Ayodhya, February 7, 2026: Acharya Narendra Dev University of Agriculture and Technology (ND University) in Ayodhya has developed a new and advanced variety of foreign pumpkin, named ‘Chhappan Pumpkin’, which is rich in cancer-fighting properties and holds the potential to significantly increase farmers’ income.
The new variety, developed by the Department of Vegetable Science, is designed for high yield in small spaces and off-season cultivation. The university plans to secure approval from the Vegetable Variety Release Committee (SVRC) this year and release it as a major vegetable crop for the Purvanchal region.
High Yield in Limited Space
Dr. Aastik Jha, Assistant Professor leading the research, explained that the Chhappan Pumpkin differs significantly from conventional pumpkins. It is vine-free, spreads only over 1.5 feet of land, and each plant produces 4 to 5 fruits weighing around 1 kg each. The fruits are elongated, making them highly demanded in the market.
Nutritional and Medicinal Benefits
Research shows that the Chhappan Pumpkin contains potassium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C, along with antioxidants that help protect the body against serious diseases. Its cancer-fighting properties make it particularly valuable for health-conscious consumers.
Early Harvest and Off-Season Advantage
The pumpkin is sown in October and begins fruiting in 70 days, making it a suitable crop for winters when other pumpkins are scarce in the market. Its high yield in a small area ensures better profitability for farmers.
Three Years of Dedicated Research
Dr. Jha noted that over the past three years, around 50 advanced germplasm lines have been developed, featuring more fruits per plant, higher yield, and varied fruit colors. Since joining the university in 2022, his focus has been on developing new vegetable varieties. Research is also ongoing on Clove Bean and Pankhi Bean from Kerala, which are known for medicinal properties beneficial in controlling high cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes.
With this innovation, ND University aims to provide farmers with profitable, healthy, and market-ready crops, while contributing to sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
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