Overview

IIPR, Reginal Center, Bikaner was established in February, 2019 and situated in Agro-climatic zone IC (Hyper arid partially irrigated Western Plain) of Rajasthan. The objectives of the centre are to cater the needs of pulse growing farmers of arid region that includes breeding of improved and climate resilient varieties, development of location specific technologies for enhanced pulses production, large scale quality seed production, demonstration and transfer of technologies to enhance the productivity and profitability of pulse growers in arid ecosystem.

Infrastructure development

The centre is situated at 28.070N latitude, 73.320E longitude and 225 m altitude with an area of 100 hectares. The centre has come up with office building, threshing floor, seed processing unit and seed storage godowns. The centre has 100 hectares of farm which includes, 70 hectares farm acquired from CAZRI having tube well irrigation and later on, 30 hectares farm was acquired from CSWRI which having Canal command irrigation. To support secure and efficient farm operations, the entire farm area has been enclosed with a boundary wall and fencing. Additional infrastructure developments include the construction of a poly house for research and cultivation under controlled conditions, and a diggi (irrigation water storage tank) to enhance water availability for irrigation purposes.

Research Activities

Mandate crops:

Mothbean, Cowpea, Moongbean, Clusterbean, Chickpea

• Varietal Development: The centre initiated breeding programs mainly focusing on Mothbean and Cowpea aimed for developing new pulse varieties with improved yield, nutritional quality, and resilience to environmental stresses. The centre conducts extensive research on pulse germplasm to identify traits such as drought tolerance, heat resistance, and pest resistance. This involves characterization, screening, and evaluation of diverse germplasm collections to identify promising genetic resources for further breeding programmes.
• Production and protection technologies for arid pulses: The regional center plays a vital role in developing and promoting production and protection technologies for pulse crops, particularly under arid and semi-arid conditions. Its primary focus lies in optimizing irrigation and nutrient management to enhance productivity in water-scarce regions. The center develops location-specific strategies such as micro-irrigation, scheduling based on crop stages, and efficient use of fertilizers to ensure better crop performance while conserving resources. Additionally, the center actively works on integrated disease and insect pest management practices. This includes the identification of region-specific pest and disease threats, development of resistant varieties, and promotion of eco-friendly control measures like biological control agents, crop rotation, and timely application of biopesticides or safe chemicals.
• Seed Production and Distribution: Regional centre plays a crucial role in the breeder seed production and distribution of quality seeds of improved pulse varieties of Moongbean and Chickpea. This ensures that farmers have access to certified seeds that can significantly enhance crop yields and quality, contributing to overall pulse productivity in the region.
• Technology Transfer: The regional centre conducts demonstrations, training programs, and workshops to transfer technology and knowledge to farmers and stakeholders. This includes best practices in crop management, seed treatment, integrated pest management, and water-efficient irrigation techniques tailored to arid conditions. The Centre also conducts training programmane and input distribution under SCSP programme to uplift the socio-economic status of SC farmers.
• Collaborations and Networking: The centre collaborates with other research institutions, agricultural universities, government agencies, and international organizations to leverage expertise, resources, and funding opportunities. These collaborations strengthen research capabilities, facilitate joint research projects, and accelerate technology adoption in pulses cultivation. The centre initiated mutation breeding programme in Mothbean in collaboration with BARC for development of drought tolerant varieties of Mothbean.

Future prospects:

• The research activities focused on arid pulses suitable for arid and semi-arid conditions. This could include developing strategies and solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change by breeding high-yielding and climate-resilient varieties, as well as advancements in agronomic practices tailored to local agricultural challenges.
• Increasing emphasis on developing and adapting technologies such as precision agriculture, water-efficient irrigation techniques, and integrated pest management systems that are suitable for sustainable pulse production the arid agro-ecosystem. This would enhance productivity while conserving natural resources.
• Strengthening training programs and workshops for farmers, extension workers, and researchers to promote the adoption of modern pulse production technologies. This could include skill development in seed production, crop management, and post-harvest handling.
• Encouraging entrepreneurship among farmers and youth through initiatives such as agri-business incubation centers, skill development programs, and access to market linkages for agricultural products.

Technical Personnel: