Step 1: Introduction to rice varieties.
Rice (Oryza sativa) is the most important staple food crop in India. Rice varieties are classified into high-yielding varieties (HYV) developed for higher production and Basmati varieties known for their aroma, long grain, and quality.
Step 2: Two high yielding varieties of rice.
- IR-8:
- Developed by International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines
- Introduced in India during Green Revolution (1960s)
- Semi-dwarf stature (resistant to lodging)
- Non-photosensitive, can be grown in any season
- High yield potential (5-6 tons/hectare)
- Short duration (130-135 days)
- Parent of many Indian HYVs
- Jaya:
- Developed in India by crossing TN-1 and T-141
- Released in 1968
- Suitable for both kharif and rabi seasons
- Semi-dwarf, non-lodging type
- High yield potential (6-7 tons/hectare)
- Duration: 130-140 days
- Widely cultivated in many states
- Resistant to moderate pest attack
Other important high-yielding varieties: IR-36, IR-64, Pusa 44, Pusa Basmati (high-yielding Basmati), MTU 7029, Swarna, Samba Mahsuri
Step 3: Two Basmati varieties of rice.
- Pusa Basmati-1:
- Developed by IARI, New Delhi
- Released in 1989
- Cross between Pusa 150 and Karnal Local
- Semi-dwarf, non-lodging (unlike traditional tall Basmati)
- Strong aroma, extra-long slender grains
- Good cooking quality with high kernel elongation
- Yield: 4-5 tons/hectare (higher than traditional Basmati)
- Duration: 135-140 days
- Resistant to bacterial blight
- Basmati-370:
- Traditional Basmati variety from Punjab region
- Known for excellent aroma and grain quality
- Extra-long slender grains with strong fragrance
- Excellent kernel elongation after cooking
- Tall stature, prone to lodging
- Low yield (2-3 tons/hectare)
- Duration: 145-150 days
- Parent for many improved Basmati varieties
- Highly valued in domestic and export markets
Other important Basmati varieties: Pusa Basmati 1121 (world's longest grain), Pusa Basmati 1509 (early maturing), Taraori Basmati, Dehraduni Basmati, Ranbir Basmati