🌿 MASTER NOTES: GENERAL AGRONOMY OF PULSES

1. General Characteristics & Importance

 Crop Status: Pulses are the 2nd most important cultivated crops globally after cereals. They
are widely recognized as the richest source of protein among food-grains, providing protein,
minerals, and vitamins in quantities much higher than cereals.

 Definition Constraints: The term 'pulse' specifically excludes green beans and green peas
(which are considered vegetable crops). It also safely excludes crops grown mainly for oil
extraction (like soybeans and peanuts) or exclusively for fodder (like clovers and alfalfa).

 Nutritional Profile: Legumes are distinctly rich in lysine but are deficient in S-containing
compounds, primarily methionine. Lentil holds the record for having the highest protein
content (24-26%) among all pulses.

 Daily Requirement: The minimum per capita per day pulse intake recommended by the ICAR
is 70 g.

 Botanical Features: Seeds are produced in a pod, possess a hard and large seed coat, and are
capable of biological N-fixation by roots.

2. Global & National Distribution

 Global Scenario: Globally, dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is the most important pulse crop,
followed by pea and chickpea respectively.

 Indian Scenario: In India, chickpea occupies the highest area and production among all
pulses. This is followed by pigeonpea and green gram respectively.

3. Classification of Pulses (Kharif vs. Rabi)

A. Kharif Pulses (Summer Season)

 Global Rank: India holds the largest area under total Kharif/summer pulses globally and
ranks 1st in area and production for all six major kharif pulses.

 National Dominance: Pigeonpea ranks 1st in area and production among Kharif pulses in
India, strictly followed by green gram.

 Germination Trait: Most Kharif pulses exhibit Epigeal (Phanerocotylor) germination.

 Seedbed Requirement: Because the cotyledons rise above the ground before vegetative
sprouting, the seedbed for Kharif pulses must be soft, smooth, and fine. A hard soil crust
restricts seedling emergence.

B. Rabi Pulses (Winter Season)

 Global Share: Rabi season pulses (chickpea, field pea, lentil, and lathyrus) share about 42%
of global total pulse production.

 National Dominance: Chickpea ranks 1st in area and production among Rabi pulses in India,
followed by lentil.
  Germination Trait: Most Rabi pulses exhibit Hypogeal (Cryptocotylor) germination (except
French bean, which is epigeal).

 Moisture Requirement: Winter pulses (except French bean) are typically grown on residual
soil moisture. Lathyrus and lentil are famously grown in utera cropping (relay cropping).

4. Nitrogen Fixation Dynamics

 N-Fixation Mechanism: About 80-90% of the nitrogen requirement in pulses is naturally

fulfilled through the N-fixation mechanism. A pulse crop systematically adds 15-35 kg N/ha
into the soil.

 Site of Fixation: Bacteroids are the primary site of biological N-fixation in legumes.

 Enzymatic Role: Molybdenum (Mo) is a vital component of the nitrate reductase enzyme,
which is strictly responsible for N-fixation. Thus, a deficiency of phosphorus and
molybdenum greatly decreases biological N-fixation.

 Environmental Impact: Excessive moisture, as well as waterlogging, reduces the rhizobial

population and ultimately halts N-fixation.

5. Seed Treatment & Inoculation

 Standard Sequence: The seed of pulses should always be treated in a specific sequence:
Fungicide first, followed by Insecticide, and lastly Rhizobium.

1. Fungicide: Captan, bavistin, or thiram @ 2.5 g/kg seed (at least 3 days before
sowing).

2. Insecticide: Carbofuran against termites and cutworms (especially in light soils).

 Rhizobium Inoculation: Standard seed inoculation requires 1 packet (200 g) of Rhizobium

for every 10 kg of seed. The 10 kg seed treatment requires 100 g Jaggery (gur) and 2 g gum
arabica dissolved in 1 litre of water.

 Phosphorus Solubility: Inoculation with Bacillus polymyxa and B. megaterium significantly

increases phosphorus solubility and its availability to the plant.

6. Fertilizer & Pest Management

 Fertilizer: As a starter dose, pulses generally require 15-25 kg N/ha (except French bean).
Single super phosphate (SSP) is considered a far more effective source of Phosphorus in
pulses than DAP.

 Termite Control: To control termite attacks, carbaryl dust @ 20-25 kg/ha is mixed directly
into the soil at the time of ploughing.

7. Harvesting & Storage

 Harvesting: Crops like cowpea, green gram, and black gram should be harvested strictly
when plants show 90% of maturity.

 Storage Moisture: Seeds must be safely stored at a moisture content below 12%.
  Storage Pest Control: Pulses are highly vulnerable to bruchids (storage grain pests). To
reduce infestation, seeds are safely dusted with malathion 10% or treated with edible oil @
5-10 ml/kg during storage.

8. Institutional Establishments & Programs

 AICPIP: The All India Coordinated Pulses Improvement Project (AICPIP) was started in 1967.

 IIPR: The Indian Institute of Pulse Research (IIPR) was established in 1982 at Kanpur (UP).

 Key Programs: Major initiatives that increased pulse production include the National Pulse
Development Project (NPDP, 1985-1990) and the Special Food Production Programme
(SFPP, 1988-1989).

📊 9. CURRENT AFFAIRS & PRODUCTION STATUS (ALL PULSES)

(Based on Latest 2025-26 Second Advance Estimates & Agricultural Statistics)

 Global Position: India strictly maintains its position as the Largest Producer of Pulses in the
World, singularly accounting for 25% of global pulse production. India is also counted
among the leading exporters of pulses globally.

 Top Producing States (Total Pulses):

o Rank 1: Madhya Pradesh

o Rank 2: Rajasthan

o Rank 3: Maharashtra

 Highest Productivity / Yield: Madhya Pradesh completely dominates in pulse productivity,

recording the highest yield at ~1,100 kg/ha, followed by Rajasthan and Maharashtra.

 Overall Agricultural Benchmark: The total foodgrain production in India for 2025-26 (Kharif +
Rabi) reached an all-time record of 3,486.57 LMT (Lakh Metric Tonnes).

📌 IMPORTANT POINTS (Quick Revision Section)

(Compiled exactly from the high-yield summaries and exam factoids of the sources)

 Rank after Cereals: 2nd most important cultivated crops.

 Richest Source of: Protein among food-grains.

 Amino Acid Profile: Rich in Lysine, deficient in Methionine.

 Most Important Global Pulse: Dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris).

 Highest Area & Production in India: Chickpea.

 Highest Protein Content: Lentil (24-26%).

 ICAR Recommended Intake: 70 g per capita per day.

 Kharif Germination: Epigeal (Requires soft/fine seedbed).

  Rabi Germination: Hypogeal.

 Term 'Pulse' Excludes: Green beans, green peas, oilseeds, and forage clovers.

 Starter Dose of Nitrogen: 15-25 kg N/ha.

 Soil Nitrogen Added: 15-35 kg N/ha.

 Best Phosphorus Source: SSP (Single Super Phosphate).

 N-Fixation Site: Bacteroids.

 Vital Element for N-Fixation Enzyme: Molybdenum (for nitrate reductase).

 Waterlogging Effect: Reduces rhizobial population and stops N-fixation.

 Rhizobium Packet Requirement: 1 packet (200 g) per 10 kg seed.

 Seed Treatment Sequence: Fungicide → Insecticide → Rhizobium.

 Harvesting Stage: 90% maturity.

 Safe Storage Moisture: Below 12%.

