Lead & Verification Functions

The Directorate of Research works through seven research units covering three agro-climatic zones of Rajasthan: RARI Durgapura (Jaipur), two Agricultural Research Stations at Fatehpur-Shekhawati and Navgaon, and four Sub-stations at Diggi, Gonera, Kumher and Tabiji.

• RARI, Jaipur (Zone IIIA): Rajasthan Agriculture Research Institution (RARI) at Jaipur is the main research station of the University well equipped with laboratory and field facilities.The institute has following functions.

Lead Functions

Development of varieties and technologies for yield maximization in irrigated wheat, barley, irrigated/rainfed chickpea, lentil, pea, green gram, cowpea, pearlmillet, groundnut, cluster bean and vegetables etc.

Verification functions

The institute is also actively engaged in the verification functions of irrigated mustard, pigeon pea, management of salt affected soils and water, in-situ moisture conservation, testing and modification of farm implements, water management, forage crops and integrated pest management.

Conduct research in the following areas

• Integrated farming system (IFS)
• Integrated nutrient management including organic farming, nutrient recycling and micro nutrient research
• Integrated Arthropods pest sand termite management
• Pesticide residue analysis and minimization of pesticides in farm produce
• Seed technology research for quality seed production.
• Post harvest technology leading to processing, value addition, storage and market ability of farm produces
• Development of biological pest control modules for important crops of the state
• Management of nematode menace in cereals, pulse sand vegetables
• Weed research leading to reduce weed strength in major crops.
• Protected cultivation of vegetables through green house and poly houses.
• Production of disease free and high yielding varieties of seedling for the farmers and local peoples.
• Production of the floriculture is rose and chrysanthemum for the farmers.
• High quality fruit plants production for the farmers.
• Capacity building of the farmers for mushroom cultivation.
• Analysis of soil and water sample of farmers, researcher and otheragencies.
• Straw berry and otherplants production throught issue culture the farmers and ultimately enhancing the straw berry cultivation in Rajasthan.
• Articulation of Hi-Tech cultivation practices with modern irrigation techniques and tools.

ARS, Navgaon (ZoneIIIB)

Agricultural Research Station, Navgaon is situated in the Alwar district of Rajasthan. The station has following functions.

Lead Functions

Rapeseed-Mustard (Irrigated and Rainfed), reclamation and management of problematic soils, crop cultivation with mineralized water.

Verification Functions

Pearl millet, pigeonpea, barley, wheat, clusterbean, chickpea, fieldpea, in-situ moisture conservation, testing and modification of farm implements.

ARS, Fatehpur (ZoneIIA)

The station is conducting research on most of the crops, fruits, vegetables and other crops suitable for this region.

ARS, Fatehpur-Shekhawati, Sikar

Rajasthan state has been divided into five major agroclimatic zones. Each zone is further sub divided into two sub-zones. Thus, there are ten agroclimatic zones in all under National Agricultural Research, Education and Extension (NAREE) erstwhile National Agricultural Research Project (NARP) launched in the state in 1981. The zones have been formed on the basis of differences in physiography, rainfall, soil types, availability of irrigation water and existing cropping pattern. The Agricultural Research Station (ARS), Fatehpur-Shekhawati is the research station of the Agroclimatic Zone IIA which is designated as Transitional Plain of Inland Drainage. The ARS is situated between 27⁰ 57’ 04.01" N to 27⁰ 55’ 43.59" N latitude and 74⁰ 58’ 47.47" E to 74⁰ 59’ 45.97" E longitude with an altitude of 321 to 330 meters above mean sea level. The zone covers five districts namely Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Nagaur, Didwana-Kuchaman, and Eastern part of Churu district.

The station was established in April, 1984. The station is located at 7 km from Fatehpur-Shekhawati on Jaipur-Bikaner national highway (NH-52) at a road distance of 45 km from Sikar district headquarter and 160 km from Jaipur. The sub-station of this zone was established at Nagaur during NARP-II phase, which has come to function from December, 1993. The zone is bordered by Haryana state, Kotputli-Bahror, Jaipur, Ajmer, Beawar, Jodhpur, Phalodi, Bikaner and Hanumangarh districts. The geographical area of the zone is about 36.9 lakh hectares, which represents 10.6 per cent of the total area of the state. The zone is spread over 13 tehsils (Sikar, Sikar Rural, Fatehpur-Shekhawati, Laxmangarh, Dataramgarh, Dhod, Khandela, Ramgarh-Shekhawati, Reengus, Neem Ka Thana, Patan, Sri Madhopur and Nechhwa) of Sikar district, 12 tehsils (Jhunjhunu, Malsisar, Chirawa, Buhana, Nawalgarh, Surajgarh, Mandawa, Pilani, Gudhagorji, Udaipurwati, Khetri and Bissau) of Jhunjhunu district, 09 tehsils (Nagaur, Mundwa, Kheenvsar, Jayal, Merta, Degana, Riyanbari, Deh and Sanjoo) of Nagaur district, 08 tehsils (Didwana, Ladnu, Molasar, Chhoti Khatu, Kuchaman City, Makrana, Parbatsar and Nawa) of Didwana-Kuchaman district and 04 tehsils (Churu, Rajgarh, Taranagar and Siddhmukh) of Churu district.

Climate and Soil

The climate of the region ranges from arid to semi-arid with an average rainfall of about 300-350 mm, which is mainly received in the month of July and August. The temperature goes as high as 48 ^oC in summers and as low as –5.2 °C in winters. Because of the insufficient and uneven distribution of rain, frequent failure of crops is common and consequently resulting in to famine. In general, the soils of Zone IIA are desert soils. However, according to USDA soil classification (1975), the soils of this region fall in the category of Entisols and Aridisols wherein the soils are not dominated by montmorillonite clay and are usually dry. The soils are varying from sandy to loam. The nitrogen status of soil is low (<200 kg/ha) in the entire zone while that of phosphorous is low (20-25 kg/ha). The status of potash is also medium to high (100-250 kg/ha) in the zone.

