmer preferred variety. 


At all the locations fertilizer application has contributed to significant increase in yields. The yield increases 

observed ranged between 25% and 120% depending on the type of season and complementary management 

166

practices adopted. Results of simulation analysis with APSIM have indicated substantial reduction in risk with 

use of small doses of fertilizer. For example at Mwingi, the percent years during which the benefit cost ratio is 

higher than 2 have increased from about 60% with 40 kg N/ha to 75% with 20 Kg N. However, the average 

yields with 40 Kg N are 20% higher than the ones achieved with 20 kg N/Ha. Results of the trials also indicate 

that in very good years benefit form microdosing is very small, an observation that needs to be confirmed with 

additional studies. One major constraint observed with application of small doses is higher labor requirement 

since application of small doses of fertilizer requires application of precise quantity at right depth. To address 

this constraint, we are working on a simple devise that facilitates application of fertilizer. 

Conclusions: 

Microdosing of fertilizer nitrogen I a good strategy to reduce risk and improve productivity especially for 

smallholder farmers whose ability to take risk is low. However, further research is required to standardize the 

time and application of fertilizer and also reduce the labor requirement. 



Model watersheds for sustaining agricultural productivity and improved livelihoods in the different 

Agro-Ecoregions of India 

Rationale: 

The Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India have sponsored projects 

on the establishment of model watersheds for sustaining agricultural productivity and improving livelihoods in 

the different agro-ecoregions of India. The Comprehensive Assessment of Watershed Programs in India 

undertaken by ICRISAT-led consortium indicated that for different agro-eco-regions different approach and 

practices are needed for higher impact. Strong need was felt to establish model watersheds with following main 

objectives. 

Methodology: 

• To establish model watersheds in different agro-eco-zones for demonstrating the potential of rainfed 

areas for increasing productivity; 

• To improve rural livelihoods through participatory watershed development program with consortium 

approach through application of new science tools and cost-effective practices appropriate to socioeconomic 

conditions of farmers and natural resources of the ecosystems; 

• To build capacity of different stakeholders in the areas of integrated watershed management. 

Table 1. Model watershed sites in different ecoregions of India. 

Annual rainfall 

(mm) 

Watershed location 

(Village, 

Block/Mandal/Taluk, 

Soil Type 

≤700 

District, State) 

Saram, 

Biscuwada Block 

Dungarpur Dist. 

Rajasthan 

Mota Vadala, 

Kalavad Taluk 

Jamnagar Dist. Gujarat 

Pathri 

Jalgaon Tq & Dist. 

Maharashtra 

Dolasane, Bambalewade 

Samgamner Tq 

Ahmednagar Dist 

Maharashtra 

Dob 

Jhadol Tehsil 

Udaipur Dist. 

Rajasthan 

Alfisols & Associated 

soils 

Vertisols, Vertic 

Inceptisols & 

Associated soils 


Inceptisols & 



Inceptisols & 



soils 

Collaborating Institutions/ 

Organisations 

PEDO (NGO); DWMA (State Govt.) 

BAIF (NGO); 

DWMA (State Govt.) 

JalaSRI Program- MJ College, Jalgaon, 

(NGO); 

Dept. Agri. (State Govt.) 

WOTR (NGO), Ahemednagar 

Dept. of Agri (State Govt.) 

MPKV, Rahuri 

Seva Mandir (NGO) 

MPUAT, Udaipur, Forest Dept., and 

DWD (State Govt.) 

KVK, Udaipur 

167

Nagulapally 

Sadasivapet Mandal 

Medak Dist. 

Andhra Pradesh 


Inceptisols & 


READS (NGO); 


>700 ≤1000 

>1000 

Neeralakatti 

Dharwad Tq & Dist. 

Karnataka 

Damagar 

Babina Block 

Jhansi Dist. 

Uttar Pradesh 

Melkarai 

Kalakad Taluk 

Tirunelveli Dist. 

Tamil Nadu 

Ammainaickanur 

Nilakottai Panchayat 

union, Dindigul Dist. 

Tamil Nadu 

Barkheda Khurd 

Chachoda Block 

Guna Dist. 

Madhya Pradesh 

Nuagaon 

Kuntha block 

Mayurbhanj Dist. 

Orissa 

Padarlya-Siyalwada 

Silwani Block 

Raisen Dist. 

Madhya Pradesh 


Inceptisols, Alfisols & 



soils 


soils (sandy soils) 


soils 

Vertisols & Associated 

soils 


soils 

Vertisols & Associated 

soils 

BIRDS (NGO); 

DWDO (State Govt.) 

National Research Center on 

Agroforestry (NRCAF); 

Development Alternative (NGO) 

TVS-ASRI (PIA) 

CIRHEP (NGO) 

DWDA (State Govt.) 

BAIF (NGO); 


SHRISTI (NGO); 

KVK, OUAT Bhubaneswar 

BYPASS (NGO) 

DDA (State Govt). 

Results: 

Based on several criteria thirteen model watershed sites has been identified and established (Table 1). 

• The cadastral maps of the watershed area were digitized and geo referenced. The watershed boundary, 

open wells, villages and other key features have been geo-referenced using the GPS. 

• After series of meetings and consultations, the watershed committee at all the thirteen model 

watersheds are formed comprising the representatives from all the watershed villages. Necessary 

trainings and exposure visits were organized to improve the capacity of the watershed committee 

members in performing their responsibilities. 

• Participatory stratified soil sampling procedure was followed through PRA, and a total 60-120 soil 

samples were collected and analyzed for various parameters from each watershed as knowledge-based 

entry point activity (EPA) for building rapport with the communities. The soils at most of the 

watersheds were found deficient both in the major and micronutrients. 

• Several development works on soil and water conservation, runoff water harvesting, groundwater 

recharging and gully control have been taken up at all the watersheds. These includes construction of 

farm ponds, earthen check dams, loose bolder structures, field bunding and development of pasture lands. 

• Enhancing the agricultural productivity in the watersheds was given very high priority. Participatory 

demonstrations cum research trails on improved agricultural practices were conducted on the farmers’ fields. 

• The monitoring and evaluation was given high priority at all the watersheds. One automatic weather 

station has been installed at each model watersheds. Also one digital runoff recorder and automatic 

sediment sampler have been installed at all the model watersheds. At each model watershed 12-16 open 

wells (representing upstream, middle and downstream parts of the watershed) have been identified for 

monitoring the groundwater levels. One groundwater meter has been provided to each watershed for 

participatory monitoring of the groundwater levels. The data from the automatic weather station, runoff 

and soil loss equipment and groundwater have been collected and analyzed. 

168

• The capacity building initiatives included CBOs, farmers and field staff thru hands-on trainings, 

exposure visits to other watersheds, training materials. Need-based specialized trainings were also 

conducted at all the watersheds. 

• Detailed project reports and progress reports prepared for all the thirteen watersheds. 

Conclusions: 

Overall, good progress has been made at all the thirteen model watersheds. The watershed development, 

productivity enhancement and income generating activities are expected to increase substantially in the coming 

years to benefit large numbers of farmers. The monitoring and evaluation will be further strengthened to cover 

the various aspects of integrated watershed management. It is expected that in incoming years these thirteen 

model watersheds will make significant positive impacts on natural resources, rural livelihoods and 

environment. Also the learnings from these watersheds will contribute in improving the impact of other 

watershed programs in their agro-ecoregions. 

Source: 

Detailed watershed plans and annual reports for each watershed are available from p.pathak@cgiar.org or 

s.wani@cgiar.org 

P Pathak, Sudi Raghavendra Rao, RC Sachan, SP Wani, SK Dhyani, 

Gauri Rane, Marcella D’Souza, Devilal Vyas, Shailendranath Tiwari, 

CK Pal, TP Mathur, SM Desai, AS Yadav, MG Chavda, PNS Rajesh, 

PM Mohan, V Naveen Kumar, MA Agasimundin, SB Pandey and SK Swain [RP RDS] 

Coping with variable climates: the use of seasonal climate forecasts and participatory simulation 

modeling in semi-arid Zimbabwe 

Rationale: 

Climate forecasting is one of the many risk management tools that play an important role in agriculture decision 

making. Evidence of the value of seasonal climate forecasts in SSA is however limited. The study is part of a 

broad research project whose goal is to assist smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe in achieving sustained 

improvements in food and nutritional security through better access to climate information, and the technologies 

and other strategies that can improve adaptation to poor years and enable them to better exploit good years. 

Methodology: 

The study was done over a period of two seasons in 2009/10 and 2010/11 cropping season, and the partners in 

the study included the Department of Agricultural Technical and Extension Services of Zimbabwe (AGRITEX), 

University of Reading, and the Zimbabwe Meteorological Services Department. A mixture of household surveys 

(semi-structured interviews), focus group discussions (FGDs), and case studies using some Participatory Farm 

Management (PFM) techniques were done. Using the planned against actual practice (PAP) approach; a 

questionnaire (as well as the use of case studies) was administered at the beginning of the season, to find out 

what the farmers had planned to do, and at the end of the season to find out what the farmers actually did. 

Farmers were asked to explain any deviations, and if the use of seasonal climate forecasts had anything to do 

with the deviations from the original plans. The study consisted of four groups of farmers, encompassing the 

different socio-economic groups facing different physical and geographic constraints in agricultural production, 

which may affect the uptake and use of forecast. 


Data analysis is still underway, but so far in terms of understanding farmers’ perceptions on climate risk, the 

results indicate that farmers’ expectations, more than statistical information, influence farmers’ perceptions on 

climate change and variability. There are disagreements between the farmers’ perceptions and the actual 

meteorological data, especially in terms of rainfall. 

The study finds both farmers and climatology data reporting increases in temperature. The understanding of how 

farmers perceive climate risk is valuable to other stakeholders such as extension services providers and climate 

information providers as it can assist these in tailor making their services to suit the farmers and support them to 

better cope and adapt with climate variability. There is evidence that enhanced communication of climate 

related information could be an option to assist in adaptation and decision making for farmers. The use of the 

seasonal climate forecasts could help farmers and stakeholders plan forward and make informed, sustainable as 

well as economically meaningful ex-ante agricultural management decisions, with the government playing an 

important role in creating a favourable policy environment that promotes seasonal climate forecast 

169

dissemination and improved extension services so that agricultural management practices are enhanced for 

improved productivity. 

Martin Moyo, Peter Craufurd and Kizito Mazvimavi [RP RDS] 

Based on the multi-locational screening during the 2009, 2010, and 2011 summer seasons, two maintainer lines 

ICMB 92777 and ICMB 05666, and a germplasm accession IP 19877 were found to have >60% seed set when 

the air temperature during flowering exceeded 42◦C. In addition, four B-lines (ICMB 00333, ICMB 02333, 

ICMB 03555, and ICMB 04999) were found as heat tolerant on the basis of 2010 and 2011 screening. The 

identified lines had shown seed set of > 50% in comparison to check hybrids (9444, 86M64 and Nandi-52) 

which had seed set of about 60% at 42◦C in 2011 screening. Based on the 2011 screening, 8 new designated 

seed parents were identified, which would be further validated for heat tolerance in multi-year and multilocation 

testing. Populations like ICTP 8202 and MC- Bulk have also been identified as sources of heat 

tolerance for further selection. Eight advanced restorer progenies derived each from MC94 and ICTP 8210 were 

identified as heat tolerant in 2011 screening. 

Identification/development of improved breeding lines with resistance to blast and rust (5 each) : Twenty 

entries from national population trial were evaluated for blast resistance against 4 pathotypes. Resistant plants 

against each pathotype were selected and transplanted for use in parental line development for blast resistance. 

Also, of the 250 B-lines evaluated in the blast nursery, 77 lines were found resistant to Patancheru population of 

P. grisea and 75 lines had moderate resistance. Also, 85 half-sibs from BDMRRC were planted in blast disease 

nursery, of which 32 blast resistant plants were selected. For rust resistance, twenty two of the 123 B-lines and 

23 of the 345 R-lines screened were found resistant to rust in the disease nursery. 


Shoot fly and anthracnose resistance in sorghum 

Rationale: 

Shoot fly and anthracnose are one of the major biotic stresses that limit sorghum grain productivity and fodder 

quality in drylands. Use of resistant cultivars is the cheapest and the best input which can considerably reduce 

input costs incurred on pesticide and also ensures crop resilience. 

Methodology: 

Resistant donors identified from germplasm and resistant lines bred in different programs were used in crossing 

program and advanced progenies were developed. In hybrids resistant male-sterile parents were used. The 

selected advanced progenies and hybrids were evaluated in replicated trials for shoot fly and anthracnose 

resistance and agronomic suitability. 


Screening of sweet sorghum advanced varieties and restorers for shootfly resistance: A total of 46 sweet 

sorghum advanced varieties and restorers were evaluated for shootfly resistance during 2011 rainy season with 

IS 18551 (resistant check) and swarna (susceptible check) in RCBD with three replications. The shootfly dead 

heart (SFDH) incidence in the trails varied from 23.9 to 98.1%. A total of 32 entries were found to be superior 

in resistance to shootfly compared to the susceptible check. (Swarna SFDH%: 93.5% and IS 18551 SFDH%: 

23.9%), in which the SFDH% ranged from 32.5 to 93.2% which is 0.25 to 65.2% less shootfly dead hearts 

compared to the susceptible check swarna. 

Screening of sweet sorghum advanced hybrids for shootfly resistance: A total of twenty two sweet sorghum 

advanced hybrids were evaluated during 2011 rainy season in RCBD with IS 18551 (resistant check) and 

swarna (susceptible check) in three replications. Dead heart incidence in the advanced hybrids varied from 35.6 

to 95.9% (Swarna: 84.3% and IS 18551: 35.6%). A total of thirteen hybrids were found to be superior in 

resistance to shootfly with 0.3 to 53% less shootfly dead hearts compared to the susceptible check swarna 

(SFDH%: 84.3%). 

Screening of sorghum high biomass lines for shootfly resistance: A high biomass sorghum lines trial was 

conducted with 42 lines in rainy season 2011 in RCBD replicated thrice to select lines showing resistance to 

shoot fly with two checks IS 18551 (resistant check) and swarna (susceptible check). A total of 32 lines with 

SFDH% varying from 62.0 to 94.1% were found to be superior in resistance to the susceptible check swarna 

(Swarna SFDH%: 94.3 and IS 18551 SFDH%: 35.6%). The top five high biomass lines resistant to shoot fly and 

percent superiority over susceptible check are IS 17349 (33%); Sel. B pop 10PR (28%), IS 13554 (21.4%); IS 

170

25340 (21%) and IS 13526 (20%). The tolerant lines showed superiority in SFDH% ranging from 0.1 to 62.1% 

over the susceptible check Swarna. 

Screening of sorghum high biomass lines for anthracnose resistance: A high biomass sorghum lines trial 

was conducted with 41 lines in rainy season 2011 in RCBD replicated thrice to select lines showing resistance to 

Anthracnose (C. graminicola) with two checks IS 19153 (resistant check) and H 112 (susceptible check). 

Anthracnose disease severity was recorded on a 1−9 scale (1=0 to

Project 4.4 : Increasing food security and household income through small stock market development in 

Zimbabwe (IFAD), Increased Food Security and Income in the Limpopo Basin through Integrated Crop, Water 

and Soil Fertility Options and Public-Private Partnerships (WFCP) and Flagship initiative on food feed crops. 


Results of the above three projects are more process oriented and combined below: 

Goat market development: The Innovation Platforms (IPs) in Zimbabwe have raised recently significant 

investments in the development of goat production and marketing. NGOs are now investing in goat market 

infrastructure; meat processors have been expanding their activities on purchasing and processing goats, and 

despite failure of public agro-dealer support programs ICRISAT has been supporting large volumes of sales of 

feed to farmers. However, despite these investments, major challenges remain for the efficient alignment of 

value chain players and smooth orchestration of input supply and product marketing to farmers’ benefits. IPs 

need strengthening to play a critical role in integrating past interventions with new interventions. Mid-term 

activities for goat market development were identified as 1. coordination of all players to effectively support the 

goat market development (transparency, market facilities and volume); 2. training of farmers on production and 

grading goats; 3. improving access to market information on prices goats and the demand for goat meat; 4. 

alternative marketing arrangement for efficient and transparent bulk sales. Key activities for improving goat 

production were to improve access to production inputs (animal feed and health); farmers confirmed their 

willingness and ability to purchase inputs, but access to inputs is the major challenge. Innovative relationships 

with agro-dealer or product markets could be options for transferring inputs to farmers. 

Food feed crops: Researcher, development practitioners and private sector agreed on the importance of foodfeed 

crop work because of 1. an increased demand for livestock products and feed shortage as the major 

constraint to higher benefit from livestock; 2. crop residues are already major feed resources for mixed crop 

livestock systems, 3. shortage of arable land and water limits alternative approaches to feed resourcing and these 

limitations will become more severe in the years to come. It was agreed that the feed resource value of crop 

residues from food-feed crops can be improved for fodder quantity and quality through multidimensional crop 

improvement through crop improvement and by value addition through fodder trading and processing options 

Funding opportunities: 

• Country-specific and spatially explicit feed balance models based on feed production and demand that 

indicate areas of deficit, areas from where feed can be exported and future scenarios based on climate 

change and potential changes in livestock numbers. 

• Economic analysis of best-bet entry points to facilitate market-oriented intensification in crop-livestock 

systems and the economic returns on supplementary feed production 

• Facilitation of strategic value chain partnerships (farmers, private business and public support agents) 

and the structure of their collaboration processes (business plans) for decentralized feed 

processors/dealers and livestock market development 

[RP MIP] 


stakeholders to allow smallholder farmers to increase resilience 

South-south collaboration: A strategy for enhancing capacities and achieving common goals. 

Rationale: 

Developing natural resource management technologies takes time and the technical and financial capacities of 

many national agricultural research institutions in Eastern and Central Africa are insufficient to conduct such 

research on key problems faced by farmers. Collaboration between countries that share similar problems and 

have similar socio-economic conditions is one potential option to accelerate technology generation and 

promotion. Such collaboration opens up opportunities to learn and build on each other’s experiences and 

develop more appropriate technologies that fit to the end user requirements quickly and cost effectively. 

Methodology: 

Since the success of collaboration between two developing countries depends on the relevance and validity of 

the experiences from one to the other, the success of south-south collaboration depends on identification of 

technologies/strategies that are widely adopted in one or more countries and have the potential for adoption in 

other countries. Under a project supported by ASARECA, ICRISAT and its partners in the project have 

identified watershed program adopted by India as one of the technologies that is highly relevant for the region 

due to close similarity in climate, ecological, and socio-economic (livelihood, poverty and employment) 

172

conditions between the two regions. This was followed by discussions with Indian Council of Agricultural 

research (ICAR) which showed strong interest in this collaboration since it fits well into its current strategy of 

supporting African institutions under the Government of India – Africa partnership agreement. 


In collaboration with ICAR, ICRISAT facilitated a visit of project scientists to India in September, 2011 aimed 

at exposing the scientists from the region to the watershed program in India and learn more about the program 

by interacting with managers, researchers, extension experts and farmers involved in implementing the program. 

The visit also provided the team an opportunity to visit institutions such as Central research Institute for Dryland 

Agriculture (CRIDA), National Institute of Rural Development (NIRD), and National Centre for Management 

of Agricultural Extension (Manage), which are closely associated with the implementation of watershed 

programs. We are currently working on developing a platform for enhanced interaction and sharing of 

experiences between the two regions especially in the priority areas identified during the visit. 

(Percentage achieved: 25%) 

KPC Rao[RP RDS] 

MTP Output Target in 2011 4.4.1 Learning strategies formulated and implemented that build capacities 

needed for effective performance of innovation systems geared towards increasing resilience 

Project 4.5: Tracking Change in Rural Poverty in Household and Village Economies in South Asia – SAT India 

component- Objective 1: Enhance the availability of reliable household-, individual-, and field-specific, highfrequency, 

time-series data in purposively selected villages in the semi-arid and humid tropics of South Asia- 

Capacity building on use of CAPI and Database management 

Countries Involved: SAT India 

Methodology/Approach: Training workshop for SAT India resident field investigators 


Capacity Building 

Strengthening of in-house capacity for data collection, processing, management and analysis was achieved 

through training of field investigators, data entry operators, programmers and researchers directly involved 

in the project. These activities were related to both micro- and meso-level data. Lectures on the relevance of 

meso-data in socio-economic research, particularly in the writing of village profiles, were delivered to 

NARS partner scientists and field investigators. The training materials and guidelines for collecting quality 

information through focus group meetings and household surveys were prepared and circulated to field 

investigators and data entry operators. Research interactions with internationally experienced senior social 

scientists having extensive knowledge and background in the analysis of VLS data were also fostered for 

project staff including resident investigators, supervisors and researchers of all participating institutes. 

Implementation of competitive research grants is expected to significantly strengthen this in-house 

institutional analytical capacity in utilizing household panel data in economic development research work. 

Activities carried out to enhance the capacity of the VDSA team at ICRISAT and its national and 

international partners in 2011 include the following: 

• Village Profile Writeshop was organized for Researchers and Field Investigators of six traditional 

villages during 3-7 Jan 2011 at ICRISAT, Patancheru, India. 

• Organized “VDSA Writeshop, HR Orientation and Team Building Program” during 9-13 May 2011 at 

ICRISAT for Field Investigators, Data Entry Associates and other project staff. 

• With a view to enhancing the data management capacity of Bangladesh team, a training program on 

Data Entry and Management using CSPro software was organized at ICRISAT during 9-13 May 2011. 

Five members from Socioconsult Ltd. and two members from IRRI-Bangladesh participated in the 

program. Apart from discussing data warehousing, data gathering on anthropometric variables, analysis 

of data and preparation of village profiles, the program also tackled issues pertaining to collection, 

processing and management of meso-level (district) data. 

• Village Profile Writeshop was organized writeshop in Dhaka during 1-6 August 2011 for the 

Bangladesh team. 

• Organized pre-Annual Review Workshop in September 2011. It enabled all research teams (ICRISAT, 

NCAP, IRRI and national partners from Bangladesh and India) to share their research findings. 

• Organized a week-long Training Workshop on Ensuring Data Quality and Computer Assisted Personal 

Interviewing (CAPI) from 28 November to 3 December 2011. The program was organized with a view 

173

to enhance ability of the field investigators to collect quality data from the villagers, and provide 

greater understanding of the data and data collection process to the data entry operators. The program 

also aimed to train the field investigators in using CAPI machines for interviewing farmers. A total of 

18 field investigators and 14 data entry operators participated in the training program. Theoretical part 

of the training was held in ICRISAT Patancheru while the practical training was held in Shirapur and 

Kalman villages in Solapur district of Maharashtra. 

• Efforts are in full-swing to set up a data warehouse consisting of VDSA database including micro and 

meso data. 

• This warehouse will be a web based solution with open access to users across the world. 

• The warehouse will include attractive features like downloading of raw data, standard and ad-hoc 

reports, dash boards, facility to automatic generation of charts and maps as per need among others. 

• Competent warehouse service providers in the market, particularly IBM, Oracle, Microsoft and aWhere 

were approached to provide the desired solution. 

• Several interactions including teleconferences and meetings took place between the client, ICRISAT 

and the providers. 

