Sesame, known for its high oil content and nutritional value, is a vital oilseed crop that holds significant promise for both domestic use and export markets. Its adaptability to varied climates makes it an excellent fit for many Indian states, including Uttar Pradesh. However, sesame cultivation in the region faces several challenges, such as erratic rainfall, declining soil fertility, and pest and disease pressures.
Despite these hurdles, the adoption of high-yielding varieties and improved agronomic practices can substantially enhance sesame productivity, oil quality, and profitability for farmers in the state.
Recommended Sesame Varieties for Uttar Pradesh
Several improved sesame varieties have been developed to suit the agro-climatic conditions of Uttar Pradesh. These varieties not only offer higher yields and better oil content but also demonstrate resistance to major diseases, making them ideal for local farming systems.
T-78
Released in 1995, T-78 is a white-seeded variety that matures in about 85–90 days. It produces 650–700 kg/ha of seed with an oil content ranging from 46–50%. This variety is known for its resistance to lodging and leaf curl disease, making it reliable under local conditions.
Sekhar
A 2001 release, Sekhar is another white-seeded variety that yields between 700–800 kg/ha and has an oil content of 50–52%. It exhibits strong resistance to multiple diseases including leaf curl, powdery mildew, Macrophomina, and Phytophthora blight. Its broad adaptability makes it well-suited for cultivation across Uttar Pradesh.
Pragati
Developed in 2002, Pragati offers a similar seed yield (700–750 kg/ha) and oil content (48–52%) as Sekhar. Like Sekhar, it is white-seeded and displays strong disease resistance, making it a dependable option for farmers in the region.
Tarun
Tarun, released in 2005, produces 700–800 kg/ha of seed and has the highest oil content among these varieties at 52–53%. It matures slightly later (90–95 days) and offers moderate disease resistance. This variety is especially suited to farmers seeking higher oil yields.
Best Agronomic Practices for Sesame Cultivation
To unlock the full potential of these improved varieties, it is essential to follow scientifically-backed agronomic practices that address local climatic and soil challenges.
Land Preparation
Deep plowing during the summer helps improve soil aeration. This should be followed by thorough harrowing and leveling of the field to ensure fine tilth and prevent waterlogging. Applying 5–10 tons of well-decomposed farmyard manure per hectare improves soil structure and fertility.
Sowing Period and Technique
The ideal sowing window for sesame in the Kharif season is the second fortnight of July. A seed rate of 5 kg/ha is recommended for broadcasting, while 2.5–3 kg/ha works well for line sowing. For optimal plant spacing, maintain 30 x 15 cm or 45 x 10 cm between plants. Seed treatment with Thiram and Carbendazim or Trichoderma viride is essential to prevent early fungal infections.
Nutrient Management
Balanced fertilization is key to high productivity. For rainfed conditions, apply 40 kg of nitrogen, 20 kg of phosphorus, and 15–20 kg of sulfur per hectare. In irrigated fields, add 20 kg of potassium as well. Split nitrogen application—half at sowing and half at the flowering stage (30–35 days after sowing)—supports healthy crop growth.
Weed Control
Weeds can severely limit sesame yield, particularly in the early growth stages. Manual weeding should be done twice—once at 15–20 days and again at 30–35 days after sowing. For chemical control, Pendimethalin at 1 kg active ingredient per hectare can be used as a pre-emergence herbicide.
Irrigation Strategy
Although sesame is primarily rainfed, protective irrigation is beneficial, especially during flowering and capsule formation. However, waterlogging must be strictly avoided, as sesame is highly sensitive to excess moisture.
Pest and Disease Management
Common pests include leaf roller, capsule borer, gall fly, and jassids, while key diseases are Phytophthora blight, Macrophomina root rot, bacterial leaf spot, powdery mildew, and phyllody. Use of disease-resistant varieties and timely application of recommended pesticides and fungicides are critical for crop health.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling
Timely harvesting is crucial to avoid seed shattering. Harvest the crop when the bottom capsules turn lemon yellow and the leaves begin to droop. After cutting, plants should be thoroughly dried before threshing to preserve seed quality. Proper post-harvest care enhances market value and storage life.
Quality Attributes of Leading Sesame Varieties in Uttar Pradesh
|
Variety |
Seed Yield (kg/ha) |
Oil Content (%) |
Days to Maturity |
Salient Features |
|
T-78 |
650-700 |
46-50 |
85-90 |
White seeds, tolerant to lodging and leaf curl disease |
|
Sekhar |
700-800 |
50-52 |
85-90 |
White seeds, tolerant to leaf curl, powdery mildew, Macrophomina, and Phytophthora blight |
|
Pragati |
700-750 |
48-52 |
85-90 |
White seeds, tolerant to leaf curl, powdery mildew, Macrophomina, and Phytophthora blight |
|
Tarun |
700-800 |
52-53 |
90-95 |
White seeds, moderately resistant to diseases |
Sesame cultivation in Uttar Pradesh can be significantly improved through the selection of high-performing varieties like Sekhar, Pragati, and Tarun, combined with best agronomic practices tailored to the region’s conditions. Scientific management of soil fertility, water, pests, and diseases plays a pivotal role in maximizing productivity and oil quality.
As global demand for premium sesame oil continues to rise, farmers in Uttar Pradesh stand to gain substantially by modernizing their cultivation techniques. With the right approach, sesame can emerge as a highly profitable and sustainable crop for the state's agricultural economy.