Water, the most crucial and limited resource of this zone is mainly available as ground water, of which major part (>85%) is brackish. The prevailing climatic conditions are very harsh, that limits the agricultural productivity of the zone. Due to the limited water availability, dry land agriculture is pre-dominantly practiced in kharif season by taking the main crops like pearl millet, moong bean, moth bean, cluster bean and sesame. As the rainfall pattern in the region is highly erratic and scanty, the sustainability of arid/semi-arid agricultural production system is weak, hence becoming challenging.

On the other hand, soil degradation is also a serious problem and mainly associated with soil erosion and shifting sand dunes when cover green is absent or destroyed completely. Rectification of this situation calls for steps to improve the green cover. In cultivated lands of zone under dry land cropping system, soil moisture and humidity are the limiting factor to produce agricultural crops. The high-speed winds result in to exhortation of soil moisture which in turn creates moisture stress particularly at dough stage of crop. The trees besides providing food, fodder, timber etc. in such areas, can also act as a protector against winds and maintain optimum soil moisture conditions at the optimum crop growth.

Animals are the important source of income of rural population and extensively support the rural economy. However, the zone frequently encountered with acute shortage of fodder, leading to the problem of migration of cattle herds and sheep to other parts of the country. Under uncultivable/wastelands, the silvi-pasture with top fed/fuel trees of multiple uses in combination with herbaceous pasture plants largely of perennial nature and legumes are most desirable. The plantation of trees on wastelands may be taken up in the form of two-tier system i.e. along with grasses and legumes. This system which utilizes the uncultivable lands may be widely accepted and also assumes economic importance and also serve the population by providing pasturage, fuel wood, and conserved hay for the period of scarcity.

Soil and Water Quality Status

Soil moisture

Chemical composition of soil:

Soil physical properties

Physio-chemical properties of irrigation water

Vision

The ARS is to envisage a vision, to develop technologies that can fit well under limited moisture, high temperature, and low nutrient availability mainly due to low soil organic carbon, biotic and abiotic stresses. In general, ARS, Fatehpur-Shekhawati is to work for delivering technologies for agricultural sustainability and livelihood security of farmers belonging to Agroclimatic Zone IIA (Transitional plain of inland drainage).

Objectives

• To conduct the basic, strategic, need based and area specific applied research in agriculture (both rainfed and irrigated) and other allied fields to develop technologies relevant to farming community of the zone for livelihood security and high farm income.
• To reach at an advancement level in learning and conducting research.
• To increase the quality, quantity and productivity of prominent crops cultivated in the zone and value addition for doubling the farmers’ income in the zone.
• To help and provide the technical guidance to the department of agriculture for development of agriculture and allied sector in the zone.
• To develop the collaborative linkages with state agriculture universities, government departments, government undertakings, and national & international organizations for better research output.
• Technologies and capacity building of scientific staff.

Mandates

The revised lead and verification functions assigned to this zone under SDP of ADP, as are follows:-

Lead function

• Pearl millet, cluster bean and pulses in kharif season
• Wheat, mustard and barley in rabi season
• Agroforestry and other farming systems
• In-situ moisture conservation
• Water and soil management
• Crop physiology including salt tolerance and heat tolerance research prospectus
• Nursery raising of horticulture and agroforestry
• Biological control of insect-pests and diseases
• Integrated nutrient management

Verification function

• Chickpea, fenugreek, fennel, moong bean, cowpea, sesame, watermelon and forage crops
• Management of salt affected soils and water
• Sprinkler irrigation

Achievements

The scientists of ARS, Fatehpur-Shekhawati have developed 119 technologies (protection as well as production) on various aspects of agroforestry, soil and water conservation, stress management and rain water management during 2013 to 2025. Besides package of practices for profitable cultivation of major crops like pearl millet, cluster bean, moth bean, kharif pulses, chickpea, mustard and drought management technologies have also been conducted at this station. Recently, research work has been initiated on organic farming and stress agriculture at this station. The adoptions of these production and protection technologies with the help of dimension of agriculture have shown visible outputs on increase in crop production and economic benefit to the farmer up to 25-30 percent in last ten years.

Future Thrust Areas

Short term

• Agro-technology for organic farming in mandate crops.
• Development of farming system modules for raising economic status of farmers.
• Development of in–situ moisture conservation technologies.
• Enhancement of medicinal plant cultivation.
• Enhancement of seed production of mandate crops with particular emphasis on cluster bean, kharif pulses and barley.
• Development of bio-agents for various pest control.
• Isolation of pheromones for eco-friendly pest management.
• Management of insect-pests and diseases through eco-friendly techniques and the use of bio-pesticides/herbal products.
• Suitable storage technologies for reducing losses.
• Development of package of practice for organic farming in different crops.
• Post-harvest technology for value additions.

Long term

• Development of frost tolerant varieties of mustard and barley.
• Development of heat and moisture tolerance in barley, fenugreek, cluster bean and kharif pulses.
• Development of varieties in mandate crops resistant to various insect pests and diseases.
• Development of high quality malt as well as dual purpose (grain and fodder) varieties in barley.
• Development of high quality gum containing varieties in cluster bean.

AICRP on Agroforestry

Introduction

Keeping in view the paramount importance of Agroforestry in the zone, the systematic research work was started during May 1984 with the establishment of All India Coordinated Research Project on Agroforestry. The emphasis was aimed to the research activities restricted to the major components of Agroforestry viz. Agri-silviculture, Silvi-pasture, multipurpose tree species, Agri-horticulture etc.