• These interactions enabled the providers to understand the data structure, size, plat form, requirements 

and expectations of the users 

• The providers have studied the data, worked with sample data to produce snapshot reports and 

submitted their proposals including budgets. 

• The data management unit (DMU) at ICRISAT led by Dr.Trushar Shah played a key role in the 

exercise. 

• Prof.TV Prabhakar of IIT Kanpur is hired as a consultant to play the role of an external expert advisor. 

• The providers presented their proposals on 2 nd Nov, 2011 to a wider ICRISAT audience including the 

members from management committee. 

• An evaluation criteria both on technical aspects and financial aspects for selection of the most 

competent vendor, and user requirements document were prepared. 

• The evaluation committee ranked the vendors in the order of Microsoft-Sonata, IBM-Envision, 

CapGemini whereas aWhere was disqualified in the technical evaluation. 

• The Microsoft-Sonata who was the best among the four proponents was selected for this effort and the 

approval of DG for the same was taken. 

• The user requirements document is being refined with consultations of the data management teams in 

East India and Bangladesh. 

• The purchase order is being developed with the help of PSD and ISU. 

• The actual implementation of the job is expected to start during January 2012. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 4.5.1: Tracking Change in Rural Poverty in Household and Village Economies in South Asia – SAT 

India component- Objective 1: Enhance the availability of reliable household-, individual-, and field-specific, 

high-frequency, time-series data in purposively selected villages in the semi-arid and humid tropics of South 

Asia- Capacity building on use of CAPI and Database management 



Training workshop for SAT India resident field investigators 


A training workshop on “Ensuring Data Quality and Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI)” was 

conducted for the resident field investigators of SAT India from 28 Nov – 3 Dec 2011. It included on the job 

experience of CAPI in Shirapur and Kalman villages of Maharashtra from 1 st -3 rd Dec 2011. The objectives of 

the workshop were piloting of advanced technologies in collection of VDSA data to enable data collection, entry 

and validation all at a single point of time to enhance data quality and accuracy; and reinforcing the definitions 

of terms in survey instruments and clarifying their queries. 

The eighteen investigators were divided into three groups consisting of 6 members each with at least one 

Marathi speaking person. Each group was given one CAPI instrument and assigned one data entry operator to 

assist them in input of the data in the modules. All the investigators gained from the workshop which provided 

an insight on use of CAPI in data collection, entry, validation and finally enhance the data quality. 

174

MTP Output Target in 2011 4.4.2 Capacity needs of enabling institutions and infrastructure for up and out-- 

‐scaling of resilience--‐increasing interventions analyzed, and capacity--‐building priorities defined 

Project 4.5.2 : Tracking Change in Rural Poverty in Household and Village Economies in South Asia – SAT 

India component- Objective 1: Enhance the availability of reliable household-, individual-, and field-specific, 

high-frequency, time-series data in purposively selected villages in the semi-arid and humid tropics of South 

Asia- Capacity building on use of CAPI and Database management 


Objectives/Rationale: Capacity building for NARS scientists and regional scientists in the design and execution 

of household panel surveys 

Main findings/Results & Policy Implications 

“Training program on Data Entry and Data Management using CS-Pro Software" was conducted in Patancheru 

during 9-20 May 2011 to Bangladesh database management team. This training also covered the preparation of 

summary files and data management efforts at ICRISAT. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 4.6: Vulnerability to Climate Change: Adaptation Strategies and Layers of Resiliency 

Countries involved: India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand, Vietnam and China 

Conduct of policy workshops as part of policy advocacy and dissemination of key project findings (an integral 

part of the project), has been completed in three partner countries namely Sri lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. The 

Policy Dialogue organized in 2010 in Bangladesh during the 5-6 May 2010 served as an exemplar for the other 

participating countries in achieving i) common platform with the research community across seven countries; ii) 

sensitization of policy makers and other stakeholders; and iii) facilitation of the advocacy of necessary policy 

changes to reduce the economic and social impacts of climate-related changes. 

a) Sri Lanka 

A Stakeholder Consultation and Policy Dialogue on 5 April, 2011 at The Sovereign, Colombo, Sri Lanka. The 

projected outcomes will include different layers of resilience as part of science based solutions and pro-poor 

approaches. 

The Chief Guest of the occasion, Hon. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardane, Agriculture Minister of Sri Lanka 

highlighted that agricultural production is sensitive to climate change and it is important that the farmers of the 

country must be made aware of the possible threats of climate change. The Minister expected the collaboration 

between scientists from Sri Lanka and ICRISAT to come out with outputs that will help the Sri Lankan 

government, policy makers and various stakeholders including rural communities to face the challenges posed 

from the changing climate. The Guest of Honour, Mr. A.E. Karunatilake, Secretary of Agriculture reiterated the 

commitment of government in addressing the importance of climate change and various grass root adaptations 

strategies that will suitably fit into the Sri Lankan draft of National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy. 

b) Thailand 

ICRISAT organized stakeholder consultation workshop on 31st May and Policy Dialogue meeting on 1st June 

2011 for Thailand at The Rama Gardens hotel in Bangkok, Thailand. Stake holder consultation workshop was 

opened by Mr. Dumrong Jirasutat, DDG, Department of Agriculture (DOA), Thailand. Dr. M.C.S. Bantilan, 

program Director, ICRISAT gave the background information of the inception and the objective of the project. 

Followed by remarks by Mr. Thewa Maolanon, Director, FCRI, Thailand. 

The policy dialogue was graced by the presence of key players from the policy and planning circles from the 

Government of Thailand. The dignitaries included from the Ministry of Agriculture and cooperatives, Ministry 

of Natural resources and environment, Department of agriculture, National economic and social development 

board from Thailand. The policy dialogue culminated with a synthesis and road map for action and way forward 

was conceptualized in a broad way with a resolution to mainstream it with the National policy of Thailand. 

c) Vietnam 

Policy dialogue workshop at Vietnam was the fourth in series of such dialogues being organized as part of the 

project. Stakeholder consultation workshop was organized on 21st July and Policy Dialogue meeting on 22nd 

July 2011 for Vietnam in Hanoi. 

175

The closing session on ‘A guide for Policy directives for climate resilient agriculture in Vietnam’ was chaired 

by Dr. Atiq Rahman, BCAS, Bangladesh and presentations were made by Mai Van Trinh, Pham Quang Ha, Tan 

Van The. The Chairman stressed the importance of multi-dimensional perspectives to find a way to move 

forward and face the challenge. Finally, a proposed policy matrix from India was presented as roadmap for 

policy suggestion in ‘Building climate resilient agriculture in Vietnam’. The second day witnessed a Policy 

dialogue on “Building Climate Resilient Agriculture in Asia-Vietnam.” The policy dialogue events contributed 

significantly to the acceptance of grass root messages in the mainstream discourse on climate change. d) 71 st 

Annual Conference of The Indian Society of Agricultural Economics organized by UAS, Dharwad, Karnataka 

(3-5 November 2011) 

The 71st annual conference was inaugurated by Dr. Y.K. Alagh, former Director, IRMA, Anand. In his 

inaugural address, he highlighted the concerns of the rural farming communities in this decade and importance 

and need of innovative technologies, efficient governance, and community networks. In the special guest 

address by Dr. Mazumdar, opined on rural extension services, agricultural credit system, co-operatives, rural 

marketing infrastructure etc. during his reflective speech touching the problems and concern of the rural farming 

population. The session also witnessed invited lectures from eminent scientist on their expertise on agricultural 

economics. 

Special Session on “Climate Change and Rainfed agriculture” (3rd Nov 2011 – 14.00 hrs): 

The special session was chaired by Cynthia Bantilan and rapporteurs were N Nagaraj and Ashok Alur. The 

session started with the presentation by Naveen P Singh in which he highlighted the main findings from the 

project “Vulnerability to Climate Change: Adaptation strategies and layers of resilience” gave an in-depth 

analysis of vulnerability, climate change impacts and various adaptation strategies in place at grass root level. 

Income diversification, strengthening collective action, improving safety nets and efficient implementation of 

natural resource management activities are some of adaptation strategies should be in place for better grass root 

level resilience. He asserted the need of an action plan tailored to suit government programs and policies 

oriented towards enhancing resilience amongst the poor households. Piara Singh projected future yields and 

performance of sorghum and groundnut under climate change scenarios and emphasized the need of varieties 

with desirable characteristics viz., heat tolerance, drought, and water logging resistance etc. to minimize the 

impact of future climate change along with efficient management options. Uttam Kumar Deb demonstrated how 

climatic variables are changing the socio-economic status and welfare at the household level by highlighting the 

insights from the village level studies. Complementing the village level insights, Parthasarathy Rao presented a 

paper on supply response and investments in agriculture featuring fast growing state of Andhra Pradesh. The 

presentation explained the potential to increase aggregate crop output through realization and improvement of 

investment priorities and supported by proper government policy. The presentations were followed by lively 

interaction and feedback on climate change research issues and its impacts on rainfed agriculture. The session 

concluded with the chairman’s remarks which reiterate the importance of grass root level information as a 

feedback mechanism for policy advocacy in addressing climate change development agenda. A parallel poster 

session on the findings from the ADB project on Climate Change was also held. 

Four thematic sessions were featured: 1) Agricultural development perspective and strategy planning for the 

Twelfth five year plan 2) Climate Change – Its impact on agricultural productivity and livelihood: The policy 

response 3) Innovation in agricultural credit market: Rationalization of policy response 4) Role of ICT in 

dissemination of knowledge in agriculture sector: Its efficacy and scope. 

The main features of “Climate change – Its impact on agricultural productivity and livelihood: The policy 

response” are points that evolved during the discussion and feedback sessions. 

1. Need to deepen the understanding of Climate change and variability amongst the researchers for a 

comprehensive analysis 

2. Important to distinguish between impact and related coping mechanisms of climate change, climate 

variability, extremes and shocks 

3. Need for credible information/data sets and empirical backup 

4. Harmonizing the targeting/ vulnerability approaches at AEZ or districts level 

5. Scenario/projections of impacts on sectors/regions/enterprises to be broad based; preferably near term 

6. Distinction in mitigation and adaptation strategies 

7. Segregation of impacts due to climate change and other factors 

8. Studies on work on prioritization of strategies and economics/cost of adaptation 

9. Need for network/collaborations for tools/data sets/ methodologies amongst social scientists 

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The recommended way forward and road map for action against Climate Change impacts. The proposed action 

points were 

1. Identification of vulnerable regions to climate change and preparation of comprehensive district-wise 

agricultural crop contingency plans for effectively managing the climate risk. 

2. Increasing the density of weather observatories for efficient management of weather resources and 

establishing rain gauge even at village level; Automatic Weather Station (AWS) 

3. Managing climate risks effectively through weather-based agro-advisories with a higher resolution and 

developing weather insurance products by encouraging weather-crop research program at different agro 

climatic regions. 

4. Evaluation/ Demonstration of proven technologies on farm management practices for addressing climate 

variability in the farmers’ fields. 

5. Policies required for providing incentives or supports to enable farmers implement adaptation measures to 

mitigate the manifestations of climate variability. 

6. Investment in training and incentives to farmers to conserve natural resources and develop indigenous 

technologies that are eco-friendly and sustainable for longer period. 

7. Thrust on harnessing non-conventional energy resources in agriculture and other allied sector 

8. Diversification of rural income through livelihood and crop diversification and managing the village 

resources judiciously by the community participation program for stability and sustainability. 

9. Development and adaptation of location specific techniques for water efficient agriculture. 

10. Location specific management approaches to address altered pest and disease patterns of crops to be in place 

11. Development and diffusion of location specific crop and farm management techniques. 

12. Extensive application of Remote Sensing and GIS for better agricultural planning 

13. Policies to be in place to have access to finance by farmers in an equitable manner. 

14. Integration of climate change initiatives with the national agricultural policies is important 

These actions if transformed into programs with an overall aim to improve and manage the resources judiciously 

and also act as safety net against climate extremes. Effective implementation of these programs is highly 

recommended and need to integrate along with the developmental initiatives. 

[RP MIP] 

Milestones: 

• Learning strategies formulated and implemented that build capacities needed for effective performance 

of innovation systems geared towards increasing resilience 

• Capacity needs of enabling institutions and infrastructure for up and outscaling of Resilience increasing 

interventions analyzed, and capacity building priorities defined 

No report in the Output. However, contributions from other outcomes will also be applicable to this 

output. 

The feasibility and benefits of applying spatial modeling to low-input sorghum breeding-trials in WCA were 

assessed and published in a MSc thesis and a journal publication. The MSc thesis was honored by the 

Gatersleben Germplasm Institute, and the Eiselen Foundation in Germany for the quality of the scientific work 

and its contribution to the field of breeding for low-input conditions. 

A study of Sudanian Sorghum germplasm for adaptation to phosphorous-limited soils was conducted in Mali to 

assess the feasibility of breeding for low-P conditions and to design effective selection methods for addressing 

the needs the majority of small-scale, low-input, sorghum producers in WCA. This study analyzed grain yields 

of 70 sorghum genotypes of diverse origins grown in a total of 17 low- and high-P trials conducted by IER and 

ICRISAT at two locations in Mali over five years. Relatively large yield reductions (2-59%), height reduction 

(13-107cm) and delay in heading (0-9.8 days) were observed in –P (no P fertilization) relative to the high-P 

environments. The broad sense heritability estimate over all –P environments was high (h²=0.93) and similar to 

that of +P (h²=0.92) conditions. Although error levels were larger under –P, genotype-by-environment 

interactions were relatively smaller relative to +P. Thus genotypic selection under low-P conditions is definitely 

feasible. 

No major genotype x environment interactions were observed across the A high genetic correlation between 

genotype mean-yield in –P and +P conditions (r G =0.89) suggests that West African varieties and breeding 

materials generally possess fairly good adaptation to a wide range of soil-P conditions. However, genotype-byphosphorus 

cross-over interactions were observed between some of the highest yielding genotypes under –P and 

those from +P, with the cross-over point occurring between 6 to 11ppm soil-available P (Bray-1). Calculation 

177

of expected gains estimated that direct selection for grain yield in –P conditions would be 12% more efficient 

for achieving low-P yield improvement as compared to indirect selection in +P. Thus direct selection in –P 

conditions is recommended for most effectively addressing the needs of resource poor farmers in WCA. 

Fred Rattunde, Willmar Leiser, HP Piepho, 

Abdoulaye Diall and Eva Weltzien [RP DC] 

Outcome 5-Nutrition & Health: Smallholder households consuming more nutritious 

and safer diets 

This outcome ensures nutrition and health that will help to overcome malnutrition among smallholder farmers of 

dryland tropics through four outputs in Research Program-Grain Legumes. To achieve this, 18 accessions of 

groundnut each with high protein, oil, oleic (O) acid, and oleic/linoleic (L) ration and with good agronomic 

performance identified from mini core. A germplasm line, ICG 2381 with high oleic acid content (>73%) and 

high O/L ratio of 6.93 identified and available as an international public good for breeding new groundnut 

cultivars with high O/L ratio. Ten new crosses made to develop aflatoxin tolerant groundnut varieties; selections 

made in advanced segregating generations; elite, advanced and preliminary trials conducted; identified high 

yielding test entries with low or nil aflatoxin contamination. Two ABQTL mapping populations utilizing two 

amphidiploid groundnut developed. Stakeholder workshops and field days conducted to share information about 

aflatoxin in the food, its effect on human health and nutrition, and also on trade conducted for farmers/farmer 

organizations/extension officers/traders/processors/medical and media personnel in Tanzania and Malawi. 

In 2011, updated the database of 1233 chickpea and groundnut accessions for 27 morpho-agronomic traits; 

modified the Chickpea Crop Register Graphical User Interface (GUI) to be more user friendly; uploading the 

passport and conservation data of 7,259 accessions, deposited at Svalbard Global Seed Vault, to 

www.nordgen.Org/sgsv. 

[RP GL] 

Output 5.1. Enhanced knowledge of the levels of malnutrition and dietary patterns in smallholder households 

in the dryland tropics to identify priority interventions 

MTP Output Target in 2011 5.1.1 Online database characterizing malnutrition in the tropical drylands created 

and initial data assembled for one or more priority target areas in Africa and Asia 

Project 5.1 : Tracking Change in Rural Poverty in Household and Village Economies in South Asia (Short title: 


Countries Involved: SAT India, East India and Bangladesh 

Main findings/Results & Policy Implications: A concept note was developed to test the assumption that calorie 

intakes and requirements of rural men and women have declined due to lower levels of physical activity 

associated with mechanization of agriculture and change in lifestyle– the case of India. The concept note will be 

developed into a proposal shortly. The overall objective was to investigate shifts in food consumption patterns 

and transition in nutrition and health in relation to agricultural, social and economic changes in the VDSA 

villages with a focus on gender. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 5.2: Global Futures Project-Impact of technology intervention on welfare indicators of the target countries 

Countries Involved: Burkina Faso, Mali, Nigeria, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Sudan, Tanzania and India 


In this study, the integrated modeling framework – IMPACT – was used which integrates partial equilibrium 

economic model, hydrology model, crop simulation model and climate model to examine the ex-ante economic 

impact of developing and disseminating a drought tolerant sorghum cultivar in target countries of Africa and 

Asia under no climate change and two different climate change scenarios (MIROC and CSIRO GCMs). 

Specifically, we estimated the potential yield advantage of the promising new drought tolerant sorghum 

cultivars over the baseline cultivar using crop simulation model and its impact on production, consumption, 

trade flow, prices of sorghum and welfare indicators like change in poverty, malnourished children and change 

in the number people under hunger risk in target countries and as well as the non-target countries. 

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The impact of adoption of drought tolerant sorghum cultivar on welfare indicators like change in daily 

kilocalorie availability, number malnourished children and number of people under hunger risk are presented in 

the Table 10. The simulation results show that under no climate change if the drought tolerant technology of 

sorghum is adopted in the target countries, it will increase the daily kilocalorie ranging from 8.2 Kcal in Sudan 

to 0.8 Kcal in India for a million US$ investment in sorghum research. 

The technology intervention also reduce the children malnourished under the age group of 5 in the target 

countries ranging from 13,933 in Nigeria to about 315 children in Eritrea for a million UD$ investment (Table 1). 

The higher production of sorghum as well as the increase in consumption of sorghum in the target countries has 

reduced the population under hunger risk by about 31 million in Sudan, 25 million in India; and 19 million 

Tanzania (Table 1). 

Table 1. Impact of adoption of drought tolerant sorghum cultivar on daily kilocalorie availability, 

malnourished children and population at hunger risk under no climate change 

Regions Target countries KCal-C_Ratio Malnourished-C_Ratio Hunger-C_Ratio 

WCA 

Burkina Faso 7.3 -3396.0 -3594340.9 

Mali 1.3 -476.3 

Nigeria 4.5 -13933.1 -4917223.4 

Eritrea 2.2 -315.4 -1780858.7 

ESA 

Ethiopia 3.1 -4613.4 -14998414.6 

Sudan 8.2 -6244.0 -31196337.9 

Tanzania 3.1 -3556.5 -19045208.4 

South Asia India 0.8 -7125.9 -25774031.1 

Note: KCal-C_Ratio: Change in Food availability over Cost (KCal per person/million $US); Malnourished- 

C_Ratio: Change in Malnourished children - cost ratio (children/million $US); Hunger-C_Ratio: Change in 

number people at Risk of Hunger - cost ratio (people/million $US). 

Source: Authors’ calculation 

[RP MIP] 

Milestone: Online database characterizing malnutrition in the tropical drylands created and initial data 

assembled for one or more priority target areas in Africa and Asia 

[RP GL] 

Output 5.2. Biofortified mandate food and fodder crops and optimal management systems that elevate the 

nutritional quality of crops and systems (including croplivestock systems) for smallholder farmers 

Milestone: Curated, user friendly genetic resources database available, facilitating global germplasm 

utilization for enhancement of crop nutritional quality 

i) Nutritionally enhanced transgenic events in grain legumes developed, superior events identified, and 

their food safety assessment initiated. 

Rationale: 

Grain legumes crops like groundnut and pigeonpea are excellent sources of nutrition in terms of carbohydrates, 

proteins, oils and various minerals including iron and zinc, they are very poor sources of ß-carotene or 

provitamin A. Moreover, there is no genetic variability available in the tested germplasm for this important 

trait. Hence, this proposal aims to enhance the levels of ß-carotene in these crops by using genetic engineering 

approaches. These transgenic events will be further characterized for identifying the most promising ones for 

eventual integration into plant breeding activities for this trait. 

Methodology: 

A PCR based cloning of the phytoene synthase gene (psyI) from maize and lycopene cyclase from tomato alone 

or in combination were used for development of over 200 primary transgenic events of groundnut (var. JL 24) 

and pigeonpea through Agrobacterium-mediated gene transfer, where a high proportion transformation 

frequency was obtained (75%), following their transfer to the containment greenhouse. The T0 putative 

transgenic plants were analyzed for the introduction of transgenes by using PCR with gene-specific primers, and 

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Southern hybridization, with gene specific probes. Selected events have been advanced to Tl and T2 generations 

and southern analysis carried out. 


Sixty primary pigeonpea transgenic events and over 90 primary transgenic events of groundnut (var. JL 24) that 

were previously developed through Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation with the maize phytoene 

synthase gene (psyI) driven by an At oleosin promoter (for seed-specific expression in oil bodies) were 

characterized at the molecular level to study the introduction, expression and stable transmission of the 

transgenes. The selected positive transgenic events were advanced to T2 generations for biochemical analysis. 

These events were characterized based on their carotenoid profiles, several of which showed a multi-fold 

increase in the levels of β-carotene when compared to untransformed control up to 1.2 to 5.4 µg/g in case of 

groundnut and up to 2- to 3-fold increase in ß-carotene levels in pigeonpea (up to 10 µg/g). 

Conclusions: 

Some headway has already been made in the genetic transformation of these crops by using the various 

carotenoid genes from maize and tomato and specifically expressed in the seed oil bodies. These transgenic 

events will be further characterized for identifying the most promising ones for eventual integration into plant 

breeding activities for this trait. 

KK Sharma [RP GL] 

ii) Identification of nutrient rich groundnut accessions 

Rationale: 

The quality of groundnut oil and various food products depends on the total oil and protein contents and fatty 

acid composition in seeds. The germplasm lines with higher oleic/linoleic acid ratio have the dual advantage of 

enhanced shelf life of the products and health benefits with lower cardiovascular and other related health risks. 

Methodology: 

The 184 mini core accessions and four control cultivars (M 13, ICGS 76 (both subsp. hypogaea var. hypogaea), 

ICGS 44 (subsp. fastigiata var. vulgaris), and Gangapuri (subsp. fastigiata var. fastigiata) were evaluated for 

nutritional traits for two seasons at two locations and for agronomic traits at one location. 


Significant genotypic and genotype × environment interactions were observed for all the nutritional and 

agronomic traits in the entire mini core collection and within each A. hypogaea subspecies of fastigiata Waldron 

and hypogaea. Eighteen accessions with higher nutritional traits such as protein content, oil content, oleic acid 

(O), and oleic to linoleic (L) acid ratio with superior agronomic traits were identified. A germplasm lines (ICG 

2381) with high oleic acid (>73%) and high O/L ratio of 6.93 was identified. On the basis of higher nutritional 

and agronomic traits 11 subsp. Fastigiata and 10 subsp. hypogaea diverse accessions were identified with more 

than two trait combinations for use in peanut breeding programs for genetic enhancement of nutritional traits 

(Upadhyaya et al. 2012, Crop Science 52: 168-178). Our research also identified germplasm lines with high iron 

and zinc contents. 