 Storage Pest & Control: Bruchids; controlled by Edible oil (5-10 ml/kg) or Malathion.

 Most Drought-Tolerant Kharif Pulse: Moth bean.

 Multi-purpose Pulse (Grain, Fodder, Manure): Cowpea.

 IIPR Location & Year: Kanpur (UP), established in 1982.

 AICPIP Start Year: 1967.

 Global Rank of India in Pulses: Largest Producer (25% of the world).

 Top Pulse State in India (Area/Production/Yield): Madhya Pradesh (~1,100 kg/ha).

🌿 CHICKPEA / BENGAL GRAM

1. General & Botanical Information

 Common Names: Chickpea is commonly known as Gram, Bengal gram, or Chana. It is

universally recognized as the "King of pulses".

 Botanical Name: Cicer arietinum L. (for Desi/Brown gram) and Cicer kabulium (for
Kabuli/White gram).

 Family: It belongs to the Fabaceae (Leguminaceae) family, sub-family Papilionaceae.

 Origin Place: The center of origin is South Western Asia (Afghanistan).

 Crop Type: It is the most important winter (Rabi) season pulse crop in India, classified
botanically as a C3, long-day plant.

 Germination Type: Exhibits Hypogeal germination.

  Root System: Possesses a central strong Tap root / Deep root system with numerous lateral
branches and nodules containing nitrogen-fixing rhizobium bacteria.

 Fruit Name: The fruit of the plant is known as a Pod.

2. Nutritional & Medicinal Value

 Nutritional Composition: Gram contains 21.1% protein (overall range 18-22%), 61.5%
carbohydrates (range 52-70%), and 4.5% fat (range 4-10%). It is also highly rich in calcium,
iron, and niacin.

 Medicinal Uses: Highly valued for its medicinal effects as a blood purifier. Furthermore,
consuming germinated seeds is recommended to cure scurvy disease.

 Unique Sour Taste: The distinct sourness of gram leaves and pods is due to the presence of
Maleic acid (90-96%) and Oxalic acid (4-10%). A well-managed crop can yield about 4-10 kg
of these acids per hectare.

3. Global & National Distribution

 Global Status: India is the premier pulse-growing country and the world's largest producer,
sharing 65% of the world acreage and 67-70% of total global production.

o Area Sequence: India > Pakistan > Turkey.

o Production Sequence: India > Turkey > Pakistan.

 Indian Status: It is the major pulse crop in India, occupying 38% of the pulse area and about
50% of pulse production, followed by pigeon pea. It ranks 1st in area and production among
all kharif and rabi pulses in India.

o It covers an area of 12.0 million hectares producing 9.2 million tonnes (as per
historical data baseline).

o State-wise Sequence: Madhya Pradesh (MP) > Rajasthan > Uttar Pradesh (UP). MP
holds the largest acreage and production natively.

o Average Indian Yield: 942 kg per hectare.

4. Botanical Classification

Indian grams are broadly classified into two groups:

A. Desi or Brown Gram (Cicer arietinum L.)

 Features: This is the most widely cultivated group in India. Plants are erect with a good
branching habit and are cosmopolitan in nature.

 Chromosomes: 2n = 14 or 16.

 Seed Characteristics: Seeds are small-sized (5-12 mm) and range in color from yellow to
dark brown.

 Test Weight: Ranges between 140-260 g.

B. Kabuli or White Gram (Cicer kabulium)

  Features: Grown in lesser areas. Plants are taller than brown gram with moderate/poor
branching.

 Chromosomes: 2n = 16.

 Seed Characteristics: Grains are bold (large), attractive, and usually white.

 Test Weight: Heaviest, weighing 270-375 g (>260 g).

 Yield: It is a poor yielder compared to the desi gram.

5. Climate & Soil Requirements

 Temperature: Performs better at 24-32°C temperature.

 Frost Sensitivity: Highly susceptible to severe cold and frost. Frost at the flowering stage is
lethal, resulting in the failure of flowers to develop seeds or the killing of seeds inside the
pod.

 Soil Type: Usually grown under rainfed conditions. Sandy loam to clay loam that is free from
excessive soluble salts and near neutral in reaction is considered the most suitable.

 Seed-Bed Preparation: A cloddy and rough seed-bed is strictly required to provide adequate
aeration for proper germination, as gram is highly sensitive to poor soil aeration.

6. Sowing & Seed Management

 Sowing Time: The optimum time is from 15 October to 15 November (specifically the 2nd
fortnight of October).

 Pest Warning: Delayed planting increases the incidence of Pod borer (Helicoverpa
armigera).

 Seed Rate:

o Desi Gram: 60-80 kg/ha. (Early sown: 75-80 kg/ha; Late sown: 80-100 kg/ha).

o Kabuli Gram: 80-100 kg/ha.

o Average optimum range: 75-100 kg/ha depending upon seed size.

 Spacing & Plant Population: Row-to-row spacing of 30-45 cm, specifically 30 × 10 cm. This
spacing maintains an ideal Plant Population of 3,33,333 plants/ha.

 Depth of Sowing: Seeds MUST be placed 8-10 cm deep. Early and shallow sown crops are
more liable to be damaged by wilt. Therefore, deep sowing is the primary protection against
Wilt disease.

 Seed Treatment: Treat seeds with agrosan GN or thiram @ 2.5 g/kg seed to protect against
seed-borne diseases.

7. Important Improved Varieties

 Wilt Resistant Varieties: Avrodhi (fully resistant), Uday (moderately resistant), JG-315, Pusa-
362. Exam specific: JG-74 (BIHAR BAO-2024).

 Blight & Rust Resistant:

 o Gaurav: Moderately resistant to rust and Ascochyta blight.

o Pusa-256 (BG 256): Most common and best for rainfed conditions. Resistant to
Ascochyta blight.

o C-235: Outstanding variety, widely adopted for dry lands. Fairly early maturing and
tolerant to Ascochyta blight and stem rot.

 Drought Resistant: RS-10 (suitable for Ajmer & Kota), RS-11 (Mutant variety, suitable for
heavy soils of Rajasthan).

 Special Traits:

o Aparna (2006): Grains uniquely remain in green colour.

o ICCC-2: Short duration variety.

o Phule G-5: Pink-seeded variety.

o Pusa-209: Medium seeds (test weight 135g/1000 seeds).

 Haryana Specific (IBPS-AFO 2016): Kabuli chamatkar and Udai.

 Other Desi Varieties: BDN-9-3, Type-2 (Rajasthan), Chaffa, RSG-2, GNG-16, GNG-1551, GNG-
2171, 1958, Radhey.

 Kabuli Varieties: Sadabahar, C-104, K-4, L-144, L-550, Pusa-1013.

8. Fertilizer & Water Management

 Fertilizers: Being a leguminous crop, it fulfills 75% of its nitrogen requirement through
symbiotic N-fixation. Soils with low organic matter require a starter dose of 20-25 kg N/ha
before nodule formation. Pulses respond very favorably to phosphorus application.

 Irrigation Critical Stages: Chickpea is mostly sown as a rainfed crop. If winter rains fail,
provide irrigation at the Pre-flowering stage and the Pod development stage.

 Golden Rule: No irrigation should be provided at the time of flowering.

9. Important Agricultural Practices

 Nipping / Topping (UPPSC STA 2024): The process of plucking the apical buds to stop apical
growth, which promotes lateral bud branching, yielding more pods and higher yields.

o Timing: Done at 30-40 days after sowing (DAS).

o Methods: Passing a flock of sheep through the field or spraying the chemical TIBA @
75 PPM (Tri-iodo-benzoic Acid).

