IARI Advisory on Pigeonpea Sowing: Seed Treatment, Varieties, and Moisture Management

22 June 2025, New Delhi: The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) has issued important recommendations for farmers planning to sow pigeonpea during the current cropping window. According to IARI, this week presents favorable conditions for pigeonpea sowing, provided adequate moisture is maintained in the field to support optimal seed germination. Maintaining correct soil moisture levels at the time of sowing plays a critical role in achieving uniform germination and healthy crop establishment.

Before sowing, IARI strongly advises farmers to treat pigeonpea seeds with crop-specific Rhizobium culture and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB). These bio-inoculants enhance the plant’s nitrogen fixation ability and improve phosphorus uptake, which together contribute to higher productivity and healthier crop growth throughout the season. This seed treatment is particularly crucial in legume crops like pigeonpea, where biological nitrogen fixation is a key advantage.

IARI has recommended several high-yielding pigeonpea varieties suitable for cultivation. The varieties include Pusa Arhar-16, Pusa 2001, Pusa 2002, Pusa 991, Pusa 992, Paras, and Manak. These varieties are known for their robust yields, disease resistance, and suitability to various agro-climatic zones in India.

In addition to using superior varieties, IARI emphasizes the importance of procuring seeds from certified sources to ensure high germination rates and genetic purity. Certified seeds reduce the risk of seed-borne diseases and contribute to uniform plant population, which is vital for maximizing yields.

By following these comprehensive pigeonpea cultivation guidelines provided by IARI, farmers can improve both productivity and profitability while minimizing risks associated with poor crop establishment.

Also Read: India’s Agricultural Sector on Track to Triple: McKinsey Highlights $3.1 Trillion Potential by 2047

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