Conclusions: 

The identified 18 accessions with higher nutritional traits and superior agronomic performance and especially 

one germplasm line, ICG 2381 high oleic acid lines (>73%) with high O/L ratio of 6.93 are available for global 

research as an international public good for breeding new groundnut cultivars with high O/L ratio. 

HD Upadhyaya, G Mukri and HL Nadaf [RP GL] 

iii) Molecular breeding for improving quantity and quality of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) oil 

Rationale: 

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a major oilseed legume crop in India as meets >30% of the edible oil 

requirements. Newer groundnut varieties with oil content (OC) and oleic/linoleic acid ratio (O/L ratio) higher 

than that of the varieties currently cultivated by farmers are needed to boost the edible oil production and 

correspondingly increase the income levels of the poor groundnut farmers. 

Methodology: 

To achieve so, crosses were made to develop two mapping populations to map QTLs for high OC and O/L ratio. 

Already identified markers for high O/L ratio were validated in a set of diverse parental genotypes. 

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Crosses were made between divergent parents to develop mapping populations for OC and O/L ratio. Parental 

screening has been initiated and till date checking a total of 110 SSR markers among the parents leads to 

identification of 23 polymorphic markers. In parallel, primer pairs for linked markers i.e., Cleaved amplified 

polymorphic sequence (CAPS) and allele-specific PCR-based markers reported for differentiating low and high 

O/L ratio genotypes in publications were synthesized. These linked markers were validated among a diverse set 

of 22 parental genotypes. The existing genotyping protocol has been modified to amplify these markers and to 

get clear separation of alleles. Upon validation, it was observed that the allele specific PCR-based markers 

clearly differentiated the genotypes possessing mutations in the A and B genomes while CAPS markers could 

not distinguish the genotypes with low and high O/L ratio. These marker profiles data have been used to develop 

or finalize the mapping populations for mapping the oil content and O/L ratio as well as marker-assisted 

backcrossing (MABC) populations for introgressing both mutated alleles (A and B genomes) responsible for 

high O/L ratio through. Based on the marker validation and polymorphism data combined with the phenotyping 

data for oil, parental genotypes used for development of mapping populations for oil content and O/L ratio. 

Conclusions: 

The validated markers for O/L ratio will be used for introgression of high O/L ratio through marker-assisted 

backcrossing (MABC) in the genetic background of elite groundnut cultivars with high OC. 

MK Pandey, P Janila, SN Nigam, T Radhakrishnan, N Manivannan, 

RP Vasanthi, KB Dobariya and RK Varshney [RP GL] 

iv) Database management and germplasm database updated for utilization 

Rationale: 

Characterization and documentation are the integral component of genebank management to enhance the use of 

genetic diversity conserved in genebanks in crop improvement programs and genomics. 

Methodology: 

We identified the gaps in characterization databases of staple crops, characterized those accessions, and updated 

the databases for 70 chickpea accessions for two agronomic traits and 1163 groundnut accessions for 25 

morpho-agronomic traits. 

The Chickpea Crop Register Graphical User Interface (GUI) has been modified in a way to user friendly and 

web site has been enhanced with new features like using web services for passport data, updating information 

etc. The accessions details of >161,000 legume germplasm samples distributed internally and accession details 

of over 5,500 samples supplied externally has been updated for impact analysis. Other genebank documentation 

activities during this year included the following: 

• Uploading the passport and conservation data of 7,259 accessions, deposited at Svalbard Global Seed 

Vault was to www.nordgen.Org/sgsv. 

• Design of publications web page for internet has been developed to access users of genebank 

publications 


Milestone: Rapid, cost-effective screening protocols for nutritional traits developed and validated 

Development of rapid, cost-effective screening protocols for nutritional traits. 

Inductively coupled plasma spectrometer (ICP) routinely used for grain iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) analysis till 

2010 provides the most precise estimates of these micronutrients. Further, it provides estimates of aluminum and 

titanium, as indicators of any possible dust contamination that may lead to overestimates of iron content. This 

method, however, uses flour samples for analysis, can handle about 200 samples a day and costs US$ 17- 

18/sample. The HarvestPlus research group has been looking for a rapid and more cost-effective procedure to 

enable efficient handling of a large number of breeding lines. As a part of this exploration, Flinders University 

in Australia tested an X-ray Fluorescence spectrometer (XRF) and found very high correlation (r>0.98) between 

the XRF and ICP values, both for Fe and Zn content. The XRF method was adopted at ICRISAT to support the 

Fe and Zn analysis of pearl millet and sorghum grain samples. This method, along with Near Infrared 

Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS) was tested for its precision in pearl millet. Grain samples from 8 trials were 

analyzed by ICP, XRF and NIRS. These included a trial of 98 designated B-lines, three population progeny 

trials (146-260 entries each), and four hybrid trials (32-44 entries each). Based on trials means, the Fe content 

varied from 47 to 105 ppm for ICP estimates and from 49 to 102 ppm for XRR estimates. XRF overestimated 

Fe content by 2-5 ppm in four trials and underestimated it by 1-5 ppm in three trials, with identical values in one 

181

trial. The correlation coefficient between the XRF and ICP estimates varied from 0.90 to 0.95 for Fe content and 

from 0.88 to 0.98 for Zn content across all the four trial, indicating that XRF can be effectively used for 

handling a large number of grain samples in pearl millet breeding programs. In comparison, the correlation 

coefficient between ICP and NIRS estimates varied from 0.34 to 0.75 for Fe content and from 0.24 to 0.52 for 

Zn content across the eight trials, implying that NIRS cannot be used reliably for Fe and Zn analysis in pearl 

millet. 

KN Rai [RP DC] 

Identification of additional genetically diverse sources of enhanced nutritional value and processing traits 

Genetic variability is an essential requirement for breeding progress. Since the inception of the HarvestPlus 

program on pearl millet in 2004, assessment of genetic variability and its validation in the germplasm and 

breeding materials has been a continuing process. In an XRF analysis of 386 advanced breeding lines (not 

developed by targeted breeding for high Fe content), 25% of the lines had

2210. These hybrids had 40-42% higher grain yield over CTP 8203 (2650 kg ha -1 ) and matured 3-5 days later. 

These were comparable to MRB 2210 in maturity and had about 5% less grain yield than MRB 2210 (3960 kg 

ha -1 ). As compared to the grain yield of 86M 86 (4590 kg ha -1 ), these hybrids had 18-20% less grain yield, but 

matured 4-5 days earlier. Three hybrids with grain yield of 4200-4560 kg ha -1 and Fe content comparable to 

86M 86 but 2-4 days of earliness were also identified. These hybrids we will be further evaluated in 

multilocation trials in 2012 for yield and Fe content. Based on the mean performance across 6 locations in A- 

zone, only one hybrid had Fe content (73 ppm) comparable to ICTP 8203, but it had 3700 kg ha -1 of grain yield 

(50% more than ICTP 8203) and was 4 days later to mature. Several hybrids with grain yield in the region of 

3400-4100 kg ha -1 (4500 kg ha -1 for 86M 86) but 10-16 ppm higher Fe content were identified for this region. 

KN Rai [RP DC] 

Output 5.3. Innovations that enhance nutrient bioavailability, food safety and post-harvest processing quality 

of mandate crops 

Milestone: Critical points for nutrient losses and food safety in both crop and crop livestock production and 

food systems identified 

i) Breeding groundnuts for aflatoxin tolerance 

Rationale: 

Aflatoxin contamination of groundnut is a major health risk to both humans and animals and is one of the most 

important marketing/trade constraints. Aflatoxins are potent toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic, immunosuppressive 

agents. More than 90 countries across the globe have already imposed strict regulatory limits on aflatoxin 

contamination of food crops. Host-resistance is one of the important strategies to reduce the contamination and 

has to be combined with other management practices. 

Methodology: 

Conventional breeding methods are used. In postrainy season the trials are sown in Aspergillus flavus sick plot 

and the entries are evaluated for host-resistance. In vitro colonization and aflatoxin contamination (as ppm) are 

estimated in the test entries. 


10 new crosses were made involving the parents, ICGV 08006, ICGV 08030, ICGV 08268, ICGV 99240, ICGV 

03057 and ICGV 00369 were made in 2010-11. 238 F 2 -F 11 bulks and 423 single plants were selected from 207 

bulk selections and 119 plant progenies in 2011 rainy season. 427 bulk populations and 132 single plant 

progenies selections were made in 2010-11 postrainy season. In 2011rainy, 252 bulks, 44 single plants were 

selected. 132 advanced breeding lines were evaluated in 2010 rainy and 2010-11 postrainy seasons and 243 lines 

were evaluated in 2011 rainy season. 

2010 rainy season: In Elite Trial, ICGV 08040 was significantly superior for yield over the best check JL 11 

(1.1 t ha -1 , 65% shelling outturn, 25 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In Advanced Trial eleven entries were found 

significant for yield over the best check, ICGV 88145 (1.3 t ha-1; 61% shelling outturn, 30 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

ICGV 09084 (2.9 t ha- 1 ; 68% shelling outturn, 35 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 09081 (2.9 t ha-1; 68% 

shelling outturn, 33 g 100-seed weight -1 ) were best entries. In Preliminary Trial, nine entries (1.7-2.9 t ha -1 ) 

performed better over best check ICGV 88145 (1.1 t ha -1 pod yield; 61% shelling outturn; 28 g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

2010-11postrainy season: In Elite Trial, ICGV 08040 (5.6 t ha-1 with less than 1.4 µg/kg aflatoxin content) was 

superior over the best check ICGV 88145 (4.4 t ha-1 pod yield). In Advance Trial, thirteen test entries (5.4- 

6.1±0.24 t ha -1 pod yield) were found significant for yield over the best check ICGV 88145 (4.6 t ha -1 ). Three 

entries, ICGV 09068, ICGV 09073 and ICGV 09085 recorded nil (0 µg/kg) aflatoxin content. In Preliminary 

Trial-1, eight test entries (5.1-6.3±0.24 t ha -1 ) were significantly superior over the best check ICGV 88145 (4.4 t 

ha -1 ). Six entries, ICGV-10025, ICGV-10027, ICGV-10037, ICGV-10038, ICGV-10040 and ICGV-10041 

recorded nil (0 µg/kg) aflatoxin content. In Preliminary Trial-2, nine test entries (5.1-5.7±0.24 t ha -1 ) gave 

significantly higher pod yield than the highest yielding control ICGV 88145 (4.2 t ha -1 ). Two entries, ICGV- 

10090 and ICGV-10091 had nil (0 µg/kg) aflatoxin content. 

2011 rainy season: In Elite Trial, twelve test entries (3.7-5.1±0.22 t ha -1 ) were superior than the best check J 11 

(2.7 t ha -1 , 67% shelling outturn, 26 g 100-seed weight -1 ); top entries were ICGV 09083 (5.1 t ha -1 , 71% shelling 

outturn, 44 g 100-seed weight -1 ) and ICGV 09084 (4.8 t ha -1 , 69% shelling outturn, 40 g 100-seed weight -1 ). In 

Preliminary Trial 32 entries were significantly superior over best check TAG 24 (2.8 t ha -1 , 60% shelling 

outturn, 32g 100-seed weight -1 ). 

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Conclusions: 

A total of 99 new entries were identified for inclusion in replicated yield trials in 2011 rainy season. Some high 

yielding test entries with nil aflatoxin content (in both the replications) were identified which can be promising 

and therefore will be further evaluated for confirmed. 

SN Nigam, P Janila and HK Sudini [RP GL] 

ii) Post-harvest management of aflatoxin contamination in groundnut 

Rationale: 

Aflatoxin contamination of groundnut can occur pre-harvest as well as post-harvest. Even though pre-harvest 

infection of Aspergillus flavus occurs, with better post-harvest measures it is possible to arrest further infection 

and toxin production of fungi. In order to provide better storage facilities for groundnut, Purdue improved 

cowpea storage (PICS) bags technology was evaluated for mitigating the aflatoxin contamination of groundnut. 

Methodology: 

A generalized experimental design was followed to start the experiment with 6 PICS and 6 Gunny bags. Initially 

samples were drawn for observations such as moisture estimation, aflatoxin estimation, infestation load and 

germination percentage of seeds from all the bags under study. After that actual treatments were applied as 

planned. Approximately 500 grams of Groundnut bruchid infested pods were added into 3 PICS and 3 Gunny 

bags. Then the pods were thoroughly mixed to get an even distribution of the inoculum. USB data loggers were 

kept in each bag and in the room as well to record the temperature and relative humidity fluctuations inside bags 

and in the room. The three layer PICS bags were tied as instructed. 


Experiment is in progress. 


Milestone: One or more innovations implemented in Asia, ESA and WCA that enhance the food safety of one or 

more mandate crops 

i) Develop pre-breeding groundnut lines with A. flavus-aflatoxin resistance 

Rationale: 

Sources of resistance to A. flavus infection and aflatoxin production is moderate to low in cultivated groundnut, 

but there are reports that wild Arachis species are resistant to this constraint. 

Methodology: 

Utilizing new sources of amphidiploid groundnuts developed at ICRISAT, ABQTL mapping population were 

developed to identify and map A. flavus-aflatoxin resistance 


ABQTL mapping populations developed for groundnut 

For groundnut, two ABQTL mapping populations were developed utilizing two amphidiploid groundnut 

developed at ICRISAT namely ISATGR 1212 (A. duranensis x A. ipaensis) and ISATGR 265-5 (A. kempf 

mercadoi x A. hoehnei). Apart from evaluation for A. flavus resistance and aflatoxin production, some traits 

such as plant type, 100-seed weight and evaluation for rust and late leaf spot are in progress. 

Conclusions: 

Development of amphidiploids and their utilization to develop ABQTL mapping population is an important 

activity to map and locate A. flavus-aflatoxin resistance 

H K Sudini, DR Jadhav, Manish Pandey, RR Mir, RK Varshney, 

MVC Gowda, HD Upadhyaya and N Mallikarjuna [RP GL] 


stakeholders to enhance safe and more nutritious diets in the dryland tropics 

Milestone: Partnership and knowledge sharing models determined and initiated for R4D innovation systems 

that combine ICRISAT’s agricultural expertise with necessary expertise from other communities (medicine, 

nutrition, social assistance etc) to combat malnutrition and improve food safety 

184

i) Purposeful partnerships to commercialize the mycotoxin technologies available with ICRISAT 

Rationale: 

As the aflatoxin contamination in foods and feeds is difficult to avoid, its detection and quantification is often 

very important step in monitoring agricultural product value chains. Though several analytical and 

immunochemical methods were available in the market, ICRISAT has developed its own cost effective 

competitive ELISAs to detect and quantify aflatoxins in various foods and feeds. Since ICRISAT has developed 

very good quality of monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies for various mycotoxins, an attempt has been made 

with the help of ubio biotechnology systems, a biotechnology company, to develop Immunoaffinity columns 

(IACs) for AFB1 which are known to be very important component of all chromatography techniques. 

Methodology: 

AFB1 monoclonal antibodies were produced using 6-8 weeks old BALB/c mice obtained from National 

Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad. ICRISAT’s best monoclonal cell line 10D5-1A11 was used to produce 

animal ascites following standard immunization schedule (KT Devi et al. 1999, Letters in Applied Microbiology 

29:284-288). AFB1 animal ascites were purified using two step procedure. First ammonium sulphate 

precipitation and then followed by Protein A purification. 


The antibody yield after ammonium sulphate precipitation was around 4.624mg/ml. After protein A purification 

of ammonium sulphate precipitated fraction, the antibody yield was noted at 1.24mg/ml. Initially five 

Immunoaffinity columns were prepared using 0.25 mg/column of AFB1 monoclonal antibody. The AFB1-IACs 

were evaluated along with VICAM’s AFB1-IACs using HPLC. The results indicated that our IACs were 

recovered 12.5 ppb of AFB1 as against to 15ppb of AFB1 with VICAM-IACs. This is a good sign and IACs 

prepared using ICRISAT’s AFB1 monoclonal antibodies were almost comparable with the IACs available in the 

market. 

Conclusions: 

There is a huge scope to prepare Immunoaffinity columns using ICRISAT’s AFB1 monoclonal antibodies. As 

per market estimates more than 100,000 AFB1-IACs requirement per year prevails in Indian market itself. For 

this we need a good industry partner to move forward. 


Milestones 

Capacity building events organized to foster communication, teamwork, skillbuilding and coordinated planning 

within these novel innovation systems 

i) Capacity building events organized to foster communication, teamwork, skillbuilding and 

coordinated planning within these novel innovation systems in Malawi and Tanzania 

Rationale: 

Groundnut is highly nutritious with significant proportions of protein, oil, vitamins and minerals. However 

groundnuts is also susceptible to Aspergillus spp. a group of soil colonizing fungi which when it infests 

groundnuts produces Aflatoxin B1 – a secondary metabolite that is highly carcinogenic. This threatens the 

promise of good nutrition from groundnuts hence the need for concerted efforts from various experts to combat 

this problem. 

Methodology: 

In both countries, a multi-pronged approach was taken to engage and educate stakeholders on aflatoxin 

mitigation. We used workshops to sensitize policy makers, on-farm trials to showcase technologies and to 

educate farmers, training research staff in new skills, advanced degree training for partners, and use of mass 

media, policy briefs, and journal articles to disseminate information. In Malawi, the aflatoxin exposure will be 

measured through blood sample analysis and the resultant health implications are being researched into. In 

Tanzania, a nutritional survey is being conducted to determine aflatoxin exposure and effect on body mass 

index. 


In collaboration with Innovative Communication Media Methods project, a stakeholder’s workshop was 

conducted in Tanzania on 7 June 2011, and in Malawi on 17 June 2011. The aim of the workshop was to share 

information about aflatoxin in the food, its effect on human health and nutrition, and also on trade. The 

workshops were attended by lead farmers, farmer organizations, extension officers, traders, processors, medical 

185

personnel, and media (radio). Subsequently, radio and media reports were aired through community and national 

radio. In Tanzania, in collaboration with Zonal Communication Office, stakeholders were sensitized through 

radio and TV programs on improved groundnut technologies, and on mitigation methods against aflatoxin 

contamination. 30 programs (radio and TV) were aired, some nationally by the Tanzania Broadcasting 

Corporation. In Malawi, 1500 flyers with information on aflatoxin mitigation were printed and distributed 

during field days in Mchinji, Nkhotakota, and Mzimba. Two field days were held in Malawi and were attended 

by 797 farmers and one field day in Tanzania which was attended by 100 farmers. To determine the aflatoxin 

exposure, the project team from Kamuzu Hospital (Malawi) has collected 96 blood samples from Mchinji and 

46 from Salima and assaying the samples for aflatoxin will soon commence. 

E S Monyo, S Njoroge, T Chilunjika, F Madinda, Y Muzanila, M Lyimo, 

O Mponda, W Munthali, H Msere, E Chilumpha and N Quist [RP GL] 

Rationale: 

Micronutrient malnutrition, particularly during the period of complementary feeding, continues to be a major 

public health concern especially in low income countries. To contribute to reducing nutrient deficiencies during 

the complementary feeding period (6-24 months), one option is to strengthen the capacity of food processing 

enterprises, involved in the production of complementary foods, so that they are more aware of the nutrient 

requirements of their target group, as well as ingredients and processes to meet them. 

Methodology: 

A survey of Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (SMEs) and local processors of sorghum, millet, maize and 

cassava-based (complementary) foods was conducted in Benin, Burkina Faso, Kenya and Mali by INSTAPA 

partners, including ICRISAT. The results of the surveys showed low (micronutrient) nutrition knowledge among 

the heads of SMEs and local processors. INSTAPA partners, including ICRISAT decided to develop a series of 

training modules targeting the ‘training of trainers’, “Towards solutions of micronutrient malnutrition”. The 

modules were tested with trainers of SMEs in a 2-week capacity strengthening workshop organized in Benin 

and Kenya, to which ICRISAT contributed. 


The training modules comprised topics on micronutrient nutrition, bioavailability, nutrient requirements in the 

life cycle, strategies for addressing micronutrient malnutrition, training and marketing. There were 20 

participants (11 men and 9 women) in the Benin workshop and 22 participants (8 men and 14 women) in the 

Kenya workshop. The participants who had a minimum of BSc in a relevant field were selected from 

institutions; both public and private sector, which routinely organize training programmes for SMEs in the 

various countries. A pre-test test was conducted at the beginning of each workshop to assess the participants’ 

knowledge on the topics of the module. A post-test conducted at the end of the workshop showed an increase in 

participants’ knowledge on the topics. Participants developed an action plan, per country, for incorporating their 

recent knowledge into the existing training programmes for SMEs in their respective countries and institutions. 

Conclusions: 

A follow-up meeting will be planned to discuss progress on the implementation of nutrition-related trainings 

with participants and provide assistance where needed. 

Vera Lugutuah, Marjolein Smit, Eva Weltzien, Romain Dossa, 

Laurencia Ouattara, Bianca van Dam, Alice Mwangi, Wambui Kogi Macau, 

Joseph Hounhouigan and Polycarpe Kayode [RP DC] 

Outcome 6 – Empower Women: Women in smallholder households engaging in and 

benefiting from IMOD 

This outcome ensures women empowerment and will improve the understanding of women’s condition and 

their role in dryland smallholder households and will identify and develop opportunities to increase women’s 

income by reducing drudgery, improving their work efficiency through social platform models and policies. 

There were three outputs for this outcome under Research Program-Grain Legumes. Main activities undertaken 

to achieve this outcome follows. Identified 8 large seeded high yielding chickpea genotypes in Kenya and 6 in 

Tanzania for cultivation in ESA countries where women sell large seeded chickpea for ready cash under fresh 

vegetable markets in urban and peri-urban markets and provide food security. To generate awareness among 

farmers and stakeholders for adoption of improved varieties and technologies to promote productivity, training 

programs organized for scientists and technicians; generated awareness in over 15000 farmers through field 

days, FVPS, farmer-friendly literature in vernacular languages with information on new FPVs and groundnut 

186

production aspects under TL II project; about 300 field days/training programs/exposure visit organized to 

educate about 3000 farmers in India under IFAD 954-ICRISAT project. In Vietnam, through local extension 

centers, farmer’s field days and training courses on FPVS, ICM and improved cultivation and seed production 

practices of groundnut, about 4500 farmers were trained. In Nepal, two training programs and one farmers’ field 

day conducted involving over 100 farmers; an impact assessment made in Anantapur district in India indicated 

that the new drought tolerant variety, ICGV 91114 increases the net income by 36% compared to local variety 

(TMV 2) and reduced yield variability by 30 %. One hundred and forty women farmers trained in integrated 

crop management using a simplified groundnut production manual and involved in participatory variety 

selection seed production and marketing. 