Research mandates

• Diagnostic and design survey.
• Collection and evaluation of promising tree species/cultivars of fuel/fodder and small timber (MPTs).
• Studies on management practices of agroforestry systems.

Objectives

• Collection and evaluation of various multipurpose tree species for their survival and growth in Rajasthan state.
• To conduct diagnostic survey of existing agroforestry system of Rajasthan state and their evaluation.
• To evaluate the ecologically and economically feasible agroforestry system over existing monoculture cropping system.
• To evaluate the silvi-pasture system in the region.

Ongoing research experiments

• Diagnostic survey and design.
• Growth performance of Azadirachta indica (Neem), T. undulata and P. cineraria in systematic field design parallel.
• Performance of different multi-purpose tree species (MPTs) in block plantations system.
• Intercropping experiment with H. binata and open field for recommendation in PoP.
• Intercropping experiment with P. cineraria and open field for recommendation in PoP.
• Growth performance of Hardwickia binata in agri-silviculture system in different row spacing.
• Study the comparison on growth, biomass and pod production between spine less P. cineraria and P. cineraria trees in hot arid region.
• Studies on A. excelsa based agri-silviculture system under rainfed conditions.
• Long term effect of different agro-forestry systems on dynamics of physicochemical properties of soil under agro-climatic condition of Zone IIA.
• Effect of Prosopis cineraria plantation on nutrient status of typic torripsamments under agroforestry based cropping system of western Rajasthan.
• Effect of Hardwickia binata plantation on nutrient status of typic torripsamments under agroforestry based cropping system of western Rajasthan.
• Effect of different agro-forestry systems on biomass and carbon stock in arid zone of Rajasthan.
• Survey, selection of CPT’s and collection of seeds of Ailanthus excelsa under arid and semi-arid region of Rajasthan.
• Survey, collection and evaluation of elite germplasm of Ker (Capparis decidua) under arid and semi-arid region of Rajasthan.
• Effect of time of cutting and IBA application on propagation of Ker (Capparis decidua).
• Effect of time of seed sowing on germination behaviour of Ker (Capparis decidua).

RARI, Durgapura, Jaipur

Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute (RARI), Durgapura, Jaipur came into existence as an institute in the year 2013, which is a premier institution of agricultural research and education catering the research needs of Rajasthan. Originally it was an Agricultural Research Station (ARS) and a constituent research station of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner, Jaipur. Since its inception in 1943 it has come a long way, overcoming an era of national food deficits to that of self-sufficiency with a surplus food-grains reserve. This research station was initially under the control of the state government. In 1975, National Commission on Agriculture recommended that all fundamental and applied research in agriculture and applied sciences should be undertaken by the Agricultural Universities. In pursuance of this recommendation, Government of Rajasthan released a notification Order No. Agr/Gr.I/74 dated 27.12.1975, in which all the research activities were transferred from the agriculture department to the University of Udaipur, a multi-faculty university. In the same notification, it was mentioned that the status and special character of Agricultural Research Station, Durgapura should be maintained. This notification also directed that the Agricultural Research Station, Durgapura be established in such a way that, alongside research, post-graduate education could also be imparted to students, enabling both teaching and research activities to be conducted simultaneously at this station.

Later, in 1987, the first Agricultural University in the state was established with its main campus at Bikaner and this Agricultural Research Station, Durgapura thus came under the jurisdiction of that University, presently known as the Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner (erstwhile Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner). In pursuance to the above mentioned notification, many research trials under different Indian Council of Agricultural Research – All India Coordinated Research Projects (ICAR-AICRP) and All India Network Projects (AINP) were started at this station.

With the inception of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner on September 14^th, 2013 by the Government of Rajasthan, this station came under the jurisdiction of SKNAU, Jobner. RARI campus is spread in the area of more than 60 hectares and has played leading role in the development of new varieties and technologies. Three Agricultural Research Sub Stations (Diggi, Gonera and Tabiji) comes under the administrative jurisdiction of this institute, whereas five KVKs (Ajmer, Banasthali, Chomu, Dausa and Kotputli) get technical information from this institute for disseminating the same to the farmers. The institute has state of art research facilities supported with classic laboratories, administrative buildings and other infrastructures to carry out location specific research. The vision of this institute is to focus on basic and applied research orienting towards livelihood security of farmers and also to emphasize research on participatory on-farm and on-station research on contemporary issues for increasing agricultural productivity and food security, besides protecting the environment of the region. The valuable contributions made by the agricultural scientists of this pioneer research institute have helped the nation in maintaining the balance between its population growth and agricultural production.

Ongoing Projects/Schemes

Presently, this premier institute is holding 12 Indian Council of Agricultural Research – All India Coordinated Research Projects (AICRP) and All India Network Projects (AINP); 01 Gramin Krishi Mausam Seva (GKMS) project established by the India Meteorological Department, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India; 01 Ad-hoc projects and around 20 private testing projects funded by esteemed organizations. 141 varieties have been released from this institute since inception, and 213 production and protection technologies for different crops have been developed by this institute from 2013 to 2025 and included in the package of practices of Agroclimatic Zone IIIA of Rajasthan. Release of bio-fortified varieties of pearl millet adds another feather to the glory of this prestigious institute. The institute becomes the leader in the barley breeding programme at national level. Development of Nanogel formulation of Methoxy Benzene pheromone trap for managing white grub is an innovative achievement of this institute. This institute has established Agriculture Technology Knowledge Centre, Weed Museum and Insect Museum, to demonstrate the advanced technologies and innovations in the field of agriculture and allied sector. This institute have the laboratory facilities of pesticide residue, seed technology, meteorology, microbiology, soil science, plant pathology and nematology.

The station is also having seed hubs of pulses and groundnut. The research farm of RARI is also actively involved in the seed production of different varieties of many crops. Besides research, teaching is another important mandate of the institute. The institute offer post-graduation courses in 7 subjects (Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Soil Science, Entomology, Plant Pathology, Nematology and Horticulture) and Ph.D. in 6 subjects (Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Plant Physiology, Entomology, Plant Pathology and Horticulture).

