Vision 2025 - National Research Centre for Grapes

Vision - 2025 

NRC for Grapes, Pune, Perspective Plan 

Published by : 

Dr. P.G. Adsule 

Director 

National Research Centre for Grapes 

Pune - 412307. 

Compiled and edited by : 

Dr. P.G. Adsule 

Dr. Anuradha Upadhyay 

Dr. Indu S. Sawant 

Dr. J. Satisha

CONTENTS 

FOREWORD 

PREFACE 

ABBREVIATIONS 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

1. PREAMBLE 1 

2. MANDATE 1 

3. GROWTH 

3.1 Infrastructure 2 

3.2 Budget 3 

3.3 Manpower 4 

4. RESEARCH ACHIEVEMENTS 

4.1 Achievements of IXth Plan 4 

4.2 Achievements of Xth Plan 6 

4.3 Transfer of Technology 11 

5. IMPACT ASSESSMENT ON FUTURE RESEARCH 

5.1 Growth 13 

5.2 Input / output assessment 14 

5.3 Short comings 15 

5.4 Lessons learnt, suggestions and options for future 17 

6. SCÉNARIO (NATIONAL VIS-À-VIS INTERNATIONAL) 19 

6.1 Indian scenario -region-wise 22 

6.2 SWOT analysis 24 

7. PERSPECTIVE 27 

8. ISSUES AND STRATEGIES 

8.1 Crop Improvement 28 

8.2 Crop Production 28 

8.3 Crop Protection 29 

8.4 Post-harvest technology 29

9. RESEARCH PROGRAMMES 

9.1 Research programmes 29 

9.2 Programmes and projects on the given time scale 30 

9.3 Fund requirements 34 

10. LINKAGE, COORDINATION AND EXECUTION ARRANGEMENTS 35 

11. CRITICAL INPUTS 37 

12. RISK ANALYSIS 

12.1 Output and expected situation 38 

13. PROJECT REVIEW, REPORTING AND EVALUATION ARRANGEMENTS 38 

14. RESOURCE GENERATION 38 

15. OUTPUTS 39 

16. OUTCOME 40

FOREWORD 

Indian agriculture must continuously evolve to remain ever responsive to 

manage the change and to meet the growing and diversified needs of different 

stakeholders in the entire production to consumption chain. In order to 

capitalize on the opportunities and to convert weaknesses into opportunities, 

we at the ICAR attempted to visualize an alternate agricultural scenario from 

present to twenty years hence. In this endeavour, an in-depth analysis of the 

Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) was undertaken to 

place our research and technology development efforts in perspective so that 

we succeed in our pursuit of doing better than the best. Accordingly, the 

researchable issues are identified, strategies drawn and programmes indicated 

to have commensurate projects and relevant activities coinciding with the 

launch of the 11th Five Year Plan. 

National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune has placed greater emphasis on 

accelerating the pace of technology generation on growing and processing of 

grapes. Special efforts are needed for introduction, collection, evaluation, 

characterization and utilization of germplasm including rootstocks in the high 

water table areas in north-western plains, high rainfall areas in the North-East 

and eastern India and water stress areas of the plateau regions. Developing 

high yielding and good quality table and industrial use varieties with basal 

resistance to the biotic and abiotic stresses, and technology generation for 

greater input use efficiency, integrated pest management, post-harvest 

handling, processing, packaging including value-addition will make the major 

research programmes at this Centre. 

It is expected that realizing the Vision embodied in the document would 

further ensure that the National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune continues to 

fulfill its mandate to make Indian agriculture locally, regionally and globally 

competitive. The efforts and valuable inputs provided by my colleagues at the 

ICAR Headquarters and by the Director and his team at the Institute level for 

over a year to develop Vision 2025 deserves appreciation. 

February, 2007 

(MANGALA RAI) 

Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research & Education 

and 

Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research 

Dr. Rajendra Prasad Road, Krishi Bhawan, Ne'N Delhi 110001, India

PREFACE 

The country is in the midst of a horticulture revolution. Grape is emerging as 

an important fruit crop of India; it has the third highest productivity and is the 

highest among fruit crops in earning foreign exchange. Further, it is receiving 

importance in creating jobs on the farm and other related sectors. In view of 

this background a Research Center at the national level was opened in the VII 

Plan especially to cater to research needs of the grape industry of India. At 

present out of total estimated area of 5.34 million ha under fruit crops in India, 

grape occupies 60,000 hectares producing mainly grapes for table. However, 

with the recent trend of wine making the sector is growing at a very high rate 

of 25-30 per cent per year. Keeping this trend in view the research programmes in this sector will be 

focused more in the coming years. 

The grape growers of India are a highly dedicated and committed group, and are ready to make a 

mark in the world grape trade. It is mainly through their efforts that grape cultivation has slowly 

emerged from the unorganized to an organized sector. Not only the elite groups of grower- exporters 

but a large number of smaller growers, too, have become aware of the Good Agricultural Practices 

(GAP), and are even complying with the Europe GAP standards. 

In the first decade of its existence, the Centre has made concerted efforts to develop strong linkages 

with the growers and their associates to understand the problems faced by them. Many issues related 

to grape production were resolved based on existing knowledge, surveys and laboratory and field 

studies. The Centre gave due importance to Transfer of Technology (TOT) and this investment in 

TOT has enhanced its credibility in the eyes of peer groups and stakeholders. 

In this document, a rational attempt has been made to analyze the strengths, weaknesses, 

opportunities and threats of the grape industry of India vis-à-vis the world grape scenario. The issues 

before the domestic industry and strategies to tackle them are suggested. The document has also 

endeavored to address the future perspectives in grape production and processing in India and the 

role of this Centre in achieving the set goals. 

This document also traces the growth of the Centre in terms of resources, development of forward 

and backward linkages with the various stakeholders. The impact of current status of research on 

future research needs of the industry has been carefully assessed and presented, which has helped in 

formulating long term and short term research programmes at macro and micro levels. Time frames 

have been set for each activity under the various programmes for better implementation and 

monitoring. The expected research outputs and outcome in terms of impact on scenario are clearly 

defined. 

It is hoped that this document 'VISION 2025' will serve as a background paper for the officials of the 

GOI, MOA, DARE, ICAR to plan for the critical inputs to this Centre, especially in terms of 

manpower, finance, international collaboration and human resource development to enable it to meet 

the future challenges posed by the grape industry of India. 

Place: NRC for Grapes, Pune 

Date: May 2007 

(P.G. ADSULE) 

Director

ABBREVIATIONS 

1. 6-BA : 6-Benzyl Adenine 

2. AFLP : Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism 

3. AICRP : All India Coordinated Research Project 

4. APCESS : Agriculture Produce Cess 

5. APEDA : Agricultural and Processed Food 

Products Export Development Authority 

6. ARI : Agharkar Research Institute 

7. ARIS : Agriculture Research Information System 

8. BARC : Bhabha Atomic Research Centre 

9. BIS : Bureau of Indian Standards 

10. BTOA : Benzothiazole 2 - Oxyacetic Acid 

11. CAPS : Cleaved Amplified Polymorphic Sites 

12. CCC : Cycocel 

13. CDM server : CD Mirror Server 

14. CFTRI : Central Food Technology Research 

Institute 

15. CISH : Central Institute of Subtropical Horticulture 

16. CPPU : N-(2-chloro-4-pyridyl)-N -phenyl urea 

17. CSIRO : Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial 

Research Organization 

18. CSL : Centre Science Laboratory 

19. DBT : Department of Biotechnology 

20. DNA : Deoxyribo Nucleic Acid 

21. DRIS : Diagnosis and Recommendation Integrated 

System 

22. DST : Department of Science and Technology 

23. EEC Class-I : European Economic Community 

Commission 

24. ELISA : Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay 

25. EMBRAPA : Brazilian Agricultural Research 

Corporation 

26. ERNET : Education Research Network 

27. ESP : Exchangeable Sodium Percentage 

28. EU : European Union 

29. FAO : Food and Agriculture Organization 

30. FPO : Fruit Products Order 

31. FRP : Fiber Reinforced Polymer 

32. FYM : Farm Yard Manure 

33. GA : Gibberrellic Acid 

34. GDP : Gross Domestic Production 

35. GOI : Government of India 

36. GSM : Geosatellite Mobile 

37. H 2 CN 2 : Hydrogen cyanamide 

38. HAU : Haryana Agricultural University 

39. IBA : Indol Butyric Acid 

40. ICAR : Indian Council of Agricultural Research 

41. ICGEB : International Centre for Genetic 

Engineering and Biotechnology 

42. IGGP : International Grape Genome Programme 

43. IIHR : Indian Institute of Horticultural Research 

44. IMC : Institute Management Committee 

45. INM : Integrated Nutrient Management 

46. INRA : Institute National de la Recherche 

Agronomique 

47. IPGRI : International Plant Genetic Resources 

Institute 

48. IPM : Integrated Pest Management 

49. IRC : Institute Research Committee 

50. ISMAA : Istituto Agrario San Michele all' Adige 

51. EUREPGAP : Euro-Retailer Produce Working 

Group Good Agricultural Practices 

52. ISO : International Organization of Standardization 

53. ISW : Indian Standard Week 

54. KH 2 PO 4 : Potassium dihydrogen phosphate 

55. LAN : Local Area Network 

56. MOA : Ministry of Agriculture 

57. MRL : Maximum Residue Limit 

58. NAA : Naphthalene Acetic Acid 

59. NABAARD : National Bank for Agriculture and 

Rural Development 

60. NaCl : Sodium Chloride 

61. NaHCO 3 : Sodium bicarbonate 

62. NHB : National Horticulture Board 

63. NRL : National Referral Laboratory 

64. PBC : Potassium bicarbonate 

65. PCR : Polymerase Chain Reaction 

66. PFA : Prevention of Food Adulteration 

67. PHI : Post-harvest Interval 

68. QRT : Quinquennial Review Team 

69. RAC : Research Advisory Committee 

70. RAPD : Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA 

71. RNA : Ribo Nucleic Acid 

72. RT-PCR : Reverse Transcription PCR 

73. SAU : State Agricultural University 

74. SCAR : Sequence Characterized Amplified Regions 

75. SSR : Simple Sequence Repeats 

76. SWOT : Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities, 

Threats 

77. TSS : Total Soluble Solids 

78. UPOV : Union for Protection for New Varieties of 

Plants 

79. WHO : World Health Organization

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

THE INDIAN GRAPE SCENARIO 

Presently the area under grape cultivation in India is about 60,000 ha (FAO Stat 2005) with the 

production in the range of 1.2-1.6 and 0.55 - 0.65 million MT of fresh grape and raisin, respectively. 

India has achieved a reasonably high level of productivity of grapes but at the cost of maintaining 

the quality as per the international standards and shelf life. The availability of fruits is confined to 

specific periods of year and the prices are ruled by the market availability. Low temperature storage 

of fruits is not economical and hence not in practice for domestic market while raisin making solves 

the problem of grape perishability to some extent but the price realization is not much. Further, grape 

has to compete with other fruits during their availability period in the market for consumer 

preference. 

In spite of this, the grape growers as an organized sector are persisting with grape cultivation and 

look forward to new technologies for sustaining the productivity, improving quality, reducing the 

cost of cultivation, extending the area and the season of harvest, high value end-uses especially wine 

making. Few State Governments in the country have favourable policies for the promotion of wine 

production in the form of wine parks in industrial complexes and setting up of wine training institutes 

and other economy packages. Hence, optimum economic yield of quality grape, price and their cost 

of production, the seasons of their availability, and diversification for value added products like 

raisin, wine and juice are the key words in Indian viticulture. This Centre has, therefore, after 

thorough deliberations with the grape growers, exporters, raisin and wine producers; advisory bodies 

like Research Advisory Committee and Quinquennial review Team, formulated a number of focused 

research programmes to address these key issues. 

RESOURCES AVAILABLE WITH THE INSTITUTE 

The Centre has about 46.78 ha of land area, out of which 1.6 ha is under buildings, 1.2 ha is under 

roads, 1.2 ha under polyhouses and nursery, 4.8 ha under germplasm and new hybrid / clones; 8.4 ha 

planted with table grapes for experiments. 4.0 ha is under preparation to be planted with wine grape 

varieties for new experiments. The Centre has ten well-equipped laboratories with basic and 

sophisticated equipments, however, other essential equipments for the new proposed research 

activities are included in the XI Plan EFC document of the Institute. 

RESEARCH ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE INSTITUTE 

In the first decade of its existence, the Center has made significant achievement in collecting the 

grape germplasm within the country and augmenting it with that from abroad. Morphological and 

molecular characterization of the accessions is in progress and will be completed within a short time. 

Sources of resistance to downy mildew disease are identified and the information is being utilized 

for resistance breeding programme and to develop molecular markers for downy mildew resistance. 

Germplasm sources with multiple disease resistance will be known shortly. Evaluation for other 

parameters is in progress. A database was created, and copyrighted, to manage all this information. 

Hybrids developed at this Centre are being evaluated in the field for various traits, while promising 

new clones viz. A 17/3, KR-W, A18/3 etc. and popular imported varieties viz. Red Globe, Crimson 

Seedless, Fantasy Seedless and Italia are under multilocational evaluation in grower's vineyards. 

Dogridge was found a promising rootstock for Thompson Seedless and Tas-A-Ganesh grape under 

salt and drought conditions. Other potential rootstocks like 110 R, B2 - 56, 1103 P, 99 R, 140 Ru,

Salt Creek are under evaluation. Techniques for improving water use efficiency through irrigation 

scheduling based on pan evaporation and vine growth stage, subsurface irrigation and use of mulch 

were developed. Petiole nutrient guide for Thompson Seedless grown on Dogridge rootstock was 

developed. Technique for improving the fertilizer use efficiency through growth stage wise 

fertigation scheduling was developed. The causes of few disorders were identified as nutrient 

imbalances, which could be corrected by proper nutrient application. 