[RP GL] 

Output 6.1. Enhanced knowledge of the roles and constraints of, and opportunities for women in smallholder 

farming households 


Village Dynamics in South Asia—VDSA)- Dynamic online database with data strategic to SAT women’s 

empowerment including available data created 



Mapping the social network architecture of rural communities: Insights from two villages in semi-arid tropics of 



The methodology employed in this study allows for innovative quantitative and qualitative analysis of social 

networks to capture the village dynamics in adopting to new interventions, responding and adapting to climate 

related variability. These are 1) village censuses using semi structured interviews and questionnaires for 

mapping social networks at the individual and household level; 2) ranking of individuals identified by 

community members to understand the role that key individual(s) play in mobilizing community members to 

cooperate including coping during shocks and extreme events; 3) tapping the multigenerational long-term data 

on agricultural and economic change in these regions through the ICRISAT village-level studies (VLS) and; 4. 

social analysis using qualitative tools to understand social networks as a coping mechanism to climate 

variability. Village censuses and case studies are used to analyze the dynamics of social relationships by 

mapping the network architecture of rural men and women in agriculture. Comparison of these across space and 

time allows analysis of the village dynamics as farm-households respond and adapt to changing social, 

economic, technological, policy environment and risks (e.g. rainfall variability and increase in temperature). 

The social network architecture thus developed at different levels and groups (caste, class and village) will assist 

in targeting of research interventions, dissemination of new knowledge and technologies as well as analyzing 

vulnerability and adaptive capacity. 


The study of “Social networks and its influence on technology dissemination” observed that the number of 

social networks that prevailed in Aurepalle (Andhra Pradesh) was much more significant than that in Kanzara 

(Maharashtra). This study also documented how kinship networks contributed towards spread of improved 

technologies (e.g. wilt resistant pigeonpea variety ICP 8863) in Kanzara and Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. It 

identified that the strength of kinship and close interaction among the network members was one of the 

important determinants for rapid shift towards soybean cultivation from age-old cotton cultivation. 

Research on “Mapping village social networks” was also used to analyze vulnerability to climate variability and 

adaptive capacity in the semi-arid tropics of India. One key finding is that building new networks or 

strengthening existing formal and informal networks through knowledge and technology will enhance the 

adaptive capacity and hence reduce vulnerability of the poor communities in response to shocks due to drought 

and other climate related events. 

To allow analysis of the interface of technology and intra- and inter-household farm dynamics, VDSA seeks to 

understand gender roles, responsibilities, access to and control over resources and benefits, and other relevant 

issues. Changing role of rural women in economic activities and labor market participation has been studied in 

all the three study regions: SAT India, eastern India and Bangladesh. 

187

Additional dimension of the gender analysis undertaken so far has given insights suggesting that agricultural 

technology has set the stage for women’s empowerment, but it is government incentives and legislation that 

must be acknowledged as the main player. Indicators of women’s status that have improved over time largely 

due to government involvement are girls’ enrollment, female literacy, maternal health, reproductive control, age 

at marriage, wage parity, access to credit, economic independence, and social and political empowerment. 

The role of the women has major role in decision making in Jharkhand villages while the main decision makers 

in Bihar villages were male. Tribal social structure of the study villages were the underlying reason for such 

empowerment of women. Women’s participation in economic activities is more in Orissa and Jharkhand as 

compared to Bihar. The women of Dubaliya village of Jharkhand are more aware regarding the development 

issues as compared to the women of other villages of three eastern states. The number of functional SHGs is 

more in the villages of Orissa as compared to the villages of Bihar and Jharkhand. 

A household level study on dynamics of gender, equity and household food security in changing rice-based 

agricultural system in Mymensingh district of Bangladesh revealed important insights. The study observed that 

women ,particularly households with small land holding, lost access to and control over family resources after 

the introduction of commercial fish farming. Now, they are more dependent on the market for their staple food 

rice. Male members of the household receive the leased out money for their land and buy rice from the market. 

Very often they spend money which does not contribute to the household food security. Women have less scope 

for any value addition to their agricultural production. Thus, food security situation of such families are worse of 

then it was during the rice-based production systems. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 6.2 : Vulnerability to Climate Change: Adaptation Strategies and Layers of Resilience 



Adaptive capacity is influenced by a number of context-specific factors - socioeconomic-cultural-politicalinstitutional- 

that constrain or strengthen resilience to shocks and risks. In this paper, village censuses and case 

studies are used to analyze the dynamics of social relationships by mapping the network architecture of rural 

men and women in agriculture. It captures key transactions and relationships within and outside the village. The 

methodology allows for innovative quantitative and qualitative analysis of social networks to capture the village 

dynamics in responding and adapting to climate related variability. This analysis facilitates the identification of 

strategies by development practitioners through viable entry points for intervention, media for collective action, 

pathways of information flows and access to resources and services. Insights from gender-based analysis 

illustrate how social networks influence and shape individual and collective behaviors in this process. 

Understanding adaptive capacity ultimately provides a basis for identifying delivery channels for technical 

adaptation options. 

[RP MIP] 

Milestone: Dynamic online database with data strategic to SAT women’s empowerment including available data 

created 

[RP GL] 

Output 6.2. High value, drudgery reducing technologies appropriate for women in tropical dryland 

smallholder households 

Milestone: One or more high value and/or drudgery reducing production technologies for women in 

smallholder households in advanced testing in Asia, ESA and/or WCA 

i) Development of high value large seeded kabuli for both vegetable type green pea and dry grain 

export markets 

Rationale: 

Women in ESA countries sell large seeded chickpea for ready cash under fresh vegetable markets in urban and 

peri-urban markets. Large seeded vegetable green pea is more remunerative than dry grains. However, large 

seeded kabuli types fetch premium price when compared to small seeded counterparts in dry markets as well. 

Methodology: 

ICTRISAT-Nairobi, evaluated large seeded kabuli genotypes along with NARES partners (DZARC-Ethiopia, 

EU-Kenya, LZARDI-Tanzania) under TL-II project through on-station experiments with an aim to identify 

large seeded-cum-high yielding and adaptable genotypes for chickpea growing agro-ecologies in ESA. 

188


During two year evaluations in Kenya, identified K032, ICCV 08313, K034, ICCV 08308, K025, K021, K026 

and ICCV 08302 as large seeded kabuli types(46.5-61.7g) coupled with high yield (3.1-3.7 t/ha) from 60-kabuli 

genotypes at ICRISAT-Nairobi. Similar, evaluation in Tanzania resulted in identification of K04, ICCV 07313, 

03309, 08313, K032, 08308 as high yielding and large seeded types. On-station evaluation at LZARD-Ukiriguru 

provided an opportunity to consider preferences of women researchers and women farmers in selecting best 

genotypes. Women also indicated their preferences towards home consumption as a means of nutritional food 

security. 

Conclusions: 

Large seeded genotypes are preferred because of the local market for fresh sale, food security and possible 

drought avoidance during the end of the season because of harvesting at green pod stage. 


Identification of gender-dependent trait preferences in pearl millet hybrids 

In a Researcher Managed Farmer Participatory Trial conducted in 2011, 30 hybrids were evaluated at 7 

locations across three states (Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat). 63 male and 31 female farmers participated in 

participatory selection exercise. It reported no differences in preference for hybrids or for traits in pearl millet 

when selection data were segregated for male vs female preferences. All the farmers irrespective of gender 

ranked the traits in order of: high grain yield, high stover yield, tall plant height, large panicle size, and lodging 

resistance. 



stakeholders to promote the empowerment and wellbeing of women 

MTP Output Target in 2011 6.5.1 ICRISAT critical mass of capacity for leading and implementing dryland 

women’s empowerment issues established and strengthened 

Project 6.3: HOPE 



Empowering women in South Asia through improved cultivation practices 


The ICRISAT-HOPE project had distributed seed of five released varieties — Parbhani Moti, Parbhani Jyoti, 

Phule Vasudha, Phule Chitra and Akola Kranti — in six different clusters spread over six districts of the state. 

The project actively involved women self-help groups (SHGs) in the distribution of improved seeds. Courtesy 

favorable monsoon and use of improved seeds and management practices, the project farmers reaped good grain 

and fodder yields. 


Farmers in western Maharashtra and Marathwada areas in Maharashtra state of India were recently trained on 

improved cultivation practices of postrainy sorghum – an important food and fodder crop in the region. Based 

on present prices, direct economic benefit to farmers due to the project activities and active participation of 

SHGs groups was to the tune of Indian rupees 2.5 crores (US$ 541 000). More than 150 women farmers 

participated in selecting the varieties and improved management practices under Frontline demonstrations. 

Training programs were also conducted to the SHGs and farmers on seed preservation and alternate uses of 

sorghum grain. Thus the SHGs were actively involved in all project activities − seed distribution for large-scale 

cultivation, organizing farmers’ rallies, arranging visits to demo plots in research stations as well as in various 

training programs to sustain the project activities. These women were encouraged to address farmers during the 

village meetings. 

In addition, a woman plant breeder as well as a woman university executive member was actively involved in 

the project activities and in organizing training programs and farmers meetings. With the active involvement of 

women in all spheres of project implementation, ICRISAT-HOPE is contributing to women empowerment in 

the target areas. 

[RP MIP] 

189

MTP Output Target in 2011 6.5.2 Strategy and plan for additional capacity-strengthening on dryland 

women’s empowerment issues developed. 

Project 6.4: Gender research strategy in CRP on Grain Legumes 

Countries Involved: Countries in SSA and SA 


In the legume production systems, men and women have different and unequal access to production inputs and 

technologies. The division of labour is distinct but not rigid and depends on the specific social and economic 

context (Kumar, 1985; FAO, 2007a). FAO ( 2007b) reports that though rural women are the main producers of 

the world’s staple crops—rice, wheat, and maize—which provide up to 90 percent of the food consumed by the 

rural poor, their contribution to growing secondary crops such as legumes and vegetables is even greater. 

In parts of Africa where legumes are purely subsistence and semi subsistence crops, women are more visible in 

the production roles, marketing of perishable products like leaves as vegetables, seed and small scale processing 

(e.g groundnuts for home and local sale) while men tend to dominate in the marketing of grain up in the value 

chain (Bationo et al., 2011). Men also dominate the legume value chains (integrating production and marketing) 

in the few highly commercialized production contexts like the common bean in the central rift valley of Ethiopia 

and low lands of Northern Tanzania. In Asia, women integrate the production, processing, and marketing 

activities of chickpea, groundnut and pigeonpea in Asia. In Asia, these gender divisions of labor appear to be 

changing in response to changing economic opportunities. One reason is when men leave agricultural 

communities in search of employment opportunities; women assume many tasks that were earlier done by men. 

Women are also increasingly getting involved in soybean processing and product development, including, akara 

(fried fritter), dan dawa, moin-moin (soybread), soy-cake, soy-milk, and soy-cheese, implying that women are 

also the direct beneficiaries of economic gains from soya bean value chain enhancement. FAO report (FAO 2007b) 

Most of the men and women involved in legume production and marketing come from asset-poor farming 

households but women face extreme challenges in accessing farm inputs: land, seeds, fertilizer, knowledge of 

farming and post harvest techniques, and market organization. This is because men take most of the household 

decisions that affect women’s access to land for production, income from marketed surplus and sometimes 

household labour (Kumar, 1985). Past experiences have shown that men often take over women enterprises after 

they become profitable. There are also examples of women being given poor lands to cultivate crops. Once the 

lands become fertile (say after growing legumes for a few years) the men tend to take them over for growing 

high value crops. Poor access to credit is disproportionately high among women because they lack control over 

land that is usually demanded as collateral. Gender differences for specific legume varietal trait preferences 

have been reported in participatory legume variety studies (for example Kolli and Bantilan (1997). 


Past and on-going efforts to address gender issues in Legume improvement interventions 

The critical importance of women in legume production and the fact that their access to necessary resources and 

effective technologies is often constrained by gender barriers is recognized across participating CGIAR centers. 

This recognition stimulated the centers to incorporate gender issues in legume research and development and 

efforts to overcome the gender barriers have been growing. For example, CIAT has for very many years hosted 

the PRGA Program and its work on beans over the last decade, had a strong focus on empowering rural women 

to manage their natural resources and access markets. In technology development across centers, both men and 

women’s concerns are continually integrated in breeding criteria through participatory plant breeding (PPB) and 

Participatory Variety selection (PVS). This has enabled breeders to not only develop well adapted and 

acceptable varieties but also achieve it faster. For example, Sperling and Berkourtz (1994) observed that the 

participation of women in bean variety development led to a faster identification and adoption of improved bean 

varieties suited to small production niches in Rwanda. 

Other gender related efforts have been focused on gender characterization and improvement of policy, 

community development projects and capacity building among research and NARs. Building capacity included 

but not limited to training and change of research approach to multi-disciplinary to engage other players such 

as gender experts in research. See Feldstein, (1998) for an inventory of gender related research across specific 

centers. According to Feldstein, use of gender analysis tools has also been growing across centers but with some 

variations in intensity and frequency. 

190

The following outlines the proposed strategies for mainstreaming gender in GLVA interventions to ensure 

gender equitable benefits. The proposed strategy borrows ideas from the on-going initiatives across centers 

while identifying areas that will require further strengthening. 

• Baseline studies to support gender specific targeting 

• Participation of men and women farmers in technology development process 

• Capacity building among implementers 

• Gender-explicit monitoring and evaluation. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 6.5: A Gender Plan of Action for Empowerment of Women – Mainstreaming gender in the HOPE 

project; Harnessing Opportunities for Productivity enhancement of Sorghum and Millets in Sub-Saharan Africa 

and south Asia 

Countries Involved: HOPE Project countries in SSA and SA 


The gender objectives of the HOPE project are to: 

1. Improve the gender knowledge and skill base of the HOPE Project scientists PIs; 

2. Increase women’s adoption of improved technologies for sorghum and millet production 

3. Increase the level of empowerment of women farmers. 

The theory of change is that it is expected that, by improving the knowledge and skill of the staff, they will be 

better able to better design project interventions to increase women’s adoption of technologies that will increase 

their productivity and overall well-being. Higher productivity will increase women’s empowerment by 

increasing their resource control and availability of cash for improvement in their own well-being and that of 

their households, reducing drudgery and workload through access to new technology, extension and services. 

To achieve these gender objectives, the HOPE project has developed a gender plan. The objectives of the 

Gender Plan are: 

1. To provide a comprehensive, context-specific framework for mainstreaming gender concerns in all 

activities and programs of the HOPE Project. 

2. To Identify gender-relevant indicators of outcomes and impacts specifically measuring the project progress 

for proactively involving and empowering women in the implementation of the project activities, and 

ensuring sustained benefits to women. 

3. To define the roles and obligation of ICRISAT staff and partners involved in the implementation of gender 

related project activities. 

The Gender Plan is divided into four major sections. The first section one deals with presents some broad-based 

review of relevant literature with attention to the development needs for gender equality and economic 

empowerment of rural, farming women. In section two, the Gender Framework sets out our understanding, 

based on key literature and field observations, of the issues that the Gender Plan seeks to address. In section 

three presents, the Gender Road Map which summarizes the key steps needed to realize the objectives in the 

Gender Plan and the linkages between them. In the final section, the Action Plan describes the specific activities 

in the Gender Plan for each year of the HOPE Project. 

The World Sorghum and Millet Economies (1996), a situation and outlook report, noted that 90% of the world’s 

millet area lies in the developing countries, mainly in Africa and Asia. However, with the increasing focus of 

green revolution technologies on wheat and rice, the area planted with sorghum and millets has been declining 

in Asia. Women’s experience of agricultural growth and macro economic reform is mediated through their 

gendered position within the household and outside. The problem lies in power, voice and rights to productive 

assets and not in the physical availability of resources. Women face a distinct disadvantage, since they are the 

ones who sacrifice their opportunity for education and skill development to manage land and agriculture. 

Further, lacking clearly defined property rights to land and other productive assets in many African and Asian 

countries, women are largely excluded from training, extension and agricultural management. The deep-seated 

social inequalities go against women denying them an effective voice in community management or farmers’ 

associations. These, in turn, affect both productivity and farming women’s economic agency. 

ICRISAT takes the position that gender is an essential element of its overall agenda and attaches great 

importance to the gender implications of its research and training activities. There is an emphasis on 

191

incorporating the gender implications in all project proposals and reporting to enhance sensitivity and 

knowledge on women’s work and economic contributions. Case studies by Bantilan and Padmaja (2008) further 

argued for innovative institutional arrangements to increase outreach of technology adoption and capacity 

development of farming women engaged in agriculture (eg., cultivation of sorghum and millets in Africa and Asia). 

Similar initiatives and concerns by other researchers worldwide saw the development of gender action plans in 

many international organizations, such as International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), 

International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Asian Development Bank (ADB) and so on. These gender 

action plans aimed at (1) ensuring aid effectiveness, and (2) achieving gender equality concerns in macro 

economic growth in nation-state policies. Learning from the experience of such efforts , it is therefore 

imperative to develop a Gender Plan of Action (GAP) of the HOPE Project to ensure delivery of the outputs; 

thus, social and economic change is envisaged from the project. 


The Gender Plan is based on (1) a review of relevant documents of the HOPE project, ICRISAT Strategic Plan 

and Business Plan, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation policy document, and related literature on gender 

studies and mainstreaming (2) field visits by the gender advisor to meet farmers in West Africa (Mali, Burkina 

Faso) and in East Africa (Kenya and Tanzania) and Maharashtra state in India (3) discussions between the 

gender advisor and with ICRISAT scientists in the three regions and (4) analysis of a decade of work in 

implementing the IFAD-UNIFEM Gender Mainstreaming Programme in the Asia Pacific Region. 


It is envisaged that through the HOPE project the following practical needs for improvement in economic 

conditions of women will be met: 

• Changes for improvement in health and levels of household food and nutrition security. It is envisaged that 

implementation of appropriate gender related interventions in the targeted areas generates adequate income 

and employment opportunities for livelihood security. Further, educating farm women on different aspects 

of food production, processing, food utilization and balanced nutrition will lead to improvement in health 

status of rural women, children and the family. 

• Changes in women’s workload and reduction in drudgery. Women are involved in laborious time 

consuming household and farm activities in rural areas. With the introduction of labor saving technologies 

in cultivation, irrigation and post-harvesting of millets and its processing would lead to reduction of 

drudgery for women and saving of time. Access to potable domestic water supply would lead to saving in 

energy and time. Thus, saved time could be better utilized for improving household management, 

acquisition of knowledge and participation in social networks. 

• Improvement in farming systems and agricultural productivity. Exposure of women to the latest technical 

knowhow in farming coupled with their capacity building through trainings and demonstrations would 

enable them to take up diversified market oriented activities in the farm, including livestock and small 

ruminants, thus, improving overall productivity of the farming system. 

• Reduction in distress migration (as seen in the case of South Asia with implementation of National Rural 

Employment Guarantee Scheme in India). The problem of outmigration is exacerbating in semi-arid areas 

due to shrinking natural resource base, lack of alternative employment opportunities, vagaries of nature and 

frequent crop failures. The distress migration can be reduced by introducing appropriate income generating 

activities in rural areas that provide gainful employment opportunities for women. Ensuring property rights 

to common property resources will also help to stabilize the production and income generating activities. 

• Increase in household income and women’s income. Income through on farm and off farm activities 

supplemented by value addition will improve the income levels. Community based activities involving 

women Self-Help Groups/microfinance groups will help in investment on long term basis. Crop 

diversification with livestock will sustain their income even during drought. 

• Greater access to, and use of, credit. Access to microfinance will result in economic empowerment of 

women through income generating activities, with control rights to earnings and resources. This would 

enable better access to input supply, market, value addition and access to services. These are crucial in 

augmenting income employment, enhancing nutrition and education. 

Gender strategic needs are not opposed to the practical needs. The former, however, is directed to enhancing 

women’s agency within the home and outside. The Gender Plan is geared to introducing certain activities with 

the purpose of transforming the current women’s position to one where their knowledge, human rights and 

economic contributions are recognized in day to day existence. Examples are: 

• Changes in women’s mobility to markets and also for leisure and social networking. More attention is 

needed where there are cultural constraints on women’s mobility. 

192

• Gender sensitization of community leaders and project staff for effective functioning of the project as well 

as for increased acceptability of women as capable human beings 

• Changes in women’s self-perception as independent beings with aspirations to knowledge, rights to 

resources and physical dignity in family and community 

• Changes in gender division of labor, with men’s participation in caring tasks at home, and women’s 

inclusion in agricultural management roles such as use of seeds and new technology 

• Reduction in violence against women as a consequence of unmediated access to productive assets 

• Improved participation in collective meetings and networks and community management 

• Changes in social attitudes towards stereotyped gender roles ie., man as the breadwinner and women as 

dependent on the male earning and resources. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 6.6: Tropical Legumes-II- Understanding the dynamics of gender roles and issues in legume production 

Countries Involved: Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, and Tanzania 


Targeting innovations for up-scaling and for reaching vulnerable groups and report on recommendation domains 

and strategies for better targeting of vulnerable groups (e.g. women and children) 


Men tend to dominate cereal production in many societies, but women are more likely to take a major role in the 

growing of legumes, particularly in Africa. Women provide more labor for activities such as weeding and 

harvesting, so interventions that make these activities less demanding and reduce drudgery can have positive 

impacts on women. While men tend to dominate the marketing of dry grains, women are more likely to 

dominate in the marketing of perishable and value-added products. Women are also more involved with small 

scale processing, food preparation for home use or local sale, and often participate in community-based efforts 

(cooperatives, self-help groups and similar) so the introduction of simple processing technologies can directly 

benefit them if carefully introduced. 

Innovations to increase the profitability of crops that were formerly of little economic value or for home use can 

improve the incomes of women, but this can also pose new challenges. Past experiences have shown that men 

often take over such enterprises after they become profitable. There are also examples of women being given 

poor lands to cultivate cereals and legumes. Once the lands become fertile the men tend to take them over for 

growing high value crops. Care needs to be exercised that changing the value chains of legumes does not create 

community conflicts. Insights from the gender-based field surveys and discussions with women who already 

produce and market many of the legumes will be taken into account. 

Gender disaggregated analysis increasingly show evidence that, in the context of diversity in the production 

patterns, incorporating gender-related concerns makes a difference in achieving higher levels of efficiency and 

socioeconomic welfare. Women play a crucial role in legume production and provisioning, efforts to increase 

women’s productivity and share of benefits are vital. Results from different studies reveal that making women 

more productive and hence more effective income earners, enhances their status and security in the family as 

well as in the community 

In Asia, women are involved in all activities in legume production except field preparation and marketing of the 

produce. This is so in the case of chickpea, pigeonpea and groundnut cultivation. Likewise studies on the 

impact of groundnut innovations on women in India reveal that the binding constraints faced by women tend to 

differ from those of men. While men are more concerned about the economic viability and yield increases, 

women tend to be concerned about the workability of the technology, taste, color and ease of processing. These 

user preferences will be factored in the design and targeting of new legume technologies. 

In sub-Saharan Africa, women are heavily involved in cowpea and soybean production, processing, and 

marketing implying that they are also the direct beneficiaries of economic gains from these value chains. There 

is a growing recognition that cash incomes earned and food produced by women tends to be equitably 

distributed among members of the family, particularly benefiting children. In Senegal, Nigeria, and Niger, for 

example, the processing of cowpea is almost exclusively undertaken by women. They produce a range of 

products that are sold as street food. The products that they produce range from cowpea and rice to dan wake, 

moin-moin (ground cowpea that is mixed with other ingredients and prepared by boiling or steaming to make a 

193

meat substitute), and akara, which is a deep-fat fried fritter from cowpea and the most popular of the cowpeabased 

food products. 

