Farmers turn to new pulse seeds
New varieties of pulses bring hope for farmers: In a positive step for the agriculture sector, the Department of Seed Certification and Organic Certification has introduced new varieties of pulses seeds for farmers. These seeds were developed by the Kanpur Research Institute, a centre known for agricultural innovation. Their goal is to promote more widespread cultivation of green gram and black gram—two staple pulses that are both high in nutrition and widely consumed.
Focus on disease resistance
One of the biggest hurdles farmers face while growing pulses is the fear of the yellow mosaic virus, a disease that can completely destroy pulse crops. To address this, the new varieties have been specifically chosen for their resistance to yellow mosaic virus, giving farmers better crop security and boosting their confidence.
Green gram shows fast progress
Among the newly introduced seeds is LGG 600, a green gram variety. This particular variety has shown impressive results in early stages. It reached the flowering stage within 28 days, displaying uniform growth across fields. For farmers, faster growth means quicker returns and more efficient planning for the next sowing cycle.
Black gram with strong defence
The black gram variety named Kota 5 has shown strong signs of disease resistance. This is a significant development because black gram crops are usually vulnerable to pests and diseases in tropical regions. With Kota 5, farmers can now reduce their dependence on chemical pesticides and manage healthier fields with less input cost.
Static GK for exam prep
Pulses like green gram and black gram belong to the Fabaceae family. India is the largest producer and consumer of pulses in the world. The Yellow Mosaic Virus is commonly spread by whiteflies, especially in dry and humid climates. Tamil Nadu has its own Department of Seed Certification, headquartered in Coimbatore, which monitors and approves the quality of seeds for use in agriculture.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
| Topic | Detail |
| Seed Varieties | LGG 600 (Green Gram), Kota 5 (Black Gram) |
| Developed by | Kanpur Research Institute |
| State Involved | Tamil Nadu |
| Disease Targeted | Yellow Mosaic Virus |
| Seed Certification Body | Department of Seed Certification and Organic Certification |
| Crop Growth Stage | LGG 600 flowers by Day 28 |
| Resistance Found | High resistance in Kota 5 |
| Pulse Family | Fabaceae |
| Virus Vector | Whiteflies |
| India’s Rank in Pulses | Largest producer and consumer globally |