 Weed Control: Chickpea suffers severely from weed infestation. Apply Fluchloralin (Basalin)
@ 1 kg a.i./ha dissolved in 800-1000 litres of water as an effective pre-planting spray.

10. Major Diseases & Insects

A. Major Diseases & Pathogens

 Wilt: Fusarium oxysporum sp. ciceri

  Stem Rot: Sclerotinia sclerotinia

 Botrytis Grey Mold: Botrytis cineria

 Rust: Uromyces cicer

 Powdery Mildew: Oidiopsis taurica

 Ascochyta Blight: Ascochyta rabiei

B. Major Insects & Zoological Names

 Gram Pod Borer: Helicoverpa armigera

 Cut Worm: Agrotis ipsilon

 Termites: Odontotermes obesu

 Semilooper: Autographa nigrisigna

11. Yield Output

 Desi Gram: A well-managed crop yields 20-25 quintals of grain per hectare, which is three to
four times higher than the national average.

 Kabuli Gram: Yields about 12-15 quintals per hectare.

📊 12. CURRENT AFFAIRS & PRODUCTION STATUS (CHICKPEA / GRAM)

(Based on Latest Second Advance Estimates 2025-26 & Agricultural Statistics)

 Latest Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 2026-27 (Rabi Marketing Season):

o The MSP for Gram has been officially set at ₹5,875 per quintal.

o This provides a solid 59% margin over its estimated cost of production (₹3,699/qtl).

o The absolute increase in the MSP for Gram this year was +₹225/qtl (up from ₹5,650
in 2025-26).

 Latest Production Data (2025-26): According to the Second Advance Estimates, total Gram
production has reached a robust 117.92 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT).

 Overall Pulses Status: India is the Largest Producer of Pulses in the World, accounting for
25% of total global production. Within India, Madhya Pradesh leads the country in overall
total pulse production and pulse productivity (~1,100 kg/ha).

 Dietary Recommendation: The minimum per capita per day pulse intake recommended by
ICAR is 70 g.

📌 IMPORTANT POINTS (Quick Revision Section)

(Compiled exactly from the high-yield summaries and exam factoids of the sources)

 Botanical name of gram: Cicer arietinum.

 Origin of gram is: S.W. Asia (Afghanistan).

 Gram belongs to family: Leguminoceae / Fabaceae.

 Chickpea/gram is known as: King of pulses.

 Protein content of gram: 21.1% (Average range: 18-22%).

 Gram is: C3, long day plant.

 Gram has: Deep root system (tap root).

 Gram fruit is known as: Pod.

 Germination Type: Hypogeal.

 Optimum sowing time for gram is: 15 October - 15 November.

 Delayed planting increases the incidence of: Pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera).

 Seed rate of gram is: 75-100 kg/ha.

 Gram should be sown at a depth of: 8-10 cm deep.

 Deep sowing of gram is protection from: Wilt disease.

 Gram needs: Rough and cloddy seed bed for good aeration in the root zone.

 Nipping is an important operation of gram crop is done at: 30-40 DAS.

 Sour taste of gram leaf is due to: Maleic & oxalic acid.

 Gram is highly susceptible to frost at: Flowering stage.

 Critical stage for irrigation: Pre-flowering & pod development stage.

 Wilt resistant gram varieties: Avrodhi, Uday, Pusa-362, JG-315.

 Blight resistant varieties: Gaurav, Pusa-256, C-235.

 Best variety for dry land is: C-235.

 Herbicide application in gram is: Basalin (1kg before sowing).

 N-Fixation: Pulse crops like gram add 15-35 kg N/ha in the soil.

 Latest Gram Production (2025-26): 117.92 LMT.

 Latest MSP (2026-27): ₹5,875 per quintal.

PIGEON PEA / ARHAR / TUR
1. General & Botanical Information

 Common Names: Pigeon pea is commonly known as Red gram, Arhar, or Tur, as well as
conga pea, no-eyed pea, and gungo pea.

 Botanical Name: ***Cajanus cajan L.***.

 Family: It belongs to the Leguminaceae (Fabaceae) family, under the sub-family

Papilionaceae.

 Chromosome Number: 2n = 22.

 Origin: The origin is widely cited as Africa / South Africa. However, some theories suggest
India is the center of origin and diversity, rejecting the African origin theory due to a lack of
genetic diversity in that region.

 Crop Status: It ranks 1st in area and production among Kharif pulses. Overall, it is the
second most important pulse crop in India after chickpea. It acts as a mini fertilizer crop due
to its nitrogen fixation capabilities.

 Plant Type: Botanically, it is a C3, short-day plant.

 Pollination: While often considered self-pollinated, it is actually an often cross-pollinated

crop (average cross-pollination is 20%). A single plant produces many flowers, but only about
10% set pods.

 Germination Type: Exhibits Hypogeal (Cryptocotylor) germination.

 Root System: Possesses a very deep tap root system with numerous lateral and secondary
branches. This gives it the capacity to tolerate moisture stress to a great extent, making it a
highly hardy crop and the most drought-tolerant crop among major pulses.

 Inflorescence & Fruit: The inflorescence is an axillary raceme often forming a terminal
panicle. The fruit is called a Pod.

 Harvesting Index: The harvest index of tur is 19%, which is the lowest among all pulses.

2. Nutritional Value

 Protein Content: Pigeon pea seeds are rich in protein, ranging from 21% to 25% (specifically
cited as 21.7% or 25% in various contexts).

 Amino Acids: Like other legumes, it is rich in lysine but deficient in S-containing compounds
(methionine).

 Micronutrients: It is a good source of Iron and Iodine.

3. Global & National Distribution

 Global Status: India accounts for the largest area (80-90%) and production (72-85%) of
pigeon pea in the world.

o Global Sequence: India > Malawi > Uganda.

  Indian Status: It accounts for about 11.8% of the total pulse area and 17% of the total pulse
production in the country, occupying a 3.75 mha area with a production of 3.1 million tons.

o Highest Area: Maharashtra > UP > Karnataka.

o Highest Production: UP > Maharashtra > Gujarat.

o Highest Productivity: Bihar (1115 kg/ha) > UP. The average Indian productivity is
725 kg/ha.

4. Botanical Classification

Cultivated Cajanus species are classified into 2 groups based on maturity, floral, and seed
characteristics:

Arhar (Cajanus indicus var.

Traits Tur (Cajanus indicus var. flavus)
bicolor)

Perennial, tall (5-6 m),

Plant Type Annual, short plant (2-3 m).
much-branched & bushy.

Late maturity (150-180

Maturity Early maturity (100-150 days).
days).

Flowering
Dec - Feb. Sept - Nov.
Time

Region Commonly grown in North

Mainly grown in South India as a seed crop.
Grown India.

Pod/Seed Dark-coloured pods, 4-5 Yellow flowers, plain pods, 2-3 grains/pod. Pods do not
Char. grains/pod. mature at a time; picking is done at 15-16 day intervals.

5. Climate & Soil Requirements

 Climate: Grows well in warm tropical and subtropical climates. It prefers a moist and warm
climate (18-27°C) during vegetative growth, tolerating <10°C and >35°C. During flowering
and ripening, it requires bright sunny weather.

 Sensitivities:

o Highly susceptible to frost at the time of flowering.

o Cloudy weather and excessive rainfall during flowering cause poor pollination and
poor pod development (ICAR JRF 2015).