Women are also increasingly involved in soybean processing and product development, including, akara (fried 

fritter), dandawa, moin-moin (soybread), soycake, soymilk, and soycheese. In Nigeria, IITA developed and 

disseminated household level processing technologies and small scale processing technologies using an extruder 

and an oil press. Currently, over 80 soybean-based agro-processing businesses exist in Nigeria. 

Examples from Africa and Asia reveal that women handle much of the legume production - cowpea and 

soybean production in Africa; chickpea, groundnut and pigeonpea in Asia - integrating production, processing, 

and marketing activities to generate cash incomes in addition to ensuring household food and nutrition security 

through increased home consumption. For example, promotion of soybean recipes in Nigeria led to increased 

local trading of soybean food products, with attendant improvement in the nutritional status of many Nigerians, 

particularly infants and school children. 

Some of the gender issues for recommendation domains and strategies for better targeting of vulnerable groups 

especially women and children are as follows: 

• R4D on women’s collective action mechanisms, training them on good post harvest handling and value 

addition; and linking them to markets for seed and grain production that can increase their benefits. Formal 

and informal networks, and groups especially for women will be used (if already in place or created) to 

facilitate legume seed production and multiplication. Such networks like the women self-help groups in 

India will be used as channels for information flows related to crop management, market access, health and 

nutrition eg. reducing aflatoxin contamination in groundnut, improving nutritional value of legumes 

through post-harvest processing, storage and cooking/preparation methods 

• Women also can benefit nutritionally from legumes since their micro-nutrient requirement is greater than 

that of men. Legumes bio-fortified with iron and Vitamin A will be especially relevant for the health of 

women and children, and especially pregnant and lactating women. 

• Helping understand and design mechanisms that enable women to access credit to start viable business in 

seed production and marketing. For example in the study by Ferris et al. 2008 average profit margins in 

Ethiopia for small-scale women retailers of common bean ranged from US$ 800-1000/year. This was low 

because her working capital was very small. Providing linkages with financial institutions, seed 

producers, consumers and traders will benefit women to get easy access to such resources 

• Labor-saving technologies in legume production (eg. Seed sowing, weeding, harvesting and post-harvest 

activities) to save women’s time and free them to participate in other income generating activities and 

family care. 

• Providing mechanisms that enable women to gain from increasing grain prices after harvest time through 

access to ICT tools and knowledge centres (eg. E-choupal in India) and the accompanying credit to enable 

them postpone immediate sales of grains legumes after harvesting. 

• Use of small packs for lower income groups (women and poor) to access seeds on wider scale. 

• Legumes are predominantly women’s enterprises along the value chains (seed/grain production and trade). 

Hence, providing knowledge and access to storage facilities and marketing will have positive beneficial 

impacts. 

[RP MIP] 

Project 6.7: Tropical Legumes-II - Gender issues 

Countries Involved: Andhra Pradesh, India 

Objectives/Rationale: Role of gender in chickpea cultivation in Andhra Pradesh 


Analysis of activities performed in cultivation of chickpea revealed that majority of the men perform activities 

like land preparation, field cleaning, chemical fertilisation, mechanical weeding and plant protection measures 

etc. The activities performed by women only are field cleaning (6.67%), (7.78%), hand weeding 43% and 54%, 

harvesting the main crop done by 7.78% and 23.33% of respondents in Kurnool and Prakasam. Major activities 

performed by both men and women together are sowing the seed, field cleaning, fertiliser application, fodder 

harvesting and intercultural operations. The harvesting of main crop was said to be done by both men and 

women together as per 67% to 68% of the respondents’ opinion. Threshing is also done by both men and 

women jointly. 

194

Ownership of resources status show that total households were dominated by men clearly indicated by 

possession of all resources categorised into assets, inputs, outputs and others. Ownership across the resources 

ranged from 30% to 100% by men. The ownership of women in land and livestock is 3.3% and 1.1% in Kurnool 

and is 5.5% and 2.2% in Prakasam. The status in terms of ownership of assets for women is poor in both 

districts considered. It is obvious that the ownership of assets is not allowed in farm households as they think 

that women should be dependent on men (father, husband and son) for their livelihood and other basic amenities 

which has a bearing with the decision making ability of women. Few farmers reported joint ownership assets 

which is faint and was in terms of investments (16%) and land (4.44%). 

Again decision making with respect to assets, inputs, outputs and others were in the hands of men, ranged from 

5.54% to 95% in Kurnool and to the extent of 85% in Prakasam indicating the domination of men even though 

considerable number of farm operations are done by women. Maximum decision done only by women in assets 

was 1.11% in Kurnool and 2.2% in Prakasam. Decision exercised on inputs by women was 5.56% and 3.3% for 

controlling hired labor in Kurnool and Prakasam. They have decision making role in education and household 

maintenance decision. Some decisions are done by both such as land, livestock and investment own labor, hired 

labor and children marriage and education decisions. Amount crop decisions and sale decision very few have 

reported that joint decision will be taken. This indicates production decisions, income generation decisions and 

resource ownership role of women is neglected. The empowerment of women by involving them in self-help 

groups, demonstrations and trainings at least preliminary awareness can be created among women on the 

importance of their participation and in production and productive decisions as well. 

Women influencing utilization of resources is very poor and it was 2-3 persons in the total sample except some 

of influence on household decisions like marriages and use of hired labor in Prakasam. Empowerment and 

knowledge on quality production of crop, post-harvest management and price information etc. will encourage 

the participation of women decision making and ownership of assets. 

Government agents, community leaders, community bulletin boards and relatives friends and farmers are the 

main sources of information to women both in Kurnool and Prakasam adopted villages. Training melas and field 

days were also identified as good sources information now being used by women. Women by participating in 

the training programs and melas they can communicate better to their neighbors about new technology. 

Constraints in the existing cultivars as per the opinion of women also analysed with Garrett scores and they are 

the same as expressed by men. The Garrett scores were in the order of long duration (75%), susceptible to 

storage pests (71%), low recovery on shelling (70%) and high disease incidence (61%) for Annigeri in Kurnool 

and susceptible to storage pests ( 90%), poor fodder quantity (87%), poor colour (73%), high disease incidence 

(69%) and high pest incidence (58%) in Prakasam. 

Constraints with respect to JG-11 were mainly high disease incidence ( 76%), susceptible to storage pests( 

74%), poor quantity of fodder (66%) and low recovery on shelling (58%).in Kurnool and low recovery on 

shelling (87%), poor fodder quantity (86%), susceptible to storage pests (74%), high disease incidence (69%) 

and high pest incidence (64%) in Prakasam. KAK-2 variety in Prakasam suffers due to poor fodder availability 

(82%), poor colour (61%), poor taste (61%) and susceptibility to storage pests (58%) as per the opinion of 

women. 

The constraints expressed were different and common problems expressed by women were susceptibility to 

pests during storage, poor fodder and high disease incidence, this was because women take care of live stock 

and storage of grain and the constraints were highlighted by women. 

Women preferred production traits for Annigeri were high yield (58%), short duration (55%), drought resistance 

(47%) and pest resistance in Kurnool adopted villages and the same traits are preferred in Prakasam. JG-11 

variety also had similar first preference for high yield (63%) and (67%), in Kurnool and Prakasam districts. 

Drought resistance and pest resistance are second priority in Kurnool and Prakasam to women members of the 

responding households. Pest resistance and drought resistance were the third priority for Kurnool and Prakasam 

women respondents. Even though constraints were different but priority to cultivars were almost same as the 

preferences opined by men. 

Preferred traits for consumption – women 

In Annigeri variety preferred traits for consumption were better taste and less cooking time both in Kurnool and 

Prakasam district. For JG-11 in Kurnool less cooking time and high keeping quality are preferred where as in 

195

Prakasam better taste and high keeping quality were preferred. For KAK-2 in Prakasam better taste and less 

cooking time are preferred by women. 

For Annigeri in both districts more fodder quantity is preferred followed by palatability. JG-11 in Kurnool has 

priority for more fodder quantity followed by palatability. In Kurnool JG-11 got palatability and durability of 

fodder as preferred traits. Cog -2 again has the same preference as Annigeri such as more fodder quantity and palatability. 

[RP MIP] 

Milestones: ICRISAT critical mass of capacity for leading and implementing dryland women’s empowerment 

issues established and strengthened 

i) Capacity strengthening of farmers and stakeholders 

Rationale: 

Farmers and stakeholder awareness promote productivity by adoption of improved varieties and technologies 

and thus livelihoods of the people. 

Methodology: 

Awareness programs were conducted through field days, training, FPVS and by using print and electronic media 

in association with NARS partners. Women will be targeted in these activities. 


Activities under TL II and IFAD 954-ICRISAT project are given. 

TL II project (in India): During the project period (2008/09 to 2010-11) under capacity building, two students, 

one for M Sc and one for Ph D have successfully completed their research work and submitted their thesis under 

this project. Two scientists and four technicians were also trained at ICRISAT. Over 5000 farmers were made 

aware of improved varieties by directly reaching them either through FVPS and comparison trials (1602 

farmers) or through farmers visit to the these trial plots on field days (5456 farmers). Over 10,000 farmers have 

received farmer-friendly literature in vernacular languages with information on new FPVs and groundnut 

production aspects. 

IFAD 954-ICRISAT project (India, Vietnam and Nepal): In India Andhra Pradesh, 240 field days were 

organized during. In Odisha, OTELP organized 33 field days covering 2000 farmers and 19 training programs 

with 570 farmers that included 201 farm women were organized. Exposure visit was conducted to ICRISAT 

Center, Patancheru, in during 15-17 March, 2011. In Jharkhand, educational materials on groundnut was 

developed and distributed. In Chhattisgarh, CTDP organized five farmers’ field days involving 230 farmers. 

CTDP-PMU, Raipur developed a video CD, extension bulletin and poster in Hindi language to disseminate 

project related information. 

In Vietnam, ten training courses involving 1222 farmers were organized on FPVS, ICM and seed production of 

groundnut. Through local extension centers of Ha Tinh and TuyenQuang provinces another 2800 farmers were 

trained in improved cultivation practices of groundnut. Farmers’ field days on groundnut ICM and seed 

production were organized involving 326 participants. One student will present doctoral thesis on 30 November 

2011 on aspects of groundnut ICM. 

In Nepal, two training programs were conducted involving a total of 86 farmers including 45 farm women on 

crop production aspects. One farmers’ field day was organized with 21 farmer participants. 

Conclusions: 

An impact assessment made in Anantapur district indicates the new drought tolerant variety, ICGV 91114 

increases the net income by 36% compared to local variety (TMV 2) and reduced yield variability by 30 %. A 

large number of farmer were reached through various modes of awareness programs that contributed to 

increased level of farm incomes through adoption of improved varieties and production technologies and the 

impact assessment under IFAD 954-ICRISAT in target countries is under progress. 


196

Milestone: Strategy and plan for additional capacity strengthening on dryland women’s empowerment issues 

developed 

i) Conduct activities to enhance farmers’ awareness of improved groundnut varieties with particular 

emphasis on women 

Rationale: 

Women contribution to family welfare is very important. Women feed the family and invest in children health 

and education. Involvement of women in the groundnut commodity value chain is likely to bring larger impacts 

on household members. The challenges women face are the lack of access to land awareness about new 

varieties. 

Methodology: 

The mother and baby trials methodology is now routinely used to engage women farmers in growing groundnut 

profitably. Hands-on training in the best practices for integrated crop management was the major tool used to 

empower women groundnut farmers. 


During the last 10 years, ICRISAT and partners have implemented arrange of activities to empower women in 

rural communities with focus on participatory variety selection seed production and marketing. In 2011, PVS 

trials initiated in 2009 in collaboration with Plan Mali, an NGO, involving 150 were repeated in 5 villages of 

Bougoula (2), Sanambele for the second year , Fanza, Diakakegny and Tenekanu) in the Sanankoroba (for the 

first year) were repeated. From these trials, women have selected those of their choice, in particular Fleur 11, 

ICGV 86124 and ICGV 86015.The pod yield of these varieties was on average 50% higher than the local 

variety. These trials were also extended to other regions of Mali in collaboration with Sahel 21 and in Segue 

district and AgaKhan Foundation in the Mopti region. Prior to planting, 123 women in Mopti and 45 farmers 

(17 women and 18 men) in Segue were offered training in integrated crop management using a simplified 

groundnut production manual. These exposures to the new varieties has heightened the enthusiasm of the 

women groups with prospects for income generation as well as improved family nutrition. Through these 

activities, the village heads are beginning to allocate good pieces of land for the women groups to grow 

groundnut. 

B Ntare, MH Diallo and I Drame [RP GL] 

Training of women farmers in Rajasthan, Haryana and Gujarat trained in pearl millet crop 

management, and grain and stover marketing 

In India, the HOPE project has targeted 30% productivity enhancement of pearl millet in the marginal 

environments of Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat states through improved technology adoption by the farmers. 

To achieve this target training of farmers for the use of advanced technologies as well as for other issues related 

to marketing and finance is very important. 

During 2011, three training programs were organized by HOPE project team in collaboration with local Krishi 

Vignan Kendra (KVK) on 1-6-2011 in Rajasthan, on 10-5-11 in Haryana, and on 23/6/11 in Gujarat. More than 

100 farmers including women (about 40-50%) participated in the training programs in each state. In these 

training programs local market committee members were invited to give advice/presentation on market 

opportunities to farmers on pearl millet grain, fodder and various value added products. They explained the 

local market price trends and suggested good marketing practices like sorting, cleaning and grading the grain 

and fodder before selling in the market to fetch higher prices. They also explained that in Haryana there is 

increasing demand for grain for poultry farms, while in Gujarat and Rajasthan the demand is mainly for human 

consumption. They also explained that there is increasing trend in the price of pearl millet stover due to shortage 

of fodder. Training programs were also conducted in each state and farmers were informed about financial 

services provided by the banks and how they can increase access to the financial services (credit/crop insurance, 

etc). Farmers were trained in good business practices for accessing finance from different banks in each state. 

Information about various government schemes Kisan Credit Cards, Crop Loans, Crop Insurance was provided 

to the farmers. Training was also provided exclusively to the woman farmers on value addition in pearl millet 

and making different food products from pearl millet. 


197

Category 

Journals listed by 

Thomson Reuters 

Articles in other peer 

reviewed journals 

Resilient 

Dryland 

Systems 

Publications 

Research Program 

Markets, 

Institutions 

and Policies 

Grain 

Legumes 

Dryland 

Cereals 

Total 

40 5 72 40 157 

8 10 19 2 39 

Books co‐edited 2 0 0 0 2 

Invited book chapters 18 3 23 5 49 

Monographs 0 4 3 9 16 

Conference papers 16 14 15 4 49 

Journal articles in e‐SAT 

journal 

1 1 2 1 5 

Technical manual 1 0 0 0 1 

Total 86 37 133 61 318 

Articles Published In PeerReviewed Journals Listed By ISI/THOMSON 

REUTERS 

1. Abate T, Shiferaw B, Gebeyehu S, Amsalu B, Negash K, Assefa K, Eshete M, Aliye S and Hagmann, J (2011) 

A systems and partnership approach to agricultural research for development: Lessons from Ethiopia. 

Outlook on Agriculture, 40 (3). pp. 213‐220 http://oar.icrisat.org/4586/ 

2. Anuradha C, Gaur PM, Pande S, Gali KK, Ganesh M, Kumar J and Varshney RK (2011) Mapping QTL for 

resistance to botrytis grey mould in chickpea.Euphytica, 182 (1). pp. 1‐9 http://oar.icrisat.org/4425/ 

3. Ashok Kumar A, Belum VS Reddy, Sharma HC, Hash CT, Srinivasa Rao P, Ramaiah and Sanjana Reddy P 

(2011) Recent advances in sorghum genetic enhancement research at ICRISAT. American Journal of Plant 

Sciences 2: 581‐600 http://oar.icrisat.org/3884 

4. Ayoubi Sand Sahrawat KL (2011) Comparing Multivariate Regression and Artificial Neural Network to 

Predict Barley Production from Soil Characteristics in Northern Iran.Archives of Agronomy and Soil Science, 

57 (5). pp. 549‐565. http://oar.icrisat.org/4041/ 

5. Ayoubi, S,Khormali F, Sahrawat KL and Rodrigues de Lima AC (2011) Assessing Impacts of Land Use Change 

on Soil Quality Indicators in a Loessial Soil in Golestan Province, Iran.Journal of Agricultural Science and 

Technology, 13 (5). pp. 727‐742 http://oar.icrisat.org/1272/ 

6. Bhosale Sankalp U, Stich B, Rattunde HF, Weltzien E, Huassmann BIG,Hash CT, Melchinger AE and Parzies 

HK (2011) Population Structure in Sorghum Accessions from West Africa differing in Race and Maturity 

Class.Genetica, 139 (4). pp. 453‐463 http://oar.icrisat.org/5522/ 

7. Bohra A, Mallikarjuna N, Saxena KB, Upadhyaya HD, Vales I and Varshney RK (2010) Harnessing the 

Potential of Crop Wild Relatives through Genomics Tools for Pigeonpea Improvement.Journal of Plant 

Biology, 37 (1). pp. 83‐98 http://oar.icrisat.org/95/ 

8. Bohra A,Dubey A,Saxena RK, Penmetsa RV,Poornima KN,Kumar N, Farmer AD,Srivani G, Upadhyaya HD, 

Gothalwal R,Ramesh S, Singh Dhiraj,Saxena KB, Kavi Kishor PB, Singh NK, Town CD, May GD, Cook DRand 

Varshney RK (2011) Analysis of BAC‐end sequences (BESs) and development of BES‐SSR markers for genetic 

mapping and hybrid purity assessment in pigeonpea (Cajanus spp.).BMC Plant Biology, 11 (1). pp. 56‐70 

http://oar.icrisat.org/112/ 

9. Caniato FF, Guimarães CT, Hamblin M, Billot C, Rami Jean‐François, Hufnagel B, Kochian LV, Liu J, Garcia 

AAF, Hash CT, Ramu P, Mitchell S, Kresovich S, Oliveira AC, Avellar Gisela de, Borém A, Glaszmann Jean‐ 

Christophe, Schaffert RE and Magalhaes JV (2011) The relationship between population structure and 

aluminium tolerance in cultivated sorghum. PLoS ONE, 6 (6). 14pp http://oar.icrisat.org/93/ 

198

10. Chamarthi SK, Sharma HC, Deshpande SP, Hash TG, Rajaram V, Ramu P and Narsu LM (2011) Genomic 

diversity among sorghum genotypes with resistance 5 to sorghum shoot fly, Atherigona soccata. Journal of 

Plant Biochemistry and Biotechnology http://oar.icrisat.org/5557/ 

11. Chamarthi SK, Sharma HC, Sahrawat KL, Narasu LMand Dhillon MK(2011) Physico‐chemical mechanisms of 

resistance to shoot fly, Atherigona soccata in sorghum, Sorghum bicolor.Journal Of Applied 

Entomologyhttp://oar.icrisat.org/103/ 

12. Clerget B, Rattunde HFW and Weltzien E (2011) Why tropical sorghum sown in winter months has delayed 

flowering and modified morphogenesis in spite of prevailing short days. Field Crops Research 125:139‐150 

http://oar.icrisat.org/2680 

13. Craufurd PQ, Vadez V, Jagadish SVK, Prasad PVV and Zaman‐Allah M (2011) Crop science experiments 

designed to inform crop modelling. Agricultural and Forest Meteorology http://oar.icrisat.org/3223/ 

14. de Villiers SM and Hoisington DA (2011) The trends and future of biotechnology crops for insect pest 

control. African Journal of Biotechnology, 10 (23). pp. 4677‐4681 http://oar.icrisat.org/104/ 

15. Deokar AA, Kondawar V, Jain PK, Karuppayil SM, Raju NL, Vadez V, Varshney RK and Srinivasan R (2011) 

Comparative analysis of expressed sequence tags (ESTs) between drought‐tolerant and ‐susceptible 

genotypes of chickpea under terminal drought stress. BMC Plant Biology, 11 (70) http://oar.icrisat.org/24/ 

16. Devi MJ, Bhatnagar‐Mathur P, Sharma KK, Serraj R, Anwar SY and Vadez V (2011) Relationships Between 

Transpiration Efficiency and Its Surrogate Traits in the rd29A:DREB1A Transgenic Lines of Groundnut. 

Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science, 197 (4). pp. 272‐283 http://oar.icrisat.org/5365/ 

17. Dixit PN and Chen D (2011) Effect of topography on farm‐scale spatial variation in extreme temperatures 

in the Southern Mallee of Victoria, Australia. Theoretical and Applied Climatology, 103 (3‐4). pp. 533‐542 


18. Dixit PN, Cooper PJM, Dimes J and Rao KPC (2011) Adding Value to Field‐Based Agronomic Research 

through Climate Risk Assessment: A Case Study of Maize Production in Kitale, Kenya. Experimental 

Agriculture, 47 (2). pp. 317‐338 http://oar.icrisat.org/43/ 

19. Dubey A, Farmer A, Schlueter J, Cannon SB, Abernathy B, Tuteja R, Woodward J, Shah T, Mulasmanovic B, 

Kudapa H, Raju NL, Gothalwal R, Pande S, Xiao Y, Town CD, Singh NK, May GD, Jackson S and Varshney RK 

(2011) Defining the transcriptome assembly and its use for genome dynamics and transcriptome profiling 

studies in pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.). DNA Research, 18 (3). pp. 153‐164 http://oar.icrisat.org/111/ 

20. Dutta S, Kumawat G, Singh BP, Gupta DK, Singh Sangeeta, Dogra V, Gaikwad K, Sharma TR, Raje RS, 

Bandhopadhya TK, Datta S, Singh MN, Bashasab F, Kulwal P, Wanjari KB, Varshney RK, Cook DR and Singh 

NK (2011) Development of genic‐SSR markers by deep transcriptome sequencing in pigeonpea [Cajanus 

cajan (L.) Millspaugh]. BMC Plant Biology, 11 (17) http://oar.icrisat.org/12/ 

21. Eguchi Akifumi, Isobe Tomohiko, Ramu Karri and Tanabe Shinsuke (2011) Optimisation of the analytical 

method for octa‐, nona‐ and deca‐brominated diphenyl ethers using gas chromatography–quadrupole 

mass spectrometry and isotope dilution. International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry, 91 

(4). pp. 348‐356 http://oar.icrisat.org/5439/ 

22. Estep MC, Mourik TA Van, Muth P, Guindo D, Parzies HK, Koita OA, Weltzien E and Bennetzen, JL (2011) 

Genetic Diversity of a Parasitic Weed, Striga hermonthica, on Sorghum and Pearl Millet in Mali. Tropical 

Plant Biology, 4. pp. 91‐98 http://oar.icrisat.org/5508/ 

23. Farkhari M, Lu Y, Shah T, Zhang S, Naghavi MR, Rong T and Xu Y (2011) Recombination frequency variation 

in maize as revealed by genome wide singlenucleotide polymorphisms. Plant Breeding, 130 (5). pp. 533‐ 

539 http://oar.icrisat.org/5536/ 

24. Ganesh Kumar C, Afroze Fatima, Srinivasa Rao P, Reddy BVS, Rathore A, Nageswar Rao R, Sara Khalid, 

Kumar AA and Ahmed Kamal (2011) Characterization of Improved Sweet Sorghum Genotypes for 

Biochemica Parameters, Sugar Yield and Its Attributes at Different Phenological Stages. Sugar Tech, 12 (3‐ 

4). pp. 322‐328 http://oar.icrisat.org/5425/ 

25. Garg KK, Bharati L, Gaur A, George B, Acharya S, Jella K and Narasimhan B (2011) Spatial Mapping of 

Agricultural Water Productivity using SWAT model in Upper Bhima Catchment, India. Irrigation and 

Drainage, 20 pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/3844/ 

26. Garg KK, Karlberg L, Barron J, Wani SP and Rockstroma J (2011) Assessing impacts of agricultural water 

interventions in the Kothapally watershed, Southern India. Hydrological Processes. 18pp. 


