Pigeonpea is an important food legume crop that provides protein, fodder, and helps enrich soil nutrients and prevent erosion. The document discusses research at ICRISAT-Patancheru to improve pigeonpea varieties that are resistant to major pests and diseases like Helicoverpa, Maruca, and fusarium wilt, as well as drought tolerance. Major achievements include the development of hybrid pigeonpea varieties and new early maturing varieties suitable for different regions. ICRISAT has collaborated widely and provided training to scientists and farmers from countries like India, Myanmar, and China to strengthen pigeonpea improvement and production.

1. Pigeonpea Improvement at ICRISAT-Patancheru
Nov 2009
Introduction
Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan L. (Millsp.)] is a versatile food legume of
the semi-arid tropics – a source of quality protein (20-22%), fodder,
feed and fuel wood. This crop, requires little input, enriches soils
nutrient recycling and prevents soil erosion.
Critical constraints
-1
for
Helicoverpa and Maruca pod
Pure-line breeding and impact
Research strategy
Major Achievements
Hybrid Pigeonpea – a breakthrough
to fusarium wilt and sterility mosaic diseases, and
drought tolerant.
regions
pigeonpea lines developed. These will help in
diversifying production systems.
Wide Collaboration
Myanmar
Seed Supply and Capacity Building
(since 2004)
different aspects of pigeonpea.
and farmers trained in various aspects of
pigeonpea.
Super-early pigeonpea.
Trainees from China.ICPL 88039 in hills of Uttarakhand.
ICPH 2671.