 Soil Type: Does best on fertile, well-drained loamy soils (sandy loam to clay loams). Optimal
pH range is 5.5-8.0.

 Unfit Soils: Saline-alkaline and waterlogged soils are strictly unfit for cultivation.

6. Sowing, Seed Rate & Plant Population

 Sowing Time: For the Kharif crop, optimal sowing is 15 June (1st fortnight of June) to July.

 Depth of Sowing: 4-6 cm.

  Seed Rates:

o Pure / Normal crop: 12-15 kg/ha.

o Winter pigeon pea: 12-15 kg/ha (AFO 2014).

o Short duration pigeon pea: 15-18 kg/ha (RRB SO 2024).

o Mixed crop: 6-8 kg/ha.

 Spacing Details: General spacing is 60 × 15 cm (or 60-75 × 15-20 cm).

o Irrigated Early crop: 60 × 30 cm.

o Irrigated Late crop: 75 × 30 cm.

o Unirrigated areas: 90 × 30 cm.

 Plant Population:

o Kharif crop: 55,000 plants/ha.

o Winter (Rabi) crop: 3.33 lakh plants/ha.

 Cropping Systems: Commonly intercropped with sorghum. The practice of growing erosion-
resisting crops and erosion-permitting crops in alternate ways on contour or across the slope
is famously associated with Pigeonpea (CUET ABM 2025).

7. Important Varieties

 A. Short Duration (Extra Early / Early):

o ICPH-8: The 1st hybrid of arhar in the world, developed at ICRISAT, Hyderabad in
1991 (PRE UP-CATET 2024). It matures early (115-135 days) and out-yielded UPAS-
120 (averaging 1.78 t/ha).

o UPAS-120: An early maturing variety taking 120-125 days (CCI 2019). Note:
susceptible to sterility mosaic disease.

o Prabhat: Extra-early maturity (110-120 days).

o Manak: Recognized as drought and temperature tolerant (130-145 days).

o Pusa-855: Matures in 140-150 days; moderately resistant to sterility mosaic, stem

blight, and wilt.

o Others: Paras, PPH-4, ICPL-15, ICPL-87.

 B. Medium Duration (150-180 days):

o Mukta: Notably wilt resistant.

o Others: BDN-1, BDN-2, Pusa Ageti, Laxmi, C-11, Sharda, Basant.

 C. Long Duration (180-300 days):

o Amar, Azad, Maruthi: Matures in 260-270 days and highly resistant to sterility
mosaic and wilt.
 o Others: PUSA-9, ICPL-151, Narendra arhar, Sharad, Bahar.

8. Fertilizer, Water & Weed Management

 Fertilizers: Deficient soils need a starter dose of 20-30 kg N/ha. It also requires 80-100 kg
P/ha and 40-60 kg K/ha for good yields.

 Irrigation: Tolerates drought and generally does not need irrigation. In prolonged drought,
irrigation at the Pre-flowering and Pod development/filling stages is highly rewarding.

 Weed Control: Alachlor and Pendimethalin are used as pre-emergence, and Basalin as a
post-emergence herbicide.

9. Major Diseases & Insects

A. Major Diseases & Pathogens

 Sterility Mosaic (Viral): The most important disease of arhar. Transmitted by a vector, the
Eriophyid mite (Aceria cajani).

 Fusarium Wilt: Caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum.

 Rust: Caused by Uredo cajani.

B. Major Insects

 Red Gram Pod Fly (Melanagromyza obtusa): The most specific pest of arhar.

 Gram pod borer: Helicoverpa armigera.

 Plume moth: Exelastis atomosa.

 Spotted pod borer: Maruca testulalis.

 Field bean pod borer: Adisura atkinsoni.

10. Harvesting, Storage & Yield

 Harvesting: Early crop is harvested in Dec-Jan, late crop in March-April. About 75% of the
pods should be harvested when mature/cooked. Threshing is usually done with a Pullman
thresher.

 Storage: Grain moisture at storage should be 10-11%.

 Yield: Grain (Irrigated): 20-25 quintals/ha; Sticks: 50-60 quintals/ha; Mixed crop: 2-8
quintals/ha.

📊 11. CURRENT AFFAIRS & PRODUCTION STATUS (PIGEON PEA / TUR)

(Based on Latest Second Advance Estimates 2025-26 & Agricultural Statistics)

 Latest Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Kharif 2025-26:

o The MSP for Tur/Arhar is fixed at ₹8,000 per quintal.

o This provides a 59% margin over the estimated cost of production (₹5,038/qtl).
 o The absolute increase in the MSP for Tur this year was +₹450/qtl (up from ₹7,550 in
2024-25).

 Latest Production Data (2025-26): According to the Second Advance Estimates, total Tur
production is estimated at 34.55 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT).

 Overall Pulses Status: India remains the Largest Producer of Pulses globally, accounting for
25% of world production. Within India, Madhya Pradesh leads the country in overall pulse
production and productivity (~1,100 kg/ha).

📌 IMPORTANT POINTS (Quick Revision Section)

 Botanical name: Cajanus cajan.

 Origin: Africa / South Africa (or India).

 Crop Status: 1st among Kharif pulses, 2nd most important overall.

 Protein content: 21-25% (rich in lysine, deficient in methionine).

 Plant traits: C3, Short day plant, Hypogeal germination, Deep tap root system.

 Hardiness: The most drought-tolerant crop among major pulses.

 Harvesting Index: 19% (Lowest among pulses).

 Sowing Date: 15 June (1st fortnight of June).

 Plant Population: Kharif = 55,000 plants/ha; Winter = 3.33 lakh plants/ha.

 Highest Production: Uttar Pradesh (Maharashtra has largest area).

 Highest Productivity: Bihar (1115 kg/ha).

 First Hybrid Variety: ICPH-8 (ICRISAT, 1991).

 Most Important Disease: Sterility Mosaic (Viral).

 Vector for Sterility Mosaic: Eriophyid mite (Aceria cajani).

 Specific Pest: Tur pod fly (Melanagromyza obtusa).

 Climatic Vulnerability: Rainfall at flowering causes poor pollination and pod development.

 Intercropping: Uniquely grown with Sorghum.

 Latest MSP (2025-26): ₹8,000 per quintal.

 Latest Production Estimate: 34.55 LMT.

PEA (FIELD PEA & GARDEN PEA)

1. General & Botanical Information

 Common Names: Commonly known as Pea or Matar (in Hindi).

  Botanical Name: Pisum sativum.

 Family: It belongs to the Leguminaceae family, under the sub-family Papilionaceae.

 Origin Place: The center of origin is the Mediterranean region of southern Europe and
western Asia.

 Chromosome Number: 2n = 14 (n = 7).

 Crop Nature: It is a winter (Rabi) season pulse crop. However, the term 'pulse' specifically
excludes green peas, which are considered vegetable crops.

 Germination Type: Exhibits Hypogeal germination.

2. Nutritional Value

 Protein Content: It is highly nutritive and contains exactly 22.5% protein.

 Other Nutrients: Field pea grains contain 62.1% carbohydrates and 1.8% fat.

3. Botanical Classification

Two types of peas are generally cultivated all over the globe based on usage and traits:

 A. Garden Pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense)

o Other Name: It is also called Table pea.

o Usage: The young, green seeds are mostly used as vegetables and also for canning
purposes.

 B. Field Pea (Pisum sativum var. arvense)

o Other Name: Known strictly as the Pulse (Dal) pea.

o Usage: In this type, the ripe, mature seeds are used as a pulse (dal). They are also
grown as forage or green manure crops.