The schedule for economic use of bio-regulators in enhancing bud-break and for improving bunch 

and berry quality was standardized. The canopy architecture, canopy size and the bunch number and 

size for optimizing fruit quality in Tas-A-Ganesh variety grafted on Dogridge rootstock was 

standardized. Nursery techniques for increasing rooting and further establishment of different grape 

rootstocks were also standardized. 

Disease forecasting based on continuous automatic weather monitoring and use of software 

'Metwin 2' from Austria was found useful in fungicide spray scheduling for effective and economical 

management of downy mildew and anthracnose diseases. For the management of the important 

disease, powdery mildew, an expert system was developed, released and being used by the growers. 

Safe fungicides and practices to improve fungicide use efficiency were identified. Seasonal incidence 

of major insect pests was studied. New generation pesticides, environmentally friendly chemicals, 

botanicals were tested for bio-efficacy and residue data in controlling diseases and insect pests and 

effective molecules were included in the recommended schedule for their management. Dissipation 

rate kinetics for many chemicals were studied and their PHI were calculated to recommend their safe 

use. 

The post harvest pathogens in Indian grapes were identified and Botrytis cinerea, which is the 

worldwide major post harvest pathogen, was not found to be a problem in Indian grapes. Pre-harvest, 

harvest and post-harvest practices to minimize post-harvest losses, including use of Trichoderma 

harzianum, for biocontrol of diseases, were identified. 

TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY BY THE INSTITUTE 

The Centre has formed a very strong communication network through seminars arranged by the 

grape growers' associations in major grape growing states, popular agricultural magazines and 

newspapers, extension literature, training programmes, and agricultural fairs etc. for reaching out to 

growers and advising them on new technologies, various improved viticultural practices, and on 

specific problems arising due to climate, weather or problems in vineyard management. A lot of this 

information is also displayed on the Institute's website. 

IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND OPTIONS FOR THE FUTURE 

The technologies generated by the Centre have been well accepted by the growers and are now in 

practice. This has helped in improving input use efficiency of various agrochemicals; sustaining 

production under adverse conditions of soil, water and environment; improving fruit quality and 

minimizing post-harvest losses, especially in the export sector. Hence, the Centre has established 

very good credibility among the client group. However, there are many issues and problems in Indian 

viticulture, which are to be resolved in years to come through applied, basic and strategic research. 

Increasing quality production of table grapes at competitive price is the major issue facing the 

industry. Abiotic and biotic stresses like continuous drought, soil and water salinity and the high 

incidence of diseases and pests; chances of pesticide residues at harvest; besides high yields; are the 

major factors that have affected the quality of fruits. Moreover, nutrient imbalances, improper 

canopy management leading to low food reserves in the vines, temperature extremes as well as the

diurnal variations in temperature have also affected the quality of grapes. The development of pink 

blush in green seedless grapes commonly referred to as "Pink berries" which is threatening grape 

industry is the one of the major eco-physiological disorder. 

Development of composite package of practices including selection of suitable grape variety along 

with compatible rootstock; vineyard establishment; variety specific canopy architecture of grapes for 

different end uses; integrated nutrient management through nutrient recycling, green manuring and 

use of organic sources of nutrients; disease and insect pest management through use of environmentfriendly 

chemicals, botanicals and bio-pesticides will pave the way to achieve these standards. 

Domestic and international quality standards, including residues of pesticides and other 

contaminants, have to be kept in view while achieving and meeting the quality standards in 

international markets. 

At present, the grape growers incur high recurring and non-recurring expenditure towards vineyard 

establishment and maintenance. Many of the inputs are used inappropriately or in excess resulting in 

low input-use-efficiency as well as environmental pollution. The correct dose, time and method of 

application of the various inputs need to be precisely defined to improve their use-efficiency while 

maintaining the fruit quality, and making viticulture ecologically sustainable and more remunerative 

to the growers. 

Off-season cropping and grape cultivation in potential non-traditional areas needs to be encouraged 

to increase the total production as well as the season of availability in national and international 

markets. New grapes varieties with wide consumer acceptance in India and abroad are to be made 

available through introductions and short and long term breeding programmes. 

Encouraging processing of grapes into raisin, wine, juice, etc. will help in value addition and 

diversification of uses thereby by solves the marketing problems of table grapes. So far, 

approximately 15-20% of the grapes are processed into raisins. Quality of Indian raisins in terms of 

its physico-chemical and other parameters is yet to be standardized in the context of Codex 

Alimentarius and other International quality standards. Initial efforts carried out elsewhere in wine 

making are meager and wine industry is yet to know these technologies. However, the strategic 

research to promote this sector in the area of new varieties, rootstock, their cultivation and wine 

making is yet to be initiated. Hence, adequate emphasis is to be given on enology and agrotechniques 

for wine grape varieties. 

PERSPECTIVE AND FUTURE PROGRAMMES 

The industry needs research support for new improved table, raisin and wine varieties with better 

stress tolerance, technologies for sustainable quality production for various end uses at economical 

prices, and post harvest technologies for value addition. In view of the growing demands for organic 

products, production of grapes with minimum chemical input is another priority area of research. 

Therefore, eight research programmes to address these issues. The programmes will be subject to 

periodic reviews and modification will be made, if felt necessary in view of any significant global 

change in trade, commerce and policy matters towards this commodity and its processed products. 

The Centre will seek active collaboration with ICAR and other R&D organizations, marketing and 

banking sectors and extension agencies to establish effective two-way communication channel with 

the grape growers and processors for research, effective transfer of technology and problem solving. 

– • – • –

1. PREAMBLE 

Grape is an important fruit crop of India. Commercial grape cultivation in India is only half a century 

old. Originally, a temperate crop, the major grape area in India lies in the tropical regions of 

peninsular India, though parts of north India also grow grapes to some extent. India grows grapes 

mainly for table purpose and has reasonably high level of productivity in the world. Around 1/5th 

of the total produce is processed to produce raisins. It is considered as one of the most remunerative 

farming enterprises in India since there is a good back up of backward and forward linkage for this 

crop and offers employment to large number of skilled and unskilled people on the farm, in trade and 

service. 

Economic analysis indicates a continuous increase in production and development of trade of grape 

and grape processed products in international market. However, India's share in the international 

grape trade remains meager as the exports of table grapes account for 2 - 3% of the total production 

and Indian raisins are still not exported. While achieving high productivity, the quality of fresh 

grapes and the processed products with reference to various standard parameters could not be 

maintained. 

To boost the grape industry through need based basic and strategic research and also to address the 

future challenges and to exploit opportunities, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) 

approved the establishment of the National Research Centre for Grapes in 1993 vide the sanction 

letter No. 1(2)/92-PI&M (Part-III) dated 16th September 1993 at Manjri on National Highway No. 

9. The Centre started functioning in Pune at Manjri, from 18th January 1997. 

2. MANDATE 

To undertake the programmes involving basic and strategic research for resolving the major biotic 

and abiotic constraints affecting the grapes production, productivity and sustain productivity and 

promote diversification to wine production and other value added products. 

Based on this mandate the research is conducted with the following objectives: 

1. To collect, characterize, evaluate and catalogue Vitis germplasm 

2. To maintain core field germplasm with wide genetic base 

3. To develop varieties with economically important traits for table, wine, raisins and juice. 

4. To develop appropriate and economically viable agro techniques for quality grape production 

5. To sustain the productivity and quality through management of biotic and abiotic stresses 

6. To develop technologies with minimal dependence on agro chemical inputs 

7. To develop appropriate pre and post harvest technologies for extended shelf-life and processing 

into value added products 

8. To develop strategic alliances for research and transfer of technologies 

1

3. GROWTH 

3.1 INFRASTRUCTURE 

3.1.1 Buildings and field 

46.78 ha land has been leased from the Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri for 

establishment of the Centre. About 14 ha is planted with germplasm and important commercial 

varieties for different experiments and another 4 ha is under development for taking up 

experiments on wine varieties. A separate block is being developed to evaluate the 

performance of newly introduced varieties and hybrids developed at the centre. The entire 

planted area is under the drip irrigation. A nursery is being developed with a capacity of 

producing about 2 lakhs plants per year. 

The Centre functions from Dr. G.S. Cheema Bhavan, the laboratory-cum-administrative 

building. It has Director's office, Administrative-cum-Accounts office, Library, Seminar Hall, 

Museum, ARIS Cell and 10 Laboratories of different research disciplines. Besides this, one 

Type V, 2 Type II and eight Type I residential quarters are constructed and occupied. A separate 

building constructed with the financial assistance of the APEDA houses National Referral 

Laboratory for pesticide residue monitoring in grapes in the country. A Biocontrol Laboratory, 

Soil Sampling Room, Polyhouse, Glasshouse and FRP are constructed. 

3.1.2 Laboratory facilities 

i. Crop Improvement 

To conduct research towards grape improvement through conventional breeding as well as 

biotechnological approaches like molecular marker analysis and tissue culture, 

sophisticated equipments like PCR machine, automated sequencer, sequencing gel 

apparatus, gel documentation system, circulatory water baths, electrophoresis system, gel 

dryer, refrigerated microfuge, high speed centrifuge, culture incubators, laminar flow, 

shakers etc. are available at the centre. The Centre is collaborating with National Chemical 

Laboratory, Pune for tissue culture and embryo rescue studies. The germplasm site is also 

utilized for planned hybridization programs. 

ii. Crop Production 

Research under crop production is conducted in the areas of canopy management, 

rootstock compatibility, bioregulators, abiotic stress management, and nutrient and water 

use efficiency. Ultra modern sophisticated equipments like atomic absorption 

spectrophotometer, multi-channel auto analyzer, infra red gas analyzer, canopy analyzer, 

osmometer, flame photometer, leaf area meter, steady state porometer, and pressure bomb 

apparatus have been procured to meet future challenges in grape production research. 

iii. Crop Protection and Residue Monitoring 

Biocontrol agents, disease forecasting and pesticide use efficiency, minimizing pesticide 

residue through integrated pest management, determining PHI and minimum waiting 

period are the thrust areas of crop protection and residue monitoring. Equipments like 

fermenter, automated weather station with disease forecasting software, gas 

chromatograph, solid phase extraction, vacuum concentrator, trinocular compound and 

stereomicroscopes etc are available. An aerobiology facility to handle microbial culture 

under highly sterile conditions has been developed. Highly sophisticated and sensitive 

equipments viz. LC-MS/MS, GC-MS/MS, ICP-MS, and GC/GC-MS/TOF have been 

2

acquired under the APEDA sponsored National Referral Laboratory for monitoring 

pesticide residues in grapes. 

iv. Post Harvest Technology 

Equipments like wine analyzer, pilot scale fermenter, tray drier, incubators, sealing 

machines and other facilities required to undertake research in the areas of raisin, wine, 

juice are being acquired. 

3.1.3 Library 

The library has numerous subject specific books in different fields related to viticulture and 

general horticulture. The library now subscribes to about 20 foreign journals related to grape 

and specific disciplines. The abstract databases in the field of horticulture, soil, pest and 

biotechnology are also available, providing an opportunity to access the world's literature. 

Multiple users can simultaneously browse these databases with the help of CDM server and 

local area network (LAN). 

3.1.4 ARIS Cell and Computerization 

A well-equipped ARIS (Agricultural Research Information System) cell having computers of 

latest configuration and all peripherals like digital, laser and colour printers, modem, scanner, 

DVD/CD writer, is established. Internet and e-mail facilities through ERNET are made 

available to all the staff. It also houses and manages LAN servers and switches. 

The Center's website which can be accessed at http://nrcgrapes.mah.nic.in is also maintained 

by ARIS cell by frequently updating it to incorporate latest information. 

All the laboratories, farm office and administration and accounts sections are provided with 

latest version computers with necessary peripherals. Data analysis software MSTATC, SPARC 

and SPSS 11.5 are available besides software for pay bill, ARFIS. Hindi software 'Leap Office 

2000' is made available on all the computers to promote use of Hindi in daily work. 

3.2 BUDGET 

Plan and Non-plan expenditures incurred during these plan periods is given in table 1. 

Table1. Expenditure incurred during plan periods. 

Plan period Plan Non-Plan Others Total 

VIII (1992-1997) 19.83 – – 19.83 

IX (1997-2002) 849.22 98.04 – 947.26 

X (2002-2007) 855.00 – – 855.00 

2002-2003 144.99 71.30 – 216.29 

2003-2004 144.99 82.05 – 227.04 

2004-2005 180.00 – – – 

2005-2006 190.00 139.40 – 329.40 

2006-2007 250.31 95.00 – 345.31 

3

3.3 MANPOWER 

Manpower position is given in table 2. 

Table 2.Staff position of the Centre 

Sl. 

No. 

Post 

Number of posts 

Sanctioned Filled Vacant 

1. Research & Management Personnel 1 1 0 

2. Scientific 16 14 2 

3. Technical 8 8 0 

4. Administrative 8 8 0 

5. Supportive 7 7 0 

Total 41 39 2 

4. RESEARCH CHIEVEMENTS 

4.1 ACHIEVEMENTS OF IX TH PLAN 

4.1.1 Crop Improvement 

• Established the National active germplasm site for grapes at NRCG with 350 grape 

accessions. These were collected from various research institutes within the country and 

abroad. It includes disease resistant inter-specific crosses evolved in France, Australia, 

USA, Russia, Korea and Japan and indigenous grape varieties grown / evolved in India and 

related wild species from Himalaya and western ghats. 

• Seventeen rootstock varieties including 110R, 99R, SO4, 1103P, St. George, Salt Creek and 

1613C were procured. 

• Characterization of germplasm by ampelography was initiated and reported. Two 

phenotypes of Dogridge rootstock were distinguished by ampelometry. 

4.1.2 Crop Production 

• Tas-A-Ganesh vines were found to be more vigorous on Dogridge B but bold berries and 

highest yield per vine was also recorded on Dogridge B. 

• Survey was undertaken in Sangli district of Maharashtra in order to find out the threshold 

level of salinity tolerance of Thompson Seedless on Dogridge rootstock and the collected 

data under the survey revealed that the levels of ESP, pH and Ca content in most of the 

vineyard soils was within the safe limit. 

