Overview of hybrid pigeonpea seed production & its on farm validation

Although the green revolution saved millions from hunger but it is also considered responsible for pushing pulses in the corner as far as their research and development is concerned, resulting in the stagnation of production and productivity. Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.) also suffered during this phase and its decade-old productivity stagnation has now become a serious concern. Releasing the first ever commercial pigeonpea hybrid represents a breakthrough towards genetic enhancement of yield. This note briefly discusses the major accomplishments achieved in breeding hybrids and strategies to sustain this momentum in the next decade.To enhance the adoption of these hybrids, it is necessary that quality hybrid seed is produced in large quantities and made available to the farmers at reasonable cost.The hybrid seed technology is profitable and easy to adopt. However, for its sustainability and to understand the production constraints, it was found necessary to validate this technology in famers' fields under diverse environments.