Wheat in India

Wheat in India

News: Recently, the Union Government has imposed limits on stock of wheat that can be held by traders, wholesalers, retailers, big chain retailers and processors.

What need was felt for the move?
 Owing to high heat and Climate affecting crops - Major wheat producers such as Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Haryana experiencing strong thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds alongside hailstorms., which is affecting production and quality of wheat crops.
 To withstand the potential effects of Upcoming EL Nino year - As the year 2023-24 has expected to be an EL Nino year, there may be chances of drought and reduced rainfall, affecting agriculture in India.

Wheat Cultivation in India:
 Wheat requires 12°-25°C temperature. High temperature is harmful for the cultivation of wheat.
 The best wheat is produced in areas favored with cool, moist weather during the major portion of the growing period followed by dry, warm weather to enable the grain to ripen properly.
 25-100 cm rainfall is required for wheat cultivation. Excessive rainfall is not suitable as it may cause fungal diseases.
 Wheat can grow on a variety of soils, but well-drained loamy to clayey soils are preferred. The soil should be fertile and rich in organic matter. The optimum soil pH is 6.5-8.5.
 Major wheat-growing states in India are Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar and Gujarat.
 Important Wheat variety in India – Sharbati Gehu (Best variety in India), Chandosi Gehu, Pusa Tejas, Pusa Malawi, Pusha Yashaswi.
 Durum Wheat - Hard wheat is cultivated in clayey soil and is highly sought after for its physical characteristics. Its high gluten strength and uniform golden color make it ideal for bread making and pasta preparation.

Which are the common Fungal diseases affecting Wheat crop?
 Rusts (caused by Puccinia Fungi), Powdery mildew (Fungus Blumeria graminis), Fusarium head blight, Wheat blast, tan spot, Septoria leaf blotch, root rot etc.
Source – ICAR, Indian Express