• Performance of Thompson Seedless grafted on Dogridge B, Salt Creek, 1613 C and St. 

George to single level of imposed soil moisture stress in an existing vineyard, revealed that 

Thompson Seedless on Dogridge B performed well in terms of growth, yield and quality 

both under normal and stressed conditions. 

• In order to develop petiole nutrient guides for Thompson Seedless vines raised on Dogridge 

B rootstock, data with respect to petiole nutrient status at bud differentiation and full bloom 

stage, yield and quality parameters were recorded. 

4

• Studies on bunch stem necrosis disorder in Sangli region showed that the necrosis was due 

to impaired translocation of Ca to the rachis and Mg deficiency. 

• Studies on leaf curl in grapes revealed that leaf curl was associated with potassium 

deficiency. 

• Application of Hydrogen cyanamide @ 1 - 1.5% at the time of pruning was found to induce 

early and uniform budbreak on grafted Thompson Seedless vines. This facilitated uniform 

cultural operations necessary for improving the quality of grapes. Continuous use of 

hydrogen cyanamide did not result in deleterious effects on vine growth, productivity and 

quality of fruits. 

• A plant bio-stimulant, N-Acetyl Thiazolidine-4-Carboxylic Acid (Quantum) at 0.05% as 

spray at 45 and 75 days after fruit pruning and dip at 102 and 110 days after pruning was 

found to have potential to increase total chlorophyll content, bunch weight, berry length and 

berry crispness. 

• Use of COMBINE - a homobrassinolide based plant bio-stimulant, @ 1 ppm in combination 

with Gibberellic Acid (GA3) or 4 Chloro 2 Pyridil N Phenyl Urea (CPPU), increased berry 

weight, improved berry size and increased the shelf life of grapes. 

• Addition of a GA 3 adjuvent - VININ @ 5 ml per litre with GA3 increased the efficacy of 

GA 3 in producing loose clusters, improved berry weight and berry size and increased the 

pedicel thickness which is prerequisite for longer shelf life. 

• The efficacy of Gibberellic acid for producing loose bunches and increasing berry size, was 

enhanced by the use of ethyl oleate @ 100 g / litre along with GA 3 , thus minimizing the 

post-harvest losses due to desiccation in storage. 

4.1.3 Crop Protection 

• Studies on fungi associated with post harvest decay in table grapes meant for overseas 

markets indicated that during storage at 0 0.5 0C, post harvest decay was minimal and 

caused due to Alternaria alternata and Cladosporium sphaerospermum. Infection of both 

these fungi was restricted to individual berries. On shelf, Aspergillus spp. mainly A. niger, 

Botryodiplodia theobromae, and Penicillium spp. were found associated with decayed 

berries, while Rhizopus stolonifer was associated with bunch rot. Botrytis cinerea and 

Phomopsis were not detected in any sample. 

• Irregular cane maturity due to the fungus Botryodiplodia was identified as a serious problem 

in vineyards of different varieties of all ages all over India. The fungus is thought to be 

spreading through infected planting material. A simple procedure based on incubation in 

sterilized polythene bags was developed for large-scale detection of Botryodiplodia 

infection in vine. 

• The use of citric acid in water for its acidification, before preparing pesticide solutions, 

improved the pesticide efficacy. 

• Varietal reaction to mealybugs revealed that out of 11 varieties tested, incidence was 

negligible in Bangalore Blue and Bangalore Purple, moderate in Cardinal, ARI-H-144, 

Beauty Seedless, Sonaka, Sharad Seedless and Pusa Urvashi. Highest susceptibility was 

recorded in Thompson Seedless and Arkavati. 

• The terminal residues of hydrogen cyanamide in grape berries were monitored for three 

5

consecutive years in same vines of a same vineyard. No cumulative residues of H 2 CN 2 

could be detected. The safe waiting period of Benomyl, Chlorpyriphos, Hexaconazole, 

Mancozeb, Iprodione were determined, based on dissipation studies. 

• Washing grapes with 1% and 2% NaCl or 0.05% NaHCO 3 was effective in dislodging the 

residues of carbendazim and hexaconazole from berry surface up to a level of 40-45%. 

4.1.4 Pre and post-harvest technology for improved shelf life 

• Two spray treatments with low 

concentrations of the fungicide Benomyl @ 

0.05%, 20 and 10 days before harvest 

effectively protected bunches against post 

harvest rot and maintained the freshness of 

bunches during cold storage and thereafter in 

shelf even at the lower dose of 2.3g of 

sodium bisulphite per 5 kg grapes. The 

treatment also minimized sulphur injury to 

berries as compared to the normal treatment Fig. 1. Effect of Trichoderma on shelf life 

of packing grapes with the recommended 

dose of 3.5g sodium bisulphite per 5 kg grapes. 

• Two sprays of bio-control fungus - Trichoderma harzianum at 20 and 2 to 3 days before 

harvest effectively protected bunches against post harvest decay and maintained the 

freshness of bunches during cold storage and thereafter in shelf even at the lower dose of 

2.3g of sodium bisulphite (used as in-package sulphur dioxide generator) per 5 kg grapes. 

Sulphur injury to berries was minimized as compared to the normal treatment of packing 

grapes with the recommended dose of 3.5g sodium bisulphite per 5 kg grapes. 

• Single treatment of calcium chloride or nitrate @ 1% aqueous 

solution during 75 to 105 days after pruning increased shelf life of 

Thompson Seedless grapes after 30 days of cold storage. 

• Harvesting the berries at green stage but with 20°B and cutting the 

bunch above the knot increased shelf life by 2 days after cold 

storage in comparison to cutting the bunches below the knot. 

• Using high-density polyethylene polyliner and absorbent tissue 

paper for packing prolonged the shelf life of export grapes. 

• Pre-cooling grapes within four hours after harvest increased shelf 

life after cold storage. 

4.2 ACHIEVEMENTS OF X TH PLAN 


Fig. 2. Position of knot 

shown on the 

bunch 

• The Centre has established and developed a field gene bank of grape germplasm comprising 

of 415 accessions collected from different sources in India and abroad. The germplasm 

contains commercial varieties for table, raisin, juice and wine purpose, clonal selections, 

rootstock varieties and several wild species. 

• The grape accessions were characterized based on ampelography and evaluated for traits 

like early ripening, self bud break, raisin and juice quality etc. Several accessions with selfthinning 

and self-bud break were identified. 

6

• Genetic variability among the accessions and heritability of several quantitative traits were 

analysed. Positive correlation was observed between yield per 

vine and bunch number, yield and mean bunch weight, juice 

percentage and berry diameter. 

• Evaluation of germplasm has resulted in the identification of 

several useful accessions. A17-3, a clonal selection from 

Centennial Seedless has been identified for table purpose. 

Kishmish Rozavis White, a mutant of Kishmish Rozavis is 

selected for white raisin and high yielding A18-3, a black 

seedless selection from an open pollinated seedling progeny of 

a black seeded variety for black raisin productions. 

Fig. 3. A-17-3 

Fig. 4. Kishmish Rozavis 

White 

• Clone 2A of Thompson Seedless, Red Globe, Crimson 

Seedless, Flame Seedless and Italia was introduced and are 

under field testing at various locations in the country including 

AICRP. Preliminary studies indicate that 2A clone of 

Thompson seedless and Red Globe are promising in 

Maharashtra and Flame Seedless in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh 

• Several hybrids of indigenous species and varieties with 

introduced cultivars were found promising for traits like early 

ripening and quality traits. These hybrids are under evaluation. 

• A computer database was developed for germplasm based on 

UPOV descriptors. It allows storage and retrieval of characterization data of germplasm. 

• 24 rootstocks and 44 other accessions were 

characterized with micro satellite markers. The 

work on molecular database is initiated for storage 

and retrieval of molecular data. 

• The confusion between two morphologically 

different Dogridge rootstock plants, available with 

Fig. 5. Micro satellite analysis of grape 

grape growers as Dogridge-A (America) and accessions 

Dogridge-B (Bangalore) was resolved based on 

micro satellite marker analysis and ampelometric studies. 

Rootstocks Dogridge-A resembled 110 Richter (110 R), 

which is a hybrid of V. berlandieri × V. rupestris, whereas 

Dogridge-B belongs to the species V. champini. 

• All the germplasm available in the field gene bank of the 

Centre was screened for resistance to downy mildew in vivo 

under conditions highly favourable for disease development, 

for two consecutive seasons. Accessions rating as resistant in 

vivo were further screened under controlled conditions in 

vitro to confirm the field ratings. Similarly other accessions 

of interest were also screened in vitro to determine their 

disease resistant status. 

Fig. 6. In vitro screening for 

downy mildew resistance 

- note sporulation of 

Plasmopara viticola on 

leaf disc 

• Accessions with varying level of resistance and susceptibility selected in the above studies 

are being used for identification of molecular markers associated with downy mildew 

7

esistance. Analysis of these accessions with micro satellite markers has so far identified one 

highly promising marker band. This will be confirmed in segregating population. 

• Crosses to obtain segregating population for downy mildew resistance were made between 

Thompson seedless and resistant accessions Sevye Villard and Seibel. Approximately 100 

F1 hybrids are in polyhouse. 

• Wine and Juice : Country 

Bangalore, E 12/2 and Pusa 

Navrang have been identified 

as suitable for juice production 

while Cabernet Sauvignon, 

Shiraz and Merlot for red wine 

production, while Chenin 

Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc 

for white wine. Planting 

material for these varieties has 

been given to more than 262 

grape growers. 

Fig. 7. Pusa Navrang 

Fig. 8. Cabernet Sauvignon 


• No adverse effect on growth, yield and quality parameters were observed in nine years old 

Tas-A-Ganesh grafted on Dogridge rootstock with different levels of stock scion ratio 

(inverted bottleneck symptom). 

• Pruning of Flame seedless at 4-6 bud position resulted in better yield. 

• The method of mass multiplication of Dogridge rootstock through cutting was simplified. 

Rooting hormone, IBA @ 1000 ppm for propagation through cuttings was standardized for 

June - July months. However, during low temperature, the concentration of IBA needs to be 

increased up to 3000 ppm. 

• IBA concentrations for different rootstocks multiplication have been standardized based on 

their biochemical constituents of mother vines. 

• A potting mixture consisting of soil, FYM and cocopeat in proportion of 2:1:1 was 

standardized for better establishment and early sprouting of cuttings. 

• Preliminary evaluation of growth performance of Thompson Seedless and Tas-A-Ganesh on 

different rootstocks showed better performance of Thompson Seedless on Dogridge, and 

that of Tas-A-Ganesh on 110R. However, after 5 to 6 years of growth cycle, performance 

of Thompson seedless vines deteriorated on Dogridge rootstock showing uneven sprouting 

and high vigour with reduced bud fruitfulness, but it improved on 110R rootstock. 

• Preliminary results on the use of plastics for grape cultivation showed 2-3 days early setting 

with improved luster and loose bunch in Tas-A-Ganesh vines compared to uncovered vines. 

• In Sharad Seedless, girdling during 60 - 75 days after pruning (6-8 mm berry size) resulted 

in higher berry weight and diameter and yield. In this variety, retention of 40 bunches per 

vine was found to be optimum for obtaining higher yield and better quality grapes. Etherel 

dip @ 1 ml/L at the initiation of colour development was found to be the best treatment for 

improving colour development in Sharad Seedless. 

8

Fig. 9. Improved performance of grafted vines 

(Right) as compared to own rooted (Left) 

at reduced level of irrigation 

• In the variety Tas-A-Ganesh, retention of only 35 

shoots after back pruning and maintaining 40 

bunches per vine after forward pruning was found to 

be optimum for obtaining significantly higher yield, 

berry weight and berry diameter. Similarly, clipping 

a flower cluster up to 35%, gave higher yield with 

quality bunch. 

• In Tas-A-Ganesh horizontal single cordon training 

modification recorded higher yield and lower disease 

incidence than double cordon system on flat roof 

gable system of training. 

• Tas-A-Ganesh vines grafted on Dogridge rootstock and trained with double stem on flat roof 

gable training system performed better as compared to single stem under the same system 

of training. 

• Growth stage wise fertilizer application through drip (fertigation) in grafted Thompson 

seedless vines resulted in 60% savings in fertilizer use over the conventional method of soil 

application, thus improving fertilizer use efficiency and reducing salinity hazard and 

pollution of ground water. 

• An irrigation schedule based on pan evaporation and growth 

stages of grafted grape vines have been developed for optimal 

water use in grapes. The schedule improves the water use 

efficiency by almost 141 per cent. 

• Tas-A-Ganesh grafted on rootstock showed better water use 

efficiency compared to own rooted vines and resulted in the 

saving of 25% irrigation water. 

• Use of subsurface irrigation and mulch + Antistress resulted in 

improved water use efficiency and lead to saving of 25% of 

irrigation water on grafted vines. 

• Rootstock B2/56, resembling 110 R was found to have better salt exclusion as indicated by 

lower sodium content in petiole of Thompson Seedless vines grafted on this rootstock. The 

yield was also highest in vines grafted on this rootstock. 

• Black leaf disorder observed in many vineyards were attributed to 

low potassium content and / or excess sodium 

• The shiny spot symptoms and marginal necrosis of leaf blade were 

found to be due to potassium deficiency. 

Fig. 10. Subsurface irrigation 

• DRIS norms for the vineyards, based on petiole nutrient contents 

were developed. Among the different diagnostic parameters, P/N, 

Fig. 11. Black leaf disorder 

K/N, P/Zn had greater physiological rationale during flowering 

stage whereas N/P and N/K were critical during bud differentiation stage. 

• The stages and doses of the bioregulators (Uracil, 6-BA, GA 3 and CPPU) for improving 

bunch and berry quality have been standardized on Thompson seedless and Tas-A-Ganesh 

vines. Efficacy of gibberellic acid could be improved by using adjuvents like phosphoric 

acid and urea phosphate in acidic range. 

9

• Similarly use of Cycocel (CCC), a growth retardant for reducing shoot vigour and 

increasing the fruitfulness of bud has been standardized. 