4. Climate & Soil Requirements

 Climate: Field pea requires a cool growing season. Moderate temperatures are absolutely
essential throughout its vegetative growth.

 Temperature Sensitivities:

o For germination, a temperature of about 22°C is considered favorable.

o The optimum monthly temperature suitable for its growth is 13-18 °C.

 Soil Type: A well-drained loam soil is considered best for successful pea cultivation.

 Waterlogging Risk: Field pea is highly sensitive to waterlogging conditions, making a well-
drained soil strictly essential.

 Soil pH: The crop tolerates a moderate soil pH range of 6.5 - 7.5, but the exact optimum pH
is 6.5.

5. Sowing, Seed Rate & Spacing

  Sowing Time:

o Field Pea: The second fortnight of October is the optimum time for sowing in North
India. Warning: Sowing after October leads to a drastic yield reduction.

o Garden Pea (Vegetable purpose): The first fortnight of November is the optimum
time.

 Seed Rates:

o Field Pea: 60-80 kg/ha (Some specific varieties use 75-80 kg/ha).

o Garden Pea: Requires a higher seed rate of 100-125 kg/ha for early maturity
varieties (or 100-120 kg/ha) and 75-80 kg/ha for late maturity varieties.

 Spacing: Seeds are sown in rows 30 cm apart. The standard recommended spacing is 30 × 10
cm.

6. Important Varieties

 General Field Pea Varieties: Rachna, Arpana (HFP-4), Alankar (DMR-7), Sikha, Uttara.

 Special Trait Varieties:

o Arkel: Uniquely known for having sickle-shaped pods.

o Sylvia: The whole pod is edible in this variety.

o Aparna: Recognized globally as the first dwarf variety of pea.

7. Irrigation & Water Management

 Irrigation Needs: The crop is mostly grown in unirrigated areas and can tolerate drought
conditions to some extent.

 Critical Stages for Irrigation: The Pre-flowering and Pod development stages are the most
critical.

 Irrigation Schedule: Providing one or two irrigations gives higher yields.

o First irrigation: At 45 days of planting.

o Second irrigation: At the pod filling stage (if needed).

 Maturity Measurement: The maturity of peas is exclusively measured using an instrument

called a Tendrometer.

8. Major Diseases & Pathogens

 Fusarium wilt: Caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum [Link]. pisi.

 Powdery mildew: Caused by Erysiphe polygoni.

 Rust: Caused by Uromyces fabae.

9. Yield Output

 Field Pea: With an improved package of practices, it yields about 20-25 quintals of grain per
hectare. It also produces about the same quantity of straw from one hectare of land.
  Garden Pea: Yields are much higher by bulk (harvested as green pods), producing around 80-
120 quintals per hectare.

📊 10. CURRENT AFFAIRS & PRODUCTION STATUS (PEA & PULSES)

(Based on Latest 2025-26 Estimates & Agronomy Data)

 Pea Dominance: Uttar Pradesh is the major field pea growing state in the country.
Remarkably, Uttar Pradesh alone produces about 60 per cent of the total pea produced in
India.

 Overall Pulses Status: At a national level, Madhya Pradesh leads the country in overall total
pulse production and pulse productivity (~1,100 kg/ha).

 Global Position: India remains the Largest Producer of Pulses in the World, accounting for
25% of global pulse production. India is also a leading global exporter of pulses.

 Record Production: Overall foodgrain production in India has reached a record 3,486.57 LMT
(Lakh Metric Tonnes) in the 2025-26 Second Advance Estimates.

📌 IMPORTANT POINTS (Quick Revision Section)

(Compiled exactly from the high-yield summaries and exam factoids of the sources)

 Botanical name of Pea: Pisum sativum.

 Origin: Mediterranean region (Southern Europe & Western Asia).

 Protein content: 22.5%.

 Top Producing State: Uttar Pradesh (Produces 60% of India's total peas).

 Garden Pea Botanical Name: Pisum sativum var. hortense (Table pea).

 Field Pea Botanical Name: Pisum sativum var. arvense (Dal / Forage pea).

 Germination Type: Hypogeal.

 Germination Temperature: 22°C.

 Soil Sensitivity: Highly sensitive to waterlogging.

 Optimum pH: 6.5.

 Optimum Sowing Time (Field Pea): Second fortnight of October.

 Optimum Sowing Time (Garden Pea): First fortnight of November.

 Seed Rate (Field Pea): 60-80 kg/ha.

 Critical Irrigation Stages: Pre-flowering and Pod development.

 Maturity measured by: Tendrometer.

 Arkel Variety: Uniquely has sickle-shaped pods.

  Sylvia Variety: The whole pod is edible.

 Aparna Variety: Known as the first dwarf variety.

🌿 COWPEA
1. General & Botanical Information

 Common Names: Cowpea is commonly known as Lobia, Southern pea, or Black-eyed pea.
Due to its high protein content and rich nutritional profile, it is famously known as
"Vegetable meat".

 Botanical Name: Vigna sinensis L. (also referred to as Vigna unguiculata).

 Family: It belongs to the Leguminoceae family.

 Origin Place: Cowpea is a native of Central Africa.

 Crop Nature: It is a versatile, multi-purpose pulse crop grown for grain, fodder, and green
manure.

 Germination Type: Exhibits Epigeal germination. Because cotyledons rise above the ground
before vegetative sprouting, the seedbed for Kharif pulses like cowpea should be soft,
smooth, and fine, as hard soil crust restricts seedling emergence.

2. Nutritional & Feeding Value

 Protein Content: The grains are rich in protein, containing exactly 23.4% protein (generally
cited in the range of 23-24%).

 Other Nutrients: It contains 1.8% fat and 60.3% carbohydrates. It is also a rich source of
calcium and iron.

 Usage: It is used for human consumption and as a concentrate feed for cattle.

 Fodder Quality: It forms an excellent forage. The feeding value of cowpea forage is extremely
high and is quite comparable to lucerne.

3. Climate & Soil Requirements

 Climate: It can be grown in all tropical and subtropical climates. Being a warm weather
crop, it can withstand a considerable degree of drought.

 Temperature Requirements:

o Germination of cowpea is better between 12 and 15°C temperatures.

o The crop thrives best between 27 and 35°C temperatures.

 Soil Type: It can be grown on a variety of soils, but well-drained loam or slightly heavy soils
are best suited for the crop.

 Unfit Soils: Saline or alkaline soils are not suited to cowpea cultivation.
4. Sowing, Seed Rate & Spacing

 Sowing Time:

o Summer crop: The suitable time for sowing is from March to April.

o Kharif crop: Sowing starts from the middle of June and extends up to the end of
July.

 Seed Rates:

o For Grain purpose: 20-25 kg/ha.

o For Fodder purpose: 35-45 kg/ha.

o For Green manuring crop (sown by broadcasting): 35-40 kg/ha.

 Spacing:

o Kharif planting: Maintain a row spacing of 35-45 cm and a plant-to-plant distance of

8-10 cm.

o Spring and Summer planting: Row spacing should be kept narrower at 25-30 cm.

5. Important Varieties

 Major improved varieties include: Pusa Phalguni, Pusa Barsati, Pusa Dofasli, and Pusa
Rituraj.

6. Fertilizer & Water Management

 Fertilizers: In general, pulses require 15-25 kg N/ha. Single super phosphate (SSP) is noted
as a more effective source of phosphorus in pulses than DAP.

