BERSEEM...Berseem, known as king of fodder crops, is popular among livestock farmers of the world....

BERSEEMIntricacies of Seed Production in India

D. VijayN. ManjunathaA. MaitySanjay KumarV. K. WasnikC. K. GuptaV. K. YadavP. K. Ghosh

By

ICAR-Indian Grassland and Fodder Research InstituteJhansi-284 003, Uttar Pradesh, India

ICAR-IGFRI Technical Bulletin, 2017

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Vijay, D., Manjunatha, N., Maity, A., Sanjay Kumar, Wasnik, V. K., Gupta, C. K., Yadav, V. K. and Ghosh, P. K. (2017) BERSEEM- Intricacies of Seed Production in India. Technical Bulletin. ICAR-Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi. Pp. 47

February, 2017

DirectorICAR-Indian Grassland and fodder Research InstituteJhansi-284 003, Uttar Pradesh, India.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system without the permission in writing from the copyright owners.

D. Vijay and C. K. Gupta

© 2017, ICAR-IGFRI, Jhansi, U.P.

Printed at:Darpan Printers and Lamination, Agra

FOREWORD

India faces acute shortage of green fodder due to many reasons and non-availability of quality seeds is one of the key reason. Currently, the availability of quality seeds is approximately 30 percent in cultivated fodder crops. Berseem is an important fodder crop of northern-India in rabi season. Lack of proper seed production technological skills, berseem growers are unable to realize full potential of seed production. Further, farmers are sceptical about benefit cost ratio of seed production in Berseem as they have to sacrifice summer forage to opt for seed in Berseem. This entails for dissemination of production technology of berseem seed among different stakeholders to increase availability of berseem seed in the country.

Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI), a premier Institute under umbrella of Indian Council of Agriculture Research constantly strives to bring cutting-edge research and technological interventions in forage crops. It has developed many technologies in quality seed production of various forage crops including berseem. The publication entitled 'BERSEEM- Intricacies of Seed Production in India' is a welcome step towards fulfilling the long pending demand of various stakeholders associated with Berseem cultivation. This bulletin encompasses information right through variety status to quality seed production of berseem with suitable technological interventions. Entire gamut of Berseem seed production technology has been brought at single window in the form of this crisp bulletin.

I am happy that authors have included the details of berseem seed import and its analysis along with berseem seed production problems and way forward strategies which will be helpful in policy decisions. Further, I extend my sincere congratulations to entire group of authors to bring this important publication.

(T. MOHAPATRA)

thDated the 13 February, 2017

New Delhi

lR;eso t;rs

Seed, being basic unit of agriculture acts as carrier of technology for a given crop and to upkeep

its quality genetic vigour is paramount. Simultaneously, productivity and availability of quality

seed in the market is essential to channelize the effort of researchers who develops the variety and

its production packages. Currently, India is facing acute shortage in availability of seeds of many

forage crops, berseem being foremost of those. India imports approx. 10000 tonnes of berseem

seed annually resulting in huge loss to foreign exchequer. No reliable data is available regarding

quantity of indigenous seed production of Berseem and the seed status is an elusive issue.

Recently, efforts made by the Division of Seed Technology at ICAR-Indian Grassland and

Fodder Research Institute (ICAR-IGFRI) has led to the development of several technological

interventions where farmers can be easily convinced for seed production in berseem fetching

better return compared to other competitive crops. Presently, IGFRI is the only ICAR institute in

the country which produces breeder seed of Berseem along with few State Agricultural

Universities and hence it is difficult to meet out the huge demand of entire country by these few

Institutes. Therefore, it is imperative to create awareness and sensitize the seed growers to come

forward for berseem seed production while simultaneously making available the production

technology in crisp form.

The present bulletin is being brought up to fulfil the long pending demand for a comprehensive

information booklet on berseem. The intricacies of seed production starting from the demand to

import status were discussed in various chapters. The bulletin also describes the status of

berseem crop and its future adoptable areas under changing climate. The varietal scenario in

berseem was listed out to have a ready reference. The bulletin serves the purpose of hand book for

berseem crop cultivation and crop protection. The SWOT analysis on berseem seed production

in India and the Way Forward chapter helps the policy makers to take subtle decisions in berseem

seed arena.

The authors are highly thankful to all the stakeholders who raised various queries at various fora

regarding availability and production constraints of berseem seed. Actually such discussions

help us in designing the content and scope of this bulletin. We are also grateful to AICRP (FCU)

for providing breeder seed information and entire staff (present and past) of the Division of Seed

Technology, IGFRI who are integral to the development of berseem seed production technology

over long period are also acknowledged for their indispensable contribution.

Authors

PREFACE

Sl. No. Title Page No.

1. Introduction 1

2. Botanical Description 4

3. Pollination Dynamics 6

4. Crop and Varietal Status in India 8

5. Crop Improvement 15

6. Crop Cultivation 17

7. Crop Protection 21

8. Seed Quality Maintenance 25

9. Seed Status in India 28

10. IGFRI Foot Print in Berseem Seed Realm 33

11. Problems and Prospects of Seed Production 37

12. Technological Interventions for Seed Enhancement 41

13. Way Forward 44

14. Literature cited 46

CONTENTS

Berseem, known as king of fodder crops, is popular among livestock farmers of the world. It belongs

to the clover group and internationally famous as Egyptian Clover. Botanically it is known as

Trifolium alexandrinum L. Berseem is one of the oldest cultivated clovers, domesticated in Egypt

and later introduced into many other parts of the world. It is now widespread in the irrigated regions

of west and south Asia. Among the berseem growing countries, India is having highest area under

berseem with around 2 million ha followed by Egypt (1.1 million ha) and Pakistan (0.71 million ha)

(Muhammad et al., 2014). Seed quality is a problem in most of the countries particularly where

farmers are not much aware of the quality ensuring laws. Egypt is the major exporter of berseem

seed in the world meeting the stringent quality standards of Europe.

Berseem is one of the major rabi forage crops in northern region of India and occupies maximum area among forage crops during winter season (Hazra, 1995). It is an annual leguminous crop, well adapted to the semi-arid conditions of the Northern India with good nitrogen fixing ability. The berseem fodder is highly palatable due to its succulence and is also highly nutritious (20% CP and 62% TDN) for livestock. This crop provides fodder for a long season i.e., from November to May in five to six cuts with as much as 70-80 tonnes green fodder per hectare. It behaves as a most potent milk multiplier in the lactating buffaloes, sahiwal cows and crossbreed cattle as compared to other forage crops. The milch animals can produce 12 to 15 litre of milk per day with a supplemental concentrate of only one kg along with this fodder. The additional advantage of berseem cultivation is its ability to substantial improvement in soil fertility. Because of these reasons, there is an increasing demand for berseem in India. It is also commonly grown in mixtures with brassica and sometimes with oat to have bulk of green fodder in early cuts. Since the crop does not tolerate close and frequent grazing, the cut and carry system is adopted to provide green feed to stall-fed-cattle and buffaloes.

Among the fodder crops, the area under berseem cultivation is next to that of sorghum (Hazra, 1995). In India, there are several popular improved varieties of berseem are there and new varieties are being released regularly through different breeding approaches. The quantity of berseem seed production is increasing steadily in India with the increased usage by the livestock sector in India. India is one of the major berseem seed importing nations. The present bulletin describes the berseem in total with emphasis on seed production problem and prospects under Indian conditions.

Berseem doesn't have original wild forms. Its probable origin is South West Asia and was naturalized in Northern Africa and Western Asia. About the origin there are several claims by several authors. As per Frame (2005) it is eastern Mediterranean whereas, Knight (1985) says Syria as its

thorigin. Turkey also claims with its availability in wild forms. It was introduced into Egypt in 6

thCentury and to India and Pakistan in 19 century (Knight, 1985). Later it was spread into South

thAfrica, USA and Australia in 20 century. At present berseem is cultivated in around 23 countries

Origin and spread

BERSEEM: Intricacies of Seed Production in India 1

1

Introduction

BERSEEM: Intricacies of Seed Production in India2

Fig. 1: Berseem growing countries in the world

viz., India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, Australia, USA (California, south western USA), Indonesia, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Morocco, South Africa, Sudan, Algeria, Israel, Iran, Iraq, Tunisia, Italy, France, China and Nepal, spread over five continents (Fig.1). Out of these, it is grown in large areas in India, Egypt, Pakistan, South Africa, southern Europe and eastern Australia.

Berseem is mainly used as green fodder. The high digestibility (up to 65%) along with high

palatability, good forage quality (20% crude protein), long duration of green fodder availability

(November-May) have made it best kind of fodder. Berseem is not suitable for hay due to high

water content in the succulent stems. However, during late spring, the high temperatures help in

hay preparation. Leaf drop from dry plants is another problem in berseem hay. Berseem on its

own is not suitable for ensiling. However, in combination with cereals ensiling is possible.

Recent studies indicated that it can be ensiled and preserved well with low pH and high lactic acid

content and low proportion of Non Protein Nitrogen (Mustafa and Seguin, 2003). Berseem being

a legume is having a high nitrogen fixing ability resulting in improvement of soil fertility. Recent

studies show that berseem can be used for phytoremediation of heavy metals viz., Cd, Pb, Cu and

Zn due to its multi-cut nature, short life cycle and production of considerable biomass (Ali et al.,

2012). Berseem is also a valuable source for honey.

