Germplasm Field Day on Rabi Pulses (Lentil and Pea) organized at ICAR-NBPGR on 26 February, 2018

Germplasm Field Day on Rabi Pulses ((Lentil and Pea) was organized on February 26, 2018 at ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), New Delhi. The event was attended by fifty participants belonging to State agricultural universities, ICAR institutes viz., ICAR-IIAB, Ranchi, ICAR-VPKAS, Almora, ICAR- CPCRI, Kasargod, ICAR-NRCPB, New Delhi, ICAR-IIPR, Kanpur; Division of Genetics and Vegetable science ICAR-IARI, New Delhi and ICAR-NBPGR and DBT-NIPGR, New Delhi. Dr. Ashok Kumar, Principal Scientist & Head, Division of Germplasm Evaluation, ICAR-NBPGR welcomed the participants and informed about the nature of germplasm being grown at ICAR-NBPGR. Dr. Kuldeep Singh, Director, ICAR-NBPGR expressed his interest in effective collaboration for trait specific evaluation and utilization of germplasm under NARS. The participants visited the ICAR-NBPGR Experimental Farm, Pusa Campus where 2600 accessions of indigenous and exotic nature and 228 progenies of pre-bred derivatives in lentil and 320 accessions of pea were grown for characterization and evaluation. The participants examined the material critically and selected germplasm of their choice according to their breeding objectives. During interaction, the participants appreciated the efforts of ICAR-NBPGR in showcasing the diversity at appropriate stage. The detailed discussion was held on issues like collection of trait specific germplasm, screening against biotic (Rust and Fusarium wilt) and abiotic stresses namely, cold, salinity etc., and the need of pre-breeding and genetic enhancement in these indigenous crops. Dr. Kuldeep Tripathi, Scientist and Member, Organizing Committee proposed the vote of thanks.

Content by: Dr Kavita Gupta, PME Cell