All India Coordinated Research Project on Wheat and Barley

The coordinated wheat research program was initiated in 1971–72, adopting a multi-disciplinary approach that brought together expertise in plant breeding, pathology, agronomy, and physiology. The programme focused on the development of high-yielding wheat varieties with resistance to major biotic stresses such as rusts (leaf, stem, and stripe) and cereal cyst nematodes, which were significant yield-reducing factors in the region. Additionally, considerable emphasis was placed on breeding for tolerance to abiotic stresses, including heat, drought, salinity, and alkalinity, to ensure stable production under the diverse and often harsh agro-climatic conditions of Rajasthan and similar regions. Over time, this coordinated effort not only enhanced the productivity and resilience of wheat but also contributed to sustainable agricultural practices and food security in the state and beyond.

Barley research was initiated in 1965–66, under the "All India Coordinated Barley Improvement Project" with priorities evolving to meet the country’s changing needs. With rising demand from the food, feed, fodder, and malt industries, the centre revised its objectives to develop suitable barley varieties, aligning research with emerging market requirements. Currently, Durgapura is the lead research centre for barley in India, as evidenced by its significant contributions to national barley research. The centre works on all aspects of barley improvement, including the development of high-yielding and quality food, feed, fodder, and malting barley varieties. It is also recognized as a leader in developing barley suited to problematic conditions, such as saline, alkaline, and marginal soils.

Wheat Varieties Developed

The centre has developed 28 wheat varieties for various production conditions as follows:

Milestone Wheat Varieties of the Centre

The wheat variety Raj 4037, released and notified by the Central Varietal Release Committee (CVRC) in 2004, remains one of the most popular choices among farmers to this day due to its wide adaptability and tolerance to terminal heat.

Barley Varieties Developed

The centre has developed 30 barley varieties for various production conditions as follows:

Milestone Barley Varieties of the Centre

The barley variety RD 2035 demonstrated the highest yield potential in the country, reaching approximately 119 quintals per hectare. This variety was released and notified by the Central Varietal Release Committee (CVRC) in 1994 and remains one of the most popular choices among farmers to this day.

All India Coordinated Research Project on Chickpea

The AICRP on Chickpea was started in 2001. Before 2001, chickpea research was a small part of the All India Pulse Improvement Project which was started in April, 1976 at Durgapura.

Varieties/Hybrids Released

Following 18 varieties of chickpea released after establishment of AICRP Chickpea centre at RARI, Durgapura (Jaipur):

RSG-888 (ANUBHAV), CSJD-884 (AKASH), RSGK-6 (ASAR), RSG-931 (ANVITA), RSG-973 (ABHA), RSG-807 (ABHAR), RSG-895 (ARPITA), RSG-945 (ASHA), RSG-963 (AADHAR), RSG-896 (ARPAN), RSG-902 (ARUNA), RSG-991 (ARPANA), RSG-974 (ABHILASHA), CSJK-21 (ANAND), CSJK-6 (ANJALI), CSJ-515 (AMAN), CSJK-174 (Karan Kabuli 4) and RSGD-1155 (Karan Chana 20)

Milestone Varieties/Technologies

AICRP (Chickpea), Durgapura developed Fusarium wilt (FW) resistant variety viz., CSJ 515 and RSG 991 which help to reduce losses due to disease and strengthen chickpea yield. Variety RSG 807 showed tolerance to Aschochyta blight (AB). Dry root rot (DRR) is the major problem in rainfed situations. Centre variety RSG 974 and CSJ 515 possesses tolerance to DRR. Durgapura also developed drought tolerant variety RSG 973 and RSG 888 for rainfed conditions, RSG 896 for salinity tolerance, RSG 963 for late sown conditions and RSG 974 for frost tolerance to acclimatize the climate resilient conditions of Rajasthan as well as India.

Impact of the Project

Since its inception in 2001-02, when Rajasthan’s chickpea area and production were just 9.70 lakh ha and 7.36 lakh tonnes, the AICRP Chickpea Centre at Durgapura has played a transformative role. With ICAR support, the centre developed improved varieties, production and protection technologies, and ensured quality seed availability. As a result, by 2024-25, chickpea area increased to 20.47 lakh ha, production to 25.15 lakh tonnes, and productivity rose by 40% (from 759 kg/ha to 1230 kg/ha).

All India Coordinated Research Project on Pearl Millet

The state till 1976 had a very meagre financial allocation and staff under non-plan project for bajra improvement. In order to strengthen research on this crop, the ICAR sanctioned, All India Coordinated Pearl Millet Improvement Project (AICPMIP) which started functioning in the year 1976 at ARS (now RARI), Durgapura. It functions under the umbrella of AICRP on Pearl Millet, initially launched in 1965 as AICMIP by ICAR to enhance millet research. The headquarters of AICPMIP is at Jodhpur.

Mandate of the centre

• Collection, maintenance and evaluation of indigenous and exotic Germplasm.
• Development of dual purpose hybrids/composites with early to medium maturity, downy mildew resistance and drought tolerance.
• Identification and development of suitable male sterile lines of different CMS system.
• Identification and development of suitable restorers for different CMS system.
• Identification of resistant sources against major diseases of pearl millet.
• To find out economical control measures for insect pests.
• To generate suitable agronomic technology for arid, semi-arid and adequate rainfall regions of the State.
• Popularization of newly released varieties/hybrids and production technologies through front line demonstrations.

