Daily Current Affairs : 24-February-2024

Scientists at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) have made an interesting development in agriculture by growing a new speedy-breeding protocol for pigeonpea. This progressive approach aims to speed up the process of developing improved varieties of this critical legume crop, which plays a sizable role in ensuring nutritional security in dryland areas.

Importance of Pigeonpeas

Pigeonpeas are crucial legumes extensively grown in tropical and semitropical regions throughout the globe. In India, these plants are especially critical, with over 80% of pigeonpea production coming from six key states:

  • Maharashtra (MS)
  • Madhya Pradesh (MP)
  • Karnataka
  • Uttar Pradesh (UP)
  • Gujarat
  • Jharkhand

Pigeonpeas are commonly consumed in the form of “dal,” a popular split pulse dish in Indian cuisine. Their nutritional value makes them a staple food for many households, particularly in regions where other protein sources can be limited.

Traditional Breeding vs. Fast-Breeding

Traditionally, developing a new pigeonpea variety takes approximately 13 years. This lengthy process can hinder efforts to enhance crop resilience, yield, and nutritional value. However, the new fast-breeding protocol developed by ICRISAT has the potential to cut this breeding cycle down to just two to four years. This significant reduction means that farmers can access improved varieties much more quickly, allowing them to adapt to changing environmental conditions and consumer needs.

How Does Speed Breeding Work?

Speed breeding is a modern plant breeding technology that accelerates flowering and seed production in crops. Here’s how it works:

  • Optimal Light Quality and Intensity: Special lighting conditions are used to mimic ideal growth environments.
  • Photoperiod Management: Adjusting light exposure helps stimulate faster flowering.
  • Temperature Control: Maintaining specific temperatures promotes growth and reduces the time needed for plants to mature.
  • Immature Seed Harvesting: Collecting seeds early can shorten the time required to produce the next generation.

Important Points:

New Fast-Breeding Protocol: Developed by ICRISAT to accelerate pigeonpea variety development.Reduced Breeding Time: Traditional pigeonpea breeding takes about 13 years; the new method can reduce this to 2-4 years.Significance of Pigeonpeas:

  • Widely grown in tropical and semitropical regions.
  • Over 80% of India’s pigeonpea production comes from six states: Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Jharkhand.
  • Commonly consumed as “dal,” a staple food in Indian cuisine.

Nutritional Value: Pigeonpeas provide essential protein, especially in areas with limited protein sources.Benefits of Fast-Breeding:

  • Enables quicker access to improved varieties.
  • Helps farmers adapt to changing environmental conditions and market demands.

Mechanisms of Speed Breeding:

  • Optimal Light Conditions: Mimics ideal growth environments.
  • Photoperiod Management: Adjusts light exposure to stimulate faster flowering.
  • Temperature Control: Maintains specific temperatures for quicker maturation.
  • Immature Seed Harvesting: Collects seeds early to shorten generation time.

Why In News

Scientists at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) have developed a new fast-breeding protocol to accelerate the creation of improved varieties of pigeonpea, an essential legume crop for nutritional security in drylands. This innovative approach not only enhances the speed of breeding but also aims to meet the growing demand for resilient and nutritious crops in the face of climate change.

MCQs about Accelerating Pigeonpea Development: A Breakthrough in Agriculture

  1. What is the primary purpose of the new fast-breeding protocol developed by ICRISAT?
    A. To reduce the nutritional value of pigeonpeas
    B. To speed up the development of improved pigeonpea varieties
    C. To increase the time required for breeding
    D. To eliminate the cultivation of pigeonpeas
    Correct Answer: B. To speed up the development of improved pigeonpea varieties
    Explanation: The fast-breeding protocol aims to accelerate the breeding process for better pigeonpea varieties, which is crucial for nutritional security.
  2. How much time does the traditional pigeonpea breeding process typically take?
    A. 2 years
    B. 4 years
    C. 13 years
    D. 20 years
    Correct Answer: C. 13 years
    Explanation: Traditionally, it takes about 13 years to develop a new pigeonpea variety, whereas the new protocol can reduce this time significantly.
  3. Which of the following states contributes over 80% of pigeonpea production in India?
    A. Punjab
    B. Maharashtra
    C. West Bengal
    D. Assam
    Correct Answer: B. Maharashtra
    Explanation: Maharashtra, along with five other states, is responsible for more than 80% of India’s pigeonpea production.
  4. What is one mechanism used in speed breeding to accelerate plant development?
    A. Decreasing light exposure
    B. Immature seed harvesting
    C. Reducing temperature
    D. Increasing soil acidity
    Correct Answer: B. Immature seed harvesting
    Explanation: Immature seed harvesting is a technique used in speed breeding to shorten the time required to produce the next generation of plants.

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