The success of any crop production depends mainly on the availability of the seed, which is the

basic input of agriculture. Quality seeds enhance the yield. Enhancement of biomass production

to the tune of 30-40 per cent was observed by using quality seed material (Singh, 1995). In

general, the seed yield in forages is comparatively low due to lower seed setting ability. The

productivity of berseem in India is far lower than the major berseem producing countries of the

Crop utility

world especially, Egypt. Another main reason for the shortage is growing of berseem for forage

instead of seed by majority of the Indian farmers. The ever increasing demand for berseem seed is

confirmed by the increase in import of berseem seeds into the country. In 2015-16 itself, 10376

MT of Berseem seed was imported from abroad. This shows the potentiality for berseem seed

production and marketing in India. But, due to its low productivity and more demand for fodder

during lean period the commercial seed production was not highly successful in India.


Berseem seedling Berseem seed

Berseem field

Berseem belongs to one of the largest and most useful plant family leguminosae, sub family

faboideae and tribe trifolieae. The genus Trifolium contains 242 species of which 16 are

cultivated species and all are forage crops (Zohary and Heller, 1984). Trifolium alexandrinum L.

is commonly known as Egyptian Clover or Berseem.

It is a fast growing annual crop with 30-60 cm plant height. The stem is hollow and succulent.

Both basal and /or stem branching is observed. Roots do not extend beyond two feet in general

and contains nodules. It is sparingly hairy and commonly possess trifoliate, petiolate leaves.

Leaves are membranous, oblong-elliptical to oblong-lanceolate and are arranged alternately

except the uppermost leaf. Leaflets are mucronate at the apex and denticulate in. Inflorescence is

head, terminally or auxiliary located and pedunculate with conical to ovoid in shape. There is a

small involucre at the base of the head. Calyx tube displays ten prominent nerves while the

corolla is almost double the height of the calyx. Each inflorescence contains around 100

papilionaceous flowers, white in colour with around 1cm length. At maturity each floret contains

one single seed. Seeds are solitary and small in size. Seed is egg shaped, yellowish in colour and

is of around 2mm in length.

Berseem grows in areas where average rainfall ranges between 300-750 mm. In its traditional

areas berseem is cultivated from about 35°N to the tropic as a winter crop. In the Himalayan

region berseem can be grown as a winter crop up to about 1500 m altitude. It has frost tolerance to

some extent.

It can grow in variable soil types. The most preferable one is loamy soil. It cannot tolerate

waterlogging condition but moderately tolerant to saline condition.

Berseem contains both diploid and tetraploid varieties. Its basic chromosome number is 2n = 16.

Based on regeneration capacity and branching pattern three different ecotypes viz., Mescavi,

Fahli and Saidi are reported in berseem. The mescavi type has very good regeneration potential

and is capable of 5-6 cuts with basal or crown branching pattern and is the most popular type with

large number of varieties in India belong to this group. Fahli is a stem branching type with low

regeneration potential and is suitable for single cut only. Saidi is having moderate regeneration

capacity allowing 2-3 cuts and possess both basal and stem branching. Berseem was introduced

Habit

Habitat

Soil

Ploidy

Types

2

Botanical Description


to India in 1903 (Roy et al., 2009). Of the two ecotypes, mescavi and fahli introduced to India, the

former was adapted well to Indian conditions and became one of the major forage crops of rabi

season. Most of the present day cultivars are derivatives of Mescavi.

In berseem white coloured flowers are produced in cluster (Fig. 2a & d) which are hermaphrodite

in nature with five fused sepals and five free petals. The upper large petal which covers the rest of

the petals in bud stage is called standard petal, while two bottom petals are fused together and

formed a boat-like structure called the keel (Fig 2b). The stamens are always ten in number and

their filaments are fused in a group of 9+1 (Fig. 2c). Berseem is a cross pollinated plant and is

entomophilous in nature. Anthesis occurs in the morning hours which coincides with maximum

pollinator activity, leads to seed setting.

Floral biology

Fig. 2: (a) Inflorescence (b) Arrangement of petals (c) Gynoecium and androecium (d) Opening bud


a b

c d

Berseem is an entomophilous cross pollinated crop. Pollination totally depends on floral biology and pollinator diversity. The typical structure of flower in berseem requires tripping for the pollination to commence. Tripping by honey bees is the most common method in nature. This again is varying with the genotypes, locations, abundance of pollinators and weather parameters (Fig. 3). The weather plays a crucial role both in the activity of pollinators and on pollen availability. The interaction of these various parameters in a positive way is highly essential for a successful seed production.

Trifolium genus have both annual and perennial species but most of the perennial species (T. pretense) are known to be self-incompatible (gametophytic) in nature. The annual species viz., berseem is in dilemma with regards to self-fertility and infertility. Some researcher considered the species as cross fertilized (Latif et al., 1956) while others reported berseem as a self-compatible (El-Shahawyand Gheit, 2001 and Abdalla et al., 2008). Studies on berseem reported that seed setting was highest under open field and caged with bee hive than caging without bee and selfing (without tripping) conditions. The introduction of honey bee to berseem grown plots improved the seed setting, which indicated that berseem is self-compatible but needs stimulating agents (honeybee or tripping) to set seeds due to relative position of male and female organs and the presence of bubbles on stigma. Roy et al., (2005) studied sixteen berseem populations and based on results these populations were categorized into four different groups viz., self-compatible & self-pollinating (group 1),self-compatible requiring tripping (group 2), self-incompatible with broad genetic base (group 3), self-incompatible with narrow genetic base (group 4) (Fig. 4). It was observed that caging of plants without any pollinators drastically reduced the seed setting in some populations but hand tripping in these populations under caged conditions increased the seed setting (group 2, 3 & 4) which showed that these populations are self-fertile in nature.

Pollination behaviour

Fig. 3: Different components of berseem pollination dynamics

3

Pollination Dynamics


Fig. 4: Variation in average seed set in four groups under different treatments (Roy et al., 2005)

Plant-pollinators Interaction

Berseem is an insect pollinated crop and among insects, honey bees are playing important role in pollination. Therefore, berseem seed production has now become a challenge to the seed producers in the changing weather pattern. During peak flowering time different bee's viz., A. florea, A. dorsata and A. indica visit berseem flowers. Among them, Apisdorsata was predominant pollinator with good frequency followed by A. florea. Peak activity of pollinators was observed at around 11 AM which is considered as best time for pollination followed by drop in the activity during noon time.Even though bee activity again increases in the afternoon, those bees are assumed to be nectar collectors rather than pollen gatherers. A study showed that A. dorsata mainly targets upper strata of canopy (Fig. 5), while A. florea forages in lower strata of flowers (Fig.6). A. dorsata spent lesser time per flower and visited more flowers per minute than that of A. florea. Thus, it was suggested that A. dorsata is more effective pollinators in berseem. However, this again depends from place to place and on the presence of various bee populations in the vicinity of crop under natural conditions. Further study is needed in detail to confirm the observation and designing strategic interventions to enhance bee foraging in berseem seed production plot to increase seed setting.

Treatments

Group 1Group 2Group 3Group 4

Ave

rage

see

d /

In

floro

scen

ce80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

04321

Treatments

1. Open pollination

2. Caged (without pollinators)

3. Caged (hand tripping)

4. Caged (with bee)

Fig. 5: Foraging and pollination by Apis dorsata in the upper strata of berseem head

Fig. 6: Foraging and pollination by Apis florea in the lower strata of berseem head


Berseem is one of the important winter forage crops in India. It spread very fast after its introduction in 1903, in the Northern regions of the country due to its various advantages particularly among small farm holders. The lack of suitable climate restricted it to further spread in the southern parts of the country.

In North India, mainly in four states the berseem production is in large tracts. The states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana produces berseem to the maximum extent . Based on the available information of major berseem growing districts and climatic data (~1950 to 2000) with 2.5 minutes' resolution, the suitable berseem growing regions were predicted (Vijay, unpublished data). The Figure 7 depicts the p robab l e r eg ions fo r berseem growth based on D O M A I N m o d e l o f predicting the species by taking into consideration of eight climate parameters viz., i) Annual Mean Temperature ii) Isothermality iii) Temperature seasonality iv) Maximum temperature of warmest month v) Minimum temperature of coldest month vi) Temperature annual range vii) Annual precipitation viii) Precipitation seasonality. The probability has been divided into eight categories with less than 50 to 100 percent. This prediction shows the possibility to grow the berseem crop in few more states. Parts of Rajasthan, Jharkhand and Bihar have greater probability followed by other states like Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Gujarat and Telangana as their climates are suitable to take up the crop may be to small extent.

Crop status

Fig. 7: Suitable regions for growing berseem based on present climate data (~1950-2000)

4

Crop and Variety Status in India


The climate change in the

subcontinent which is already

being felt in the changed

pattern of rainfall and

temperature will affect the

crop status in future in India.

To foresee the berseem crop

status in India, the future

climate data (2xCO climate 2

conditions, CCM3 (NCAR

C o m m u n i t y C l i m a t e

Model)) with 2.5 minutes'

resolution was used to

predict the change in the

berseem growing regions

based on DOMAIN model at

the same scale of present

c l i m a t e d a t a ( Vi j a y,

unpublished data). Subtle

changes in the regions of

high probability in Uttar

Pradesh Madhya Pradesh

and Bihar were noticed

based on future climate data. Increased probability of suitable conditions for berseem were

observed highest in the state of Rajasthan followed by Maharashtra, Gujarat and Chhattisgarh

(Fig. 8). Further the probability spreads to Telangana, parts of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka

down south. Thus, certain reduction of crop probability in key growing states and spread of it to

new areas was predicted using this model in the future.