Varieties/Hybrids Released

Following 14 varieties/hybrids were developed at this centre after strengthening of pearl millet programme by ICAR in 1976:

Variety RCB-2, Variety Raj-171, Hybrid RHB-30, Hybrid RHB-58, Hybrid RHB-90, Hybrid RHB-121, Hybrid RHB-154, Hybrid RHB-173, Hybrid RHB-177, Hybrid RHB-223, Hybrid RHB 228, Hybrid RHB 273, Biofortified hybrids RHB 233 and RHB 234,

Impact of the Project

This centre has played a pivotal role in transforming pearl millet cultivation in Rajasthan through the development and dissemination of high-yielding hybrids. Prominent among these are Raj 171, RHB 173, RHB 177, RHB 223, RHB 233, and RHB 234, which have significantly boosted crop productivity and farmer adoption. Focused research at the centre has led to the development of cultivars well-suited for arid and semi-arid conditions, along with refined production and protection technologies. The availability of quality seeds of these improved cultivars has resulted in a remarkable yield increase - from 688 kg/ha in 2000–01 to 1073 kg/ha in 2024–25. This is a commendable achievement, especially considering the challenging agro-climatic zones where pearl millet is primarily grown. The devastating downy mildew epidemics of the 1970s and 1980s were attributed to the narrow genetic base of hybrid parental lines. Learning from this, the Centre prioritized genetic diversification and resistance breeding. As a result, a broad range of diverse seed parents and restorers are now available, helping contain downy mildew and other major diseases like smut, ergot, and rust. This progress underscores the strategic importance of incorporating disease resistance and genetic resilience in hybrid development.

All India Coordinated Research Project on Groundnut

The research on improvement of groundnut crop was started in the late fifties at Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Durgapura, Jaipur and as a result, two varieties viz., RS-1 and RSB 87 were developed and released for commercial cultivation in the State. Later on, an All-Indian Coordinated Research Project on Groundnut came into effect from 1^st April, 1987 with research aspects on breeding and agronomy.

Varieties/Hybrids Released

Since the inception of AICRP on Groundnut, this research station has developed following 09 varieties: One Spanish bunch variety RG 141 and eight virginia varieties - RG 382, RG 425, Raj Mungfali 1 (RG 510), Raj Mungfali 2 (RG 578), Raj Mungfali 3 (RG 559-3), Raj Mungfali 4 (RG 638), Raj Mungfali 5 (RG 648) and Raj Mungfali 6 (RG 575-1).

Impact of the Project

At the national level, this centre accounts for 5% of India’s total breeder seed production for groundnut varieties. The RG 510 (Raj Mungfali 1) variety released and notified in 2012, remains one of the most popular choices among farmers to this day due to its high yielding, wide adaptability and moderately tolerance to major pest and disease. It is covering nearly 5-10% area of India and 20-30% area of Rajasthan in last 12 years. RG 638 (Raj Mungfali 4) is having highest shelling (74.00%) and highest yield (38.00) which is highest in Virginia species. Raj Mugfali 4 is going to cover maximum area of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, UP and other adjoining states.

All India Coordinated Research Project on MuLLARP

The All India Coordinated Pulse Improvement Project was started on April 1^st, 1976 at Agricultural Research Station (ARS), Durgapura, Jaipur. The project was shifted to ARS Navgaon (Alwar) in 1983-84 and again to ARS Durgapura, Jaipur in 1989. In financial year 2001-02, pulse project was bifurcated into two projects, AICRP on MULLaRP and AICRP on Chickpea.

Varieties/Technologies Developed

The following varieties and technologies are developed under this project:

Mungbean: RMG 62, RMG 268, RMG 344, RMG 492, RMG 975, MSJ 118

Lentil: RLG 5

Field pea: RFP 4

Rajmash: RSJ-178 (Ankur)

Total technologies developed: 70

All India Coordinated Research Project on Arid Legume

All India Network Research Project on Arid Legume was started in the year 1986 with objectives of development of high yielding varieties resistant to major pests and diseases, development of production and protection technologies and development of guar varieties with high gum content and good gum quality.

Varieties/Technologies Developed

The following varieties of cluster bean and cowpea are released under this project:

Cluster bean: RGC 197, RGC 936, RGC 471, RGC 1003, RGC 986, RGC 1002, M 83 (Kanchan Bahar), RGC 1017, RGC 1031, RGC 1066, RGC 1038, RGC 1033, RGC 1055, RGr 12-1 (Karan Guar-1), RGr 18-1 (Karan Guar-14) and RGr 20-15 (Karan Guar-15)

Cowpea: RC 19, RC 101 and CPD 119 (Karan Chanwla 1)

Impact of the Project

Since its inception in 1986, when Rajasthan’s cluster bean area and production were just 17.51 lakh ha and 1.32 lakh tonnes, the Centre at Durgapura has played a transformative role. With ICAR support, the centre developed improved varieties, production and protection technologies, and ensured quality seed availability. As a result, by 2024-25, cluster bean area increased to 29.83 lakh ha, production to 19.26 lakh tonnes, and productivity rose by 58% (from about 270 kg/ha to 646 kg/ha).

All India Coordinated Research Project on Vegetable Crops

The AICRP on Vegetable Crops project was started in 1977 at Agricultural Research Station, Durgapura. This is one of the important sub-main centre out of 29 centres of India. The especial emphasizing research work is going on semi-arid and arid vegetable crops like watermelon, muskmelon, clusterbean, cowpea, long melon, round melon etc. The project has already decided mandate to develop high yielding, good quality, disease, insect and abiotic stress resistance varieties of vegetable crops.

Varieties/Technologies Developed

The following varieties of vegetables crops under varietal and hybrid category were developed:

Muskmelon: Durgapura Madhu, RM-43, RM-50, MHY-5, MHY-3

Watermelon: Durgapura Lal, Durgapura Meetha, Durgapura Kesar (Yellow Flesh)

Cauliflower: RC-JOB-1

Chilli: RCh-1

Cowpea (Vegetable type): RCV-07

All India Network Research Project on Onion and Garlic

AINRP on Onion and garlic is running at RARI, Durgapura since 2008. Under this project, development of high yielding varieties with long shelf life suited to different agroclimatic zones of the state; collection, evaluation and utilization of onion germplasm; development of onion varieties suitable for dehydration and industrial uses; determination of optimum standards of cultivation in relation to soil and climate and standardization of post-harvest technology to minimize storage and transportation losses.

Varieties/Technologies Developed

The three onion varieties RO-1, RO-59 and RO-252 are developed by this centre. The centre has recommended total 15 technologies production and protection aspects.

All India Coordinated Research Project on Integrated Farming System

This scheme was started during the year 1990 as cropping system research with the objective to identify appropriate cropping systems with high productivity to suit the specific needs of different agroclimatic regions through diversification and/or intensification of predominant cropping system and to develop and validate region specific integrated farming system model for enhanced productivity, profitability and sustainability. It showcases the integration of all the components related to agriculture (cereal crops, leguminous crops, oilseed crops, vegetables, fruits, forage crops, dairy, goatry, poultry, different compost units, azolla as poultry feed etc.) in a holistic manner to secure the livelihood and healthy nutrition of farm family and sustainability of agroecosystem. This IFS centre at RARI, Durgapura is working on innovative technologies and many new location and resource specific IFS-Models for enhancing socioeconomic status of farmer’s and sustaining the agroecosystem and conservation of natural resources.

A small farm holding IFS model has been developed under irrigated conditions of Durgapura (Jaipur) by allocating 1.45 ha area among crops with 6 cropping systems (pearl millet-chickpea, Ground nut-what, Cluster bean-barley, Green Gram mustard, Fodder sorghum-lucerne and perennial Napier) and horticulture with three components (Vegetable production unit under drip system, mixed orchard of 6 fruit crops and organic kitchen garden). The remaining area was allocated among three livestock components, two smaller units of azolla, vermicomposting manure pits and boundary plantation of multipurpose trees. The livestock components consisting of 2 ‘Gir’ dairy cows, goatry of ‘Sirohi’ breed (5 female + one male) and variable number of different breed country chicken depending upon the quantum of consumable wastes originating from different modules and prospects of sale of birds and eggs. Boundary plantation of Ailanthus excelsa and Azadirachta indica was done at the available spaces for multipurpose uses.

Significant Contributions/Outreach

• It helps in sequestering carbon in the soil, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving the resilience of agricultural systems to climate change.
• As a source of livelihood: It aims to work with nature, minimize artificial inputs, and create sustainable and resilient food systems. This is unique model that utilizes each and every by-product of resources for enhancing the farmers’ income.
• This model was presented in governor house, Jaipur, Rajasthan and Hon’ble Governor of Rajasthan recommended establishing this at Raj Bhawan.
• On the basis of long term experimental findings, this model was recommended for the adoption by the farmers of zone III-A of Rajasthan (Jaipur, Tonk, Dausa, Ajmer) and many innovative technologies of the model were disseminated among the farming communities by the On Farm Research station of this centre for small and marginal farm holdings.
• For demonstration of this technology to farmers, this model was also replicated at six Krishi Vigyan Kendras at Ajmer, Dausa, Bharatpur, Alwar, Kothputli, Arnia.

All India Network Project on Soil Arthropod Pests

The project initiated in 1983 as AINP on Soil Arthropod Pests (AINP on SAP) with focus on soil arthropod pests like white grubs, cutworms and termites. However, white grubs being the primary concern due to their national status and economic importance which they have attained with advent of high yielding varieties, mechanization of agriculture and cultivation patterns. White grubs are now categorized as national pests. H. consanguinea grubs damage groundnut and pearl millet in Rajasthan, causing 20-100% loss in endemic areas.

Significant Contributions/Outreach

• The centre have more than three decades old sick plot of the polyphagous and national status pest species of white grub.
• The centre has developed a Nano gel based pheromone lure for the white grub for the monitoring and management of beetles.
• This centre have given several technologies to the Department of Agriculture, GoR, for the successful management of H. consanguinea particularly in two of major crops of the state i.e. Groundnut and Bajra and termites in chickpea and wheat.
• The team of scientists of this centre have isolated some of native strains of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs’) from our state’s soil and also from many other parts of the country, and they are evaluating these native EPN strains in the only available sick plot against H. consanguinea.

All India Network Project on Pesticide Residues and Contaminants

To ensure safe and judicious use of pesticides, the ICAR has launched an All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Pesticide Residue (presently known as All India Network Project on Pesticide Residue & Contaminants) in 1984, with the participation of 15 State Agricultural Universities and two ICAR institutes. AINP on Pesticide Residues & Contaminants, RARI Durgapura is one of them and it has generated enormous information on safe waiting period and pre-harvest interval in various agricultural commodities. The Laboratory is NABL accredited.

Mandates of the Project

• To find out the dissipation of pesticides in crops following recommended package and practices for pesticide use and to work out the safe waiting period/pre harvest intervals.
• To monitor the pesticide residue in biotic and abiotic components of environment.
• To provide guidelines to farmers on the basis of monitoring the pesticide residue data.
• To evaluate the new molecules of pesticide for their residues and pre-harvest intervals.
• To offer testing facilities to the public on payment basis.

Achievements of the Project

• The centre submitted two research reports to the Department of Agriculture, Govt. of Rajasthan on level of pesticide contamination in grain/vegetable samples of Jaipur and Rajasthan State, which were later on produced before the Hon’ble Judges of High Court by GOR as a authentic research document against a Public Interest Litigation arose in the Court as a consequence of a news item appeared in newspaper of the State.
• The project has been developed multi residue analysis technique for detection of pesticide residues in various samples of food commodities.
• The project has recommended total 165 technologies for the package of practices of Agroclimatic Zone IIIA.

