Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) has long been a crucial staple in arid and semi-arid regions of India, thanks to its exceptional ability to withstand drought and provide both nutritional grain and valuable fodder. Among the improved varieties developed in recent years, Pusa Composite 701 has emerged as a standout option for farmers seeking better yields, robust disease resistance, and greater adaptability.
Developed by the Division of Genetics at the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, Pusa Composite 701 was identified in 2015 and officially released in 2016 (Notification No. S.O. 3540(E)). This variety was bred specifically for Zone A, which includes major pearl millet-growing states such as Rajasthan, Haryana, Western Gujarat, and parts of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Delhi.
A Dual-Purpose Solution for Farmers
One of the key strengths of Pusa Composite 701 is its dual-purpose nature, offering both high-quality grain and excellent stover for fodder. On average, it delivers grain yields of around 2.3 tonnes per hectare, with improvements ranging from 6% to over 25% compared to traditional checks. This makes it a reliable choice for farmers who depend not only on grain output but also on stover for livestock feeding.
The stover from Pusa Composite 701 is noted for its good volume and nutritional quality, which is especially valuable in mixed farming systems where livestock play a central role.
Disease Resistance for Stable Production
Pusa Composite 701 has been bred with a strong emphasis on disease resistance, particularly against downy mildew and blast, two of the most destructive diseases affecting pearl millet. By significantly reducing the risk of crop loss from fungal infections, this variety helps farmers maintain more stable yields with less reliance on chemical fungicides. This not only cuts input costs but also supports more sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices.
Adaptability and Agronomic Advantages
With a maturity period of just 80 days, Pusa Composite 701 fits well into timely sown, rainfed cropping systems and allows for efficient land use and crop rotation. It performs reliably under limited irrigation, making it well-suited for areas where water availability is variable or constrained.
Morphologically, it is a medium-statured plant, which makes field management easier. The compact, cylindrical earheads contribute to better grain density and harvest efficiency. It also features yellow anthers, which help in identifying the variety in the field, and its grey-brown, globular grains are appreciated for their uniformity and market value.
A Step Toward Sustainable Agriculture
Beyond productivity, Pusa Composite 701 plays a role in advancing sustainable agricultural practices. Its strong disease resistance reduces the need for chemical treatments, while its dual-purpose use supports food and fodder security. For farmers in challenging agro-climatic zones, this variety offers a way to enhance profitability while reducing environmental impact.
As a result, Pusa Composite 701 is not just a promising variety for the present—it also represents a step forward in building resilient, integrated farming systems for the future.