The growth period is varied among different berseem growing states with slight shift towards

summer in Punjab compared to Madhya Pradesh. This shift in the crop growth changes the date

of last cut for seed production in different regions. Similarly, the productivity of green fodder and

seed production varied among different production places. This variation also results from the

suitability of varieties grown and their potential.

Berseem breeding is actively pursued in India. Till date a total of 16 varieties have been released

during last 41 years. The initial berseem varieties, Mescavi, a diploid variety and Pusa Giant, a

tetraploid variety were released in 1975 from CCSHAU, Hissar and IARI, New Delhi

respectively. The 16 berseem varieties were released by 5 institutes in the country of which one

variety each was released by IARI, New Delhi and GBPUAT, Pantnagar during 1975 and 1993

Varietal status in India

Fig. 8: Suitable regions for growing berseem based on future climate data (2xCO , CCM3)2


respectively. The main berseem variety developing institutes are PAU, Ludhiana (6 varieties);

JNKVV, Jabalpur (2 varieties); CCS HAU, Hisar (3 varieties) and IGFRI, Jhansi (3 varieties).

The key mode of breeding method was selection either from elite lines or mutated lines. The lack

of variation in germplasm and absence of wild populations restricted the genetic divergence in

berseem leading to slow pace of varietal development. The minute size of flower and difficulty in

emasculation and pollination, coupled with lack of variation discouraged breeders to take

berseem breeding vigoursly.

All the varieties released till date are of mescavi type with multicut nature. Recently a Fahli type,

single cut line was developed by IGFRI and will be sent to the National trials soon. All the

released varieties except two are of diploid in nature. Of the two tetraploid varieties only one

(BB-3) is under seed chain. The varieties mescavi and wardan are suitable to grow in all berseem

growing regions of India and among them wardan is the national check for releasing new

varieties. Remaining varieties are released for specific zones and are most suitable for irrigated

tracts of those regions only. The green fodder yield potential of released varieties ranged from 62

t/ha to 105 t/ha and dry fodder yield from 9 t/ha to 18.8 t/ha with seed yield potential from 0.3 t/ha

to 0.78 t/ha. The new varieties released are being tested for disease and pest resistance as special

characters. Based on the region of cultivation the maturity date varies. Some late varieties were

released to supply green fodder up to June. The details of all the berseem varieties of India are

given below to have a comprehensive information about varietal status (Table 1).


Berseem experimental trial

Tab

le 1

: Det

ails

of b

erse

em v

ari

etie

s re

leas

ed in

In

dia

Sl.

No

Var

iety

Yea

r of

Rel

easi

ng

Met

hod

of

Ped

igre

eR

ecom

men

ded

Are

as o

f G

FY

D

MY

A

vera

geS

pec

ial

r

elea

seC

entr

eb

reed

ing

regi

ons

adop

tion

Yie

ld

Yie

ld

yiel

d

char

acte

rsp

oten

tial

p

oten

tial

(t

/ha)

(t /h

a)(t

/ha)

1M

esca

vi19

75C

CS

HA

US

elec

tion

In

trod

ucti

on A

ll B

erse

em

Pun

jab,

70

12.5

62.5

Fas

tfr

om E

gypt

grow

ing

Har

yana

, D

elhi

re

grow

th

regi

ons

in

and

Him

acha

lan

d w

ide

Indi

a P

rade

sh, U

ttar

ad

apta

bili

tyP

rade

sh a

nd

Mad

hya

Pra

desh

2P

usa

Gia

nt19

75IA

RI

Pol

yplo

idy

Dip

loid

A

ll B

erse

em

Pun

jab,

67.5

13.4

60A

uto

br

eedi

ngV

arie

ty,

grow

ing

Har

yana

, te

trap

loid

, C

-10

regi

ons

in

part

of

tole

rant

to

Indi

a H

imac

hal

Pra

desh

, w

inte

r an

d D

elhi

, Utt

ar

fros

t, b

ears

P

rade

sh a

nd

win

ter

Mad

hya

Pra

desh

hard

ines

s

3B

L 1

1978

PAU

Sel

ecti

onD

eriv

ed

Pun

jab

stat

e P

unja

b st

ate

8415

.565

Ear

ly

from

un

der

irri

gate

d un

der

irri

gati

onm

atur

ing

cult

ivar

co

ndit

ions

vari

ety

Mes

cavi

4

War

dan

1982

IGF

RI

Sel

ecti

onA

cces

sion

A

ll B

erse

em

Har

yana

, P

unja

b,

72.6

13.9

65T

oler

ant

to

No.

526

grow

ing

Del

hi, U

ttar

ba

cter

ial

regi

ons

Pra

desh

, Bih

ar,

wil

t an

d in

Ind

ia

Raj

asth

an,

othe

r H

imac

hal

Pra

desh

, di

seas

es

and

Mad

hya

Pra

desh

5JB

119

82JN

KV

VS

ingl

e S

trai

n B

erse

em

Mad

hya

Pra

desh

,87

15.5

76H

igh

re-

plan

t re

ceiv

ed

grow

ing

Chh

atti

sgar

h ge

nera

tion

se

lect

ion

from

ar

eas

in

and

part

of

pote

ntia

lC

hhin

dwar

a M

adhy

a B

ihar

and

(M

.P.)

Pra

desh

Utt

ar P

rade

sh


Sl.

No

Var

iety

Yea

r of

Rel

easi

ng

Met

hod

of

Ped

igre

eR

ecom

men

ded

Are

as o

f G

FY

D

MY

A

vera

geS

pec

ial

r

elea

seC

entr

eb

reed

ing

regi

ons

adop

tion

Yie

ld

Yie

ld

yiel

d

char

acte

rsp

oten

tial

p

oten

tial

(t

/ha)

(t /h

a)(t

/ha)

6B

L 1

019

85PA

US

elec

tion

Indi

geno

us

Sub

tem

pera

te

Pun

jab,

Har

yana

, 10

518

.8-

Res

ista

nt t

o m

ater

ial

area

s of

the

D

elhi

, Him

acha

l st

em r

ot

Nor

th a

nd

Pra

desh

and

ca

used

by

Cen

tral

reg

ions

Ja

mm

uS

cler

otin

iaun

der

irri

gate

d sp

p., L

ate

cond

itio

nsm

atur

ing

vari

ety

7B

L 2

219

88PA

US

elec

tion

Der

ivat

ive

Sub

tem

pera

te

Pun

jab,

Har

yana

62

12.3

52L

ate

of t

he

area

s of

the

an

d H

imac

hal

mat

urin

g ir

radi

ated

N

orth

and

P

rade

shva

riet

ypo

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The scarcity of genetic variability coupled with practical difficulties in emasculation and pollination

due to flower type and self-incompatibility in most of the lines has made crop improvement difficult

task in berseem. Selection of newly developed populations either through mutation or crossing is the

common method employed in berseem breeding. Recurrent selection was made to improve the base

populations in berseem and significant gain in green forage yield (21.7%), dry forge yield (23.8%)

and protein yield (22.9%) was achieved through second cycle of recurrent selection (Bakheit, 1989).

Drought tolerance was another trait of interest in berseem breeding. Several strides were made to

incorporate this trait through cell culture (El-Tawab et al., 1997) and marker assisted selection

(Fahmy et al., 1997). Selection for manual tripping (MT) was found effective in improving self-

fertility in berseem lines (Abdalla and Zeinab, 2012). Most of the lines in Egypt were self-fertile

(SF) in all populations and generations over original parents

IGFRI Jhansi is having 594 berseem germplasm accessions. However, they are mostly crossing

derived lines and/or imported ones. Since berseem is an introduced crop in India, wild genotypes

are not available. This resulted in the narrow genetic variability among available germplasm

lines. Earlier at IGFRI, Jhansi, interspecific crosses were tried between Trifolium alexandrinum

(berseem) and other Trifolium species to enhance the genetic variability and to impart disease

resistance in berseem. Successful F1 hybrids were made using embryo rescue technique between

Trifolium alexandrinum (berseem) and T. apertum, T. constantinopolitanum and T. resupinatum.

However, the field level success in the form of a variety from these interspecific crosses is still

eluding.

Polyploid induction is an effective tool to develop new varieties in many crops. In berseem,

polyploidy breeding through colchicine treatment was instrumental in developing tetraploid

varieties in several countries including Egypt and India. Autotetraploids have greater vegetative

volume, greater adaptability to different ecosystems, bigger seed size and higher seed weight.

However, often these tetraploids have lower reproductive fertility compared to their diploid

counterparts. In India, the berseem varieties Pusa Giant and Bundel Berseem 3 were produced

using polyploidy induction and at present Bundel Berseem 3 is one of the popular varieties. This

tetraploid variety is competing to replace its diploid cousins in the area of adoption and acerage.

Irradiation of plant material helps in creation of variability in the existing population and serves

as a source for development of new varieties in often less genetic variable crops. In India due to

lack of sufficient variation in the berseem germplasm to exploit and develop new varieties,

irradiation is being used as a tool to create variation. This is very successful and at present several

berseem varieties in India viz., BL-22, BL 180, BL-2, HB-2 etc. were developed using irradiation

followed by selection.

5

Crop Improvement


Trifoliate leaf is an important heritable trait not only in berseem but in Trifolium genus itself.

However, multifoliate lines were reported by several workers. A multifoliate strain was

developed in Egypt after crossing a mutant multifoliate single cut Fahli line with a multicut

trifoliate mescavi line resulting into a multifoliate multicut line. This line outperformed the

released varieties in green forage yield (Bakheit and El- Nehrawy, 1997). A pentafoliate line of

Trifolium alexandrinum was registered by IGFRI as a novel genetic stock. Even though the yield

studies are yet to be done, it shows the promising future for multifoliate lines in India also.

The studies on self-fertility in India clearly indicated the existence of considerable genetic

diversity for self-compatibility in the existing berseem populations (Roy et al., 2005). This

variation need to be studied and tapped for creating variation and for the development of new

varieties.


The cultivation of berseem crop is possible only in the irrigated regions due to its water

requirement. Berseem is easy to grow and helps in improving the soil fertility. At present it is

being grown in millions of hectares around the world.

Berseem can be grown under varied conditions but the optimum conditions are 18-25° C and 300

mm annual rainfall uniformly distributed. It grows best below 650 m elevation under irrigated

conditions. If the winter temperature falls to 6-8° C the crop growth is severely affected. Even

though it can tolerate higher temperatures with irrigation (particularly under Indian conditions),

the productivity gets reduced. It can tolerate shade and can be grown in orchards in hortipasture

mode. It has the ability to tolerate frost also.

Berseem can be grown in a wide range of soils but performs best on well-drained clay loam soils.

The heavy textured soils are considered to be better due to their good water retention capacity and

congenial edaphic environment. Soils rich in calcium and phosphorus are ideally suited for its

cultivation. Mild acidity can be tolerated by the crop. Water logging condition adversely affects crop

growth. The levelling of field is very important for optimum use of irrigation water and to avoid

water logging. Growth and development of the crop was found to be the best at 7 to 8 pH range.

Berseem is cultivated during winter season i.e., rabi (November to May) because of its low

temperature requirement under Indian conditions. However, in European countries and

Afghanistan it was introduced as summer crop.

Berseem requires a fine seedbed for germination and stand establishment as seeds are very

small in size. One deep ploughing followed by 2-3 harrowing is essential to obtained fine seed

bed.

To obtain uniform plant population particularly for seed production, 20-25 kg/ha seed is

required. Optimum sowing depth is 3 to 4 cm. If the seed is sown with seed drill, 40 cm spacing

between two rows is optimum.

Berseem crop is very prone to soil borne diseases like fungal root rot complex and stem rot

diseases. The severity of diseases may cause yield losses up to 70%. Therefore, chemical seed

treatment with Carbendazim (2 g per kg of seed) or Captan (2 g per kg of seed) is effective in

Climatic requirements

Soil

Crop season

Tillage

Seed rate

Seed treatment

6

Crop Cultivation


minimizing the primary source of inoculum and primary infection. Seed treatment can be done

using appropriate machinery or simple drum treater or traditionally, using earthen pots. After

treatment dry the treated seeds in shade before sowing.

Berseem may not grow well in soils where it is

being sown for the first time, because it

requires association with Rhizobium trifoli, a

soil bacterium for its proper growth. This

bacterial culture (Fig. 9) can be obtained from

local Agricultural Department or from the

nearby ICAR institutes or state agriculture

universities. Prepare one litre of 5% jaggery

solution and mix 100 g of bacterial culture in

it and sprinkle on 8-10 kg of berseem seed.

Mix it thoroughly to have a uniform coating

on all the seed. Shade dry the treated seed

before using it for sowing. Sowing may be

done preferably in the evening of the same

day to avoid direct hot sun.

In North India, mid-October is the best time

for sowing. In Eastern India it may be sown in

November. The onset of winter is to be

considered as the best time for berseem seed

sowing as optimum temperature for berseem

germination is 20° C. Timely sowing helps in

taking excess cuts for green fodder and

extends the period of fodder availability. The early sowing is harmful in berseem as it leads to

seedling mortality.

Berseem can be sown either by dry or wet method.

Dry method: In dry method the berseem seed is sown in line by using seed drill followed by

covering the seeds with plank (Fig. 10a) and later irrigation is provided. The use of seed drill is

advantageous as line sowing helps in optimum seed placement resulting in uniform plant

population. It also helps in easy inter-cultivation and recommended for seed production per se.

Wet method: In this method, strips of 4-6m width are prepared. Each strip is flooded with 5-6 cm

deep water (Fig. 10b). The overnight soaked and/or inoculated seeds are broadcasted in standing

water. This helps in rapid germination and easy establishment of young seedlings.

Inoculation

Time of sowing

Method of sowing/ seeding

Fig. 9: Rhizobium culture of IGFRI for sale


Fig. 10: (a) line sowing by seed drill (b) broadcasting in wet method

Nutrient management

Water management

Weed management

To improve the soil health and fertility status 10 t/ha well decomposed farm yard manure should

be applied in the field at the time of land preparation. For obtaining good yield and enhancing

plant growth 20 kg N, 60 to 80 kg P O and 40 kg K O per ha should be applied as basal dose at the 2 5 2

time of sowing.

Tillering, head formation and seed filling are the three important critical stages for irrigation in

berseem seed production. Initially after one week of sowing slight irrigation is required for proper

establishment of seedlings. Later from October to February irrigation at 12-14 days' interval and

from March to April at 8-10 days' interval is required in general conditions. After each cutting for

good tiller development, irrigation should be given. Based on the studies at IGFRI, Jhansi optimum

soil moisture regime for berseem is 75% available soil moisture in top 45 cm soil. The water use

efficiency for berseem at IGFRI, Jhansi was worked out to be 22 kg dry matter/ha/mm.

Berseem being a leguminous fodder, in its early stages growth is slow. This condition favours the

growth of weeds particularly broad leaf weeds viz., Anagalis arvensis, Chenopodium album,

Melilotus alba, Melilotus indica, Cichorium intybus, Coronopus didymus, Spergula arvensis

Eclipta alba, Sonchus oleraceus, Sonchus asper, Medicago denticulate, Medicago auxalis,

Trifolium resupinatum, Rumex dentatus, Physalis minima and grassy weeds viz., Poa annua and

Phalaris minor. Weed infestation reduces 5-20% green fodder and 13-37% seed yield. In

berseem crop, Chicory (Cichorium intybus), locally known as Kasni, is an objectionable weed as

it is very difficult to separate it through normal grading process. The zero tolerance to this weed

in breeder seed production is required. The best method is to sow the seed without any Chicory

seed. Apart from seed it will be transmitted through irrigation sources also. Manual removal of

Chicory from the crop is the best solution. The weed can be easily identified based on its leaf

shape and flower colour.


Harvesting

Yield

Economics of berseem seed production

For green fodder normally the first cutting should be taken 50-55 days after sowing. Subsequent

cuttings can be taken at 25-30 day interval. In general, after three cuttings, the crop is left for seed

production. The date of last cut is important for seed production and it varies from region to

region. The last cut is generally taken in the first week of March in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya

Pradesh. Whereas, in Punjab and Haryana it is in the end of March or first week of April.

Berseem being a multi-cut nature crop, its fodder production ability is very high. A well-

managed berseem crop can give 45-50 t/ha green fodder in three cuttings before leaving the crop

for seed production. The average seed yield is 0.3 - 0.4 t/ ha.

The studies conducted by IGFRI at farmer level in different villages of Jhansi clearly showed the

profitability of berseem seed production. The green fodder was harvested three times before

leaving the crop for seed production. The average benefit cost ratio at farm was found as 1.85.

The benefit cost ratio calculated on variable cost basis was found as 2.32. This BC ratio includes

both the green fodder and seed as marketable commodities. Thus, if the farmers are able to sell

the green fodder initially and subsequently the seed they will be benefitted much more than the

regular food crops.

Fig. 11: Berseem in vegetative stage Fig. 12: Berseem in flowering stage


Berseem seed yield is influenced by several biotic factors such as diseases and pests, which play an important role in berseem ecosystem (Fig. 13 & 16) and may lead to reduced fodder and seed production. During the last five decades IGFRI has evolved many technologies for maximization of fodder as well as seed production in berseem. Growing a healthy crop and protecting it from diseases and pests is an integral part of these technologies. In this context, prominent diseases and insects, their nature of occurrence and management strategies are briefly discussed. Among the diseases, root rot complex and stem rot are major limiting factors for seed production.

Root rot complex

This disease is caused by interaction of fungi (Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium semitactum and nematode (Tylenchorhynchus vulgaris).

Nature of occurrence and impact: This disease is common in gangetic and central plains and severe during February-March. It appears usually after the second cut. Once the disease is established in the field, it becomes a permanent source of infection as the pathogen perpetuates in the soil through their resting structures. High humidity, high soil moisture and dense crop canopy favours the disease spread and severity. The disease incidence ranges from 0-60% under field conditions (Pandey et al., 1995).

Fig. 13: Important diseases observed in berseem ecosystem

7

Crop Protection

DISEASES

Rhizoctonia solani

Tylenchorhyncus vulgaris

Fusarium semitectum

Sclerotinia trioliorum

Myrothecium spp.

Alternaria spp.


Symptoms: Initially light brown necrotic spots appear on the roots, 5 cm below the soil surface and later these spots coalesce to form rot (Fig.14). Field symptoms are represented by bare patches of stunted and blighted plants. The fungus, Rhizoctonia solani produces plenty of white mass of hyphae on rotten portion, which forms dark brown coloured sclerotial bodies in later stages. Severe mortality is recorded during February-March.

Management : Maintenance of proper drainage in standing crop field will cut off favorable conditions required for the pathogens. Seed treatment with Carbendazim @ 2.5g/kg or Thiophenate-M @ 2 g/kg of seed reduces the initial infection from the seed and soil borne fungi. Application of Neem cake @ 0.5 t/ha before sowing of crop or spraying of Carbendazim @ 250 g/ha or Thiophenate-M @ 500 g/ha or Propineb 1250 g/ha after appearance of disease in field subsides it to a great extent. Subsequent spraying can be continued based on disease severity and spread at 8-10 day interval.

It is caused by white mold fungus Sclerotinia trifoliorum

Nature of occurrence and impact: The incidence of the disease is visible during January and February when temperature is low especially in gangetic and northern parts of the country. Black coloured sclerotia are formed in the mycelium that helps to perpetuate from one season to another making the disease soil borne. Primary infection occurs through sclerotia mixed with the seed or soil. The sclerotia germinate and produce fruiting structures called apothecia which liberates infective ascospores. Ascospores through irrigation water or wind reaches the stem and causes infection. In few incidences infection causes pepper spotting on the leaves followed by a quiescent stage for a few weeks. Later in aggressive phase destroys the foliage that is largely controlled by the environmental factors. Up to 70% losses were recorded from this disease (Pandey et al., 1995).

Symptoms : Symptoms include water-soaked lesions just 5 cm above the ground and rapidly progress along and around the stem above and below infected nodes. Infected stems become bleached and stringy. Severe infection weakens the plant and results in wilting, lodging, and death. Sclerotinia stem rot often occurs in patches in the field.

Stem rot

Fig. 14: Field symptoms of berseem root

Fig. 15: Field symptoms of stem rot


In addition, signs of the fungus that can assist in diagnosis include white moldy growth (cottony mycelia) and sclerotia on infected plant tissues (Fig. 15).

Management: Practice of summer ploughing to expose the resting structures (sclerotia) in the soil reduces the disease load. Seed treatment with Carbendazim @ 2.5 g/ kg and line sowing for maintaining optimum plant population in the field prevents the disease occurrence. Spraying of Carbendazim @ 1 g/litre or Chlorothalonil @ 2g/litre after disease appearance helps in minimizing the loss (Bhaskar et al., 2003)

The other minor diseases that occur in this crop are, leaf spots of Alternaria, Myrothecium and Epicoccum spp.

The common pod borer Helicoverpa armigera also damages the berseem head at maturity.

Nature of occurrence and impact : Pod borer is a serious polyphagous sporadic pest in berseem seed production fields. Most common in parts of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. H.armigera alone can reduce yield of seed crop of berseem by 80-90%.

Insect identification and crop damage : The full-grown larva is stout bodied with usually greenish or brownish colour, measuring about 4 cm in length with longitudinal bands. The female adult lays 200-1500 eggs singly on tender leaves, which hatch in about 2-4 days in April to October. The larval period is 13-19 days and larvae pupate in the soil. There may be as many as eight generations in a year. This insect targets flower-buds and developing seed in flower heads of berseem. The larvae feed mostly on apical portion of the inflorescence and destroy it partially or wholly (Pandey et al., 1995).

Management : Use of insecticides such as Cypermethrin @ 200 ml/ha or Spinosad @ 150 ml/ ha after last cut, if larval population is more than economic threshold level (ETL) controls the infestation.

The other insects associated with berseem crop are Hairy caterpillar (Euproctis spp.), Semilooper (Pulsia spp.), Pumpkin beetle (Rhaphidopala sp.), Aphid (Aphis craccivora), Dusky bug (Oxycarenus sp.) and leaf miner (Phytomyza sp.).

Cuscuta (dodder), a stem parasite also known as Akashbel or Amarbel locally, belonging to the family Cuscutaceae poses a serious problem in oilseeds, pulses and fodder crops (lucerne (Medicago sativa), berseem (Trifolium spp.) in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Orissa, West Bengal and parts of Madhya Pradesh under rainfed as well as in irrigated conditions (Mishra, 2009). The most common species of Cuscuta in India are Cuscuta campestris and C. reflexa. The infestation of Cuscuta results in heavy loss in terms of quantity and quality of produce and many a times it may cause complete failure of the crop. Legislation in 25 countries lists dodder as "declared noxious weed" with seeds and plant material and are denied entrance. The seeds of Cuscuta have a hard seed coat and remain viable in soil for many years and are able to germinate throughout the year.

Pod borer

Cuscuta


Management: Integrated control strategies involving preventive, cultural and herbicidal methods can provide an acceptable degree of Cuscuta control.

1. Periodic rouging, drying and burning of cuscuta plant before it produces flowers/seeds is necessary for its effective control.

2. Application of pre emergence herbicides such as Prodiamine 0.6 kg/ha or Pendimethalin 0.6 kg/ha. If the infestation is in patches, it can be easily controlled by spraying non-selective herbicides such as glyphosate and paraquat at lower doses (0.075-0.150 kg/ha).

3. Care should be taken to avoid contamination of berseem seeds with Cuscuta seeds.

Fig. 16: Important insects observed in berseem ecosystem

Plusia spp.(Semiloopers)

Helicoverpa armigera(Pod borer)

Aphis craccivora(Aphids)

Euproctis spp.(Hairy catcrpillars)

Rhaphidopala sp.(Pumpkin bcctlcs)

Oxycaraenus sp.(Dusky bugs)

Insects(Foliage and Plant sap feeders)


In India the seed used for sale should contain label compulsorily, whereas the certification is voluntary. The standards are same for both truthfully labelled seed and certified seed. However, the standards are bit higher in other classes viz., foundation and breeder seed. Apart from seed standards, the field standards are also important to maintain the seed quality. The field and seed standards for berseem crop are as below,

Field standards: By maintaining the field standards the quality of the produce can be ensured in the field itself and this acts as a prophylactic measure to avoid contaminants well before crop is harvested. The isolation distance helps in maintaining the genetic purity by avoiding cross pollination from other varieties. As berseem is a entomophilous crop, long isolation distances are required to maintain genetic purity standards. The stringency of standards is more in Foundation class compared to certified class based on their generations and quantities produced. The field standards are ensured by conducting field inspections. In berseem, at least two field inspections should be made from flowering to harvest to ascertain the field standards in the standing crop and to maintain the seed quality. Vigorous roguing during vegetative, flowering and maturity stages should be taken up to ensure the field standards in all classes of seeds.

The field standards of breeder seed should be such that the next generation meets the foundation seed standards. The breeder seed production plots should be completely free from the objectionable weed Chicory (Fig.17)

Seed standards: The seed standards are the most important criteria to decide the quality of a seed lot and to ensure whether the produced material is suitable for sowing or not. Among the seed standards, germination percentage is of utmost important as it not only checks the viability of

Fig.17: Chicory (blue flowers) infested seed production field of berseem

Seed Class Isolation distance (m) Maximum permitted (%)

Fields of Fields of same Off Types Objectionable other variety not weed

varieties conforming to plants*varietal purity

Foundation 400 400 0.2 None

Certified 100 100 0.1 0.05*Objectionable weed is Cichorium intybus (Chicory, Kasni)

8

Seed Quality Maintenance


The seed standards of breeder seed should be such that the next generation meets the foundation

seed standards.

The true to type of a variety also known as

genetic purity is essential to realize the yield

potential of a given variety. The genetic purity of

Breeder seed is highest and is maintained by the

ear to row method of nucleus seed production.

Berseem seed processing contains mainly three machines viz., cleaner, grader and specific

gravity separator. The first two machines are similar for all crops but the third one is specifically

required for berseem seed processing. First the air screen cleaner removes the inert matter viz.,

mud stones, plant parts and other smaller waste materials. After cleaning based on the size,

grading will be done in the seed grader where through upper sieve the large impurities will be

separated and through lower sieve smaller ones. The seed passed through upper sieve and above

the lower sieve will be collected as graded seed. Even after cleaning and grading, the seed of

objectionable weed, chicory still remains.

To remove the chicory seed from berseem, specific gravity separator (Fig.18a) is to be used. The

specific gravity separator separates both the seeds based on their density. Practically around 20-

Genetic purity

Seed processing

the seed lot but also crucial for ensuring optimum plant population in the field and to get the expected yield. Seed moisture is another important parameter as seed produced needs to be stored for at least one season without losing its viability. The physical purity not only ensures the physical quality but also helps in reducing the weed population in the crop field. Similar to field standards the seed standards are stringent for foundation class than certified class particularly with respect to weed and other crop seeds, to maintain the purity of the next generation.

Seed class Genetic purity

Breeder Seed 100%

Foundation Seed 99%

Certified Seed 98%

Factor Standards for each class

Foundation Certified

Pure seed (minimum) 98.0% 98.0%

Inert matter (maximum) 2.0% 2.0%

Other crop seeds (maximum) 10/kg 20/kg

Total weed seeds (maximum) 10/kg 20/kg

*Objectionable weed seeds (maximum) 5/kg 10/kg

Germination including hard seeds (minimum) 80% 80%

Moisture (maximum) 10.0% 10.0%

For vapour-proof containers (maximum) 7.0% 7.0%*Objectionable weed is Cichorium intybus (Chicory, Kasni)


30% chicory seeds contain almost same density as berseem. Hence, to remove the chicory seeds

completely the seed needs to be processed twice or thrice on specific gravity separator. A new

machine viz., Belt draper (Fig.18b) was developed by the IGFRI in collaboration with Central

Institute of Agricultural Engineering to remove the chicory seeds up to 90%. But the efficiency of

the machine is low due the mode of separation which is based on seed surface and shape. The

combination of specific gravity separator followed by belt draper will help in achieving higher

purity. Another highly sophisticated machinery viz., colour sorter is also useful in separating the

chicory seed as the seed colour of chicory is white and clearly distinguishable from yellow colour

berseem seed.

Apart from these sophisticated machinery, a crude method at farmer level to separate the chicory seeds is the use of salt water. The saturated salt solution is able to separate most of the chicory seeds. Chicory seeds being light in weight will float in the salt water. The separated berseem seeds are to be washed in running water and shade dried before sowing. Even though it is a simple and effective method, complete separation of chicory seeds is not possible.

Fig.18: (a) Specific gravity separator (b) Belt draper for separating chicory seed from berseem


The statistics of actual area, production and productivity of fodder crops is not available at the national and international level. Thus, weakening fodder crops share in the budget allocation. The total quantity of fodder seed production in the country is not available. However, based on the estimated area, seed rate, average seed yield and seed multiplication ratio the requirement of breeder seed was estimated (Table 2).

Table 2: Estimated berseem breeder seed requirement in India

Crop Area Seed rate Seed yield Seed Breeder(mha) (kg/ha) (kg/ha) Multiplication seed (t)

Ratio

Berseem 2 20 200 10 400

Based on the available information India requires 400 tonnes of breeder seed provided, the seed chain consisting of foundation and certified seed is followed properly. The gaps in the generation system may further enhance this requirement.

The information on total breeder seed of berseem indented and produced during last decade (Fig. 19) clearly shows that production is more than indent barring few years. The production was

Breeder seed status

Fig.19: Berseem breeder seed indent and production in the last decade (2007-2016)

9

Seed Status in India


Qu

anti

ty in

qu

inta

ls

Year

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

BS Indent BS Production

highest in 2009 followed by 2012 in the last decade (2007-2016). The indent was highest in 2012 followed by 2013. The graph (Fig. 19) clearly depicts the fluctuation in the breeder seed indent with sudden drop in 2010 and 2014. The lack of uniform indent is one of the major bottle necks in the forage seed production per se. Even though there is no drastic change in the total area under berseem, the fluctuation in the breeder seed indent is difficult to explain. However, this indicates that there was no correlation between breeder seed indent and total area under berseem crop.


180

160

140

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

Qu

anti

ty i

n q

uin

tals

Berseem varieties as per their release date

BS Indent BS Production

Mes

cavi

Pusa G

iant

BL 1

Ward

anJB

1BL 10

BL 22BL 2

BB 2BB 3

UPB110

JB 5

HB-1HB-2

BL 42

BL 180

Fig. 21: Breeder seed indent of top three varieties during last decade

Fig. 20: Variety wise cumulative breeder seed indent and production during last decade (2007-2016)

30

25

20

15

10

5

0

-52007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Qu

anti

ty i

n q

uin

tals

Year

JB 1 BL 10 BB 3

Linear (BB 3)Linear (BB 10)Linear (JB 1)

The variety wise indent and production (Fig. 20) shows that out of 16 varieties majority have

either higher or equal production compared to indent. In the last decade, the cumulative

production of JB 1 variety is far higher than any other variety. The cumulative indent was highest

in JB 1 and BL 10 varieties followed by BB 3. However, the year wise indent shows that there is a

decreasing trend in the indent of BB 3 and JB 1, with much sharper decline in the indent of JB

1.Whereas, BL 10 is showing an increasing trend in the breeder seed indent in the last decade

(Fig. 21). This clearly shows that changing of varietal scenario and may be due to increased area

in Punjab and Haryana compared to MP and UP.

The breeder seed is being produced by mainly four institutes whose varieties are in active seed

chain. The contribution by these institutes in the berseem breeder seed production also depicts

the demand and crop area in their region as most of the varieties are zonal specific. Of the four

institutes, the demand for the PAU varieties is increasing followed by JNKVV and IGFRI (Fig.

20). The percent share of PAU is highest towards breeder seed production whereas JNKVV and

IGFRI have almost on par contribution to the total breeder seed produced during the last decade.

The contribution of CCS HAU is gradually diminishing. The more number and continuous

release of varieties from PAU compared to other Institutes coupled with increased area and

popularity of varieties may be the reason for the increasing percent share of PAU varieties in the

total breeder seed production.

As per the present seed yield (0.2 t/ha) the seed multiplication ratio (SMR) comes to 10. Based on

SMR 10, a total quantity of 400 t breeder seed and 4000 t foundation seed are required to sow the

total area with quality certified seed. However, by using the latest technological innovations

(discussed separately) the average yield can be reached up to 0.4 t/ha. This will reduce the

requirement of total breeder seed by four times to 100 t. Even then there is a large gap between the

actual requirement and production. By applying the SMR of 20 we can achieve up to 6.4% of the

total foundation and certified seed requirements. As discussed earlier, the berseem breeder seed

indent is not representing the actual requirement. The unorganized seed production and market is

not coming into picture there by projecting huge gap between production and requirement. As

per a recent survey conducted by IGFRI Seed Technology division in the nearby famous berseem

seed mandi at Dabra, MP, it was found that large quantities of berseem seed to the tune of 300-400

t is available with the wholesalers and retailers. Such mandis are there in several berseem

producing states. This entire seed is not being counted in the production as it is neither certified

nor sold through any organized private sector. The seed directly sold by the farmers to

wholesalers, is available in the market for sowing purpose without any specific brand name.

Thus, the unorganized sector which is playing a major role in berseem seed availability is not

coming into the picture of seed production and availability.

Estimated berseem seed demand and production:


Table 3: Estimated berseem seed requirement and possible production in India

Seed class Requirement (t) Requirement (t) Production as per present based on achievable (mean of last

seed yield seed yield decade) (t)(0.2 t/ha) (0.4 t/ha)

Breeder Seed 400 100 6.42

Foundation seed 4000 2000 128.4

Certified seed 40000 40000 2568

Berseem seed import

The gap in production and demand is being fulfilled by the import of berseem seed from abroad. The import statistics for the last twenty years show that from 2002-03 onwards the import of berseem seed started growing (Fig. 23) and a sharp increase in import was noticed from 2007-08 and maximum quantity (13524 t) of seed was imported in 2012-13 followed by a sharp decline in 2013-14 (5111 t). At present 10,375 MT of berseem was imported in 2015-16. Thus, of the total requirement of 40000 t of certified seed, 2500 t is being realized from organized seed production through seed chain, 10000 t is being imported and the remaining 27000 t of seed required is being made available from unorganized sector. Thus, the major contributor is unorganized sector of which no formal information is available. Even the assumed 2568 MT of certified seed from the breeder seed is possible only if proper seed chain is followed. These assumptions can be verified only if we have reliable information about the area and production of the berseem crop. Since fodder crops are not part of crop surveys and agricultural statistics the information is lacking at national level. Further to confirm the seed availability from unorganized sector a comprehensive market survey is required.


Fig. 22: Percent share of Institutes in National breeder seed production

90.00

80.00

70.00

60.00

50.00

40.00

30.00

20.00

10.00

0.00

Per

cen

t sh

are

in

BS

pro

du

ctio

n

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Year

IGFRI PAU CCS HAU JNKVV

Year of import

1996-97

1997-98

1998-99

1999-00

2000-01

2001-02

2002-03

2003-04

2004-05

2005-06

2006-07

2007-08

2008-09

2009-10

2010-11

2011-1

2

2012-13

2013-14

2014-15

2015-16

Mil

lion

US

D

25

20

15

10

5

0

Per

cen

tage

0.0045

0.004

0.0035

0.003

0.0025

0.002

0.0015

0.001

0.0005

0

Amount (USD) Millions % Share in total imports

Fig. 24: Imported berseem seed value in terms of amount and percent share of total imports

The import statistics show that berseem seed alone is having 0.03-0.04% share of total imports

into India which turns to be around 20 million US dollars (Fig. 24). Among the forage crops

berseem seed import is highest. To reduce the loss to exchequer in the form of foreign exchange,

there is a need to reduce the seed import from abroad. The suitable technological and appropriate

action points discussed in this booklet will help in achieving the target to some extent if followed

by all the stakeholders simultaneously.


16000

14000

12000

10000

8000

6000

4000

2000

0

-2000

-4000

Imp

ort

qu

anti

ty (

MT

)

Year of import

1996

-97

1997

-98

1998

-99

1999

-00

2000

-01

2001

-02

2002

-03

2003

-04

2004

-05

2005

-06

2006

-07

2007

-08

2008

-09

2009

-10

2010

-11

2011

-12

2012

-13

2013

-14

2014

-15

2015

-16

Fig. 23: Berseem seed import during last two decades (1996-97 to 2015-16)

Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi is one of the premier fodder research institutes in South Asia. During last 54 years it has contributed a lot to the forage science. Apart from research and extension, the Institute is mandated to produce breeder seed of fodder varieties developed by it. Apart from breeder seed, the Institute is also producing truthfully labelled seed to the possible extent to cater the needs of farming community. In berseem crop three major varieties have been developed from IGFRI. The present national check, Wardan was developed from IGFRI only. Later two more varieties viz., Bundel Berseem 2 and 3 were developed by this Institute.

During last seven years IGFRI, Jhansi has produced ~10 tonnes of breeder seed and ~6.9 tonnes of truthfully labelled seed of berseem and sold approx. six tonnes each of seed during this period (Fig. 25). More than 30% of the breeder/nucleus seed was used for sowing purpose. Remaining seed was supplied to various agencies viz., National Seeds Corporation, National Dairy Development Board, Seed Association of India, State Animal Husbandry Departments and to some milk cooperatives for further multiplication as per indents and small quantity was used as carry over seed for next season to mitigate production fluctuations. The TL seed produced was supplied to different agencies, farmer groups and individual farmers mostly for fodder purpose.

IGFRI, being a national Institute, supplies seed throughout the country. During last seven years, it supplied berseem seed to 15 States in the country. The breeder seed was supplied to 8 states and truthfully labelled seed was supplied to 14 states (Fig. 26). In 7 states both breeder and TL seed were supplied in last seven years and in the remaining 8 states either breeder or TL seed was supplied.

Seed Production and supply

Fig. 25: Berseem seed production and sale from IGFRI during last seven years (2009-2015)

10

IGFRI Foot Print in Berseem Seed Realm

Cumulative of last seven years

Seed Production

12

10

8

6

4

2

0

Qu

anti

ty i

n t

onn

es

Seed Sale

Breeder seed TL seed


Breeder seed supplied: Of the total breeder seed (BS) supplied by IGFRI in last seven years, the maximum quantity is of BB-3 variety. It occupies 54% share of total BS supplied followed by Wardan with 41% share (Fig. 27a). Ninety-one percent of the cumulative breeder seed was supplied to government agencies and remaining 9% to private sector comprising milk cooperatives, farmers' unions etc. (Fig. 27b).

Truthfully labelled seed supplied: IGFRI has produced almost equal quantity of TL seed apart from mandated breeder seed. The TL Seed of wardan was produced to the maximum extent (43%) followed by BB-2 and BB-3 (Fig. 28a). The highest quantity of TL seed was supplied to government agencies (71%) followed by private (milk cooperatives, farmer unions etc.) agencies and farmers (Fig. 28b)

Fig. 26: Spread of IGFRI berseem seed in India


Participatory seed production

IGFRI has advocated berseem seed production to farmers and made them entrepreneurs of seed business through participatory mode. Participatory seed production is a system where quality seeds and all the technical support are provided to the seed producers by organized institutes. Competent personals regularly visit and monitor the seed production fields and the seed harvest is bought back by the institute. The seed lots are processed, packed and marketed in the name of the institute. In this case, the institute and not the seed growers will guarantee the seed quality. In an alternate option, the seed growers sold the seed directly to the buyers on their own after proper cleaning. But in that case the seed quality will be ensured by the seed growers themselves. IGFRI has taken up the second one and several success stories of participatory seed production including production of berseem in guava orchard in Richore village of Jhansi, Entrepreneurial development through berseem seed production in 6 villages of Jhansi etc. were documented (Kumar et al., 2013). At present, the Institute is concentrating on initiation of seed production through buy back system particularly in berseem crop. In the starting of present season (Rabi 2016-17) an awareness workshop was conducted for more than 80 farmers from 24 nearby

Fig. 27: (a) Variety wise (b) Agency wise berseem breeder seed supplied by IGFRI in last seven years

Wardan BB-2 BB-3 Private

5%

91%

9%

41%54%

Government

Fig. 28: (a) Variety wise (b) Agency wise berseem TL seed supplied by IGFRI in last seven years

Wardan BB-2 BB-3 Private

10%19%

71%

22%43%

35%

GovernmentFarmer


villages. Following the response from the farmers this year berseem seed production in 10 acres was initiated on participatory buy back mode. The farmers are highly satisfied with the quality of seed they received and the initial income they realized by selling the green fodder till date (Fig. 29).

Fig. 29: Sri Vijay Singh of Baheta village, Jhansi, U.P. in berseem seed production plot


In India berseem is generally grown for green fodder by taking 3-4 cuttings up to the end of February and then the crop is left for seed production. However, seed production depends on many factors starting from soil and climatic factors to time of harvest as well as various social factors.

For the purpose of seed production in berseem the last cut is generally taken on or before last week of February to let it mature in third week of April. Moderately cool climate (but not below 20° C) is good for its growth. Many experiments conducted worldwide suggest that environment has a marked effect on berseem fodder and seed productivity.

An experiment conducted at IGFRI (Vijay et al., 2015) revealed that, there was a marginal reduction in number of flowers per head significant reduction in seed set (Fig. 30a) due to continuous rain during flowering period. This resulted in drastic reduction of seed yield (Fig. 30b). Berseem being an entomophilous crop with honey bee as the major pollinator, the pollination was severely affected due to rain coupled with low temperature and less sunshine hours which hampers the bee visit particularly during the flowering period. Further, continuous rain during flowering period may washout the pollen and thus reducing the availability of pollen per se. Thus, these findings showed that weather conditions particularly rainfall during flowering season plays a pivotal role in seed yield in insect pollinated crops like berseem.

Influence of weather on seed production

Analysis of problems in berseem seed production

Seed production in berseem is not only complicated but a tedious job for seed producers. The transition phase between warm humid season and cold dry season is the crucial period for

11

Problems and Prospects of Seed Production

Varieties

See

d s

etti

ng

per

cen

tage

Wardan

100

80

60

40

20

0JHB-146 BB-3

See

d y

ield

(k

g/h

a)

Seed yield (kg/ha) Normal condition

Berseem variety

Wardan JHB-146 BB-3

1000

800

600

400

200

0

Seed yield (kg/ha) Rainy condition

Fig. 30: Effect of continuous rain on (a) Seed setting (b) seed yield in three berseem varieties

Normal condition Rainy condition


deciding the exact date of sowing. If it is early, then germinated seeds face harsh field conditions and seedling mortality occurs and if the sowing is delayed then green fodder yield and seed yield are reduced. Another major drawback in berseem seed production is the non-willingness of farmers to take up seed production as they are incited by its luxurious growth and milk enhancing capacity and continues to harvest green fodder. Different weeds dominantly found in berseem field poses another threat to its fodder and seed quantity and quality. Particularly the chicory plant which is an objectionable weed is not allowed in berseem seed production plot as per seed certification norms. The chicory infested seed lots fetches lower market price. Marketing of green fodder and seed is another stumbling block for all the fodder crops. Even though there is severe shortage of green fodder, lack of organized marketing channels and storage hampers berseem seed production in large tracts under contract seed farming. However, the profitability due to high BC ratio in this crop attracts the farmers to take up seed production provided they are educated properly. The heavy demand for berseem seed, as discussed earlier, is the driving force for implementation of seed production particularly through participatory mode. By keeping in view of all the positive and negative implications in seed production the SWOT analysis was done for berseem seed production as below.

The large gap between demand and supply of green fodder provides scope for annual high yielding fodder crops like berseem particularly in the peri-urban regions.

Berseem is a multi-cut crop with fast growing nature. It gives ample green fodder yield prior to seed production.

Berseem being a milk enhancing fodder, there is lot of demand for its fodder and seed in India.

It can withstand wide range of soils and is well adapted to the Northern Indian conditions.

Berseem breeding program is active in India leading to release of high yielding varieties.

Berseem seed production is absolutely a profitable entrepreneurship which is still an unexplored area.

Berseem being a legume, enhances the soil nitrogen level and improves soil health by reducing the requirement of external nitrogen inputs.

Berseem is an entomophilous crop and hence can give an extra income to the growers in the form of honey from installed or natural beehives.

Identification of berseem as a phytoremediation crop for heavy metals enhances its scope of utility.

Feasability of mechanization particularly during sowing and harvesting, for large scale production.

Availability of a well-organized research and extension system in forage crops through AICRP on FCU centers in different states, KVKs and Animal Husbandry farms.

Strengths

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l


Weaknesses

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

Berseem occupies the field from November to April excluding any chance of paira or catch crop in the same field.

Seed production mandatorily needs pollinators whose availability further depends on environmental factors thus success in berseem seed production is clearly a function of prevailing weather condition.

Any abruption in climatic variables during flowering or pollination leads to poor seed set resulting in scanty seeds in producers' hand.

Berseem field is very susceptible to weed infestation. Particularly chicory which is an objectionable weed in berseem and needs to be removed completely.

Seed processing of berseem infested with chicory seed requires special machines like specific gravity separator or belt draper.

Low seed multiplication ratio requires large areas under seed production.

Lack of proper marketing for huge quantities of green fodder produced before actual seed production hampers large scale contract farming.

Perishability and quick loss of fresh weight of its green fodder requires immediate disposal.

Lack of proper seed chain resulting in low seed multiplication.

Lack of active involvement by both public and private seed production firms due to absence of organized marketing channels.

Absence of subsidy and other policy interventions for encouraging forage seed producers is presently absent.

Suitability of berseem only to irrigated tracts due to heavy water requirement.

Presence of unorganized production and marketing channels

Static area under fodder crops and severe competition from food crops

Lack of reliable and consistent data on area, seed production etc. in berseem and other fodder crops

Involvement of only four institutes in national breeder seed production programme.

Absence of proper mechanism to channelize the demand into breeder seed indent for strengthening formal seed production and multiplication system.


Opportunities

Threats

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

Berseem is a highly demanded crop in northern, central and eastern India wherever it deems fit.

India is having the largest area under berseem cultivation in the world.

Penetrance of berseem to small farm holder and they are growing it for cut and carry system

Huge quantities of berseem seed is being imported into India every year thus, there is a lot of scope for developing an indigenous berseem seed industry.

Absence of major competitive seed players with own production chain.

Recently single cut berseem varieties are coming in the picture, which will in turn reduce the crop duration and will fit a short duration crop as extra benefit.

If the benefit cost ratio is considered, berseem seed production can provide more benefits than wheat or rice.

Growing importance for fodder crops in the National arena

A highly integrated network of milk cooperatives through NDDB is an opportunity to explore the market for fodder produced during seed production.

Increasing consumption and demand for milk and meat products in the country and upcoming peri-urban dairies are great opportunities for fodder market in near future.