 Rainy Season (Kharif): The crop requires no irrigation, but good drainage is essential.

 Summer Crop: For raising a summer crop, five to six irrigations may be given. Generally, the
crop should get irrigation at an interval of 10-15 days.

7. Harvesting, Storage & Yield

 Harvesting Indicators:

o Green pods (for vegetable use): Can be harvested 45 to 90 days after sowing,
depending on the variety.

o Grains: The crop is harvested in about 90-125 days after sowing when the pods are
fully matured. For pulses like cowpea, plants should be harvested when they show
90% maturity.

 Storage: Seeds should be stored at a moisture content below 12%. To reduce infestation of
storage pests (like bruchids), pulses are dusted with malathion 10% or treated with edible oil
@ 5-10 ml/kg.

 Yield Expectations: A good crop of cowpea yields about 12-15 quintals of grain from one
hectare.
📌 IMPORTANT POINTS (Quick Revision Section)

 Also known as: Vegetable meat, Lobia, Southern pea, Black-eyed pea.

 Botanical Name: Vigna sinensis L. or Vigna unguiculata.

 Origin: Central Africa.

 Protein Content: 23.4% (Average range: 23-24%).

 Multi-purpose crop: Uniquely grown for grain, fodder, and green manure.

 Germination Type: Epigeal (requires soft seedbed).

 Optimum Germination Temperature: 12 - 15°C.

 Optimum Growth Temperature: 27 - 35°C.

 Seed Rate for Grain: 20-25 kg/ha.

 Seed Rate for Fodder: 35-45 kg/ha.

 Harvesting for Grain: When plants show 90% maturity (takes 90-125 days).

 Safe Storage Moisture: Below 12%.

 Grain Yield: 12-15 quintals/hectare.

 India's Global Status in Pulses: Largest producer (25% of global output).

 Top Pulse Producing State in India: Madhya Pradesh.

🌿 GREEN GRAM (MOONG)

1. General & Botanical Information

 Common Names: Green gram is commonly known as Moong, Mungbean, or Golden-gram.

 Botanical Name: Vigna radiata L.

 Family: It belongs to the Leguminoceae family.

 Origin Place: It is believed to be a native of India and Central Asia (with the Indo-Gangetic
plains serving as a secondary center of origin).

 Crop Status: It is the 3rd most important pulse crop in India in terms of area and production,
following Chickpea and Pigeonpea.

 Crop Nature: Considered the hardiest of all pulse crops, it is a short-duration crop that fits
perfectly into intensive crop rotations. It is also used as a green manuring crop or a catch
crop.

 Germination Type: Exhibits Epigeal germination.

2. Nutritional Value & Ecological Benefits

  Protein Content: Green gram is an excellent source of high-quality protein, containing 23%
to 25% protein.

 Nitrogen Fixation: Being a legume, it fixes atmospheric nitrogen directly into the soil (30-50
kg N/ha).

 Soil Conservation: Its dense canopy helps significantly in preventing soil erosion.

3. Climate & Soil Requirements

 Climate: Prefers a hot and humid climate. It can tolerate drought to a great extent.

 Temperature: The most favorable temperature for its growth is 30-35°C, though it can
tolerate up to 40°C.

 Rainfall: An annual rainfall of 60-75 cm (600-750 mm) is suitable for its growth.

 Flowering Sensitivity: Rainfall at the flowering stage is highly harmful because it negatively
affects pollination and fertilization, and increases the incidence of fungal diseases.

 Soil Type: A well-drained loamy to sandy loam soil is best suited for moong cultivation.

 Unfit Soils: Saline and alkaline soils are strictly not suitable. The crop performs best in soils
with a pH of 6.5 - 7.5.

4. Sowing, Seed Rate & Spacing

 Growing Seasons: Uniquely, green gram is grown in all seasons. In North India, it is grown as
a Kharif and Summer crop. In Peninsular/South and South-West India, it is primarily a Winter
(Rabi) crop.

 Time of Sowing:

o Kharif: Sown with the onset of the monsoon from the second fortnight of June to
the first fortnight of July.

o Rabi: Sown in October-November (mainly in MP, AP, TN, and Orissa).

o Summer: Sown from the middle of March to the middle of April (grown under
irrigated conditions after sugarcane, wheat, or potato).

 Seed Rates & Spacing:

o Kharif Season: 12-15 kg seed/hectare sown in rows 45 cm apart.

o Rabi & Summer Seasons: 20 kg seed/hectare sown in closer rows 30 cm apart.

5. Important Varieties

 Major improved varieties include: Pant moong, Narendra moong, Samrat, TARM, Kamdev,
Pusa Baisakhi, and Koperagaon.

6. Nutrient & Water Management

 Nitrogen Dynamics: Higher Nitrogen (N) application reduces the process of N-fixation and
nodulation.
 o If no Nitrogen is applied: N-fixation starts at 12 Days After Sowing (DAS), peaks
rapidly at 45 DAS, and sees a secondary peak at 60 DAS.

o If Nitrogen is applied: N-fixation is delayed, starting at 14 DAS and peaking at 50 DAS.

 Fertilizer: A starter dose of 15-25 kg N/ha is generally required for pulses. Single Super
Phosphate (SSP) is a more effective source of Phosphorus than DAP.

 Water Management:

o Rainy Season (Kharif): Irrigation is not needed, but drainage is very important.

o Rabi and Summer Crops: Requires five to six irrigations.

7. Major Insects & Diseases

A. Important Insects

 Stem Fly (Ophiomyia phaseoli): Bores into the stem causing leaves to turn yellow and plants
to wilt. Management: Spray carbofuran 40 F @ 2 kg/ha.

 White Fly (Bemisia tabaci): Sucks sap and acts as a vector for the Yellow Mosaic Virus.
Management: Apply malathion 0.05%.

 Jassids (Empoasca spp.): Sucks juice and injects toxic saliva causing leaf edge curling and
browning (known as hopper-burn in the kharif season).

 Aphid (Aphis craccivora): Sucks sap from the leaf and stem.

 Pod Borers (Helicoverpa armigera & Etiella spp.): Feed on flowers, leaves, and developing
grains.

B. Important Disease

 Yellow Mosaic Virus (YMV): Causes yellow streaks on leaves until total foliage turns yellow. It
is spread through the White fly.

8. Harvesting, Storage & Yield

 Harvesting: The crop is ready to harvest when plants show 90% maturity. Shattering of pods
is a major problem with this pulse, so picking must be done as soon as the pods mature.

 Storage: Seeds should be stored at a moisture content below 12%. Malathion 10% or edible
oil (@ 5-10 ml/kg) is used to protect against storage pests (bruchids).

 Yield Expectations: A well-managed crop yields about 12 to 15 quintals of grain per hectare.

📊 9. CURRENT AFFAIRS & PRODUCTION STATUS (GREEN GRAM / MOONG)

(Based on Latest 2025-26 Estimates & Agricultural Current Affairs)

 Latest Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 2025-26:

o The MSP for Moong (Kharif Marketing Season) is fixed at ₹8,768 per quintal.

o This provides a strict 50% margin over the estimated cost of production (₹5,845/qtl).
 o The absolute increase in the MSP for Moong this year was +₹86/qtl.

 Top Producing States (Green Gram): Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh are
natively recognized as the leading producers of green gram in India.

 Overall Pulses Status: Madhya Pradesh leads the country in overall total pulse production
and pulse productivity (~1,100 kg/ha).