27. Garg KK, Karlberg L, Wani SP and Berndes G (2011) Biofuel production on wastelands in India: 

opportunities and trade‐offs for soil and water management at the watershed scale. Biofuels, Bioproducts 

& Biorefining, 5. pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/3794/ 

199

28. Garg KK, Karlberg L, Wani SP and Berndes G (2011) Jatropha production on wastelands in India: 

opportunities and trade‐offs for soil and water management at the watershed scale. Biofuels, Bioproducts 

and Biorefining, 5 (4). pp. 410‐430 http://oar.icrisat.org/115/ 

29. Garrett KA, Forbes GA, Savary S, Skelsey P, Sparks AH, Valdivia C, Van Bruggen AHC, Willocquet L, Djurle A, 

Duveiller E, Eckersten H, Pande S, Vera Cruz C and Yuen J (2011) Complexity in climate‐change impacts: an 

analytical framework for effects mediated by plant disease. Plant Pathology, 60 (1). pp. 15‐30 


30. Gautami B, Pandey MK, Vadez V, Nigam SN, Ratnakumar P, Krishnamurthy L, Radhakrishnan T, Gowda 

MVC, Narasu ML, Hoisington DA, Knapp SJ and Varshney RK (2011) Quantitative trait locus analysis and 

construction of consensus genetic map for drought tolerance traits based on three recombinant inbred 

line populations in cultivated groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Molecular Breeding. pp. 1‐16 


31. Giller KE, Corbeels M, Nyamangara J, Triomphe B, Affholder F, Scopel E and Tittonell P (2011) A research 

agenda to explore the role of conservation agriculture in African smallholder farming systems. Field Crops 

Research, 124 (3).pp. 468‐472 http://oar.icrisat.org/4779/ 

32. Gnanesh BN, Bohra A, Sharma M, Byregowda M, Pandey S, Wesley V, Saxena RK, Saxena KB, Kavi Kishor PB 

and Varshney RK (2011) Genetic mapping and quantitative trait locus analysis of resistance to sterility 

mosaic disease in pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]. Field Crops Research, 123. pp. 53‐61 


33. Gopalakrishnan S, Kiran BK, Humayun P, Vidya MS, Deepthi K, Jacob S, Vadlamudi S, Alekhya G and Rupela 

Om (2011) Biocontrol of charcoal‐rot of sorghum by actinomycetes isolated from herbal vermicompost. 

African Journal of Biotechnology, 10 (79). pp. 18142‐18152 http://oar.icrisat.org/5443/ 

34. Gopalakrishnan S, Pande S, Sharma M, Humayun P, Kiran BK, Sandeep D, Sree Vidya M, Deepthi K and 

Rupela Om (2011) Evaluation of actinomycete isolates obtained from herbal vermicompost for the 

biological control of Fusarium wilt of chickpea. Crop Protection. http://oar.icrisat.org/38/ 

35. Gopalakrishnan S, Rao GVR, Humayun P, Rao VR, Alekhya G, Jacob S, Deepthi K, Sree Vidya M, Srinivas V, 

Mamatha L and Rupela OP (2011) Efficacy of botanical extracts and entomopathogens on control of 

Helicoverpa armigera and Spodoptera litura. African Journal of Biotechnology, 10 (73). pp. 16667‐16673 


36. Gowda CLL, Upadhyaya HD, Dronavalli N and Singh Sube (2011) Identification of Large‐Seeded High‐ 

Yielding Stable Kabuli Chickpea Germplasm Lines for Use in Crop Improvement. Crop Science, 51 (1). pp. 

198‐209 http://oar.icrisat.org/11/ 

37. Gowda MVC, Bhat RS, Sujay V, Kusuma P, Kumari Varsha, Varshney RK and Bhat S (2011) Characterization 

of AhMITE1 transposition and its association with the mutational and evolutionary origin of botanical 

types in peanut (Arachis spp.). Plant Systematics and Evolution, 291 (3‐4). pp. 153‐158 


38. Gujaria N, Kumar Ashish, Dauthal P, Dubey A, Hiremath P, Bhanu Prakash A, Farmer A, Bhide M, Shah T, 

Gaur PM, Upadhyaya HD, Bhatia S, Cook DR, May GD and Varshney RK (2011) Development and use of 

genic molecular markers (GMMs) for construction of a transcript map of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). TAG 

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45. Jumbo M, Weldekidan T, Holland JB and Hawk JA (2011) Comparison of Conventional, Modified Single 

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57. Lincy SV, Chandrasekar A, Narayan MS, Sharma R, Thakur RP (2011) Natural occurrence of trichotheceneproducing 

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62. Mallikarjuna N, Senapathy S, Jadhav DR, Saxena KB, Sharma HC, Upadhyaya HD, Rathore A and Varshney 

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64. Mapanda F, Wuta M, Nyamangara J and Rees RM (2011) Effects of organic and mineral fertilizer nitrogen 

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65. Molina C, Zaman‐Allah M, Khan F, Fatnassi N, Horres R, Rotter B, Steinhauer D, Amenc L, Drevon JJ, Winter 

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66. Mourik TA Van, Stomph TJ and Murdoch AJ (2011) Purple witchweed (Striga hermonthica) germination 

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67. Muraya MM, de Villiers S, Parzies HK, Mutegi E, Sagnard F, Kanyenji BM, Kiambi D and Geiger HH (2011) 

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68. Muraya MM, Geiger HH, Sagnard F, Toure L, Traore PCS, Togola S, de Villiers S and Parzies HK (2012) 

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70. Neumann K, Kobiljsdki B, Deneiae S, Varshney RK and Borner A (2011) Genomeassociation mapping‐ a 

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71. Nyamadzawo G, Nyamugafata P, Wuta M and Nyamangara J (2011) Maize yields under coppicing and non 

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73. Padhi A and Ramu K (2011) Genomic evidence of intraspecific recombination in sugarcane mosaic virus. 

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74. Pande S, Sharma M, Gaur PM, Tripathi S, Kaur L, Basandrai A, Khan T, Gowda CLL and Siddique KHM (2011) 

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75. Pande S, Sharma M, Naga Mangla U, Ghosh R and Sundaresan G (2011) Phytophthora blight of Pigeonpea 

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77. Patel TL, Patel CL, Patel DD, Thanki JD, Patel PS and Jat RA (2011) Effect of weed and fertilizer 

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78. Pathak H, Byjesh K, Chakrabarti B and Aggarwal PK (2011) Potential and cost of carbon sequestration in 

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80. Prasad VL, Bezkorowajnyj PG, Nigam SN, Hanson J and Romney D (2011) Multiple actor orientation: a case 

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81. Quincke MC, Peterson CJ, Zemetra RS, Hansen JL, Chen J, Riera‐Lizarazu O and Mundt CC (2011) 

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82. Rao AVRK and Wani SP (2011) Evapotranspiration paradox at a semi‐arid location in India. Journal of 

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83. Rao KPC, Ndegwa WG, Kizito K and Oyoo A (2011) Climate Variability and Change: Farmer Perceptions and 

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84. Ratnakumar P and Vadez V (2011) Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) genotypes tolerant to intermittent 

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99. Saxena KB, Sultana R,Saxena RK, Kumar RV, Sandhu JS,Rathore A, Kavi Kishor PB and Varshney RK (2011) 

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101. Schipmann C and Qaim M (2011) Modern Food Retailers and Traditional Markets in Developing Countries: 

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102. Schipmann C and Qaim M (2011) Supply chain differentiation, contract agriculture, and farmers’ 

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103. Sefera T, Abebie B, Gaur PM, Assefa Kand Varshney RK (2011) Characterisation and genetic diversity 

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104. Sharma R, Rao VP, Senthilvel S, Rajput SC and Thakur RP (2011) Virulence Diversity in North Indian Isolates 

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106. Simtowe F and Kinkingninhoun‐Medagbe FM (2011) The impact of HIV/AIDS on labor markets, 

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107. Singh BU, Rao KV and Sharma HC (2011) Comparison of selection indices to identify sorghum genotypes 

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108. Singh BU, Sharma HC and Rao KV (2011) Mechanisms and genetic diversity for host plant resistance to 

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109. Sivakumar Ch, Sharma HC and Laxminarsu M (2011) Leaf surface chemistry of sorghum seedlings 

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110. Sridhar Kumar Ch, Ranga Rao GV, Sireesha K and Kumar PL (2011) Isolation and Characterization of 

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111. Srinivasa Rao Ch, Pavani Kumari M, Wani SP and Marimuthu S (2011) Occurrence of black rot in Jatropha 

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112. Srinivasa Rao P, Reddy PS, Rathore A, Reddy BVS and Panwar S (2011) Application GGE biplot and AMMI 

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113. Sudini H, Arias CR, Liles MR, Bowen KL and Huettel RN (2011) Comparison of Soil Fungal Community 

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115. Sujay V, Gowda MVC, Pandey MK, Bhat RS, Khedikar YP, Nadaf HL, Gautami B, Sarvamangala C, Lingaraju 

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118. Suri VK, Choudhary Anil K, Chander Girish and Verma TS (2011) Influence of Vesicular Arbuscular 

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121. Thudi M, Bohra A, Nayak SN, Varghese N, Shah TM, Penmetsa RV, Thirunavukkarasu N, Gudipati S, Gaur 

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122. Tuberosa R, Graner A and Varshney RK (2011) Genomics of plant genetic resources: an introduction. Plant 

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123. Uchino H, Watanabe T, Ramu K, Sahrawat KL and Wani SP (2011) Calibrating Chlorophyll meter (SPAD‐ 

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germplasm and developing a mini core collection for efficient use of foxtail millet genetic resources in crop 

improvement. Field Crops Research, 124. pp. 459‐467 http://oar.icrisat.org/947/ 

129. Upadhyaya HD, Ravishankar CR, Narasimhudu Y, Sarma NDRK, Singh SK, Varshney SK, Reddy VG,Singh 

Sube, Parzies HK, Dwivedi SL, Nadaf HL, Sahrawat KL and Gowda CLL (2011) Identification of trait‐specific 

germplasm and developing a mini core collection for efficient use of foxtail millet genetic resources in crop 

improvement. Field Crops Research, 124. pp. 459‐467 http://oar.icrisat.org/947/ 

130. Upadhyaya HD, Reddy KN, Pundir RPS, Singh Sube, Gowda CLL and Irshad Ahmed M (2011) Diversity and 

geographical gaps in Cajanus scarabaeoides (L.) Thou. germplasm conserved at the ICRISAT genebank. 

Plant Genetic Resources (First View Article). pp. 1‐12 http://oar.icrisat.org/1525/ 

131. Upadhyaya HD, Reddy KN, Sharma Shivali, Varshney RK, Bhattacharjee R, Singh Sube and Gowda CLL 

(2011) Pigeonpea composite collection and identification of germplasm for use in crop improvement 

programmes. Plant Genetic Resources, 9(1). pp. 97‐108 http://oar.icrisat.org/1212/ 

132. Upadhyaya HD, Sharma Shivali and Gowda CLL (2011) Major genes with additive effects for seed size in 

kabuli chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Journal of Genetics, 90 (3). pp. 479‐482 http://oar.icrisat.org/3845/ 

133. Upadhyaya HD, Sharma Shivali, Gowda CLL, Gopal Reddy V and Singh Sube (2011) Developing proso millet 

(Panicum miliaceum L.) core collection using geographic and morpho‐agronomic data. Crop & Pasture 

205

Science, 62. pp. 383‐389 http://oar.icrisat.org/101/ 

134. Upadhyaya HD, Sharma Shivali, Singh Sube and Singh Murari (2011) Inheritance of drought resistance 

related traits in two crosses of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Euphytica, 177 (1). pp. 55‐66 


135. Upadhyaya HD, Thudi M, Dronavalli N, Gujaria N, Singh Sube, Sharma Shivali and Varshney RK (2011) 

Genomic tools and germplasm diversity for chickpea improvement. Plant Genetic Resources: 

Characterization and Utilization, 9 (1). pp.45‐58 http://oar.icrisat.org/25/ 

136. Upadhyaya HD, Yadav D, Reddy KN, Gowda CLL and Singh Sube (2011) Development of Pearl Millet 

Minicore Collection for Enhanced Utilization of Germplasm. Crop Science, 51. pp. 217‐223 


137. Vadez V, Deshpande SP, Kholova J, Hammer GL, Borrell AK, Talwar HS and Hash CT (2011) Stay‐green QTLs 

effects on water extraction, transpiration efficiency and seed yield depend on recipient parent 

background. Functional Plant Biology, 38 (7). pp. 553‐566 http://oar.icrisat.org/613/ 

138. Vadez V, Krishnamurthy L, Hash CT, Upadhyaya HD and Borrell AK (2011) Yield, transpiration efficiency, 

and water‐use variations and their interrelationships in the sorghum reference collection. Crop and 

Pasture Science, 62 (8). pp. 645‐655 http://oar.icrisat.org/1537/ 

139. Vadez V, Krishnamurthy L, Thudi M, Anuradha C, Colmer TD, Turner NC, Siddique KHM, Gaur PM and 

Varshney RK (2011) Assessment of ICCV 2 × JG 62 chickpea progenies shows sensitivity of reproduction to 

salt stress and reveals QTLs for seed yield and yield components. Molecular Breeding. (In Press) 


140. Vadez V, Ratnakumar P, Gaur PM, Sharma HC, Pande S, Sharm M, Suresh P, Krishnamurthy L and Zaman 

MA and et al.(2011) Adaptation of grain legumes to climate change: a review. Agronomy for Sustainable 

Development, 32 (1). pp. 31‐44 http://oar.icrisat.org/5448/ 

141. Varshney RK, Bansal KC, Aggarwal PK, Datta SK and Craufurd PQ (2011) Agricultural biotechnology for crop 

improvement in a variable climate: hope or hype? Trends in Plant Science, 16 (7). pp. 363‐371 


142. Varshney RK, Chen W, Li Y, Bharti AK, Saxena RK, Schlueter JA, Donoghue MTA, Azam S, Fan G, Whaley 

AM, Farmer AD, Sheridan J, Iwata A, Tuteja R, Penmetsa RV, Wu W, Upadhyaya HD, Yang SP, Shah T, 

Saxena KB, Michael T, McCombie WR Yang B, Zhang G, Yang H, Wang J, Spillane C, Cook DR, May GD, Xu X 

and Jackson SA (2011) Draft genome sequence of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan), an orphan legume crop of 

resource‐poor farmers. Nature Biotechnology. pp. 1‐10 http://oar.icrisat.org/3886/ 

143. Velu G, Rai KN, Muralidharan V, Longvah T and Crossa J (2011) Gene effects and heterosis for grain iron 

and zinc density in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br). Euphytica, 180 (2). pp. 251‐259 


144. Venuprasad R, Aruna R and Nigam SN (2011) Inheritance of traits associated with seed size in groundnut 

(Arachis hypogaea L.). Euphytica, 181 (2). pp. 169‐177 http://oar.icrisat.org/2668/ 

145. Wang Y, Bible P, Loganantharaj R and Upadhyaya HD (2011) Identification of SSR markers associated with 

height using pool‐based genome‐wide association mapping in sorghum. Molecular Breeding. pp. 1‐14 


146. Wani SP, Dixin Yin, Li Zhong, Dar WD and Chander G (2011) Enhancing agricultural productivity and rural 

incomes through sustainable use of natural resources in the Semi Arid Tropics. Journal of the Science of 

Food and Agriculture. 10pp http://oar.icrisat.org/4794/ 

147. Wani, SP, Anantha KH, Sreedevi TK, Sudi R, Singh SN and D’Souza M (2011) Assessing the Environmental 

Benefits of Watershed Development: Evidence from the Indian Semi‐Arid Tropics. Journal of Sustainable 

Watershed Science and Management, 1 (1). pp. 10‐20 http://oar.icrisat.org/3924/ 

148. Wen W, Araus JL, Shah T, Cairns J, Mahuku G, Banziger M, Torres JL, Canchez C and Yan J (2011) Molecular 

Characterization of a Diverse Maize Inbred Line Collection and its Potential Utilization for Stress Tolerance 

Improvement. Crop Science, 51 (6). pp. 2569‐2581 http://oar.icrisat.org/5523/ 

149. Wen W, Taba S, Shah T, Chavez Tovar VH and Yan J (2011) Detection of genetic integrity of conserved 

maize (Zea mays L.) germplasm in genebanks using SNP markers. Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution 

58(2):189–207 http://oar.icrisat.org/231/ 

150. Whitworth JH, Novy RG, Stark JC, Pavek JJ, Corsini DI, Love SL, Olsen N, Gupta SK, Brandt T, Vales MI and 

et.al.. (2011) Alpine Russet: A Potato Cultivar Having Long Tuber Dormancy making it Suitable for 

Processing from Long‐term Storage. American Journal of Potato Research, 88 (3). pp. 256‐268 


206

151. Yadav OP and Rai KN (2011) Hybridization of Indian landraces and African elite composites of pearl millet 

results in biomass and stover yield improvement under arid zone conditions. Crop Science 51:1980‐1987 


152. Yadav RS, Sehgal D and Vadez V (2011) Using genetic mapping and genomics approaches in understanding 

and improving drought tolerance in pearl millet. Journal of Experimental Botany, 62 (2). pp. 397‐408 


153. Yang SY, Saxena RK, Kulwal P, Ash GJ, Dubey A, Harper JDI, Upadhyaya HD, Gothalwal R, Kilian A and 

Varshney RK (2011) The first genetic map of pigeon pea based on diversity arrays technology (DArT) 

markers. Journal of Genetics, 90 (1). pp. 103‐109 http://oar.icrisat.org/33/ 

154. Yang X, Xu Y, Shah T, LI H, Han Z, Li J and Yan J (2011) Comparison of SSRs and SNPs in assessment of 

genetic relatedness in maize. Genetica, 139 (8). 045‐1054 http://oar.icrisat.org/5524/ 

155. Yeh Sonia, Berndes G, Mishra GS, Wani SP, Neto AE, Suh S, Karlberg L, Heinke J and Garg KK (2011) 

Evaluation of water use for bioenergy at different scales. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining, 5 (4). pp. 


156. Zaman‐Allah M, Jenkinson DM and Vadez V (2011) A conservative pattern of water use, rather than deep 

or profuse rooting, is critical for the terminal drought tolerance of chickpea. Journal of Experimental 

Botany. http://oar.icrisat.org/36/ 

157. Zaman‐Allah M, Jenkinson DM and Vadez V (2011) Chickpea genotypes contrasting for seed yield under 

terminal drought stress in the field differ for traits related to the control of water use. Functional Plant 

Biology, 38 (4). pp. 270‐281 http://oar.icrisat.org/26/ 

Articles in Other Peer Reviewed Journals 

1. Asfaw S, Shiferaw B, Simtowe F and Hagos M (2011) Agricultural technology adoption, seed access 

constraints and commercialization in Ethiopia. Journal of Development and Agricultural Economics, 3 (9). 


2. Bhardwaj R, Sandhu JS, Varshney RK, Gaur PM, Kaur L and Vikal Y (2011) Synteny relationships among the 

linkage groups of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Journal of Food Legumes, 24 (2). pp. 91‐95 


3. Busenna P and Reddy AA (2011) Khadi & Village Industry: A Case Study of Khadi Institutions in India. 

Journal of Rural Development, 30 (3). p. 273 http://oar.icrisat.org/5416/ 

4. Cherukuri SC, Plaha P and Sharma R (2011) Evaluation of some cultivated Brassicas and their related alien 

species for disease resistance. Cruciferae Newsletter 30:18‐22 

5. Choudhary AK, Sultana R, Pratap A, Nadarajan N and Jha UC (2011) Breeding for abiotic stresses in 

pigeonpea. Journal of Food Legumes, 24 (3). pp. 165‐174 http://oar.icrisat.org/1535/ 

6. Dalal RC, Wong VNL and Sahrawat KL (2011) Salinity and sodicity affect organic carbon dynamics in soil. In: 

Salt‐affected soils. Bulletin of the Indian Society of Soil Science, (28). pp. 95‐117 http://oar.icrisat.org/5356/ 

7. Divakara BN, Upadhyaya HD and Krishnamurthy R (2011) Identification and evaluation of diverse 

genotypes in Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre. for genetic improvement in seed traits. Journal of Biodiversity 

and Ecological Sciences, 1 (3). pp. 179‐190 http://oar.icrisat.org/4069/ 

8. Gokhale DN, Shinde VS, Gadade GD, Sawargaonkar GL and Zade KK (2011) Sustaining rainfed Bt Cotton 

(Gossypium hirsutum L.) productivity through moisture conservation and integrated nutrient management 

techniques. Journal of cotton research and development. 25(2): 197‐201 http://oar.icrisat.org/5689/ 

9. Gonzales FR, Mula MG, Mula RP, Gaur PM and Rathore A (2011) Growth and yield response of chickpea 

(Cicer arietinum L.) to frequency of irrigation under Philippine condition. Green Farming, 2 (3). pp. 253‐256 


10. Harish BG, Nagaraj N, Chandrakanth MG, Srikantha Murthy PS, Chengappa PG and Basavaraj G (2011) 

Impacts and Implications of MGNREGA on Labour Supply and Income Generation for Agriculture in Central 

Dry Zone of Karnataka. Agricultural Economics Research Review, 24. pp. 485‐494 


11. Huda S, Sadras V, Wani SP and Mei X (2011) Food Security and Climate Change in the Asia‐Pacific Region: 

Evaluating Mismatch between Crop Development and Water Availability. International Journal of Bioresource 

and Stress Management, 2(2). pp. 137‐144 http://oar.icrisat.org/71/ 

12. Jat RA, Wani SP, Sahrawat KL, Singh P and Dhaka, PL (2011) Fertigation in Vegetable Crops for Higher 

Productivity and Resource Use Efficiency. Indian Journal of Fertilizers, 7 (3). pp. 22‐37 


207

13. Jorge MA, Claessens G, Hanson J, Dulloo ME, Goldberg E, Thormann I, Dumet D, Roux N, Rudebjer P, 

Hamilton RS, Sanchez I, Sharma S, Taba S, Upadhyaya HD, Houwe, VD (2011) Knowledge Sharing on Best 

Practices for Managing Crop Genebanks. Agricultural Information Worldwide, 3 (2). pp. 101‐106 


14. Kumar KVK, Reddy MS, Yellareddygari SK, Kloepper JW, Lawrence KS, Zhou XG, Sudini H and Miller ME 

(2011) Evaluation and Selection Of Elite Plant Growth‐Promoting Rhizobacteria For Suppression Of Sheath 