• In grafted Thompson Seedless, application of CPPU@2 ppm at 3-4 and 6-7 mm berry size 

stage resulted in improved berry characteristics. 

• The quality of Sharad Seedless in terms of berry size, weight and diameter, could be 

improved by the application of GA 3 @ 40 and 30 ppm along with 10 ppm 6BA at 3-4 mm 

and 6-7 mm berry size stage respectively. 


• Disease forecasting software, Metwin 2 from Austria was tested for forecasting of diseases 

under Indian conditions and it was found useful in the forecasting of downy mildew and 

anthracnose disease. Forecasting based disease management resulted in considerable saving 

of sprays during one year of production cycle as compared to conventional pre-determined 

schedule based management. 

• Prototype disease forecasting software for powdery mildew management was developed. 

The software takes daily weather data, field data and generates diagnosis and recommends 

the choice and dose of fungicides. The software was released and made available to the 

growers. 

• Based on past several years data, it has been found that Botrytis cinerea, causing serious 

pre- and post-harvest decay of grapes in other countries does not seem to be a problem of 

grapes in Maharashtra. In cold storage, Alternaria and Cladosporium are the major 

pathogens while Aspergillus niger and other Aspergillus spp, Rhizopus, Penicillium, are 

major decay causing organisms at higher temperatures. Incidence of Botryodiplodia was 

negligible. The Centre has appraised Government of India quarantine authorities to ensure 

proper checks to prevent entry of Botrytis cinerea through import of grapes and raisins. 

• Use of potassium bi-carbonate (PBC) at a concentration of 0.5% in combination with 0.05% 

hexaconazole was found to be suitable for better management of powdery mildew. 

• Use of surfactant increased the efficacy of the fungicides in control of powdery mildew, 

anthracnose and downy mildew and allowed considerable reduction in doses of fungicides. 

• The efficacy of Carbendazim was improved by adding citric acid @30g/100l of spray water. 

• Use of fungicides viz. thiophenate methyl, mancozeb and sulphur in combination with bud 

breaking chemical, hydrogen cyanamide did not affect sprouting in vines. 

• Drenching of Botryodiplodia affected vines with bavistin significantly increased the brix 

yield of the affected vines. 

• Trichoderma was tested for antagonism to Elsinoe ampelina and significant mycoparasitism 

was observed showing its potential for biocontrol of anthracnose disease. 

• Chitosan alone or in combination with biocontrol agents like Trichoderma and Verticillium 

or in combination with KH 2 PO 4 showed potential to reduce powdery mildew in grape. 

• Seasonal incidence of major insect pests viz. flea beetle, thrips and jassids was observed in 

vineyards of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Insect incidence showed correlation with 

weather parameters. Rainfall, minimum temperature and humidity negatively correlated 

10

with the population of thrips and jassids. Mealybugs population was negatively correlated 

with humidity. 

• Survey was also conducted to document the indigenous methods followed for the control of 

insect pests by grape farmers. Indigenous methods included the use of different cultural, 

mechanical, physical, biological and chemical approaches for insect pest management. 

• Environment friendly chemicals, botanicals as well as new generation pesticides are being 

tested for their bioefficacy against important diseases and insect pests so that they can be 

incorporated in an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme. Several environment 

friendly substances viz. Chitosan (0.1%), fermented gomutra (10%), milk (10%) were found 

to be promising in controlling the powdery mildew especially under low disease risk 

situation. 

• Several new generation chemicals, herbal preparations, neem formulations and 

biopesticides were evaluated for the management of thrips and mealybugs. Several new 

generation chemicals were tested on mealybugs and thrips along with their pre harvest 

interval (pesticide residues) and later they were included in the recommendation schedule. 

• Dissipation rate kinetics was studied for several agrochemicals and their Pre Harvest 

Intervals (PHI) were determined. The PHI of CPPU, Tetraconazole, Methomyl and 

Spinosad, thiamethoxaim, diniconazole, N-ATCA and glyphosate was 23, 18, 55, 9, 17, 21, 

10 and 13.86 days respectively for single dose and 34, 30, 61 16, 19, 26, 12 and 14.74 days 

respectively for double dose. Similarly the PHI for mancozeb and Carbendazim in grapes 

was worked out to be 48 and 30 days respectively. 

• Adsorption desorption analysis of three chemicals viz. CPPU, thiamethoxam and 

imidacloprid in soil indicated strong adsorption on the soil, thus these chemicals pose no 

contamination threat to ground water. 

• Bio-remediation of pesticides methomyl and chlorpyriphos using Trichoderma was studied 

in vivo and 50% faster degradation was observed in presence of Trichoderma. In field 

studies spray of Trichoderma formulation after 2 days of flusilazole sprays reduced PHI 

from 49 days to 18 days. 

4.2.4 Pre and post-harvest technology for improving shelf life 

• Preharvest treatment with Chitosan @ 1.0 g/L 20 and 7 days before harvest enhanced the 

shelf life of grapes by 4 days at ambient temperature after 30 days of low temperature 

storage. 

• Harmonization of the quality of Indian raisins with the Codex standard: The quality of the 

raisins produced presently in India was analyzed with reference to the international quality 

standards, viz. Codex standards of FAO/WHO with the aim to formulate our own quality 

standards, which are not in existence under the PFA. The survey study has clearly brought 

out that the Indian raisin samples comply to physical, chemical and microbiological 

parameters specified under the Codex standard except the number of cap stem and stem 

pieces in unit quantity under the physical parameters. 

4.3 TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY 

Transfer of technology including field demonstration forms an integral part of the activities of 

this Centre and enjoys very strong research-extension linkage with the grape growers 

11

associations of various states, especially Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil 

Nadu besides state departments of agriculture/horticulture and other grape stake holders. 

The Scientists of the Centre are actively interacting with the grape growers during their field 

visits, seminars organized by the State Government and growers' associations, farmers fairs 

etc. and also during the visit of the growers to the Centre. Scientists participate in about 20- 

25 such seminars in a year in different grape growing areas. Scientists share the latest technical 

information on various aspects of grape enterprise and also try to understand new problems 

faced by this sector and effectively disseminate technologies through various other media also. 

The Centre also has been conducting various training programmes on different aspects of 

viticulture. In association with State Bank of India, Pune the Centre has also adopted growers 

in different grape growing regions of Maharashtra to advice them on means to increase the 

production of quality grapes. 

To educate grape growers on newly emerging technologies / problems the Centre has 

published popular articles, research articles and technical bulletins and other institute 

publications. Till now, the Centre has generated 23 research articles, 110 popular articles, 5 

technical bulletins, one video CD and 5 other publications on various aspects of grape 

cultivation. 

So far the Centre has transferred the following technologies to the growers and these have been 

accepted well. 

• Irrigating grafted Thompson Seedless vines based on pan evaporation and growth stages. 

• Application of nutrients through drip in grafted Thompson Seedless vines. 

• Correction of nutritional disorders viz. Inward leaf curl (Potassium deficiency) and Bunch 

stem necrosis (Calcium and Magnesium deficiency) by appropriate nutrient application. 

• Moisture conservation techniques like mulching, subsurface irrigation and use of 

antitranspirant. 

• Use of Trichoderma for improving the post-harvest shelf life of grapes. The field results 

with Trichoderma are very encouraging especially in preventing decay occurring after preharvest 

rains. The technology is well accepted by the grape growers. The technology for 

commercial production of Trichoderma suitable for spray in vineyards has been given to 

'MAHAGRAPES', a grape growers' cooperative society. 

• Disease forecasting technique developed by the Centre is being used by the leading grape 

growing and processing societies, besides the Govt. of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh in 

their package of practices for disease management. 

• Harvesting, handling and other post-harvest practices to improve the shelf life of grapes is 

regularly taught to grape growers in training programmes, seminars, etc. 

• Other areas of management of canopy, diseases, insects, herbs, and quality of fruits have 

been covered in technology transfer including Integrated Pest Management (IPM), 

Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) etc. 

12

5. IMPACT ASSESSMENT ON FUTURE RESEACRH 

5.1 GROWTH 


Germplasm collection of 415 accessions which includes rootstock species, various table and 

wine grape varieties / hybrids and wild species at the Centre is going to make an important 

impact for the development of plant material of desirable traits to meet the requirements of 

grape industry. So far, Dogridge rootstock has been recommended for cultivation under the soil 

/ water salinity and drought conditions and accepted very well by the grape growers all over 

the country. About more than 1000 ha area has come under this rootstock and all upcoming 

areas are covered with this rootstock. With regard to grape varieties for table purpose and 

raisin making Thompson Seedless and its clones identified by the growers viz. Tas-A-Ganesh, 

Sonaka, Chaman and among coloured varieties, Sharad Seedless, a clone of introduced 

Kishmish Chernyi has replaced all conventional varieties like Anab-e-Shahi, Bangalore Blue 

and Gulabi. Flame Seedless has also been accepted in some areas. Introduced wine varieties 

viz. Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Ugni Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier and Clairette among 

white varieties and Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Zinfandel among the red wine have 

been accepted by wineries in the country. Computer software developed for germplasm 

collection will find a way for knowing all the available germplasm in the country with their 

genetic and other traits. Biotechnological work initiated at this Centre is going to make an 

impact in identification of genetic purity of different varieties and rootstocks and marker 

assisted selection for the development of plant material with all desirable traits. 


Newer treatments of bio-regulators, pot filling, grafting and its growth stages suggested in 

raising the plant in nursery so far and in the field were accepted by the grape growers and 

looking for still better and efficient methods to reduce the initial period of gestation for setting 

up of vineyard. Training methods for vineyard development is yet to make uniform impact and 

there is a lot of variation in design and fabrication material used. Pruning practices suggested 

in different varieties as per the period of crop harvest were also accepted by the growers by 

making some modifications to suit their requirement. Use of bud breaking chemicals for 

uniform bud sprout, stage and various concentrations of bioregulators and stage of their 

application to increase yield and quality of table grapes is widely practiced. Other cultural 

practices like retention of shoots and bunches per unit area, leaf area per shoot are being 

adopted by majority of the grape growers to produce good quality grapes. 

Dogridge rootstock and its compatibility with Thompson Seedless and its clones has been 

established and accepted by the grape growers under the soil and water salinity and drought 

conditions. Leaf petiole analysis at bud differentiation and flowering stage for knowing the 

status of nutrients and their right quantity application in terms of nitrogen, phosphorus and 

potassium has made much impact in application of fertilizers. In addition to this, the technique 

of fertigation to increase the fertilizer efficiency developed by the Centre is being transferred 

through various extension methods including the technical bulletins and folders. Drip 

irrigation method has been well received and all grape area is presently covered under this 

method. To increase further the efficiency of water among grape growers by suggesting the 

phenological stages of vine vis-à-vis the water requirement has been accepted besides the other 

methods such as use of mulches, use of various rootstocks and antistress chemicals. 

13


The imported disease forecasting software tested by the Centre based on weather parameters 

viz. temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, leaf wetness, radiation, air velocity etc. was 

accepted by grape growers to know the level of disease incidence particularly downy mildew, 

powdery mildew and anthracnose and guidance of pesticide spray schedule. The system was 

suitable for forecasting of downy mildew and anthracnose but not for powdery mildew. This 

technique has been accepted by the State Government of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh to 

use in other crops. Similarly the expert system developed by the Centre for powdery mildew 

forecasting and management has been accepted by many growers. Older and newer pesticide 

molecules have also been evaluated for their bioefficacy and residue data and accordingly the 

PHI period was fixed for managing the various disease and insect pests in grape. This was 

worked out keeping in view the export of table grapes to EU countries and list of pesticides 

recommended under this study were taken as guidance for the pesticide residue monitoring 

programme implemented by the APEDA under the guidance of National Referral Laboratory 

set up at this Centre. Studies on the pest risk analysis of insect pests of quarantine importance 

carried out by this Centre in grape opened up the newer export market to China. 

5.1.4 Pre and post-harvest technology to improve shelf life 

A technique of pre-harvest spray of Trichoderma was received well by the farmers in 

managing disease incidence and post-harvest fungi. This has become common practice in view 

of the post-harvest decay problems faced in domestic and export market during long storage 

of produce. 

5.2 INPUT / OUTPUT ASSESSMENT 


Introduction, evaluation and development of rootstock and scion varieties and their hybrids 

input has been successful to some extent. As a result, the rootstocks viz. Dogridge, B-2/56, 

110 R, 99 R, 1103 P, Salt Creek, St. George, Teleki 5A, SO4 etc. are under investigation of 

compatibility with various table and wine grape varieties under various biotic and abiotic 

stresses. No new developed varieties in the country have become popular or accepted by the 

farmers except the Thompson Seedless and its clones developed by them. Introduced varieties 

viz. Sharad Seedless, Flame Seedless and Red Globe are being accepted under various 

situations and different agroclimatic conditions. Clonal selection identified by the Centre viz. 

A 17/3 from Centennial Seedless, Kishmish Rozavis White from Kishmish Rozavis and 

A 18/3, a black seedless selection from an open pollinated seedling progeny of a black seeded 

variety are promising and are under field evaluation at different places in the country. Input put 

up for biotechnology studies just few years back will give the output in the years to come. 


Input in the area of training method and various material used for fabrication is yet to give 

appropriate output in reducing the initial cost of cultivation. Level of pruning, time of pruning 

in various grape varieties and their combination is also to give specific output in getting offseason 

crop and appropriate yield. 

Input in terms of use of various bioregulators for crop regulation / thinning, increasing size of 

berry and pedicel thickness apart from managing growth / vigour, breaking dormancy of buds 

etc. has given many benefits so far. 

Experiments on increasing efficiency of water and fertilizer use have given specific and 

14

positive results. Further work to increase its efficiency is continuing. Studies on leaf petiole 

analysis technique has given output in understanding the level of nutrients in the plant and 

accordingly supplementation of additional nutrients for appropriate growth and yield of plant. 