 Global Position: India remains the Largest Producer of Pulses globally, accounting for 25% of
world production.

📌 IMPORTANT POINTS (Quick Revision Section)

(Compiled exactly from the high-yield summaries and exam factoids of the sources)

 Botanical Name: Vigna radiata L.

 Origin: India & Central Asia.

 Protein Content: 23-25%.

 National Rank: 3rd most important pulse crop (after chickpea and pigeonpea).

 Germination Type: Epigeal.

 Hardiness: Considered the hardiest of all pulse crops.

 Optimum Growth Temperature: 30-35°C.

 Major Constraint: Rainfall at flowering is highly harmful.

 Soil Requirement: Well-drained loamy to sandy loam soil (pH 6.5-7.5).

 Kharif Seed Rate: 12-15 kg/ha (Spacing: 45 cm).

 Rabi/Summer Seed Rate: 20 kg/ha (Spacing: 30 cm).

 N-Fixation details: Starts at 12 DAS and peaks at 45 DAS (if no N is applied). Fixes 30-50 kg
N/ha.

 Major Problem in Field: Shattering of pods.

 Most devastating Disease: Yellow Mosaic Virus (YMV).

 Vector for YMV: White fly (Bemisia tabaci).

 Benefits of Summer Moong: Early maturity (60-65 days), lower pest/disease attack, and
better utilization of residual fertility from previous wheat/potato crops.

 Harvesting Stage: When plants show 90% maturity.

 Grain Yield: 12-15 quintals/hectare.

 Latest MSP (2025-26): ₹8,768 per quintal.

BLACK GRAM (URD)
1. General & Botanical Information

 Common Names: Black gram is commonly known as Urd, Urdbean, Black mapte, Mash, and
Mungobean.

 Botanical Name: ***Vigna mungo L.***.

 Family: It belongs to the Leguminoceae family.

 Origin Place: Black gram is a native to India.

 Germination Type: Exhibits Epigeal germination.

 Crop Nature: It is a Short day plant, but some varieties are day-neutral. It is grown across all
three seasons: Kharif, Rabi, and Summer.

2. Nutritional Value & Culinary Uses

 Nutritional Composition: Black gram contains 60% carbohydrates, 24% to 26% protein, and
1.3% fat.

 Unique Trait: It is the richest among the various pulses in phosphoric acid, being 5-10 times
richer than others.

 Culinary Importance: It is heavily used in the preparation of South Indian dishes like idali,
dosa, and vada.

 Ecological Use: Valued highly as a green manure crop and a cover crop to prevent soil
erosion.

3. Climate & Soil Requirements

 Climate: It is a tropical crop with a high tolerance for high temperatures.

 Temperature: The optimum temperature for its growth ranges from 25-35°C. However, it can
tolerate extreme temperatures up to 42°C.

 Hardiness: Like green gram, black gram is a highly hardy and drought-resistant plant capable
of tolerating severe moisture stress.

 Sensitivities: The crop is highly susceptible to frost and waterlogging.

4. Sowing, Seed Rate & Spacing

 A. Kharif Season Crop:

o Time of Sowing: Done with the onset of the monsoon in the later part of June or
early part of July.

o Seed Rate: 12-15 kg seed per hectare.

o Spacing: Seeds should be sown in furrows opened at a distance of 45 cm.

 B. Summer Season Crop:

 o Time of Sowing: Sowing can be done from the third week of February to the first
week of April.

o Seed Rate: A higher seed rate of 20-25 kg seed per hectare is required.

o Spacing: Sowing should be done in closer furrows at a distance of 20-25 cm.

5. Important Varieties

 Major improved varieties include: Pant U, Mash 48, Khargaon, Sharda, and Krishna.

6. Water Management

 Rainy Season (Kharif): Irrigation is generally not needed, but good drainage is absolutely
essential.

 Summer Season: Irrigation facilities must be available.

 Critical Stage: There is a strict need for sufficient moisture in the field from the flowering to
pod development stage.

7. Major Diseases & Management

 Black Gram Leaf Crinkle:

o Pathogen/Vector: Caused by the Leaf crinkle virus, transmitted by the White fly.

o Symptoms: Crinkles on upper leaf surfaces causing them to become thick and
broader. Results in a bushy appearance of buds and flowers.

o Management: Apply thiamethoxam 0.2 g/litre water at 15 Days After Sowing (DAS)
against the vector.

 Mosaic Mottle:

o Pathogen: Black gram mosaic virus.

o Symptoms: Uneven light green patches on leaves. Later, leaves become distorted and
margins curl upward.

o Management: Seed soaking in 0.1% imidacloprid for 2 hours.

8. Harvesting, Storage & Yield

 Harvesting Indicator: Black gram should be harvested when most of the pods turn black
(which coincides with plants showing 90% maturity).

 Warning: Over-maturity may result in shattering of the pods.

 Storage: Seeds should be stored safely at a moisture content below 12%.

 Yield Expectations: A well-managed crop produces about 15-20 quintals of grain per
hectare.

📊 9. CURRENT AFFAIRS & PRODUCTION STATUS (URD / BLACK GRAM)

(Based on Latest 2025-26 Advance Estimates & Agricultural Statistics)

  Latest Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 2025-26:

o The MSP for Urad (Kharif Marketing Season) is fixed at ₹7,800 per quintal.

o This ensures a 53% margin over the estimated cost of production (₹5,114/qtl).

o The absolute increase in the MSP for Urad this year was +₹400/qtl (up from ₹7,400
in 2024-25).

 Major Producing States (Black Gram): Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and
Uttar Pradesh are the major producing states of black gram in the country.

 Overall Pulses Status: Madhya Pradesh leads the country in overall total pulse production
and pulse productivity (~1,100 kg/ha).

 Global Position: India remains the Largest Producer of Pulses in the World, accounting for
25% of global production.

📌 IMPORTANT POINTS (Quick Revision Section)

(Compiled exactly from the high-yield summaries and exam factoids of the sources)

 Botanical Name: ***Vigna mungo L.***.

 Origin: India.

 Germination Type: Epigeal.

 Plant Traits: Short day plant, hardy, drought-resistant.

 Protein Content: 24-26%.

 Unique Composition Element: Richest among all pulses in Phosphoric acid (5-10 times
more).

 Major Culinary Use: Making South Indian dishes like Idali, Dosa, and Vada.

 Optimum Temperature: 25-35°C (tolerates up to 42°C).

 Major Vulnerability: Highly susceptible to frost and waterlogging.

 Kharif Seed Rate & Spacing: 12-15 kg/ha at 45 cm spacing.

 Summer Seed Rate & Spacing: 20-25 kg/ha at 20-25 cm spacing.

 Critical Irrigation Stage: Flowering to pod development stage.

 Harvesting Sign: Crop is ready when pods turn black / 90% maturity.

 Major Risk at Harvest: Shattering due to over-maturity.

 Storage Moisture Level: Below 12%.

 Yield Potential: 15-20 quintals/hectare.

 Latest MSP (2025-26): ₹7,800 per quintal (a hike of ₹400).

🌿 LENTIL (MASUR)
1. General & Botanical Information

 Common Name: Lentil is commonly known as Masur in Hindi.

 Botanical Name: Lens culinaris or Lens esculenta. The word 'Lens' is a Latin word which
means the shape of the seed of lentil.

 Family: It belongs to the Leguminoceae family.

 Origin Place: The center of origin is South-West Asia and the Mediterranean region
(specifically Western & Central Asia).

