IPR 98-5 (Utkarsh) - A high yielding rajrnash (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) variety for north east plains zone of India

Abstract

Rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) commonly known as dry bean is an important grain legume at global level. The crop was grown in 25.53 mha and production was 18.74 mton during 2005 (fao.org). The major producers of rajmash are Mexico, Brazil, Kenya and Uganda. In India, rajmash was a minor pulse crop confined to northern and north eastern hills, where it was cultivated as rainy season crop. In hills, it is cultivated mostly as mixed/inter crop and mostly indeterminate/ semi-determinate types are preferred. Recently rajmash cultivation was initiated in north eastern plains in winter season. Determinate types with early/medium maturity were released for cultivation as monoculture/intercrop with potato. Limited varieties of rajmash viz., PDR 14, HUR 15, HUR 137 and Amber were available for cultivation in plains. PDR 14 and Amber have red variegated seed and HUR 15 is white seeded. HUR 137 is red seeded variety released fifteen years back. Farmers and consumers have preference for red seeded types with medium seed size (25-40 g /100 seed). IPR 98-5 (Utkarsh) a high yielding rajmash variety was notified for release in north east plains zone ( NEPZ) of India comprising Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Parts of Assam and Jharkhand in 2005 by Central Varietal Release Committee. Since rajmash varieties require insulation against cold and frost and also high temperature tolerance at pod filling stage hence, IPR 98-5 can be successfully grown in NEPZ.