World’s First ‘Three-Way’ Drought-Resistant Pearl Millet Developed, Thrives Even in Low-Rainfall Areas

Jaipur, Rajasthan: Farmers in Rajasthan’s low-rainfall regions have a reason to cheer. Scientists at the Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Durgapura, in collaboration with the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), have developed the world’s first ‘three-way’ drought-resistant hybrid pearl millet, named RHB 273. The new variety promises higher yields and better nutrition even under limited water conditions.

Higher Yield and Faster Harvest

During three years of trials, RHB 273 produced 22–25 quintals per hectare, 13–28% higher than existing pearl millet varieties. The crop matures in just 75–76 days, allowing farmers to save time and resources. Being a hybrid, it provides both grain and high-quality fodder, yielding 48–50 quintals per hectare of straw.

Suitable for Extremely Dry Regions

Recently, Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan released 184 advanced varieties of 25 crops nationwide. RHB 273 has been notified for areas in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana where annual rainfall is below 400 mm, offering significant benefits to farmers in these arid regions.

Disease Resistance and Enhanced Nutrition

Developed under the All India Coordinated Pearl Millet Improvement Project in Durgapura, RHB 273 is highly resistant to major pearl millet diseases such as downy mildew and blast. Nutritionally, it contains 10.5% protein, 44 ppm iron, and 37 ppm zinc, making it a healthy option for both human consumption and livestock feed.

Low Seed Production Cost and Bird-Proof Traits

The hybrid’s unique floral fibers protect the crop from bird damage, and its three-way hybrid nature reduces seed production costs, further benefiting farmers. Approximately 3–3.5 lakh hectares in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat fall in the less-than-400 mm rainfall category, where pearl millet productivity is about 35% below the national average. The introduction of RHB 273 is expected to significantly boost production in these regions.