All India Coordinated Research Project on National Seed Project (Crops), Seed Technology Research

Seed Technology Research Centre was sanctioned in 1982 by ICAR under the financial support of AICRP-NSP (Crops). The Seed Technology Research intend to maximize hybrid and varietal seed production in different crops, development of biochemical and molecular markers in establishing diagnostic characteristics of different varieties/hybrids, development of improved package of practice for safe storage of seed, development of seed enhancement techniques, development of quick, reliable and repeatable vigor tests, management of major seed borne diseases, identification of disease free locations, biological control of seed borne diseases etc.

Mandates of the Project

• To conduct research on various aspects of seed and develop seed production technology including drying, processing, value addition, etc.
• To generate basic information on seed certification standards.
• To generate information on safe storage and seed health.
• To disseminate information and impart training on seed production, processing, storage, packaging, quality control, and seed health.

Achievements of the Project

• Seed Production: Morphological descriptors were established for 69 sesame and 20 horse gram varieties; demonstrated hybrid pearl millet seed production feasibility; achieved high seed yields using integrated nutrient strategies; evaluated 407 breeder seed samples; and enhanced seed yield in quinoa and cluster bean through optimized sowing geometry and nutrient priming practices.
• Seed Physiology: Improved long-term storage of soybean and groundnut using HDPE and polythene bags; field demonstrations of hydro-priming, KNO₃, and Trichoderma seed priming resulted in 6–11.5% yield improvements in pearl millet, chickpea, and mungbean; acid and gas delinting methods improved storability and quality equivalently; and identified SSR markers for varietal identification in pearl millet and sesame.
• Seed Pathology: Biotic stress management; virus and disease monitoring; disease control recommendations; and monitoring seed health status and management of seed-borne diseases of chickpea, wheat, groundnut, soybean, green-gram, cumin.
• Seed Entomology: Storage protection; packaging innovations; and demonstrated effective use of botanical insecticides and zero-fly bags for insect control without reducing germination.

Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa (GKMS)

The agro-meteorology observatory and Automatic Weather Station (AWS) established by the India Meteorological Department, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India at RARI, Durgapura since 1996, plays a pivotal role in providing reliable and location-specific weather data crucial for agricultural planning, crop advisories, and scientific research.

The observatory, since its establishment, has built a long-term dataset of local meteorological variables such as temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speed, wind direction, soil temperatures (5 cm, 10 cm and 20 cm) and solar radiation. These historical weather records (since 1996) are vital for agrometeorological modelling, trend analysis and policy formulation.

Similarly, the data collected from this AWS plays a crucial role in accurate weather forecasting and early warning systems for farmers, long-term climate analysis and variability studies, agricultural research including crop-weather modelling, pest and disease prediction, yield forecasting and supporting location-specific agromet advisories and climate-resilient agriculture planning. More than four lakhs farmers are benefitted on regular basis through agromet advisory on their mobiles to support their crops and livestock as per weather forecast based existing system at RARI, Durgapura.

These weather systems support ongoing and future research, especially in the context of climate change adaptation, drought monitoring and precision agriculture. Moreover, farmers, extension agencies, research institutions and other Universities in the Jaipur region have significantly benefited from these weather systems. It supports the issuance of Agro-Advisory Bulletins and early warning systems, which have proved essential for climate-resilient farming and reducing crop losses.

ARS, Navgaon, Alwar

Agricultural Research Station (ARS), Navgaon, Alwar is a constituent research station of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner. This station is located 32 km from the Alwar Junction on the Sohna-Alwar Highway. It is 128 km away from Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi and 175 km from Jaipur international airport. The station is situated at 27º38'54" N latitude and 76º51'58" E longitude and 251 m above from mean sea level. This station has frontier in agriculture research since its inception and is an important research station of the university.

Identity of the unit

Rajasthan has classified in to ten agroclimatic zones to characterize climatic distribution of the state. The Flood Prone Eastern Plain Zone IIIB comprising all tehsils of Alwar, Bharatpur, Deeg, Dholpur, Karauli, Khairthal-Tijara and some tehsils (Bamanwas, Barnala, Bonli, Gangapur, Mitrapura, Talawara and Wazeerpur) of Sawai Madhopur district. Average annual rainfall of the zone is 500-650 mm. Soils are alluvial in nature and prone to water logging. Although recurrent floods occur in rainy season in about 5% of the area, but with concern to agricultural production and productivity yet it is one of the most potential areas of Rajasthan. The region produces bajra, sorghum, maize, sugarcane, sesame and a variety of pulses in the kharif season and wheat, barley, gram and mustard are the dominant crops during rabi season.

The centre was established by the State Department of Agriculture as a Seed Multiplication Farm in late fifties. The main objective was to multiply foundation and certified seeds of principal crops of the area. Research scheme on oilseeds and pulses (Non-Plan) was sanctioned in 1974-75 and the work of varietal screening and testing was initiated in Rapeseed-Mustard. In 1976, with the transfer of agricultural research to the university from state department of agriculture, the centre became Agricultural Research Sub Station, a constituent unit of the then Sukhadia University, Udaipur and later elevated to main station (Agricultural Research Station) with lead research functions on pulses and oilseeds. In 1981, a project on Intensification of Research and Training on Oilseeds and Pulses was sanctioned by ICAR to work out agronomic practices and rural social activities related to rapeseed–mustard and pulse crops. At this juncture, NARP came into existence with an objective of strengthening the research capabilities of the station for solving location specific problems. The mandate of research was specified. In 1984, All India Coordinated Research Project on Oilseeds Improvement (R&M) was transferred from ARS, Durgapura, Jaipur to ARS, Navgaon, Alwar with the main responsibility of improvement of Rapeseed-Mustard group of crops in the state. A sub unit of the station was subsequently established at Kumher (Deeg) as Agricultural Research Sub Station in 1989. However, the sub-station became operative only in 1992 after completion of the formalities of acquisition of land allotted to it by the state government.