Efforts put in disease forecasting in relation to weather parameters using imported computer 

software were successful and outputs in terms of software for managing disease of downy 

mildew, powdery mildew and anthracnose were developed. Further work to refine these 

softwares is in progress. Work on use of old and new pesticide molecules in managing various 

insect pests and disease has given specific output in terms of Pre Harvest Interval (PHI) period 

and safer residue levels. These results are already being used by the grape growers in 

monitoring pesticide residue level. 


The use of biocontrol agents like Trichoderma spray has become handy in last 30 days to 

manage pre-harvest infection of berries and post-harvest rots of various fungi. Other preharvest 

practices and treatments of bioregulators also resulted in increasing the storage life of 

grape. 

Modified Australian drying technology for raisin making is the result of inputs put in 

standardizing the treatment of raisins with Australian dipping oil and drying under shade for 

enhancing drying process and maintaining better quality. 

5.3 SHORT COMINGS 


About 415 accessions were collected from abroad and within the country which include 

rootstock, varieties / hybrids and wild species. This has to be expanded further by collecting 

promising germplasm from other countries and collection of germplasm from North Eastern 

area within the country, which has not been attempted yet. 

Available germplasm has not been completely characterized and documented which is the 

priority. This will facilitate to know the best material available with us for breeding purpose. 

All the germplasm available at the Centre has not been evaluated under different agroclimatic 

conditions and their suitability for various purposes like wine, raisins, and juice apart from 

table grapes. Clones identified from few varieties at the Centre also needs to evaluated under 

different agroclimatic conditions on large-scale trial. 

Breeding work in grape in the past came out with many varieties and hybrids. However, they 

failed for want of acceptance by grape farmers. Therefore, breeding programme needs to be on 

sound footing and consider long scorecard of various plant and fruit traits besides fruit yield 

and cost of cultivation. While undertaking breeding work, all desirable traits should be 

evaluated systematically. 

Supply of quality plant material free from insect pests and diseases and true to type is an 

important aspect in grape cultivation. However, this is lacking grossly although there are many 

nurseries certified by the State Govts. The varieties / hybrids introduced and developed within 

the country need to be maintained separately with their mother clones by the research 

institutes, state agricultural universities and state owned nurseries for supply of evaluated and 

certified plant material to the nurseries for further multiplication and supply to grape growers. 

15


The compatibility of rootstocks and table /wine varieties in long term has not been established 

so far. Canopy standardization could not be done to determine the optimum leaf : fruit ratio for 

the different varieties under various agro climatic conditions of soil and water resulting in poor 

quality fruits. Optimum yield levels for the different varieties under various agro climatic 

conditions of soil and water could not be determined thus affecting the quality of fruits and 

productivity of vines. 

The agrotechniques for table varieties like Flame Seedless was not standardized for its 

fruitfulness and production under Indian condition. Hence, the area under cultivation is 

reducing. Many wine varieties have been introduced but their performance in various parts of 

country yet to be evaluated and their package of practices is yet to be standardized. 

Standardization of training system and pruning practices based on the vigour of vine in table / 

wine grapes needs to be taken up variety wise. 

Till now, the quantitative relationship has not been established between petiole nutrient content 

and nutrient application. Further, there is a need to integrate soil test values with petiole 

nutrient norms for improving fertilizer use efficiency. A sequential manurial schedule is to be 

evolved for different age groups. Recycling of on farm wastes in the vineyards has not been 

popularized due to disease related apprehensions. However, this needs rethinking as 

substantial quantities of nutrients are removed through pruned biomass. 

Petiole nutrient norms have been worked out for two stages (bud differentiation and flowering) 

only and this will not be reflective of the yield and quality of the produce keeping in view the 

recent fertilization practices. There is need to work out the petiole nutrient norms for different 

stages in vine. No studies have been undertaken for determining nutritional needs of wine 

varieties under Indian conditions. The problems of salinity and water scarcity have resulted in 

the decline in productivity of own rooted vineyards. The rootstocks offer scope for raising 

vineyards in these areas and they also modify the nutrient uptake pattern of the vine. There is 

a need to screen different rootstocks tolerant to various stresses and their adaptability to 

different nutrient load in the soil. 

Many times it has been observed that disease pressure is high in stressed vines due to nutrient 

imbalance. Potassium has been implicated in many situations. However, intensive work needs 

to be carried out to understand this mechanism. 

The amount of water to be given per vine on a given day in relation to its stage of growth and 

evapo-transpiration demand has been worked out for grafted Thompson Seedless vines only in 

heavy soils. Further, application of fertilizer doses under different soil moisture levels needs 

to be worked out in view of frequent drought like situations in major grape growing areas. 

Further studies also need to be carried out in other commercial varieties of interest. 


Software adopted and developed for managing downy mildew, anthracnose and powdery 

mildew based on weather parameters need to be tested under various agroclimatic conditions 

and developed further the cost-effective software based on wireless system of weather station. 

Machines / tools for uniform coverage of pesticide spray on whole canopy are not available 

and need to be introduced or designed locally within country. This also equally applies for the 

management of insect pests of mealy bugs and thrips. 

Integrated plant protection management schedule including biocontrol agent not available 

16

today for both the management of insect / pests and diseases. The over dependence on 

pesticide use could be reduced considerably. Newer and safer chemical molecule needs to be 

introduced and used in future to manage the problem of pesticide residues in grapes. 


Alternate technology in place of use of sulphur dioxide pad is not available and need to be 

developed keeping in view the likely ban in using SO 2 in future. Technology to harvest 

produce without injuries and further improving the cooling efficiency in cold storage need to 

be developed in view of more problem of rot during storage of grape at low temperature. 

5.4 LESSONS LEARNT, SUGGESTIONS AND OPTIONS FOR FUTURE 


Germplasm is a great asset. In addition to acquiring more and more germplasm, it is essential 

to conserve the available germplasm. It will be very difficult to recoup the lost germplasm, as 

the countries possessing the same will not spare it as easily as they did in the past. The 

following options are suggested for future in respect of the germplasm conservation and 

genetic improvement. 

1. Collection, evaluation, characterization and cataloguing of indigenous wild and other 

useful germplasm to be intensified further. 

2. Systematic evaluation of germplasm for all desirable characters under ideal cultural and 

management conditions in the country. 

3. In-vitro conservation of Vitis germplasm is not economically viable. 

4. Clonal selection to identify superior clones in the existing commercial vineyards and also 

among the introduced varieties. 

5. Breeding with specific objectives to induce disease resistance in vinifera cultivars, increase 

the berry size in Thompson Seedless, evolve early ripening seedless variety with bold 

green berries, besides self thinning and fruitfulness at basal buds. 

6. Work on non-conventional breeding methods such as marker assisted selection and 

transgenic hybridization to evolve varieties with all desirable characters need to be 

intensified. 


Considering high initial investment and maintenance cost in vineyard establishment, following 

are the options suggested for undertaking the future strategy. 

1. Compatibility of rootstocks with various commercial table and wine varieties and is 

adaptability to various agroclimatic conditions. 

2. Newer nursery techniques to reduce gestation period. Modifications in training and 

pruning practices to reduce the initial investment and increasing yield to make available 

fruits in off-season. 

3. Management of soil ecosystem favourable for vine root proliferation, their healthy growth 

and optimum functioning. 

4. Nutrient budgeting taking into account the organic nutrient reserves in the vine for varying 

ages besides recycling of waste generated by vines. 

17

5. Standardization of fertigation techniques and to increase the efficiency further for other 

commercially important varieties. 

6. Standardization of the placement, number and type of emitters for maximum root 

proliferation and activity to increase water use efficiency further. 

7. Standardizing the water input at various stages of vine growth in relation to the crop and 

evapotranspiration demand for other commercially important varieties. 


In the tropical and sub-tropical conditions of India, due to favourable weather conditions, 

disease and insect pest incidence is quite high. No commercial grape variety in India is 

resistant / tolerant to the major diseases and pests. There is thus, high investment in preventive 

plant protection practices, leading to high pesticide use and possibilities of pesticide residues 

above MRL at harvest. Hence, there is a need to 

1. Develop a disease / insect pest forecasting system which will provide accurate risk 

assessment and guide growers for timing of appropriate fungicide sprays for the perceived 

risk. 

2. Evolving integrated pest/disease management strategies including the eco-friendly 

pesticides/fungicides, botanicals, and biocontrol agents to minimize the input of pesticides 

in viticulture. 

3. To undertake studies on the taxonomy, life cycles and epidemiology of important and 

emerging diseases and insect pests. 

4. To evaluate the bioefficacy of safe new pesticide molecules for the management of various 

insect pests and diseases. 

5. To develop cost-effective, safe and efficient methods of pest control including 

development of sprayers and spraying technology for effective delivery of required 

pesticide dose at the target sites in vineyards. 

6. To develop bio-remediation methodology to be used towards the end of harvest of the 

produce. 


Considering the work carried out so far, following are the options suggested for future 

research: 

1. To evolve packaging and storage techniques to extend the storage life of grapes without 

using SO 2 releasing pads. 

2. The preliminary research conducted at this Centre to determine the suitability of introduced 

grape wine varieties under peninsular Indian conditions and on wine making suggests that 

concerted efforts are required to develop an indigenous technology for wine making, which 

is more suitable for our hot climate, as different from technologies followed in the 

temperate countries. 

3. To undertake research on wine making to be competitive in grape sector. 

4. Improve the quality standards of table grapes, raisins and wine produced in India 

complying the Codex standards and the standards of the importing countries. 

18

6. SCÉNARIO (NATIONAL VIS-À-VIS INTERNATIONAL) 

Scenario at global level in terms of area, production is presented in table 3. 

Table 3. Scenario at global level in terms of area and production 

Grape Area 

of Harvest 

(Ha) 

Grape Production 

(MT) 

Grape Yield 

(MT/Ha) 

Raisins Production 

(MT) 

Wine Production 

(MT) 

* Approximate figure 

World 

(2005) 

India 

(2005) 

Per cent 

share of 

India 

India’s 

rank in 

the world 

Leading countries in the world 

Name 

Qty. 

Per cent 

share of 

world 

7,346,612 60,000 0.82 26 Spain 949,100 12.92 

France 851,615 11.59 

Italy 837,845 11.40 

66,236,376 1,200,000 1.81 15 Italy 8,553,576 12.91 

USA 7,102,080 10.72 

France 6,778,469 10.23 

9.02 20.00 4 Venezuela 22.50 

Egypt 21.67 

Israel 20.94 

India 20.00 

1,133,893 65,000* 5.73 5 Turkey 343,100 30.25 

USA 320,000 28.22 

Iran 145,500 12.83 

29,022,535 10,440* 0.036 – France 5,329,449 18.36 

Italy 5,056,648 17.42 

Spain 3,934,140 13.55 

Grape is largely utilized in the form of wine in the world. Out of the total production of grape, wine 

accounts for about 88 per cent followed by fresh table grapes (8 per cent) and raisins (4 per cent). 

However, in India, out of total grape production, fresh table grapes accounts for 80 per cent followed 

by raisin (18 per cent) and wine and juice (2 per cent). In the years to come, this trend is going to 

change in view of the fast growing sector of wine particularly leading grape growing state of 

Maharashtra. Wine sector is growing @ 20-30 per cent and it is estimated by the Wine 

Manufacturers' Association of India that the wine consumption is going to increase to the extent of 

1 litre / person / annum from the present level of 5 ml. Presently, there are 44 wineries set up in the 

country with 1.04 crore litres of wine / annum. Further, Maharashtra state has taken promotional 

policy measures which will further boost this sector. Keeping this in view the present area of grape 

will increase manifolds from the present level of 1200 ha under wine grapes. Due to this diverse use 

of grape, the area under table grapes either will remain same or increase marginally @ 4 per cent. 

This trend towards wine making, will also suggest to concentrate on problems related to wine grape 

cultivation and wine making apart from table grape production and raisin making. 

Trade data of import and export of table grapes and other processed products at global level are given 

in table 4. 

19

Table 4. Export-import of various products at global level vis-à-vis India 

20 

World India India's 

Leading Countries 

Percent position 

Quantity Value Quantity Value share in 

Quantity Value 

2004 Name 

(MT) (1000$) (MT) (1000$) (value) of world 

(MT) (1000$) 

world (%) (Value) 

Percent 

share 

(value) of 

world (%) 

Export of grapes 3,064,010 3,292,700 35,525 24,026 1.16 16 Chile 693,206 592,326 22.62 

Italy 465,593 482,095 15.19 

USA 391,398 591,582 12.77 

Export of raisins 696,213 809,485 411 403 0.06 32 Turkey 211,894 231,400 30.44 

Iran 137,919 107,878 19.81 

USA 122,121 197,696 17.54 

Export of wine 7,667,753 19,761,419 339 598 0.004 62 Italy 1,435,898 3,550,372 18.73 

France 1,435,043 6,919,726 18.72 

Spain 1,352,196 1,835,577 17.63 

Export of grape juice 661,377 498,510 95 47 0.014 42 Italy 148,845 92,166 22.50 

Spain 131,366 127,438 19.86 

Argentina 97,605 85,427 14.76 

Import of grapes 2,946,852 4,085,325 1,111 1,147 0.038 74 USA 471,253 878,617 15.99 

Germany 336,478 466,833 11.42 

Russian Federation 257,547 151,777 8.74 

Import of raisins 743,795 866,065 7,350 9,329 0.988 20 UK 110,599 156,792 14.87 

Germany 78,520 95,992 10.56 

Russian Federation 64,850 24,444 8.72 

Import of wine 7,367,083 20,019,289 975 4,912 0.013 107 Germany 1,304,256 2,286,155 17.70 

UK 1,297,578 4,248,918 17.61 

USA 641,477 3,577,778 8.71 

Import of grape juice 729,060 501,531 204 265 0.028 71 USA 205,975 79,218 28.25 

Germany 136,152 65,428 18.67 

Italy 93,630 43,631 12.84 

Source : www.fao.org

Total export trade of table grapes at the world level is about 3,064,010 MT and the largest exporter 

is Chile followed by Italy, USA, South Africa, Turkey, Netherlands, Mexico, Spain, Uzbekistan, 

China, Belgium and Greece. India's export of table grapes is about 35,525 MT, which accounts for 

1.16 per cent of total table grapes export in the world. Export by and large takes place to EU (UK, 

Netherlands, Germany) and Middle East countries. Newer markets of China, South East and Far East 

countries are also being explored for export in the years to come. Lessons of Mexico in promoting 

exports have to be taken into account to promote our export. Export of table varieties is confined to 

mainly Thompson Seedless and its mutant apart from very little of Sharad Seedless and Flame 

Seedless. India's grape import is about 1111 MT, which is insignificant considering the total export 

and production in the country. 

