For the purpose of enhancing the nutritional value of staple crops, biofortification has emerged as a game-changer. Biofortified wheat varieties are bred to have higher levels of essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and protein, which are crucial for addressing malnutrition. Let’s dive into some of the remarkable biofortified wheat varieties that have been developed in India, offering both health benefits and high agricultural yields.
WB 02
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WB 02 is a biofortified wheat variety that stands out for its rich iron and zinc content, with levels at 40.0 ppm and 42.0 ppm, respectively.
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It yields a substantial 51.6 quintals per hectare and reaches maturity in 142 days.
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This variety is particularly well-suited for irrigated, timely sown conditions across various regions, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and parts of Rajasthan.
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Released in 2017 by ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat & Barley Research, Karnal, WB 02 has quickly become a preferred choice for farmers looking to enhance the nutritional value of their wheat crops while maintaining high yields.
HPBW 01
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HPBW 01 is another high-performing biofortified wheat variety, known for its balanced micronutrient profile, containing 40.0 ppm of iron and 40.6 ppm of zinc.
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This variety offers a strong yield of 51.7 quintals per hectare and matures in 141 days.
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It is highly adaptable, thriving in the irrigated, timely sown conditions of North Indian states like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi.
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Released by Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, in 2017, HPBW 01 is an excellent choice for regions requiring wheat with enhanced nutritional qualities.
Pusa Tejas (HI 8759)
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Pusa Tejas (HI 8759) is a remarkable durum wheat variety that not only excels in yield but also in nutritional content.
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It contains 41.1 ppm iron, 42.8 ppm zinc, and an impressive 12.0% protein content.
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With a yield potential of 57.0 quintals per hectare and a short maturity period of 117 days, Pusa Tejas is ideal for irrigated, timely sown conditions in states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Gujarat.
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Developed by ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute and released in 2017, this variety is perfect for those seeking both high productivity and superior nutritional benefits.
Pusa Ujala (HI 1605)
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Pusa Ujala (HI 1605) is a biofortified wheat variety that delivers both high protein content and elevated iron levels, containing 13.0% protein and 43.0 ppm iron.
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It yields around 30.0 quintals per hectare and matures in just 105 days, making it ideal for restricted irrigated conditions in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
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Released in 2017, this variety is particularly beneficial for areas with limited water availability, offering a reliable option for improving nutritional intake in regions with challenging growing conditions.
HD 3171
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HD 3171 is a biofortified wheat variety known for its high zinc content, containing 47.1 ppm.
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It has a yield potential of 28.0 quintals per hectare and matures in 122 days.
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This variety is specifically tailored for rainfed conditions in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and the North Eastern States, making it a valuable crop for areas where irrigation is not feasible.
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Developed by ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute and released in 2017, HD 3171 is an excellent choice for farmers in rainfed regions seeking to enhance the nutritional value of their wheat production.
HI 8777 (Durum)
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HI 8777 is a durum wheat variety that shines with its high micronutrient content, containing 48.7 ppm of iron and 43.6 ppm of zinc.
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Although it has a modest yield of 18.5 quintals per hectare, it matures quickly in just 108 days.
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This variety is well-suited for timely sown rainfed conditions in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
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Released in 2018, HI 8777 is particularly valuable for improving the dietary intake of iron and zinc in regions that rely on durum wheat for their staple food production.
MACS 4028 (Durum)
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MACS 4028 is a durum wheat variety that offers exceptional nutritional benefits, with 46.1 ppm of iron, 40.3 ppm of zinc, and an outstanding 14.7% protein content.
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It yields 19.3 quintals per hectare and matures in just 102 days.
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This variety is best suited for rainfed, low fertility, and timely sown conditions in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
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Developed by Agharkar Research Institute, Pune, and released in 2018, MACS 4028 is an excellent choice for regions needing a substantial nutritional boost in their wheat production.
PBW 752
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PBW 752 is a biofortified wheat variety designed for regions with late sowing conditions.
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It offers a high protein content of 12.4% and yields an impressive 49.7 quintals per hectare.
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With a maturity period of 120 days, this variety is ideal for late sown irrigated conditions in areas like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi.
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Released in 2018, PBW 752 ensures that farmers can achieve high yields and superior grain quality, even when sowing is delayed.
PBW 757
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PBW 757 is another biofortified wheat variety that is particularly suited for very late sown conditions.
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It contains 42.3 ppm of zinc and yields 36.7 quintals per hectare.
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Maturing in just 104 days, this variety is perfect for regions across Northern India where sowing is delayed.
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Released in 2018, PBW 757 provides a reliable option for ensuring that wheat crops still receive ample zinc content, even when planting occurs later in the season.
Karan Vandana (DBW 187)
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Karan Vandana (DBW 187) is a versatile and highly productive biofortified wheat variety enriched with 43.1 ppm of iron.
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Its yield ranges from 48.8 to 75.5 quintals per hectare, depending on the region and soil fertility.
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The maturity period varies across regions, from 120 days in the North Eastern Plains Zone to 158 days in high fertility zones.
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Released in 2018 and again in 2020, Karan Vandana is adaptable across a wide range of regions, from Punjab to the North Eastern States, making it a valuable choice for farmers seeking both high productivity and enhanced nutritional quality.
These biofortified wheat varieties are not just crops—they're a step forward in addressing nutritional deficiencies and improving public health. By choosing these varieties, farmers can contribute to a healthier population while also enjoying high yields and robust crops. Whether you're in Punjab or Karnataka, there's a biofortified wheat variety that's perfect for your field and your nutritional goals.