 Wild Species: There are 4 wild species of lentil: Lens orientalis, L. nigricans, L. ervoids, and
L. montbretii.

 Chromosome Number: 2n = 14.

 Pollination: It is a self-pollinated crop.

 Plant Traits: It is a short bushy plant with an average height of 25-40 cm. It has light green to
bluish green leaves.

 Root System: Possesses a Tap root system with fibrous lateral roots.

 Inflorescence & Seed: The inflorescence is an axillary raceme. The seeds are distinctly lens-
shaped.

 Germination Type: Exhibits Hypogeal germination.

2. Nutritional Value & Unique Traits

 Highest Protein: Lentil is the most nutritious rabi pulse. It has the highest protein content
among pulses, containing 24-26% protein (or roughly 25%).

 Other Nutrients: Contains 57% carbohydrates and 1.3% fat. It is also rich in calcium, iron,
and niacin.

 Toxicity: Saponin is a toxic content naturally found in lentil seeds.

 Nitrogen Fixation: Lentil is noted for having the highest nitrogen-fixing capacity among
pulses.

3. Global & National Distribution

 Global Rank: India ranks first in the world in respect of production as well as acreage,
followed by Turkey.

 National Rank: In India, it is a crucial Rabi season pulse. Chickpea ranks 1st in area and
production among rabi pulses, followed by lentil.

 Major Producing States: Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar are the major
producing states in India.

4. Botanical Classification
Cultivated lentils are broadly classified into two major groups:

A. Microsperma

 Traits: Small round seeds of 2-6 mm diameter. They have yellow or orange colored
cotyledons and a pale yellow to black colored testa (seed coat).

 Distribution: Mostly grown in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Egypt, and
Ethiopia. Note: Most Indian varieties are of the microsperma type.

 Important Varieties: HUL 57 (from BHU), Pant L 6, Pant L 7, VL Masoor 125, VL Masoor 126,
and Pusa Vaibhav.

B. Macrosperma

 Traits: Large seeds of 6-9 mm diameter. They have yellow colored cotyledons and a pale
green colored testa.

 Distribution: Mostly grown in the Mediterranean, Italy, Spain, North and Latin America.

 Important Varieties: PL 5, IPL 406, DPL 62, WBL 58, K 75, Sapna, Priya, Garima, Subrata,
Sheri, and Jawahar Lentil 3.

 Other General Varieties: Pant L 234, Narendra Masoor 1, Bombay 18, and Shivalik.

5. Climate & Soil Requirements

 Climate: Lentil requires a cold climate and is strictly sown as a winter season (Rabi) crop.

 Hardiness: It is very hardy and can tolerate frost and severe winter to a great extent.

 Temperature: Requires a cold temperature during its vegetative growth and a warm
temperature at the time of maturity. The optimum temperature for overall growth is 18-
30°C.

 Soil Type: Well-drained, loam soils with a neutral reaction are best. Acidic soils are not fit
for growing lentils.

6. Sowing, Seed Rate & Spacing

 Sowing Time: The middle of October is the most suitable time for sowing.

 Seed Rate:

o The optimum seed rate for a normal sown crop is 30-40 kg/ha.

o (Alternatively noted as 12-15 kg/acre).

 Spacing & Depth: Sowing should be done in rows 30 cm apart. Seeds must be sown at a
shallower depth (3-4 cm).

 Cropping Systems: Lentil is famously grown as a Relay crop (broadcasting seeds in the
standing crop of rice before its harvest). This practice is known as Paira in Bihar and Utera in
Madhya Pradesh. It is largely grown on residual soil moisture.

7. Irrigation & Water Management

  Moisture needs: The crop is mostly grown in unirrigated areas and can tolerate drought
conditions to some extent.

 Critical Stages: Providing one or two irrigations gives higher yields.

o First irrigation: At 45 days of planting.

o Second irrigation: At the pod filling stage (if needed).

8. Major Diseases, Pests & Management

A. Major Diseases

 Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum Sp. lentis): Occurs at seedling and flowering/podding stage,
causing leaves to start yellowing.

o Management: Seed treatment with fungicides. Grow resistant varieties like Pant L
234, Pant L 406, Sapna, VL Masoor 4, Pusa Vaibhav, IPL 316.

 Rust (Uromyces fabae): Yellowish pustules on leaflets and pods which later become dark
brown.

o Management: Foliar spray with sulfur @ 0.3%. Grow resistant varieties like Pant L 5,
Pant L 6, Pant L 7, DPL 62, HUL 57, IPL 406, Haryana Masur-1.

B. Major Insects

 Aphid (Aphis craccivora): Leaves and shoots become deformed and stunted; honeydew is
deposited on leaves.

o Management: Apply systemic insecticides like cypermethrin 0.004%, demeton

methyl 0.05%, or dimethoate 0.03%.

 Spiny Pod Borer (Etiellaz inckenella): Larvae build a web-like structure through which they
enter the pod.

9. Harvesting & Yield

 Harvesting Time: Lentils should be harvested when the pods ripen but the plants have not
become dead ripe (to avoid shattering).

 Yield Expectations: A well-managed crop yields about 20-25 quintals of grain per hectare.

📊 10. CURRENT AFFAIRS & PRODUCTION STATUS (LENTIL / MASUR)

(Based on Latest 2025-26 Estimates & Agricultural Statistics)

 Latest Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 2026-27 (Rabi Marketing Season):

o The MSP for Lentil (Masur) has been set at ₹7,000 per quintal.

o This provides the highest 89% margin over its estimated cost of production
(₹3,705/qtl).

o The absolute increase in the MSP for Lentil this year was a significant +₹300/qtl (up
from ₹6,700 in 2025-26).
  Latest Production Data: According to the Second Advance Estimates of Major Crop
Production (2025-26), the total production of Lentil is estimated at 17.33 Lakh Metric Tonnes
(LMT).

📌 IMPORTANT POINTS (Quick Revision Section)

(Compiled exactly from the high-yield summaries and exam factoids of the sources)

 Botanical Name: Lens culinaris / Lens esculenta.

 Meaning of 'Lens': Latin word for the shape of the seed.

 Family: Leguminoceae.

 Origin: South-West Asia & Mediterranean region.

 Chromosome No: 2n = 14.

 Pollination: Self-pollinated.

 Germination Type: Hypogeal.

 Inflorescence: Axillary raceme.

 Highest Protein: Contains 24-26% protein (Highest among all pulses).

 Unique Feature: Has the highest nitrogen-fixing capacity among pulses.

 Toxic Content: Saponin.

 Global Rank: India ranks 1st in area and production, followed by Turkey.

 Climate: Cold climate (18-30°C); highly tolerant to frost and severe winter.

 Seed Rate: 30-40 kg/ha (or 12-15 kg/acre).

 Sowing Depth: Requires shallow depth (3-4 cm).

 Relay Cropping: Famously grown as Paira (Bihar) or Utera (MP) by broadcasting in standing
rice.

 Microsperma Group: Small seeds (2-6 mm), yellow/orange cotyledons. Common in India.

 Macrosperma Group: Large seeds (6-9 mm), yellow cotyledons, pale green testa. Common
in the Mediterranean.

 Critical Irrigation Stages: 45 DAS and Pod filling stage.

 Harvesting: Cut when ripe, but before plants are dead ripe.

 Yield: 20-25 quintals/hectare.

 Latest MSP (2026-27): ₹7,000 per quintal (+₹300 increase).

 Total Production (2025-26): 17.33 LMT.