In the current scenario, the impact of heat is becoming increasingly apparent, especially following the wheat harvest. Temperatures exceeding 40-42 degrees Celsius are being registered, directly impacting crop yields. Agricultural scientists have found that leading agricultural universities in India have developed a variety of wheat that requires less water. Cultivating this wheat variety consumes 70% less water compared to regular wheat.
Anand Kumar Singh from CSA University mentioned that with the future population growth, the demand for wheat will also increase. It is estimated that by 2050, the demand for wheat will reach 140 million tons. Wheat cultivation serves as the cornerstone of Indian agriculture, contributing over 33% to the nation’s total food production and supporting the livelihoods of many. In 2023, wheat production amounted to approximately 11 million tons. It is expected that wheat consumption per person in India will rise to 74 kilograms by 2023. With temperatures on the rise and water scarcity worsening for irrigation, agricultural scientists are endeavoring to develop wheat varieties capable of achieving robust yields even in higher temperatures while conserving water.
Wheat Varieties: K0307 and K9162:
These wheat varieties are ready for harvesting after just two rounds of irrigation, requiring 70% less water compared to conventional varieties. Traditional farming techniques have been employed to cultivate these wheat types. The K0307 and K9162 wheat varieties were developed through crossbreeding.
Special Features of Wheat Varieties K0307 and K9162:
Crossbreeding has resulted in the creation of a distinct wheat variety suited for warmer climates. This seed has a maturity period of 120-128 days and yields 5.5 tons per hectare. It boasts a higher protein content at 12.5% and iron content at 43.8 ppm, aiding in addressing nutritional iron deficiencies.
Cultivating wheat variety K1317 will be highly advantageous for farmers as it offers higher yields. By incorporating nitrogen into this variety, farmers can achieve increased productivity. It requires less water, and its robust root system reduces the impact of rain and hail.