Export trade of raisin at the world level is about 696,213 MT and Turkey exports largest volume 

followed by Iran, USA, Chile, South Africa, Greece, Afghanistan, Argentina, Uzbekistan, China, 

Belgium and Netherlands. Considering the total raisin production of 55-65,000 MT, the export is 

only 411 MT although the produce complies to most of the Codex specifications. While the import 

is of higher order and present import level is about 7350 MT. 

Total export of wine in the world is 7,667,753 MT, which accounts for 26 per cent of total global 

production. Italy is largest exporter of wine followed by France, Spain, Australia, Chile, USA, 

Portugal, Germany, South Africa, Republic of Moldova and Argentina. Export of India is about 339 

MT while the import is 975 MT in relation to 10,400 MT produced in the country. 

Juice is also emerging area of grape diversification and receiving importance in the years to come 

particularly in case of coloured grape varieties. Utilization pattern in the country is given in fig. 12. 

Table grapes 76.5 - 79.5% 

Export 2.96% 

Raisin 17-20% 

Juice 1.5% 

Wine 0.5% 

Fig. 12. Utilization of grapes in India 

21

6.1 INDIAN SCENARIO -REGION-WISE 

In India grape are harvested almost throughtout the year (Table 5). 

A region wise analysis is presented below. 

Table 5. Availability of grapes of different varieties in different parts of the country in 

a year 

Thompson Seedless and its clones 

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 

Bangalore Blue 

Flame Seedless / Perlette 

Gulabi 

Region - I 

It comprises of the sub-tropical regions of Punjab, Haryana, Western Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. 

The soils are alluvial with high water holding capacity. Water is available in plenty. Water table is 

high in certain pockets. Soils receiving canal irrigation are gradually turning saline. The period 

available for growth and ripening is hardly l10 days, which is inadequate for Thompson Seedless or 

Anab-e-Shahi as these varieties suffer great losses due to berry cracking and rotting due to rains in 

June-July. Therefore, the early ripening varieties like Perlette and Beauty Seedless can only be 

grown. 

Though Perlette is successfully grown in this region, the quality of grapes produced is very poor and 

has low keeping quality. However, there is scope to improve the quality by crop regulation, 

maintaining adequate leaf/fruit ratio and use of bio-regulators. Although Beauty Seedless is an early 

ripener, the berry size is small, pedicel attachment is poor and uneven ripening of berries is more. 

Therefore, it is not cultivated widely in this region. In recent years, under AICRP Flame Seedless has 

been found promising for these regions. There is further need to identify / evolve good quality early 

ripening varieties for this region. 

Pest and disease incidence during growth and fruiting is less. But it is more after harvest during the 

months of July and August. As a result, premature defoliation occurs, new sprouts emerge in 

September and cease to grow in November impairing the vine vigour and productivity in the next 

fruiting season. However, opportunities exist to prevent this situation by controlling the pests and 

diseases during the monsoon season. 

Region -II 

It comprises of the Telangana area of Andhra Pradesh, north interior Karnataka and Madhya 

Maharashtra. This region is characterized by hot and dry climate with scanty rainfall and also less 

ground water potential. The idea is ideally suited for the cultivation of vinifera varieties, viz., Anabe-Shahi 

and Thompson Seedless. 

22

In Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh, the soils are sandy with high contents of sesquioxides with 

very little water holding capacity. Irrigation requirements are generally high and the water 

availability is less. Anab-e-Shahi is grown predominantly in this region. The worlds' highest yield of 

grapes is achieved in this region but as a result of high yields, the fruit quality is poor. The variety 

has weak pedicel attachment leading to abnormally high post-harvest berry drop and consequently 

cannot be transported to long distant markets. 

INDIA 

Punjab 

Haryana 

REGION - I 

Uttar Pradesh 

Maharashtra 

Andhra Pradesh 

REGION - II 

Karnataka 

REGION - III 

Tamil 

Nadu 

In Madhya Maharashtra and north interior Karnataka regions, the soils are of heavy clay and salinealkali 

in nature. Water is also saline and scanty. Soils have good water holding capacity. Thompson 

Seedless and its clones, viz., Tas-A-Ganesh, Sonaka and Manik Chaman, Sharad Seedless and 

Kishmish Chorni are the predominant varieties. More than 95 per cent of Thompson Seedless and 90 

per cent of Anab-e-Shahi produced in the country comes from this region. Very good quality 

Thompson Seedless grapes suitable for export are produced by regulating the crop from this region. 

Several new varieties with export potential viz. 2A Clone, Red Globe, Crimson Seedless, Italia are 

introduced and gaining popularity. Due to increasing demand of wine industry, wine varieties like 

Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Shiraz are being grafted on large area. 

23

Both the vinifera varieties viz., Anab-e-Shahi and Thompson Seedless grown in this region are 

highly susceptible to downy and powdery mildews. The inputs in terms of recurring costs on plant 

protection in this region are as high as 30 per cent of the cost of production. 

Therefore, there is a need to develop technologies for quality production of Thompson Seedless, 

newly introduced varieties and wine varieties, including the use of drought tolerant rootstocks as well 

as to develop an effective and economical IPM package. Disease resistant variety with high 

consumer acceptance is also required. 

Region - III 

This region comprises of south interior Karnataka. Soils in this region are sandy clay in nature with 

good drainage and moderate water holding capacity. Mild tropical climate with less atmospheric 

aridity prevails in this region. This region receives rains from both South-West and North-East 

monsoons. As a result, the rainfall and the number of rainy days are more than required for vinifera 

varieties of grape. The gap between the maximum and minimum temperatures of the days is 

relatively shorter. As a result, the incidence of mildew diseases is more in this region, compared to 

any other region in the country. Approximately, 40 per cent of the cost of cultivation is accounted for 

the plant protection. 

Bangalore Blue is the predominant variety in this region. Anab-e-Shahi is grown with a fair degree 

of success, but this region is not suitable for Thompson Seedless. Five crops of Bangalore Blue in 

two years and two crops of Anab-e-Shahi per year are harvested. Except November and December, 

grapes are harvested almost round the year in this region. 

Development of processing technologies for Bangalore Blue and identification of wine varieties 

suitable for this region are required. 

Region - IV 

This region comprises of Coimbatore, Dharmapuri, Dindigul, Salem and Madurai districts of Tamil 

Nadu. The soils are red sandy loams, with good drainage, neutral pH and devoid of salinity. The 

climatic conditions prevailing in this region are favourable to reap five harvests in two years. The 

principal varieties grown are Gulabi, Bhokri, Anab-e-Shahi and Thompson Seedless. Peak seasons 

of harvest are June-July and January-February. Quality of grapes produced in this region is not very 

good. The variety Gulabi suffers from uneven ripening. 

Identification of wine / juice varieties suitable for this region are required. There is scope for 

cultivation of table grape variety e.g. Thompson Seedless in some areas e.g. Theni district. 

6.2 SWOT ANALYSIS 

6.2.1 Strengths 

• Approximately 90 per cent of the area under grapes is in the sub-tropical to tropical regions 

of the country, where vines are pruned twice. Fruit pruning can be adjusted to harvest the 

crop practically throughout the year. The time of harvesting can be thus adjusted to catch the 

changing period of demand during Ramzan in the Middle East and seasonal demand in 

European countries. 

• Technology for the production of EEC Class-I table grapes is available in India. Grapes 

complying the quality standards of the EEC Class-I grapes are presently harvested in the 

vineyards of peninsular India in varying quantities ranging from 4 to 15 tons per hectare. 

• Required manpower and the skill know-how for various operations involved in the 

production, harvest, and packing of grapes for export is available in the country. 

24

• There is no recurring occurrence of Botrytis cinerea, which is world's number one pathogen 

in cold stored grapes, and also the Phylloxera root fungus. 

• The grape growers in India are highly innovative and receptive to new technologies thereby 

the adoption rate of new technology for production of quality grapes is high. 

• Indian raisins comply with most of the parameters specified under the Codex standard. 

• Favourable Govt. policies on wine industry in some states particularly in Maharashtra has 

encouraged grape growers to take up cultivation of wine grapes on large scale. 

• The transfer of technology system is also easy and convenient as the grape growers of 

different regions have organized themselves by forming associations / co-operatives and 

also have close interactions with the scientists of this Centre / SAU's to discuss their 

problems and related issues to solve them. 

• Excellent research infrastructure has been developed during last few years thus the Centre 

is prepared to take up advanced research to tackle arising problems. 

6.2.2 Weaknesses 

• Some wild cultivars hold promise for use as donor parents in resistance breeding 

programmes, but cannot be grown out of their native habitat, hence, warrant in situ 

conservation. 

• High degree of apical dominance requires very expensive gable roof and bower system of 

training leading to high initial cost of establishment. 

• Most preferred variety in India viz. Thompson Seedless has problem of cracking and rotting 

in the event of rains during ripening and short period available for ripening in the subtropical 

plains of north India. 

• Narrow genetic base of cultivars is the most salient weakness hampering the exports of 

grapes from India. Among the green seedless grape varieties grown in India only Thompson 

Seedless and its clones are popular in European markets. 

• In absence of certified nurseries and mother blocks, the propagation is through material 

sourced from commercial vineyards, which has lead to the degeneration of the genetic 

material of the commercial varieties. 

• Good nursery practices are lacking for producing disease free and true to type planting 

materials. 

• Less availability of skilled labours during crucial growth stages like pruning, thinning, 

harvesting etc. 

• Increased cost of production due to small land holding for want of mechanical pruning and 

harvesting devices 

• Agrotechniques for other commercial varieties have not been standardized. Same 

management as Thompson seedless is causing problems related to nutrition, diseases, 

canopy etc. 

• Major chunk of the production is utilized for table purpose and is harvested during 

February-April and therefore, glut during this period while, the proportion of produce 

suitable for export in fresh form is as low as 1.5 - 2.0 per cent. 

25

• Although the Indian raisins comply with most of the quality parameters specified by Codex, 

yet some important physical and organoleptic parameters need to be improved to make the 

Indian raisins internationally acceptable. 

6.2.3 Opportunities 

• Introduction of world's ruling varieties like Red Globe, Crimson Seedless, Italia and 2A 

clone of Thompson Seedless, H-5, and Superior Seedless etc. has now increased the varietal 

base. On going evaluation ahs identified new clones and several hybrids are also in the 

pipeline. 

• Introduction of wine varieties for the wine making is yet to be exploited. 

• Fast growing wine sector has to be exploited. There is scope for expansion of area and 

production for domestic as well as export market. 

• Opportunities also exist to increase the export of Indian table grapes to the south and southeast 

Asian countries viz. China, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Philippines, Mauritius, Hong Kong, 

Malaysia, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, etc. 

• Scope for the organic / biodynamic grape cultivation is yet to be explored and exploited. 

• Introduction of biological control and environment friendly methods in integrated 

management of diseases and insect pests to reduce residues of pesticides as well as the cost 

of cultivation. 

• Export demand for raisins in international market can be captured by India by improvements 

in quality of produce. 

• Evolving self thinning varieties to reduce cost of thinning, and excess use of growth 

regulator 

• Use of advanced grafting techniques like budding and bench grafting machines to reduce 

cost and failure of propagation manually 

6.2.4 Threats 

• In major grape growing regions of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, incidence of 

diseases like mildew and anthracnose and insects like mealy bug and thrips are severe, 

especially under wet and cloudy conditions, which affect the yield and quality of the fruits, 

and increase cost of production. 

• The increasing soil salinity and water shortage adversely affect the shoot vigour and vine 

canopy thereby are a threat to the production of quality grapes. 

• Heavy yields result in poor quality of grapes and short life of the vines. The proportion of 

export quality grape reduces drastically with increase in yield over 20 t/ha. Many growers 

do not regulate crop load, which is essential for the production of quality grapes and life of 

the vine. 

• Grapes in India being grown under tropical climate, incidence of insect pests and diseases 

is high and produce is also of poor quality. 

• More use of systemic pesticides has increased the chances of development of resistance in 

the pests. 

• Development of physiological disorders due to climatic changes e.g. pink berry in 

Thompson seedless is also one of the potential threats to fresh grape exports from India. 

26

• Over dependence on single rootstock and selected commercial variety is posing problem in 

reducing yield, quality and increasing disease and pest incidence. 

• Introduction of planting material without proper certification may lead to new disease and 

pest incidence with reduced yield. 

• Unpredicted weather during berry development stage may reduce yield and quality due to 

increased pest and disease incidence. 

• Competition from Chile, South Africa and Brazil and new emerging countries is the most 

potential threat to grape exports from India during March / April due to poorer quality of 

Indian grapes. 

7. PERSPECTIVE 

In the last half a century, commercial grape cultivation has shown a slow and steady growth in area 

and production of grapes for table purpose and for raisin making. The high cost of cultivation, poor 

quality of fruits, limited markets and risk in cultivation due to adverse environmental conditions, has 

been the major impediment in growth of table grapes. However, the last decade has seen a very sharp 

rise in cultivation of wine grape varieties for wine making. 

The industry needs research support for new improved table, raisin and wine varieties with better 

stress tolerance, technologies for sustainable quality production for various end uses at economical 

prices, post harvest technologies for value addition and in view of the growing demands for organic 

products, production of grapes with minimum chemical inputs. 

Considering the research carried out in the past, it's impact and output, lessons learnt from the 

analysis of all the considered inputs and the scenario and SWOT analysis of grape sector in the 

country, following are the salient features of the perspective plan for research in grape: 

1. Emphasis on development of package of practices for wine grapes and standardization of 

enological techniques. 