Blight Of Rice Caused By Rhizoctonia Solani In A Detached Leaf Bio‐Assay. International Journal of Applied 

Biology and Pharmaceutical Technology, 2 (1). pp. 488‐495 http://oar.icrisat.org/5237/ 

15. Kumar S, Reddy KHP, Srinivasa Rao P, Sanjana Reddy P and Reddy BVS (2011) Study of gene effects for 

stalk sugar yield and its component traits in sweet sorghum [sorghum bicolor (l.) moench] using 

generation mean analysis. Journal of Rangeland Science, 1 (2). pp. 133‐142 http://oar.icrisat.org/5516/ 

16. Kyu KL and Saxena KB (2011) Inheritance of fertility restoration in pigeonpea. Journal of Food Legumes, 24 


17. Kyu KL, Saxena KB, Kumar RV and Rathore A (2011) Prospects of hybrids in enhancing production and 

productivity of pigeonpea in Myanmar. Journal of Food Legumes, 24 (1). pp. 1‐7 


18. Li Z, Liang N, Hong M, Saxena KB, Liu X and Zong X (2011) Insect Pollinators in CGMS Hybrid Seed 

Production of Cajanus cajan. Acta Agronomica Sinica, 37 (12). pp. 2187‐2193 http://oar.icrisat.org/5269/ 

19. Livinder K, Pande S, Sandhu JS, Gaur PM, Sharma M and Gowda CLL (2011) Characterization of chickpea 

lines for resistance to Ascochyta blight. Journal of Food Legumes, 24 (4). pp. 310‐312 http://oar.icrisat.org/5039/ 

20. Mula MG, Saxena KB, Rathore A and Kumar RV (2011) Influence of spacing and irrigation on seed 

production of medium‐duration pigeonpea hybrid. Green Farming, 2 (1). pp. 24‐26 


21. Nagaraj N, Pradhani Umesh, Chengappa PG, Basavaraj G and Kanwar Ramesh (2011) Cost Effectiveness of 

Rainwater Harvesting for Groundwater Recharge in Micro‐Watersheds of Kolar District of India: The Case 

Study of Thotli Micro‐Watershed. Agricultural Economics Research Review, 24 http://oar.icrisat.org/5447/ 

22. Parameshwarappa SG, Salimath PM, Upadhyaya HD, Patil SS and Kajjidoni ST (2011) Genetic Variability 

Studies in Minicore Collections of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Different Environments. Indian 

Journal of Plant Genetic Resources, 24 (1). pp. 43‐48 http://oar.icrisat.org/4095/ 

23. Pathak P, Wani SP and Sudi R (2011) Long‐term effects of management systems on crop yield and soil 

physical properties of semi‐arid tropics of Vertisols. Agricultural Sciences, 2 (4). 435‐442 


24. Prasad K, Bhatnagar‐Mathur P, Narasu ML, Waliyar F and Sharma KK (2011) transgenic approaches for 

improving fungal disease resistance in groundnut. Technology Spectrum, 5 (1). pp. 1‐10 


25. Ratnakumar P, Vadez V, Krishnamurthy L and Rajendrudu G (2011) Semi‐arid Crop Responses to 

Atmospheric Elevated CO2. Plant Stress (Special Issue1). pp. 42‐51 http://oar.icrisat.org/5363/ 

26. Reddy AA (2011) Disparities in Employment and Income in Rural Andhra Pradesh, India. Bangladesh 

Development Studies, 34 (3). pp. 73‐96 http://oar.icrisat.org/5458/ 

27. Reddy AA (2011) Dynamics of the agricultural economy of Andhra Pradesh, India since the last five 

decades. Journal of Development and Agricultural Economics, 3 (8). pp. 394‐410. 


28. Reddy AA and Reddy GP (2011) Integration of wholesale prices of groundnut complex. Indian Journal of 

Agricultural Marketing, 25 (2). pp. 89‐108 http://oar.icrisat.org/5364/ 

29. Sawargaonkar SL, Madrap IA and Saxena KB (2011) Study of inheritance of fertility restoration in 

pigeonpea lines derived from Cajanus cajanifolious. Green Farming, 2 (5). pp. 510‐512 


30. Sawargaonkar SL, Madrap IA, Ismail S and Saxena KB (2011) Quality analysis of CMS‐based pigeonpea 

hybrids. Green Farming, 2 (3). pp. 257‐261 http://oar.icrisat.org/3768/ 

31. Sawargaonkar SL, Saxena KB, Madrap IA and Rathore A (2011) Stability analysis of yield and related traits 

in pigeonpea hybrids. Journal of Food Legumes, 24 (3). pp. 184‐193 http://oar.icrisat.org/1533/ 

32. Saxena KB, Kumar RV, Chintapalli PL, Sharma KK and Mallikarjuna N (2011) Evaluation of somaclones 

derived from in‐vitro culture induced somatic tissues in pigeonpea. Journal of Food Legumes, 24 (3). pp. 


33. Saxena KB, Singh G, Gupta HS, Mahajan V, Kumar RV, Singh B, Vales MI and Sultana R (2011) Enhancing 

the livelihoods of Uttarakhand farmers by introducing pigeonpea cultivation in hilly areas. Journal of Food 

208

Legumes, 24 (2). pp. 128‐132 http://oar.icrisat.org/99/ 

34. Saxena MK, Saxena U, Saxena KB, Khandalkar VS and Sultana AR (2011) Profitability and production cost of 

hybrid pigeonpea seed. Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding, 2 (3). pp. 409‐412 http://oar.icrisat.org/3885/ 

35. Sibanda N, Nyamangara J and Rurinda J (2010) Effect of septic tank effluent on ground water quality in 

Bellevue and Matshamphlope suburbs in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Midlands Status University Journal of 

Science, Agriculture and Technology, 2, 34‐46. (Published in 2011) 

36. Simtowe F, Kassie M, Diagne A, Silim S, Muange E, Asfaw S and Shiferaw B (2011) Determinants of 

Agricultural Technology adoption: the Case of Improved Pigeonpea Varieties in Tanzania. Quarterly Journal 

of International Agriculture, 50 (4). pp. 325‐345 http://oar.icrisat.org/4579/ 

37. Singh NP, Singh RP, Kumar R, Padaria RN, Singh A and Varghese N (2011) Labour Migration in Indo‐ 

Gangetic Plains: Determinants and Impacts on Socio‐economic Welfare. Agricultural Economics Research 

Review, 24. pp. 449‐458 http://oar.icrisat.org/2407/ 

38. Singh NP, Singh RP, Kumar R, Vashist AK, Khan F and Varghese N (2011) Adoption of resource conservation 

technologies in indo‐gangetic plains of India: scouting for profitability and efficiency. Agricultural 

Economics Research Review, 24 (1). pp. 15‐24 http://oar.icrisat.org/5413/ 

39. Tenyw MM, Rao KPC, Buruchara R, Kashaija I, Majaliwa JD, Tukahirwa JB, Adekunle AA, Fatunbi AO, 

Mugabe J, Wanjiku C, Mutabazi S, Pali P, Mapatano S, Lunze L, Mugabo J and Ngaboyisonga C (2011) 

Institutional Innovations for Building Impact‐oriented Agricultural Research, Knowledge and Development 

Institutions. Learning Publics Journal of Agriculture and Environmental Studies, 2(1). pp. 24‐55 


Books coedited 

1. Wani SP and Rockstroma J (2011) Watershed development as a growth engine for sustainable 

development of rainfed areas. In: Integrated Watershed Management in Rainfed Agriculture. CRC Press 

(Taylor & Francis), London, UK, pp. 35‐52 http://oar.icrisat.org/3566/ 

2. Wani SP, Rao K and Garg KK (2011) Use of High Science Tools in Integrated Watershed Management. 

Proceedings of the National Symposium, 1–2 Feb 2010. Other. International Crops Research Institute for 

the Semi‐ Arid Tropics for the Semi‐Arid Tropics http://oar.icrisat.org/224/ 

Invited Book Chapters 

1. Ayoubi S, Shahri AP, Karchegani PK and Sahrawat KL (2011) Application of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) 

to Predict Soil Organic Matter Using Remote Sensing Data in Two Ecosystems. In: Biomass and Remote 

Sensing of Biomass. InTech Open Access, InTechWeb.org, pp. 181‐196 http://oar.icrisat.org/3992/ 

2. Bhatnagar M, Bhatnagar‐Mathur P, Reddy DS, Anjaiah V and Sharma KK (2011) Crop biofortification 

through genetic engineering: present status and future directions. In: Genomics and Crop Improvement: 

Relevance and Reservations. Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University, Hyderabad 500 030 India, pp. 392‐ 


3. Birthal PS and Parthasarathy Rao P (2011) Changing Agricultural Scenario: Institutional Innovations for 

Linking Small Farmers to Markets. In Agrarian Distress in India. BC Barah and Smitha Sirohi eds. National 

Center for Agricultural Economics and Policy Research. New Delhi, Concept 

4. Burstin J, Gallardo K, Mir RR, Varshney RK and Duc G (2011) Improving protein content and nutrition 

quality. In: Biology and Breeding of Food Legumes. CAB International, Wallingford, UK, pp. 314‐328 


5. Chamarthi SK, Kumar A, Vuong TO, Blair MW, Gaur PM, Nguyen HT and Varshney RK (2011) Trait mapping 

and molecular breeding. In: Biology and breeding of food legumes. CAB International, Wallingford, UK, pp. 


6. Chen W and Sharma HC (2011) Diseases and insect pests of chickpea and lentil. In: Compendium of 

Chickpea and Lentil Diseases and Pests. The American Phytopathological Society, St Paul, Minnesota, USA, 

p. 5 http://oar.icrisat.org/5480/ 

7. Craufurd PQ, Jagadish SVK and Padgham J (2011) Impacts of climate change on rainfed agriculture and 

adaptation strategies to improve livelihoods. In: Integrated Watershed Management in Rainfed 

Agriculture. CRC Press (Taylor & Francis), London, UK, pp. 421‐440 http://oar.icrisat.org/3574/ 

8. Dalohoun DN, Van Mele P, Weltzien E, Diallo D, Guinda H and Vom Brocke K (2011) Mali: When 

government gives entrepreneurs room to grow. In: African Seed Enterprises: Sowing the Seeds of Food 

Security. CAB International, Wallingford, UK, pp. 65‐88 http://oar.icrisat.org/5525/ 

209

9. Fakrudin B, Tuberosa R and Varshney RK (2012) Omics techniques in crop research: an overview. In: 

Improving Crop Resistance to Abiotic Stress. Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, pp. 289‐300 


10. Fatondji D, Martius C, Vlek PLG, Bielders CL and Bationo A (2011) Effect of Zai Soil and Water Conservation 

Technique on Water Balance and the Fate of Nitrate from Organic Amendments Applied: A Case of 

Degraded Crusted Soils in Niger. In: Innovations as Key to the Green Revolution in Africa. Springer, 

Netherlands, pp. 1125‐1135 http://oar.icrisat.org/5432/ 

11. Fatondji D, Pasternak D, Nikiema A, Senbeto D, Woltering L, Ndjeunga J and Abdoussalam S (2011) The 

Dryland Eco‐Farm: A Potential Solution to the Main Constraints of Rain‐Fed Agriculture in the Semi‐Arid 

Tropics of Africa. In: Innovations as Key to the Green Revolution in Africa. Springer Netherlands, 

Netherlands, pp. 1115‐1123 http://oar.icrisat.org/5495/ 

12. Gowda CLL, Saxena KB, Srivastava RK, Upadhyaya HD and Silim SN (2012) Pigeonpea: From an Orphan to A 

Leader in Food Legumes. In: Biodiversity in Agriculture: Domestication, Evolution, and Sustainability. 

Cambridge University Press, New York, USA, pp. 362‐373 http://oar.icrisat.org/5521/ 

13. Krishnamurthy L, Zaman‐Allah M, Purushothaman R, Irshad Ahmed M and Vadez V (2011) Plant Biomass 

Productivity under Abiotic Stresses in SAT Agriculture. In: Biomass ‐ Detection, Production and Usage. 

InTech, pp. 247‐264 http://oar.icrisat.org/1312/ 

14. Kynast R and Riera‐Lizarazu O (2011) Development and use of oat‐maize chromosome additions and 

radiation hybrids. Pages 259‐284 in: (JA Birchler Ed.), Plant Chromosome Engineering: Methods and 

Protocols. Methods in Molecular Biology. p. 259‐284. Volume 701. Humana Press, New York, USA 

15. Mallikarjuna N and Muehlbauer FJ (2011) Chickpea Hybridization Using In Vitro Techniques. In: Plant 

Embryo Culture: Methods and Protocols. Methods in Molecular Biology, vol. 710. Springer, Germany, pp. 


16. Mallikarjuna N, Coyne C, Cho S, Rynearson S, Rajesh PN, Jadhav DR and Muehlbauer FJ (2011) Cicer. In: 

Wild Crop Relatives: Genomic and Breeding Resources, Legume Crops and Forages. Springer, Germany, pp. 


17. Mallikarjuna N, Saxena KB and Jadhav DR (2011) Cajanus. In: Wild Crop Relatives: Genomic and breeding 

resources Legume Crops and Forages. Springer, Germany, pp. 21‐34 http://oar.icrisat.org/28/ 

18. Masvaya EN, Nyamangara J, Nyawasha RW, Zingore S, Delve RJ and Giller KE (2011) Effect of farmer 

resource endowment and management strategies on spatial variability of soil fertility in contrasting agroecological 

zones in Zimbabwe. In: Batiano A, Waswa B, Okeyo J and Maina F (Eds.) Innovations as key to 

the green revolution in Africa. Springer Science+Business Media B.V 

19. Musharo C and Nyamangara J (2011) Effect of Al concentration and liming acid soils on the growth of 

selected maize cultivars grown on sandy soils in Southern Africa. In: Batiano A, Waswa B, Okeyo J and 

Maina F (Eds.) Innovations as key to the green revolution in Africa. Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 

20. Naik MK and Sudini H (2011) Aflatoxin contamination of food commodities and their management. In: 

Plant Pathology in India: Vision 2030. Indian Phytopathological Society, New Delhi, pp. 1‐291 


21. Nyagumbo I, Nyamangara J, and Rurinda J (2011) Scaling out integrated soil nutrient and water 

management technologies through farmer participatory research: Experiences from semi‐arid central 

Zimbabwe In: Batiano A, Waswa B, Okeyo J and Maina F (Eds.) Innovations as key to the green revolution 

in Africa. Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 

22. Nyamangara J and Nyagumbo I (2011) Interactive effects of selected nutrient resources and tied‐ridging 

on plant performance in a semi‐arid smallholder farming environment in central Zimbabwe. In: Batiano A, 

Waswa B, Okeyo J and Maina F (Eds.) Innovations as key to the green revolution in Africa. Springer 

Science+Business Media B.V. 

23. Palanisami K, Shiferaw Bekele, Joshi PK, Nedumaran S and Wani SP (2011) Impact of watershed projects in 

India: Application of various approaches and methods. In: Integrated Watershed Management in Rainfed 

Agriculture. CRC Press, Netherlands, pp. 349‐390 http://oar.icrisat.org/3573/ 

24. Pande S and Sharma M (2011) Climate change and changing scenario of plant diseases in semi arid tropics. 

In: Plant Pathology in India: Vision 2030. Indian Phytopathological Society, New Delhi, pp. 128‐131 


25. Pande S, Sharma M and Rao JN (2011) Botrytis gray mold of chickpea. In: Compendium of Chickpea and 

Lentil Diseases and Pests. The American Phytopathological Society, St Paul, Minnesota, USA, pp. 42‐45 


210

26. Pathak P, Mishra PK, Wani SP and Sudi R (2011) Soil and water conservation for optimizing productivity 

and improving livelihoods in rainfed areas. In: Integrated Watershed Management in Rainfed Agriculture. 

CRC Press (Taylor & Francis), London, UK, pp. 205‐248 http://oar.icrisat.org/3570/ 

27. Raju KV, Anantha KH and Wani SP (2011) Policies and institutions for increasing benefits of integrated 

watershed management programs. In: Integrated Watershed Management in Rainfed Agriculture. CRC 

Press (Taylor & Francis), London, UK, pp. 129‐158 http://oar.icrisat.org/3568/ 

28. Ranga Rao GV (2011) Thrips. In: Compendium of Chickpea and Lentil Diseases and Pests. The American 

Phytopathological Society, Minnesota, USA, pp. 124‐125 http://oar.icrisat.org/5467/ 

29. Reddy BVS, Ashok Kumar A, Ramesh S and Sanjana Reddy P (2011) Sorghum genetic enhancement for 

climatic change adaptation. Pages 326‐399 in Crop Adaptation to Climate Change (Eds: Shyam S Yadav, 

Robert Redden, Jerry L. Hatfield Herman Lotze‐Campen and Antony Hall) Wiley‐Blackwell (a unit of John 

Wiley & Sons), UK 

30. Reddy BVS, Layaoen H, Dar WD, Srinivasa Rao P and Eusebio JE (2011) Sweet Sorghum in the Philippines: 

Status and Future. Documentation. International Crops Research Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics 


31. Reddy DS, Bhatnagar‐Mathur P, Vadez V and Sharma KK (2012) Grain Legumes (Soybean, Chickpea, and 

Peanut): Omics Approaches to Enhance Abiotic Stress Tolerance. In: Improving Crop Resistance to Abiotic 

Stress. Wiley‐VCH Verlag, Singapore http://oar.icrisat.org/5300/ 

32. Sahrawat KL, Wani SP, Rao AS and Pardhasaradhi G (2011) Management of emerging multinutrient 

deficiencies:A prerequisite for sustainable enhancement of rainfed agricultural productivity. In: Integrated 

Watershed Management in Rainfed Agriculture. CRC Press (Taylor & Francis), London, UK, pp. 281‐313 


33. Sharma HC, Dhillon MK and El Bouhssini M (2011) Pest management in lentil. In: Compendium of Chickpea 

and Lentil Diseases and Pests. The American Phytopathological Society, St Paul, Minnesota, USA, pp. 152‐ 


34. Sharma HC, Dhillon MK and Romeis J (2011) Black aphid. In: Compendium of Chickpea and Lentil Diseases 

and Pests. The American Phytopathological Society, St Paul, Minnesota, USA, pp. 101‐103 

http://oar.icrisat.org/5470 

35. Sharma HC, Gowda CLL, Ranga Rao GV, Dhillon MK and El Bouhssini M (2011) Pest management in 

chickpea. In: Compendium of Chickpea and Lentil Diseases and Pests. The American Phytopathological 

Society, St Paul, Minnesota, USA, pp. 150‐152 http://oar.icrisat.org/5479/ 

36. Sharma HC, Ridsdill‐Smith TJ and Clement SL (2011) Pod borers. In: Compendium of Chickpea and Lentil 

Diseases and Pests. The American Phytopathological Society, St Paul, Minnesota, USA, pp. 121‐124 


37. Singh NP, Bantilan MCS, Kumar AA, Janila P and Hassan AWR (2011) Climate Change Impact in Agriculture: 

Vulnerability and Adaptation Concerns of Semiarid Tropics in Asia. In: Crop Adaptation to Climate Change. 

John Wiley & Sons, Inc, New Jersey, USA, pp. 107‐130 http://oar.icrisat.org/5526/ 

38. Singh P, Wani SP, Pathak P, Sahrawat KL and Singh AK (2011) Increasing crop productivity and water use 

efficiency in rainfed agriculture. In: Integrated Watershed Management in Rainfed Agriculture. CRC Press 


39. Singh P, Wani SP, Pathak P, Sahrawat KL and Singh AK (2011) Increasing crop productivity and water use 

efficiency in rainfed agriculture. In: Integrated Watershed Management in Rainfed Agriculture. CRC Press 


40. Srivastava CP and Sharma HC (2011) Lima bean pod borer. In: Compendium of Chickpea and Lentil 

Diseases and Pests. The American Phytopathological Society, St Paul, Minnesota, USA, 114‐115 


41. Tabo R, Bationo A, Amadou B, Marshal D, Lompo F, Gandah M, Hassane O, Diallo MK, Ndjeunga J, Fatondji 

D, Gerards B, Sogodogo D, Taonda JBS, Sako K, Boubacar S and Abdou A (2011) Microdosing and 

Warrantage or Inventory credit to improve food security and farmers’ income in West Africa. A Bationo et 

al. (eds.), Innovations as Key to the Green Revolution in Africa, 1115 c Springer Science + Business Media 

B.V. 2011. Vol. 1; p. 113 – 122 

42. Upadhyaya HD, Sharma Shivali and Dwivedi SL (2011) Arachis. In: Wild Crop Relatives: Genomic and 

Breeding Resources Legume Crops and Forages. Springer Berlin Heidelberg, Berlin, Heidelberg, Germany, 


43. Vadez V, Kholova J, Choudhary S, Paul Z, Terrier M, Krishnamurthy L, Ratna Kumar P and Turner NC (2011) 

Responses to Increased Moisture Stress and Extremes: Whole Plant Response to Drought under Climate 

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44. Varshney RK, Pazhamala L, Kashiwagi J, Gaur PM, Krishnamurthy L and Hoisington D (2011) Genomics and 

Physiological Approaches for Root Trait Breeding to Improve Drought Tolerance in Chickpea (Cicer 

arietinum L.). In: Root Genomics. Springer, Germany, pp. 233‐250 http://oar.icrisat.org/17/ 

45. Vijay Krishna Kumar K, Reddy MS, Kloepper JW, Lawrence KS, Zhou XG, Groth DE, Lawrence Ks, Zhou XG, 

Groth DE, Zhang S, Sudhakara Rao R, Qi Wang, Raju MRB, Krishnam Raju S, Dilantha Fernando WG, Sudini 

H, Du B, and Miller ME (2011) Commercial Potential of Microbial Inoculants for Sheath Blight Management 

and Yield Enhancement of Rice. In: Bacteria in Agrobiology: Crop Ecosystems. Springer Berlin Heidelberg 


46. Wani SP and Rockstroma J (2011) Watershed development as a growth engine for sustainable 

development of rainfed areas. In: Integrated Watershed Management in Rainfed Agriculture. CRC Press 


47. Wani SP and Roy PS, Rao AVRK, Barron J, Ramachandran K and Balaji V (2011) Application of new science 

tools in integrated watershed management for enhancing impacts. In: Integrated Watershed Management 

in Rainfed Agriculture. CRC Press (Taylor & Francis), London, UK, pp. 159‐204 http://oar.icrisat.org/3569/ 

48. Wani SP, Rockstroma J and Venkateswarlu B (2012) New Paradigm to Unlock the Potential of Rainfed 

Agriculture in the Semiarid Tropics. In: World Soil Resources and Food Security. CRC Press, Boca Raton, 

Florida, pp. 419‐469 http://oar.icrisat.org/5510 

49. Wani SP, Venkateswarlu B and Sharda VN (2011) Watershed development for rainfed areas: Concept, 

principles, and approaches. In: Integrated Watershed Management in Rainfed Agriculture. CRC Press 


Monographs 

1. Birthal PS, Nigam SN, Narayanan A and Kareem, K A (2011) An Economic Assessment of the Potential 

Benefits of Breeding for Drought Tolerance in Crops: A Case of Groundnut in India. Research Report. 