Emphasis on climate change and mitigation strategies provides vast opportunities for green fodder production and utilization.

Increasing interest of farmers in participatory seed production system.

Opportunity to develop forage seed villages with target of self-sufficiency at village level.

The berseem seed market is presently dominated by informal seed system where the source, genuineness and quality of seed lots are not ascertained.

Absence of seed and crop statistics hampers the policy planning for fodder crops in general and berseem in specific.

Lack of technological knowledge penetration to small holders who are key stakeholders

Availability of poor quality seed in the market due unorganized production and supply system.

Climate change and weather aberrations severely effect berseem seed production per se.

Indiscriminate usage of pesticides effects the natural bee populations there by effect the pollination and seed setting in berseem

Rapid urbanization and decreasing cultivable area will have more impact on fodder crops because of their secondary priority compared to food crops.

Competition at global level and market prices at international arena plays a key role in import of fodder seed.


The Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute is striding a lot to innovate new technologies

for the direct benefit of the farmer. In that line, the following technologies were developed for the

enhancement of seed production and productivity in berseem crop.

Need: The productivity of berseem is low under Indian conditions. Field loss due to inflorescence shattering/shedding at maturity was identified as one of the main reasons for low productivity in berseem.

Description: Seed reaches maximum viability at the physiological maturity stage but due to high moisture content, physiologically mature seed is not suitable for further storage. Natural drying on the plant itself enhances the desiccation tolerance in seed and by the time of harvesting maturity the seed moisture content gets reduced and will be suitable for storage. The studies conducted on berseem has resulted in identification of proper physiologically mature stage at which shattering can be minimized. The problem of high moisture in seed can be rectified by leaving the harvested crop in the field itself for drying without any further loss to seed. The morphological indicator was identified as colour change in the heads from green to brown with green stalks. The plants can be harvested at physiological maturity stage by using this indicator. During harvesting, the intertwined crop should be rolled over into a heap as shown in the figure 31. Following this management practice, the productivity was enhanced up to 50% with yield reaching up to 6 q per ha. The quality of the harvested seed was estimated using standard germination test in the lab. The germination was more than 90% which indicates no compromise in the quality of the seed by using this methodology.

Advantages: Filed loss of seed was reduced drastically. Without any additional cost the productivity was doubled. Reduction of volunteer plants in the next season was achieved

Need: To optimize the harvesting time for having higher seed yields

Description : Among several factors the date of last cut for green fodder and sowing time are key factors affecting the seed yield. The growth phases viz., vegetative, flowering and seed setting periods depends up on the date of last cut for green fodder as it affects the overall time available for the plant growth and reproduction. Excessive or poor vegetative growth after leaving the crop

Technology: Harvesting at physiological maturity

Technology: Cutting Management (date of last cut)

12

Technological Interventions for Seed Enhancement


physiological maturityFig. 31: Berseem crop harvested and rolled at

for seed setting adversely affects the seed yield. Further, the date of last cut is region specific and should be in correlation with prevailing weather parameters. The date of last cut in the last week of February (Fig. 32) under Jhansi conditions (UP and MP) will have highest seed yield with greater 100 seed weight and with more number of seeds per head (Yadav et al., 2015). Whereas the date of last cut during March ending or April first week is ideal for Punjab and Haryana region.

Advantages: Increased seed yield and reduced lodging which helps in easy harvesting and also reduces field losses due to seed shattering.

Need: Berseem seeds are very small and often fail to produce healthy crop stand in harsh field condition. Therefore, to combat the biotic and abiotic stresses, it needs an initial boosting of seedling vigour to cope up with the unpredicted conditions in field.

Description: Seed coating was envisaged in order to boost initial seedling vigour (Fig. 33a & 33b). A combination of polymer, nutrient mixture, plant growth regulator (PGR) and insecticides in varying concentration was tested in seed coating of the variety Wardan and BB 3. Seed coating polymer from Incotec private Ltd. was taken as base for coating to hold the plant protectant chemicals at near vicinity of seed and to act as harbour for nutrient mixture (N, P, K, Fe, Mg, Zn, Mn, B, Cu, Mo and Co) and PGR (GA ). Seeds were tested for germination and seed vigour traits 3

as per standard methods of International Seed Testing Association.

Advantages : Seed coating provides enhanced seed vigour and improves targeted delivery of desired supplements at sowing for initial boosting up of the growing seedlings. It reduces the dusting off of the costly chemicals hence reduces health hazards.

Technology: Seed enhancement through coating in berseem

Fig. 32: Differential last cut in berseem

Fig. 33: (a) Uncoated and coated berseem seeds Fig. 33: (b) Effect of coating on seed vigour


Uncoated Coated Control Polymer (P) GR+R+F+N P+GR+R+F+N

Technology: Weed management in seed production plot

Need : In berseem, Cichorium intybus, Cornopus didimus, Spergula arvensis, Chenopodium album, Rumex dentatus and some grass family weeds are commonly found. They not only deteriorate fodder quality but also decreases 25-35% fodder and seed yield. It is a major challenge to control the berseem weeds for enhancement of fodder and seed yield quality.

Description: The seed production plot should be irrigated two to three days before application of weedicide. The weedicide, imazethapyr @ 0.1 kg a.i./ha should be applied 15-20 days after sowing. The spraying should be uniform to cover entire production plot. Care should be taken not to go for spraying during heavy winds to avoid drifting and during cloudy weather as immediate rain will reduce the effect of weedicide. This weedicide significantly controls all types of weeds in berseem crop (Fig.34 a & b)

Advantages: Reduced weed growth resulted in improved seed yield with high quality. The foul smell found in the milk and milk products due to feeding of weeds such as Cornopus didimus along with berseem can be reduced. It increases the green fodder and seed yield of berseem by 18 and 38% respectively compared to zero weed control practices.

Fig. 34: (a). Weedy check; (b). Imazethapyr treated plot

Different other interventions to improve seed yield in berseem

lIrrigation at timely intervals of one week to 10 days, based on soil type, after last cut enhances the seed yield.

lSpray of 2% KNO during panicle initiation stage helps in enhancing the seed yield3

lCrop cut at a stubble height of 10 cm performed better than cut at 5 cm height.

lIt was found that less sugar accumulation in collar region at the time of leaving the crop for seed was one of the causes of low seed yield in berseem. The sugar accumulation in collar region was improved by the spray of superphosphate (2 kg P O /ha) + KNO (4 kg/ha) 2 5 3

which ultimately increased seed yield.

lSeed treatment by soaking the seed in Bavistin + Thiram (0.25% each) solution for 24 h followed by drying proved to be the best controlling method for basal rot (Fusarium oxysporum) which result in better germination and higher seed yield.


Due to higher production potential, succulence, palatability, nutritive value and continuous supply of fodder over a long period of seven months berseem is considered as king of fodder crops. It has the potential to penetrate into the eastern as well as the north eastern region if quality seed of high yielding varieties are promoted in farmers' field in an organised way. India is several high yielding varieties and several technological interventions have been identified to enhance the production and productivity of berseem. But certain bottle necks as discussed in earlier chapters, are to be rectified to have a successful indigenous seed production system in berseem.

Irrigation at timely intervals of one week to 10 days, based on soil type, after last cut enhances the seed yield.

Strengthening of generation system of seed production in berseem.

To make available quality seeds of certified class to the farmers, inclusive approach through convergence of public, private and informal seed system is the need of hour.

Encouragement to private players to take up fodder seed production in a competitive way.

A time bound concrete action oriented road map involving all stakeholders should be prepared and followed to achieve the self-sufficiency in berseem seed.

Creating congenial environment with startup support to come up with business ventures in berseem seed production.

The public sector seed production organizations like NSC, State seed development corporations should be roped in for large scale berseem seed multiplication

Improvement of marketing facilities and development of organized marketing is essential for berseem seed.

Single cut berseem varieties are in the pipeline can reduced the crop duration and will fit a short duration crop as extra benefit in rabi season.

Emphasis is to be directed towards national level programmes to meet forage seed demands.

Exclusive web portal for forage seed with supporting statistical data and marketing facilities.

Development of Fodder Seed Consortium (FSC) with all stakeholders for in-depth interaction among stakeholders for identification of constraints and to get solutions.

A holistic survey by the agriculture and animal husbandry departments in all berseem growing states to record area under berseem cultivation, production and productivity along with details of its seed production and availability is required immediately.

Strategies for increased seed production

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Way Forward


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Improvement in the infrastructure for storage and processing of fodder seeds is to be stressed.

At higher level, the policy issues on incentives for forage seed production and marketing has to be realised by the government to promote large scale seed production program in the farmers' fields.

Mechanism for self-sufficiency may be developed in the form of forage seed villages.

Participatory mode of seed production system is to be encouraged.

Involvement of Farmers' associations/NGOs in formal seed multiplication and production systems exclusively for forage crops is to be focused.

If the benefit cost ratio is considered, berseem seed production can provide more benefit than wheat or rice to farmers. This needs to be emphasized along with development of proper marketing channel for attracting farming community towards berseem seed production. If the expected and proposed target of interventions by various stakeholders are achieved to a satisfactory level, we can look forward for an improved berseem seed production and supply system which will certainly improve the milk availability and quality during winter season and will help the farmers to earn elegant platter.


14

Literature Cited

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BERSEEM: Intricacies of Seed Production in India

Published by : Director, ICAR-IGFRI, JhansiTel.: 0510-2730666, Fax: 0510-2730833E-mail: [email protected]: http://www.igfri.res.in

BERSEEM...Berseem, known as king of fodder crops, is popular among livestock farmers of the world....

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