2. Production of elite, true to type, disease free planting material of commercially important 

varieties and rootstocks 

3. Reduce in the total cost of production of grapes considering training system, material used for 

training system, enhanced efficiency of various inputs viz. fertilizers, water, agrochemicals and 

introduction of modern tools, machines and other means to reduce the labour cost and their 

drudgery. 

4. Sustain the productivity of grapes under the various abiotic and biotic stresses. 

5. Enhanced stress on the quality of fresh fruits and its processed products in the context of national 

and international quality standards with due consideration to the economics of production. 

6. Minimizing dependence on agrochemicals with more use of permitted organic sources of 

bioregulators, nutrients and pesticides to promote eco-friendly / organic viticulture. 

7. Extending cultivation of grapes in potential non traditional areas thus increasing per capita 

availability of grapes in the country and improving economic status of the farmers 

8. Promoting off season cultivation of grapes to catch the lean market period and value addition for 

better price realization 

27

8. ISSUES AND STRATEGIES 

8.1 CROP IMPROVEMENT 

i. Introduction and development of early ripening varieties and rootstocks to meet the 

specific requirements in north western plains, northeast and eastern India in terms of short 

period available for ripening, high rainfall, water logging and high water table. 

Standardization of agrotechniques of existing varieties to meet the specific requirements of 

these areas. 

ii. Introduction of table and wine varieties having relevance to tropical viticulture and market 

importance both in domestic and export market, from USA, South Africa, Australia and 

EU countries particularly Mellisa / Princess, Tudor Red Premium, Regal Seedless, Sunred 

Seedless, Cristelle Seedless, Blush Seedless, Prime Seedless, Autumn Seedless, Emperor, 

Marquis, Dogridge Clone 01 and 05 and IAC 572, Fercal, Schwarzmann have relevance to 

Indian situation. Introduction of varieties with more keeping quality is required. 

iii. Breeding of varieties with least apical dominance, high fruitfulness at the base, selfthinning 

and resistance to tropical diseases and insect pests. 

8.2 CROP PRODUCTION 

i. The present cost structure for non-recurring and recurring expenditure works out to be Rs. 

8.0 lakhs and 2.5 lakhs / ha respectively for table grapes. The major inputs are material 

required for training, manures / chemical fertilizers, plant protection and other chemicals 

and labour. High cost of cultivation and timely availability of skilled labour are the major 

impediments to promote Indian viticulture on large scale. Hence, reducing the nonrecurring 

and recurring costs and thereby reduction in the total cost of production to make 

Indian viticulture more cost competitive at global level is required. 

ii. Evolving cultural practices including training systems for table, wine and raisin grapes 

grafted on new potential rootstocks to increase the fruitfulness of buds and their sprouting 

after fruit pruning, quality of fruits and optimum yield, shelf life and quality of processed 

products like juice, wine and raisins. Evaluation of alternate pruning practice to stagger the 

harvest in tropical region to overcome the problem of market glut. 

iii. Minimizing the cost of manuring by avoiding over-manuring and strictly going by need 

based nutrient schedule based on leaf petiole analysis at the time of fruitfulness and bud 

differentiation apart from soil analysis after harvesting the crop. Further, there is need to 

increase the fertilizer efficiency by formulating economic and efficient manurial schedule 

involving time, method, sequence and form of nutrient application. 

iv. Reducing the cost of labour, since grape cultivation is labour intensive farming enterprise. 

Some cultural operations like pruning, spraying, growth regulator treatments and thinning 

requires a large number of labours during a short span of time. Availability of labour on 

such a large scale at short time notice from small villages or small inhabitants is not 

possible. Further, all the operations identified for manual cannot be mechanized, 

particularly thinning and harvesting requires lot of care in handling bunches since, delicacy 

is involved. Considering these aspects, mechanization of operations to be decided and the 

strategy to be worked out accordingly. 

28

8.3 CROP PROTECTION 

i. Reducing the cost of plant protection by integrated disease and insect pest management 

including disease / insect forecasting based on weather parameters and crop growth stage. 

ii. Development of environment friendly methods of disease / insect pest control, specially 

use of biocontrol agents, parasites, predators etc. to minimize pesticide use. 

iii. Testing newer and safer chemical molecule for their bioefficacy and dissipation rate 

kinetics for inclusion in the IPM schedule to manage the problem of pesticide residues in 

grapes. 

8.4 POST-HARVEST TECHNOLOGY 

i. Due to poor keeping quality and lack of cold stores for storage of produce for domestic 

market heavy post harvest losses occurs during transport, storage and marketing in 

domestic market. Therefore identifying and management of pre harvest, harvest and post 

harvest factors to improve the shelf life are required. 

ii. Diversification to convert fresh grapes in to raisins and juice or shift to wine grape 

cultivation and wine making to overcome the problems associated with marketing of fresh 

grapes. Further, these have to be worked out keeping in view their pros and cons, feasibility 

and profits to be obtained. Standardization of pre-harvest practices is also required for 

better and longer storage of produce at low temperature. Machinery used in cooling system 

and their standardization is also not available and therefore, recommended practice and 

storage specifications like temperature, humidity, air velocity are not addressed correctly 

and there is always problem of storage rot in the produce. 

iii. Raisin produced in the country complies to Codex standards except the size, or grades and 

cleanliness and needs to be improved these operations. Therefore, there is need to improve 

the production in respect of cleanliness and grade. 

iv. Wine varieties and their compatible rootstocks, standardization of cultural practices for 

various varieties, enological technology, quality standards set in the country and of 

importing countries have to be considered at large for deciding the strategy of research in 

wine grape and wine making. 

9. RESEARCH PROGRAMMES 

Considering the past and present performance of viticulture in the country and also the future 

requirements, the following research programmes have been identified for the next 20 years: 

9.1 RESEARCH PROGRAMMES 

1. Management of genetic resources of table, wine, raisin, juice and rootstock grape 

varieties 

2. Germplasm utilization and genetic enhancement of grapes 

3. Application of biotechnological research in grapes 

4. Development of propagation and nursery technology 

5. Use of rootstocks for grape cultivation 

6. Horticultural practices for quality and yield in table and wine grapes 

29

7. Nutrient and soil management in grapes 

8. Water management in grapes 

9. Grape physiology including use of bioregulators 

10. Studies on viticulturally important microorganisms 

11. Integrated disease management in grapes 

12. Integrated insect and mite pest management in grapes 

13. Management of agrochemical residues and environmental contaminants in grapes 

14. Development of post-harvest technologies 

15. Development of information and documentation systems/ Bioinformatics 

9.2 PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS ON THE GIVEN TIME SCALE 

Number at the first, second and third level stands for programme, sub-programme and projects 

respectively 

Research Programme 

1. Management of genetic resources of table, wine, raisin, juice 

and rootstock grape varieties 

1.1 Collection and augmentation 

1.2 Characterization, documentation and cataloguing 

1.3 Screening of grape germplasm for biotic and abiotic stress 

1.3.1 Screening for resistance to major diseases 

1.3.2 Screening for resistance to major insect pests 

1.3.3 Screening for tolerance to drought and salinity 

1.3.4 Screening for tolerance to extreme temperatures 

1.4 Screening for table and raisin quality and yield 

1.5 Screening for wine and juice quality and yield 

2. Germplasm utilization and genetic enhancement 

2.1 Genetic enhancement by clonal selection 

2.2 Breeding for high production and quality 

2.2.1 Breeding for high production and quality in table grapes 

2.2.2 Breeding for high production and quality in wine grapes 

2.3 Breeding for tolerance to biotic stress 

2.4 Breeding for tolerance to abiotic stress 

2.5 CYT/ Multi-locational evaluation of promising varieties / clones / 

hybrids 

3. Application of biotechnological research in grapes 

3.1 Molecular tagging for commercially important traits 

3.1.1 Molecular tagging for downy mildew 

Time scale 

2007-12 2012-17 2017-25 

30


3.2 Functional genomics and proteomics for the identification of genes 

controlling different traits 

3.2.1 Identification of genes for drought and salinity stress 

3.3 Development of molecular techniques for variety and hybrid 

identification 

4. Development of propagation and nursery technology 

4.1 Standardization of macro-propagation including advanced 

techniques for rootstocks and commercial varieties 

4.2 Standardization of micro-propagation techniques for rootstock and 

commercial varieties 

4.3 Development of nursery technique 

5. Use of rootstocks for grape cultivation 

5.1 Standardization of rootstocks for table and raisin grapes 

5.1.1 Influence of rootstocks on table grapevine physiology and 

biochemistry 

5.2 Standardization of rootstocks for wine and juice grapes 

5.2.1 Influence of rootstocks on wine grapevine physiology and 

biochemistry 

5.3 Long term compatibility of promising stock-scion combinations 

5.3.1 Long term compatibility of Thompson Seedless and its 

clones 

5.3.2 Long term compatibility of Red Globe 

5.3.3 Long term compatibility of white wine varieties 

5.3.3 Long term compatibility of red wine varieties 

6. Horticultural practices for quality and yield in table and wine 

grapes 

6.1 Standardization of canopy architecture 

6.1.1 Standardization of canopy architecture for Tas-A-Ganesh 

6.1.2 Standardization of canopy architecture for white wine grapes 

6.1.3 Standardization of canopy architecture for red wine grapes 

6.2 Standardization of training and pruning practices 

6.2.1 Standardization of training and pruning practices for white 

wine grapes 

6.2.2 Standardization of training and pruning practices for red 

wine grapes 

6.3 Standardization of planting density for wine grapes 

6.4 Development of low cost training systems 

6.5 Protected cultivation for improving quality in grapes 

6.6 Weed management in vineyards 

Time scale 

2007-12 2012-17 2017-25 

31


7. Nutrient and soil management in grapes 

7.1 Developing petiole nutrient guides for table grapes 

7.1.1 Developing petiole nutrient guides for Sharad Seedless 

7.2 Developing petiole nutrient guides for wine grapes 

7.2.1 Developing petiole nutrient guides for Cabernet Sauvignon 

7.2.2 Developing petiole nutrient guides for Sauvignon Blanc 

7.3 Nutrient requirement for wine and other new grape varieties 

7.3.1 Developing fertigation schedule for Cabernet Sauvignon 

7.3.2 Developing fertigation schedule for Sauvignon Blanc 

7.4 Techniques to improve nutrient use efficiency in grapes including 

farm waste recycling 

7.4.1 Comparing the efficiency of different sources of N fertilizers 

7.4.2 On farm wastes recycling 

7.4.3 Field evaluation of biofertilizers 

7.5 Studies on nutrient disorders 

7.6 Management of soil eco system 

8. Water management in grapes 

8.1 Water requirement for new wine and table grape varieties 

8.1.1 Developing irrigation schedule for Cabernet Sauvignon 

8.1.2 Developing irrigation schedule for Sauvignon Blanc 

8.2 Improving water use efficiency in table grapes 

8.3 Improving water use efficiency for wine grapes 

9. Grape physiology including use of bioregulators 

9.1 Studies on pink berry in white grapes and its management 

9.1.1 Gene expression studies in pink berry affected white grapes 

9.1.2 Biochemical and physiological studies in pink berry affected 

white grapes 

9.1.3 Role of nutrients in pink berry development 

9.1.4 Role of bioregulators in pink berry development 

9.1.5 Influence of rootstocks and environment on development of 

pink berry 

9.2 Management of other physiological disorders 

9.3 Standardization of bioregulators schedule for improving quality and 

yield of table and wine grapes 

9.3.1 Standardization of bioregulators schedule for improving 

quality and yield of table grapes 

9.3.2 Standardization of bioregulators schedule for improving 

quality and yield of wine grapes 

9.3.3 Endogenous levels in commercially important varieties 

Time scale 

2007-12 2012-17 2017-25 

32


9.4 New chemicals / botanicals for improving budbreak, quality and 

yield of grapes 

9.5 Studies on bioregulators and nutrient interaction 

10. Studies on viticulturally important microorganisms 

10.1 Development of biofungicides for major diseases 

10.2 Development of bioinsecticides for major insect pests 

10.3 Development of biofertilizers 

10.4 Development of bio-remedial agents for pesticides 

10.5 Development of native yeasts for wine making 

11. Integrated disease management in grapes 

11.1 Studies on the bioefficacy of fungicides and safer environmental 

profile products for management of major grape diseases 

11.2 Development and testing of disease forecasting models and 

development of pest alert systems 

11.3 Identification of new grape diseases. 

11.4 Improving fungicide use efficiency 

12. Integrated insect and mite pest management in grapes 

12.1 Studies on the management thrips 

12.2 Studies on the management mealybugs 

12.3 Studies on the management mites 

12.4 Identification and promotion of beneficial insects in viticulture 

13. Management of agrochemical residues and environmental 

contaminants in grapes 

13.1 Studies on dissipation rates of new generation / other pesticides 

with reference to changing MRLs 

13.2 Monitoring of agrochemical residues in grape and grape produce 

13.3 Persistence studies of agrochemical residues in soil and water 

14. Development of post-harvest technologies 

14.1 Pre-harvest harvest factors 

14.1.1 Effect of pre-harvest factors on wine quality 

14.1.2 Effect of pre-harvest factors on raisin quality 

14.2 Improvement in shelf life of promising and newly introduced table 

grapes for domestic and overseas market 

14.2.1 Identification of storage conditions for storage of fruits 

14.2.2 Studies on packaging material on shelf life of grapes 

14.3 Wine making 

14.3.1 Studies on pre-fermentation treatments 

14.3.2 Improvement in wine quality through manipulation in 

enzyme yeast strains and other treatments 

Time scale 

2007-12 2012-17 2017-25 

33


14.4 Improving raisin technology for better quality raisins 

14.4.1 Studies on oil treatments and storage on raisin quality 

14.5 Development of technologies for unfermented beverages and other 

products 

14.5.1 Development of technologies for carbonated juice 

14.5.2 Development of technologies for juice making 

14.6 Development of geographical indicators for wines 

14.6.1 Region wise identification of wine varieties 

14.6.2 Assessment of wine quality from various wineries 

15. Development of information and documentation systems 

15.1 Development of databases for various applications 

15.1.1 Development of molecular database 

15.1.2 Development of grape data bank 

15.2 Development of software for management of diseases/ pests/ 

nutrients/ water, labour etc. 