International Crops Research Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics. http://oar.icrisat.org/285/ 

2. Layaoen H, Reddy BVS, Eusebio Je, Srinivasa Rao P and Dar WD (2011) Sweet sorghum research in The 

Philippines. Pages 25‐64 in Sweet Sorghum in the Philippines: Status and Future International Crops 

Research Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics. 116 pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/230/ 

3. Layaoen H, Srinivasa Rao P, Reddy BVS, Eusebio Je and Dar WD (2011) Capacity building. Pages 65‐72 in 

Sweet Sorghum in the Philippines: Status and Future International Crops Research Institute for the Semi‐ 

Arid Tropics. 116 pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/230/ 

4. Layaoen H, Srinivasa Rao P, Reddy BVS, Eusebio Je and Dar WD (2011) Commercialization and marketing. 

Pages 73‐81 in Sweet Sorghum in the Philippines: Status and Future International Crops Research Institute 

for the Semi‐Arid Tropics. 116 pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/230/ 

5. Mazvimavi K (2011) Coordinating and Advocating for Conservation Agriculture Policies in Southern Africa. 

Technical Report. UNKNOWN. http://oar.icrisat.org/5519/ 

6. Mula MG, Gonzales FR, Mula RP, Gaur PM, Gonzales IC, Dar WD, Eusebio JE and Ilao SSL (2011) Chickpea 

(Garbanzos): An emerging crop for the rainfed and dryland areas of the Philippines. Information Bulletin 

No. 88. Technical Report. International Crops Research Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics, Patancheru, 

Andhra Pradesh, India http://oar.icrisat.org/223/ 

7. Reddy BVS, Layaoen H, Srinivasa Rao P and Dar WD (2011) The Philippines and ICRISAT. Pages 12‐24 in 

Sweet Sorghum in the Philippines: Status and Future International Crops Research Institute for the Semi‐ 

Arid Tropics. 116 pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/230/ 

8. Schipmann C and Qaim M (2011) Modern food retailers and traditional markets in developing countries: 

Comparing quality, prices, and competition strategies in Thailand. Global Food Discussion Papers No. 2. 

Discussion Paper. Georg‐August‐University of Gottingen, Gottingen, Germany http://oar.icrisat.org/4589/ 

9. Schipmann C and Qaim M (2011) Supply chain differentiation, contract agriculture, and farmers’ 

marketing preferences: the case of sweet pepper in Thailand Global Food Discussion Papers No.3. 

Discussion Paper. Georg‐August‐University of Gottingen, Gottingen, Germany http://oar.icrisat.org/446/ 

10. Srinivasa Rao P, Layaoen H, Reddy BVS, EUSEBIO JE and Dar WD (2011) Lessons learned, major challenges 

and the way forward. Pages 82‐88 in Sweet Sorghum in the Philippines: Status and International Crops 

Research Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics. 116 pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/230/ 

11. Srinivasa Rao P, Reddy BVS, Layaoen H, Eusebio Je, and Dar WD (2011) Status and commercialization of 

sweet sorghum in other Asian countries. Pages 89‐93 in Sweet Sorghum in the Philippines: Status and 

Future International Crops Research Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics. 116 pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/230/ 

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12. Srinivasa Rao P, Reddy BVS, Patil JV, Umakanth AV, Rao SS and Tonapi VA (2011) CSH 22SS – an improved 

sweet sorghum hybrid. Project Report. ICRISAT (Patancheru). http://oar.icrisat.org/5531/ 

13. Thakur RP, Sharma R and Rao VP (2011) Screening Techniques for Pearl Millet Diseases. Information 

Bulletin No. 89. Technical Report. Patancheru, Andhra Pradesh, India, International Crops Research 

Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics http://oar.icrisat.org/5527/ 

14. Upadhyaya HD (2011) Conserving and using plant diversity. SATrend, ICRISAT, Patancheru, Andhra 

Pradesh, India http://oar.icrisat.org/5493/ 

15. Upadhyaya HD (2011) Search for the sorghum stoic. SATrend, ICRISAT, Patancheru, Andhra Pradesh, India 


16. Yadav OP, Rai KN, Khairwal IS, Rajpurohit BS, and Mahala RS (2011) Breeding pearl millet for arid zone of 

north‐western India: constraints, opportunities and approaches. All India Coordinated Pearl Millet 

Improvement Project, Jodhpur, India. 28 pp. 

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1. Alekhya Gottumukkala and Gopalakrishnan S (2011) Isolation and characterization of secondary 

metabolites of actinomycetes against plant pathogens of chickpea and sorghum. In: 64th IPS Annual 

Meeting and National Symposium, 2‐4 December, 2011, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 


2. Alene Arega, Yigezu Yigezu, Ndjeunga Jupiter, Labarta Ricardo, Andrade Robert, Diagne Aliou, Muthoni 

Rachel, Simtowe Franklin and Walker Tom (2011) Measuring the effectiveness of agricultural R&D in Sub‐ 

Saharan Africa from the perspectives of varietal output and adoption. In: ASTI, IFPRI and FARA Conference, 

December 5‐7 2011, Ghana http://oar.icrisat.org/5450/ 

3. Bantilan MCS, Deb U and Anupama GV (2011) Rural livelihoods and poverty in SAT India: findings from 

longitudinal household surveys 1975‐2010. Paper presented at the 7th Asian Society of Agricultural 

Economics Conference, held during 12‐13 October 2011 in Hanoi, Vietnam 

4. Basavaraj G, Parthasarathy Rao P, Ravinder Reddy Ch, Ashok Kumar, Srinivasa Rao and Reddy BVS (2011) 

Public Private Partnership: A case of Sweet Sorghum‐Ethanol Value Chain, 25th Annual Conference, Indian 

Society of Agricultural Marketing, 22‐24, November, 2011 

5. Boomiraj K, Wani SP and Agrawal PK (2011) Impact of Climate Change on Dryland Sorghum in India. In: 

Use of High Science Tools in Integrated Watershed Management Proceedings of the National Symposium, 

1–2 February 2010, NASC Complex, New Delhi, India http://oar.icrisat.org/3565 

6. Deepthi K, Humayun P, Srinivas V, Simi J, Sreevidya M, Alekhya G and Gopalakrishnan S (2011) Evaluation 

of antagonistic and plant growth promoting properties of actinomycetes isolated from herbal 

vermicompost. In: 64th IPS Annual Meeting and National Symposium, 2‐4 December, 2011, University of 

Hyderabad, Hyderabad http://oar.icrisat.org/5473/ 

7. Dunjana N, Nyamugafata P, Nyamangara J and Zingore S (2011) Effects of soil fertility management on 

crop water productivity, soil physical properties and crop yields in Murewa, Zimbabwe. 10th African Crop 

Science Society Conference, 10‐13th October 2011, Maputo, Mozambique, pp. 131 

8. Ganesh Kumar C, Afroze Fatima, Srinivasa Rao P, Reddy BVS, Rathore A, Nageswar Rao R, Sara Khalid, 

Kumar AA and Ahmed Kamal (2011) Characterization of improved sweet sorghum genotypes for 

biochemical parameters, sugar yield and its attributes at different phenological stages. Pages:79‐80. In 

Proceedings of International Conference on recent trends in renewable energy resources Jan 28‐30, 2011 

IICT, Hyderabad 107pp http://oar.icrisat.org/5425/ 

9. Garg KK and Wani SP (2011) Hydrological Modeling of a Micro Watershed using GIS‐based Model SWAT: A 

Case Study of Kothapally Watershed in Southern India. In: Use of High Science Tools in Integrated 

Watershed Management Proceedings of the National Symposium, 1–2 February 2010, NASC Complex, 

New Delhi, India http://oar.icrisat.org/3564/ 

10. Gopalakrishnan S and Ranga Rao GV (2011) Actinomycetes and their secondary metabolites to control 

multiple pathogens of chickpea and sorghum. In: International Congress on Biopesticides 6 (ICOB‐6), 11‐16 

December, 2011, Imperial Mae Ping, Chiang Mai (Thailand) http://oar.icrisat.org/5475/ 

11. Gowda CLL, Rao PP and Bhagavatula S (2009) Global trends in production and trade of major grain 

legumes. In: International Conference on Grain Legumes: Quality Improvement, Value Addition and Trade, 

14‐16 Feb 2009, Kanpur, India http://oar.icrisat.org/5350/ 

12. Harini G, Kumar Narender, Hameeda B, Waliyar F, Sudini H and Reddy Gopal (2011) Biological 

management of Aspergillus flavus infection and aflatoxin contamination in groundnut by Streptomyces sp. 

CDA 19. In: Proceedings of the 64th Indian Phytopathological Society Annual Meeting and National 

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Symposium, Hyderabad http://oar.icrisat.org/5494/ 

13. Jat RA, Craufurd PQ and Wani S P (2011) Resilient Dryland Systems for Reducing Vulnerability to Drought 

and Climate Change While Increasing Crop Diversity and Value: The ICRISAT Experience. In: Proceedings of 

the Seminar on "Climate Change Repositioning Coastal Agriculture”, 25th July 2011, JNTU, Kakinada 


14. Joshi PK, Wani SP, Anantha KH and Jha AK (2011) Application of Meta‐analysis to Identify Drivers for the 

Success of Watershed Programs. In: Use of High Science Tools in Integrated Watershed Management 

Proceedings of the National Symposium, 1–2 February 2010, NASC Complex, New Delhi, India 


15. Kumara Charyulu D, Bantilan CS, Nedumaran S and Deb UK (2011) Development and Diffusion of Improved 

Sorghum Cultivars in India: Impact on Growth and Variability in Yield. In: 7th ASAE Conference, Vietnam 


16. Mafongoya P, Nyamangara J, Nyagumbo I, Sileshi G, Siziba S, Mutamba E, Chimene P, and Mutema M 

(2011) Conservation agriculture and soil health (Keynote paper) Regional Conservation Agriculture 

Symposium, 8‐10 th February 2011, Johannesburg, South Africa, pp. 11 

17. Mazvimavi K, Minde I, Manussa S, Tshuma P and Murendo C (2011) A Review of the Agricultural Input and 

Output Markets Development in Mozambique. In: Dialogue on Promoting Agricultural Growth in 

Mozambique, 21 July 2011, Hotel VIP, Maputo http://oar.icrisat.org/5417/ 

18. Mazvimavi K, Nyathi P and Murendo C (2011) Conservation Agriculture Adoption Challendes in Zimbabwe. 

In Resilient Food Systems for a Changing World: Proceedings of the 5th World Congress on Conservation 

Agriculture, 25‐29 September 2011, Brisbane, Australia 

19. Mussaa EC, Obare GA, Bogale A, and Simtowe F (2011) Resource use efficiency of smallholder crop 

production in the central highlands of Ethiopia. In: Increasing Agricultural Productivity & Enhancing Food 

Security in Africa: New Challenges and Opportunities, 1‐3 November 2011, UNECA, Addis Ababa 


20. Naveen Singh P, Bantilan MCS and Radhika C (2011) Climate Change Resilience in Agriculture: Vulnerability 

and Adaptation Concerns of Semi‐Arid Tropics in Asia in "Agriculture and Environment or Inclusive 

Growth" published by Division of Agricultural Economics, IARI, pp. 82‐99 

21. Oyier MO, Mulwa RMS, Kimurto PK, Towett B K, Cheruiyot E K, Rao NVPRG, Silim SN, Varshney RK and 

Gaur PM (2011) Marker assisted backcross breeding to enhance drought tolerance in Kenyan chickpea 

(Cicer arietinum L.) germplasm. Page(s) 6 in 6th Egerton University International Conference: Research 

and Expo‐Transformative Research for Sustainable Development, 21‐23 September 2011, Njoro, Kenya 

22. Padmaja R, Bantilan MCS, Parthasarathy D and Singh NP (2011) Mapping village social networks to 

analyze vulnerability to climate variability and adaptive capacity in the semi‐arid tropics of India. Paper 

presented at the ICARUS‐II conference, Michigan University, USA(http://www.icarus.info/icarus‐iiconferencepresentations/) 

23. Palanisami K, Kumar DS and Wani SP (2011) Application of Econometic Methods for Assessing the Impact 

of Watershed Programs. In: Use of High Science Tools in Integrated Watershed Management Proceedings 

of the National Symposium, 1–2 February 2010, NASC Complex, New Delhi, India http://oar.icrisat.org/3561/ 

24. Pathak P and Wani S P (2011) New tools and best bet options for efficient management of soil and water 

resources in drylands of Asia. In: Techniques of water conservation and rainwater harvesting for drought 

management: SAARC International Training Program, 18‐29 July 2011, Hyderabad, India 


25. Pathak P, Sudi R and Wani SP (2011) New Tools for Monitoring and Modeling Hydrological Processes in 

Small Agricultural Watersheds. In: Use of High Science Tools in Integrated Watershed Management 

Proceedings of the National Symposium, 1–2 February 2010, NASC Complex, New Delhi, India 


26. Radhika Rani, Reddy GP and Reddy AA (2011) Public Private Partnership ‐ A Case of Organic Farming in 

Uttarakhand, 25th Annual Conference, Indian Society of Agricultural Marketing, 22‐24, November, 2011 

27. Raju KV, Rao MB, Sarvesh KV, Muniyappa NC, Dasgupta A and Wani SP (2011) A Mission to Enhance 

Productivity of Rain‐fed Crops in Rain‐fed Districts of Karnataka, India. In: Use of High Science Tools in 

Integrated Watershed Management Proceedings of the National Symposium, 1–2 February 2010, NASC 

Complex, New Delhi, India http://oar.icrisat.org/3543/ 

28. Rao AVRK and Wani SP (2011) Crop growth simulation models vis‐a‐vis climate change impact and 

adaptation strategies. In: Agricultural drought: climate change and rainfed agriculture. Central Research 

Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad, pp. 237‐242 http://oar.icrisat.org/117/ 

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29. Rao AVRK, Wani SP, Singh P (2011) Use of Agroclimatic Datasets for Improved Planning of Watersheds. In: 

Use of High Science Tools in Integrated Watershed Management Proceedings of the National Symposium, 

1–2 February 2010, NASC Complex, New Delhi, India http://oar.icrisat.org/3636/ 

30. Rao KPC (2011) Managing current and future climate induced risk in Eastern and Central African 

Agriculture. In: 1st ASARECA GENERAL ASSEMBLY, 14‐16, Dec., 2011, Entebbe, Uganda 


31. Ravinder Reddy Ch, Gianqiu Z, Alur AS, Rao PP, Reddy BVS and Gowda CLL (2011) An Innovative Marketing 

Model for linking small‐scale Sorghum Farmers to Alcohol Industry in China: A case study. In: The 1st 

International Conference on Corn and Sorghum Research and the 34th National Corn and Sorghum 

Research Conference, April 8‐10, 2009, Thailand http://oar.icrisat.org/66/ 

32. Reddy AA(2011) Market co‐integration of grain legumes in India: A case of chickpea markets, International 

Conference on Applications of Game Theory in Policies and Decisions 12‐13 December 2011 Hotel 

Marriott & Convention Centre, Hyderabad 

33. Rutto D, Kimurto PK, Gahole L, Ngode L, Mulwa RMS, Towett B K, Cheruiyot E K, Rao NVPRG and Silim SN 

(2011) Screening for host plant resistance to Helicoverpa armigera in selected chickpea (Cicer arietinum L) 

genotypes in Kenya. Pages 24‐25 in 6 th Egerton University International Conference: Research and Expo‐ 

Transformative Research for Sustainable Development, 21‐23 September 2011, Njoro, Kenya 

34. Schipmann C (2011) Variety Adoption of Orphan Crops by Smallholder Farmers in Tanzania ‐ A Survey 

Based Choice Experiment. In: Tropentag 2011 "Development on the margin", 5‐7 October, 2011, Bonn, 

Germany http://oar.icrisat.org/5504/ 

35. Sharma KK, Bhatnagar‐Mathur P, Vadez V, Sudini H and Waliyar F (2011) Genetic engineering of groundnut 

for crop improvement: Current status and future prospects. In: Proceedings of the 5th International 

Conference of the Peanut Research Community on Advances in Arachis through Genomics and 

Biotechnology (AAGB‐2011), 13‐15 June, 2011, Brasilia (Brazil) http://oar.icrisat.org/5501/ 

36. Sharma KK, Wani SP, Yaduraju NT, Nedumaran S, Rao AVRK, Mazumdar Saikat Datta, Kumar AA, Pooja 

Bhatnagar‐Mathur, Tripathi Surya Mani, Karuppanchetty SM, Aravazhi S, Purushottam R, Jonathan Philroy, 

and Nadipalli Anitha (2011) Second Green Revolution: Growth Engine for Transformation. The Associated 

Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India. Documentation. International Crops Research Institurte for 

Semi‐Arid Tropics, New Delhi, India http://oar.icrisat.org/5506/ 

37. Singh NP, Bantilan MCS and Byjesh K (2011) Farmers’ perception to climate change/variability and 

adaptive behaviour to cope with its impacts – Case studies from SAT villages of India. Eds. Rao VUM, Rao 

AVMS, Kumar, PV, Desai S, Saikia US, Srivastava NN and Venkateswarulu B. Agricultural Drought: Climate 

Change and Rain fed Agriculture. Lecture notes of 5th SERC School, Central Research Institute for Dry land 

Agriculture, Hyderabad, India. pp 324‐339 

38. Srinivasa Rao P, Ganesh Kumar, Afroze Fatima, Jayalakshmi M, Ahmed Kamal and Reddy BVS (2011) Sweet 

Sorghum‐ dynamics of sugar yield in relation to different phenological stages. In: Bioenergy and 

Biorefinery conference‐Southeast Asia 2011, 23‐25 March 2011, Singapore http://oar.icrisat.org/5528/ 

39. Srinivasa Rao P, Jayalakshmi M, Kumar CG, Kamal A and Reddy BVS (2011) Response of fertilizer 

treatments on agronomic and biochemical traits in main and ratoon crops of sweet sorghum (Sorghum 

bicolor (L.) Moench) cultivar ICSV 93046. In: 4 The IAPSIT International Sugar Conference, 21‐25 November 

2011, New Delhi, India http://oar.icrisat.org/5529/ 

40. Sudini H, Gowda CLL and Reddy MS (2011) PGPR in Groundnut: Opportunities and Challenges. In: 

Proceedings of the 2nd Asian PGPR Conference, 21‐24 August, 2011, Beijing (China) http://oar.icrisat.org/5500/ 

41. Suresh P and Sharma M (2011) Climate change and changing scenario of plant diseases in semi‐arid 

tropics. In: 64th Annual Meeting of the Society and National Symposium on Biology of Infection, Immunity 

and Disease Control in Pathogen‐Plant Interactions, 2‐4 December, 2011, University of Hyderabad, 

Hyderabad. http://oar.icrisat.org/5505/ 

42. Swathi M, Prasad ER, Mohanraj SS, Geethanjali T, Srinivas Ch, Gupta Aparna Dutta, Mallikarjuna N and 

Padmasree K (2011) Potential application of pigeonpea proteinase inhibitors in the management of 

lepidopteran insects. In: National Symposium on Innovative and Modern Technologies for Agricultural 

Productivity, Food Security and Environmental Management (Society for Applied Biotechnology), 22‐23 

July, 2011, Mangalore, Karnataka http://oar.icrisat.org/5491/ 

43. Valbuena D, Gerard B, Duncan A, Teufel N, Homann S and Bhatia M (2011) Trade‐offs of crop residue use 

in smallholder mixed farming systems in Sub‐Saharan Africa and South Asia. In: Resilient Food Systems for 

a Changing World: Proceedings of the 5th World Congress of Conservation Agriculture incorporating 3rd 

Farming Systems Design Conference, 26‐29 September 2011, Brisbane, Australia 

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44. Varshney RK (2011) Application of Next Generation Sequencing and Genotyping Technologies to Develop 

Large‐Scale Genomic Resources in SAT Legume Crops. In: National Symposium on Genomics and Crop 

Improvement: Relevance and Reservations , February 25 ‐ 27, 2010, Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural 

University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad http://oar.icrisat.org/5489/ 

45. Vidya MS and Gopalakrishnan S (2011) Biocontrol bacteria and actinomycetes, evaluation of their 

secondary metabolites against fungal pathogens and insectpest of chickpea. In: 64th IPS Annual Meeting 

and National Symposium, 2‐4 December, 2011, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 


46. Waliyar F, Traore A, Reddy V, Diarra B, Kodio O and Sudini H (2011) Prevalence of aflatoxin contamination 

in groundnut value chains and strategies to enhance food safety in Mali. In: 5th International Conference 

of the Peanut Research Community on Advances in Arachis through Genomics and Biotechnology (AAGB‐ 

2011), 13th ‐ 15th June, 2011, Brasilia, Brazil http://oar.icrisat.org/5461/ 

47. Wani SP, Rao AVRK and Garg KK (2011) Rain‐fed Agriculture. In: Use of High Science Tools in Integrated 

Watershed Management Proceedings of the National Symposium, 1–2 February 2010, NASC Complex, 

New Delhi, India http://oar.icrisat.org/3563/ 

48. Wani SP, Rao K and Garg KK (2011) Use of High Science Tools in Integrated Watershed Management. 

Proceedings of the National Symposium, 1–2 Feb 2010. Other. International Crops Research Institute for 

the Semi‐ Arid Tropics for the Semi‐Arid Tropics http://oar.icrisat.org/224/ 

49. Zingore S, Chivenge P, and Nyamangara J (2011) A farming systems and nutrient management perspective 

to sustainable biomass for fuel production in smallholder farming systems in Africa. 10th African Crop 

Science Society Conference, 10‐13th October 2011, Maputo, Mozambique pp. 221 

Journal Articles Published in ESat Journal 

1. Gupta SK, Bhattacharjee R, Rai KN and Kumar MS (2011) Characterization of ICRISAT‐bred restorer parents 

of pearl millet. Journal of SAT Agricultural Research, 9. 5pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/4712/ 

2. Kumar AA, Reddy BVS, Ramaiah B and Sharma R (2011) Heterosis in whitegrained grain mold resistant 

sorghum hybrids. Journal of SAT Agricultural Research, 9. 6pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/4692/ 

3. Mativavarira M, Dimes J, Masikati P, Van Rooyen A, Mwenje E, Sikosana JLN and Tui SHK (2011) Evaluation 

of water productivity, Stover feed quality and farmers’ preferences on sweet sorghum cultivar types in the 

semi‐arid regions of Zimbabwe. Journal of SAT Agricultural Research, 9. 9pp. http://oar.icrisat.org/4697/ 

4. Sastry DVSSR, Upadhyaya HD and Gowda CLL (2011) Germplasm conservation strategies – impact of 

conditioning on the viability of dry pearl millet seeds. Journal of SAT Agricultural Research, 9. 4pp. 


5. Sastry DVSSR, Upadhyaya HD and Gowda CLL (2011) Rescuing and regenerating germplasm in large 

collections – the case of pigeonpea accession ICP 9820. Journal of SAT Agricultural Research, 9. 3pp. 


Technical Manual 

1. Pathak P, Chandrasekhar K, Sudi R and Wani SP (2011) Technical Description and operating manual 

Integrated Digital Runoff and Soil Loss Monitoring unit (IDRSMU). Manual. International Crops Research 

Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics, Patancheru, Andhra Pradesh, India http://oar.icrisat.org/5532/ 

216

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