15.2.1 Development of software for the mangement of fungal 

diseases 

15.2.2 Development expert system for management of insect pests 

15.2.3 Expert system for vineyard problem identification 

15.3 Other scientific / technical documentation 

Time scale 

2007-12 2012-17 2017-25 

• The programmes / sub-programmes are shown on a continuous time-scale as some projects will be completed while new projects 

will be initiated throughout the above period 

9.3 FUND REQUIREMENTS 

The expected fund requirement to carry out these research programmes is as follows: 

Head of account 2007-2012 2012-2017 2017-2025 Total 

Plan 2834.73* 3402.00 4595.00 10831.73 

Non-Plan 2000.00 2400.00 3250.00 7650.00 

Total 4834.73 5802.00 7845.00 18481.73 

* Equipment : Rs. 812.63 lakhs, Works : Rs. 694.00 lakhs and HRD : Rs. 50.00 lakhs. 

34

10. LINKAGE, COORDINATION AND EXECUTION ARRANGEMENTS 

10.1 RESEARCH COLLABORATION 

National 

For acquiring training on latest research methods and material by the Scientists of the Centre, 

collaboration and linkages are required with following institutes: 

1. Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore 

2. ACRIP Centres 

3. National Research Centre for Plant Biotechnology, New Delhi 

4. Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 

5. National Remote Sensing Agency, NRSA, Hyderabad 

6. Project Directorate of Biological Control, Bangalore 

7. National Centre on Integrated Pest Management, New Delhi 

8. National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi 

9. National Bureau of Land Use Planning and Utilization, Nagpur 

10. Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal 

11. National Research Centre on DNA Fingerprinting, New Delhi 

12. National Research Centre for Weed Science, Jabalpur 

13. CISH, Lucknow 

14. BARC, Mumbai 

15. National Chemical Laboratory, Pune 

16. University of Pune, Pune 

17. Agharkar Research Institute, Pune 

18. Centre for Development of Advanced Computing, Pune 

19. National Informatics Centre, Pune 

20. Cancer Research Institute, Mumbai 

21. Vasantdada Sugar Institute, Pune 

22. Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri 

23. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli 

24. Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani 

25. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola 

26. Shivaji University, Kolhapur 

27. Gujarat Agricultural University, Ahmedabad 

28. Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) 

29. State Governments of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu 

30. APEDA Nominated laboratories for pesticide residue analysis 

35

International 

1. University of California, Davis, U.S.A., for research on Enology, Table grapes 

production, biotechnological methods and micro propagation. 

2. Division of Horticulture, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization 

(CSIRO), Adelaide - for research on rootstocks and raisin production. 

3. All-Russia Scientific Research Institute of Brewery, Non-Alcoholic and Wine Making 

Industry, Moscow 

4. Centre Science Laboratory (CSL), York, UK 

5. ISMAA, Italy 

6. ICGEB, Rome, Italy 

7. IPGRI 

8. International Grape Genome Programme (IGGP) 

9. Institute National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), Montepellier, France - for 

research on disease forecasting and enology 

10. Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and Crop Protection Institute, Israel - for research on 

fertigation, saline water irrigation, glass house technology and biocontrol of diseases. 

11. Viticultural and Oenological Research Institute, South Africa - for research on canopy 

management and rootstocks. 

12. Centro Nacional de Pesquisa de Uva and Vinho (National Research Centre on Grape and 

Wine), Bentogonzalves, Brazil 

13. EMBRAPA, Brazil 

14. Russian Viticultural and Wine Making Research Institute, Novocher Kassk, Russia 

15. Centre for International Agricultural Development Cooperation, Israel 

16. TNO Nutrition and Food Research, Zeist, The Netherlands 

10.3 RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT 

Other scientific research and development organizations like DST, DBT, APEDA, APCESS, 

etc. will be approached for financial assistance for further strengthening of research 

infrastructure. 

10.3 TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY 

i. Seminars / symposiums : NHB, NABAARD, Grape Growers' Associations, All 

India Wine Manufacturers' Association, Exporters, 

Pack-houses, APEDA, SAUs, Other Cooperative 

Agencies 

ii. Field Day / Kisan Melas 

iii. Field demonstrations 

: Department of Extension, SAUs, MOA, GOI 

: State Department of Horticulture, SAUs, Progressive 

growers, Nationalized Banks 

iv. Production of extension material : Department of Extension, MOA, GOI 

36

11. CRITICAL INPUTS 

11.1 MANPOWER 

a. Manpower requirement (Scientific, technical and supportive) 

Lack of sufficient scientific, technical & supporting man-power, is hindering the timely 

implementation of the proposed programmes, All proposed posts sanctioned in IX Plan could 

not be created. Out of 60 posts proposed in the X Plan none has been sanctioned. 

The research activities proposed under section 9.1 will be taken up only when the required 

scientific, technical and supporting posts are sanctioned and created during subsequent Five 

Year Plans. 

b. Human resource development 

Training to the scientists is required in the following for skill upgradation. 

1. Techniques of Bioremediation of pesticide residues in different matrix by microbes. 

2. Techniques of Multi-residue analysis of pesticides 

3. Plant genetic resource Management & breeding 

4. Micro propagation/bench grafting 

5. Functional genomics 

6. Embryo rescue technique and Transgenic hybridization 

7. Modeling of canopy architecture and trellises design 

8. Recent advances in biocontrol of fungal pathogens 

9. Mass multiplication techniques for antagonists 

10. Computer modeling for disease forecasting and Epidemiological studies for powdery 

mildew 

11. Evaluation procedure for salt and drought tolerance of rootstocks 

12. Advances in fertigation 

13. Biochemicals/ enzymes as the indices of nutrient status of vines 

14. New techniques for minimizing salinity using saline/ brackish irrigation water. 

15. New techniques in micro-irrigation system. 

16. Modern techniques in vinification/enology. 

11.2 FUNDS 

So far, there have been no constraints due to lack of funds as the Centre was developing its 

infrastructure and full fledged activities had not begun. But now research is in full swing 

hence, adequate funds will be one of the critical inputs especially contingencies. 

11.3 IRRIGATION WATER 

Limited underground irrigation water has become a limiting factor as grape is high water 

demanding crop and water deficiency affects both the quality of fruits, and productivity of 

vines in subsequent growth cycles. 

37

11.4 LABOUR 

Grape is a highly manipulative crop and requires human intervention at each stage of its 

vegetative and fruit growth. Hence, availability of sufficient skilled labourers is critical. 

11.5 LAND 

In view of the large areas required for field experiments with grape, the available land has 

become a limiting factor and an additional minimum 50 ha of land is required. 

11.6 ENERGY AND COMMUNICATION 

Continuous electricity is required to run various laboratory facilities and in view of the 

frequent power cuts and load shedding by the State Government source of energy is becoming 

a critical input. Similarly, the Centre being connected to rural telephone exchange frequent 

long duration disconnections of telephone lines breaks the communication network. 

12. RISK ANALYSIS 

There is no risk in generating technologies as envisaged as they are based on the present and future 

needs and demands of the grape industry of India. However, due to unprecedented weather 

conditions and non-availability of any of the critical inputs on time there can be a delay in generating 

the technology due to which the industry may suffer and try to import the technologies / expertise 

from other countries. Resistance from importing country also may affect the grape industry 

adversely. 

12.1 OUTPUT AND EXPECTED SITUATION 

The Centre has full confidence to carry out the programmes on its own and in collaboration 

with other agencies as mentioned earlier. The Centre is confident that the technologies will be 

well accepted by the growers and will be of economic use to them. As a result of this it is 

expected that the Indian grapes will become cost and quality wise competitive with grapes 

available in international market. By making viticulture more competitive and remunerative 

it is expected that more and more farmer will switch to viticulture thus increasing the area and 

production of grapes considerably. Development of varieties and technologies suitable for 

processing especially to wine will also boost viticulture in the country. Economic and efficient 

management of biotic and abiotic stresses as well as development of varieties resistant to them 

will be another step in support of viticulture as a preferred farming enterprise. 

13. PROJECT REVIEW, REPORTING AND EVALUATION ARRANGEMENTS 

Reviewing, reporting and evaluation will be done as per the existing ICAR norms through peer 

review committees like IRC, RAC and QRT apart from IMC. 

14. RESOURCE GENERATION 

IXth plan actual, Xth plan actual XIth plan projections 

33.50 170.50 200.00 

38

15. OUTPUTS (ANTICIPATED OUTPUTS OF TECHNOLOGIES, 

PUBLICATIONS, PATENTS) 

Proposed research programme on management of grape genetic resources is expected to result in the 

augmentation of wide grape genetic diversity available in the country with the help of conventional 

and biotechnological tools. Core germplasm will be identified through conventional and molecular 

marker tools and maintained for posterity. The germplasm evaluation will pinpoint the genetic 

sources for resistance and tolerance to abiotic and biotic resistance as well as other horticulturally 

important traits This will provide the basic information needed to formulate the breeding strategies 

and identify donors for various traits. Molecular marker techniques will result in developing easy and 

simpler tools for progeny selection in breeding program as well as gene pyramiding. The programme 

will also result in identification of the most promising new genotypes for different climatic 

conditions in the country for various end uses. 

The research is expected to yield patents and / or plant variety protection of commercial varieties of 

different end uses, molecular markers, new genes that can be exploited commercially to generate 

revenue possibly by exclusive marketing rights for the patented plant materials. 

Research programmes on nursery technology, rootstocks, training system, management of canopy, 

and use of bioregulators is expected to result in better technologies for quality grape production with 

least environment disturbances. Technologies for production of quality planting material will ensure 

genetic uniformity and freedom from pests and diseases, which will subsequently result in 

homogeneity in plants and healthy vineyards. Most suitable rootstocks for commercial table and 

wine varieties for different edaphic and agroclimate zones will provide an opportunity to expand the 

grape production in new areas and sustain production under drought and salinity conditions. Variety 

specific training systems, canopy architecture and cultivation techniques like plant density and use 

of bio regulators will help in optimizing yield and quality with minimum input costs. 

Assessment of water requirement of different table and wine varieties will help in rationalizing the 

water use under scarcity conditions. Development of petiole nutrient guides and technologies related 

to fertigation and nutrient sources will help in application of appropriate nutrient in most suitable 

form in optimum dose at the required growth stage for all commercially important stock-scion 

combinations for both table and wine varieties. Integrated nutrient management by in situ recycling 

and use of cover-crops and efficient strains of biofertilizer will help in maintaining soil fertility and 

reduce use of chemical nutrients. Technologies for managing physiological and nutrient disorders 

and protected cultivation will further help in improving quality and minimizing losses and risk in 

cultivation. Designs of farm implements and accessories for various vineyard operations, if 

developed will be patented to exploit commercially. 

Research programmes on management of diseases and insect pest and management of pesticide 

residues will result in development of technologies for pest management in table and wine grape 

varieties with minimum pesticide use. Research will identify new generation, safe molecules, 

biological, botanicals and environment friendly technologies for pest management. Studies on 

farmer friendly disease forecasting systems / modules, epidemiology and seasonal incidence of 

important pests of grape will help in scheduling pesticides sprays. Studies on MRL and PHI will 

guide the farmers on safe use of pesticides. Bioremediation by beneficial microorganisms can be 

used for reducing the PHI of unavoidable pesticide sprays before harvest and avoid risk of rejection 

of the produce by end users. Survey to monitor the emergence of new pests and diseases will avoid 

flaring up their population / level to economically damaging levels. 

39

Improved production technology, pre-harvest spray techniques and handling practices for new 

varieties aimed at improving yield and quality parameters will help in reducing post harvest losses 

due to desiccation and decay and hence increase shelf life. Indigenous wine varieties and locations 

most suitable for these varieties and enological techniques for obtaining best quality wines will also 

result in unique brand identity and promote niche market. It may also provide the opportunity for 

developing geographical indicators for Indian wines. Technologies for preparing internationally 

accepted raisins would boost raisin export from India. 

Research on bioprospecting will help in reducing the chemical loads in vineyards through 

bioremediation and use of biocontrol agents and biofertilizers and promote organic farming. 

Formulations of such microorganism will be patented. 

Better IT tools for managing the genetic, molecular, natural resources and data and timely advise on 

pest management based on weather forecasting. All such softwares and databases will be protected 

through copyright and licensing. 

All the technical and scientific information generated will be published in national and international 

journals in the form of research papers, technical bulletins, folders, books, electronic media etc. for 

wider reach to all the stake holders. Peer recognition in the form of awards may also accrue to the 

results / output of all the technologies. 

16. OUTCOME (OVERALL IMPACTS ESPECIALLY ON SCENARIO, GDP, 

SOCIETAL IMPACTS, SCENARIO CHANGE AND IF NOT SITUATION) 

i. Protection of indigenous grape biodiversity 

ii. Protection of new developed varieties and farmers' rights. 

iii. New table and wine varieties with multiple traits, as an alternative to redundant and/or 

susceptible varieties. 

iv. Preventing nutrient abuse and improving soil health. 

v. Economizing input use by improving input use efficiency leading to reduction in cost of 

cultivation. 

vi. Quality improvement through judicious use of all agri inputs. 

vii. Sustainable grape cultivation under adverse condition and minimizing risk in cultivation. 

viii. Building consortium of viticulturally important microorganism. 

ix. Technologies for minimal chemical/organic viticulture. 

x. Pesticide residue free grapes and its products. 

xi. Increasing remuneration to grape growers, wine makers and other beneficiaries. 

xii. Enhancing export and contributing to the foreign exchange. 

xiii. Consolidating the country's image. 

xiv. Employment generation by supporting processing industry 

xv. Promoting self employment in areas of production of biocontrol agents/ predators/ parasites as 

well as small-scale wineries. 

xvi. Making Indian viticulture globally competitive in terms of resources, technologies and 

standards. 

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Vision 2025 - National Research Centre for Grapes

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