Aims and Objectives

• To conduct basic, strategic and applied research for sustainable development of agriculture sector.
• To develop improved varieties of agricultural crops especially rapeseed & mustard.
• To develop package of practices for important agricultural crops of the zone.
• To produce and supply breeder seed of different crops for production of different categories of seed.

Mandates

• Planning and conducting research as per the basic needs of the farmers.
• Development and testing the improved high yielding verities of important agricultural crops.
• Establishment of coordination with agricultural department and extension functionaries to streamline research and extension activities of the zone.
• Production of breeder seed of higher quality to meet the requirement of seed chain.
• Processing, packaging and selling of seed of different crops.

Thrust Areas

• Carry out basic and strategic need-based research on major agronomic and horticultural crops.
• Development and identification suitable high yielding varieties and crop management practices for different crops.
• Development and assessment of crop specific technologies for the zone.
• Testing and verification of cultivars of different agronomic and horticultural crops.
• Production of breeder seed to coordinate seed production program of university.

Projects Completed

AICRP on Rapeseed-Mustard

In 1984, All India Coordinated Research Project on Oilseeds Improvement (R&M) was transferred from ARS, Durgapura, Jaipur to ARS, Navgaon, Alwar with the main responsibility of improvement of Rapeseed-Mustard group of crops in the state with the following objectives:

• Development of high yielding varieties of mustard.
• Development of Thermo-insensitive varieties suitable for early sowing.
• Effective integrated diseases and pest management.

This project carried out research and verification functions and was finally wind up on 31.03.2018. The varieties released under this project are: Aravali (RN 393), Navgold, RRN 505 and RRN 573. A new species Brassica caudatus was also developed by this station under the project. Brassica caudatus, a distant hybrid was registered as amphidiploids (B. tournefortii x R. caudatus) by Plant Germplasm Registration Committee of ICAR on 23^rd October, 2003 under INGR No. 03067 and National Identity No. IC 296597. This amphidiploid is designated as Brassica caudatus. It has pedicillate leaves and hair on abxial side. Plants are bushy in nature and bears up to 17 primary branches. The self-pollinated flowers having white colour petals and slightly smaller in size than of R. caudatus.

RKVY Project "Developing Agri- Entrepreneurship for Rural Youth Self-Reliant through Mushroom Production Technology"

This project was sanctioned during the financial year 2021-22 by Govt. of Rajasthan under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna with the following objectives:

• To develop mushroom production demonstration unit.
• To develop standard quality spawn production laboratory for research and fulfill requirements of growers.
• To conduct capacity building programmes on mushrooms

Major achievements of the projects are:

• A mushroom production demonstration unit has been developed.
• A spawn production laboratory has been established.
• 130 rural youths were trained for mushroom production through five training programmes.

Ongoing Projects

• Govt. of India Funded project entitled "Construction of Specialized Seed Storage Unit" under the scheme National Mission of Edible Oil-Oilseeds (NMEO-OS), Oilseed Division, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi.
• Govt. of India Funded project entitled "Creation of Seed-Hub for Enhancing Availability of Quality Seed of Major Oilseed Crops" under the scheme National Mission of Edible Oil-Oilseeds (NMEO-OS), Oilseed Division, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi.
• ICAR-NCIPM-SKNAU Collaborative Project entitled “Refinement, Revalidation and Large Scale Implementation of IPM Tactics in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)”.
• Voluntary research center project trials under All India Coordinated Research Project on Rapeseed-Mustard.
• Voluntary research center project trials under All India Coordinated Research Project on Wheat and Barley.

ARSS, Diggi, Tonk

This is one of the agricultural research sub stations of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner (Jaipur). It came into existence in 1976. In addition to various research activities, the station has been producing different important seeds of kharif and rabi crops. during kharif season, moong, urdbean, til, sorghum, arhar, etc. and during rabi season, wheat, barley, gram, mustard, fenugreek, coriander, cumin, etc. are being produced. Climatically, the station is classified under Agroclimatic Zone IIIA (Semi-Arid Eastern Plain) of Rajasthan with an average 525 mm annual rainfall. Abnormal rainfall pattern coupled with irregular distribution is one of the critical bottleneck hurdles in agricultural production. Further, the geographical area of Tonk district is 7,17,958 ha and cultivable area is about 4,75,115 ha with land under important crops and vegetables. The famous Kalyanji temple is situated in the village Diggi, which is about 2 km away from this research station. This station is about 60 km away from the district headquarters, 120 km from SKN Agriculture University, Jobner. The station is situated about 80 km from Jaipur on Jaipur-Kekri-Bhilwara road. ICAR-CSWRI, Avikanagar is about 9 km away from this station. This station has about 50 ha of land, and the soils of the farm are loamy to clay loam with cultivable area of 42 ha.

Identity of the Sub-station

• Quality seed production of important crops of kharif season viz. moong, urd, til, sorghum, guar, arhar etc. and rabi season viz. wheat, barley, gram, field pea, mustard, taramira, fenugreek, cumin, coriander etc.
• Seed processing, packing and selling of seeds to government agencies and farming community.

Aims and Objectives

• To conduct verification trials of various units of SKNAU, Jobner.
• To produce Breeder and TFL seeds of important crops of kharif and rabi.
• To provide high quality seeds and technological knowledge to farming community for their betterment.

Mandates

• To plan, coordinate and monitor based agricultural research.
• To coordinate and monitor the Breeder and TFL seed programme.
• Processing, packing and selling of seeds.
• Verification of different genotypes and various technologies conducted by various units of the university.
• To impart technical guidance to farmers of the area through various types of training programmes being organized by line department.
• To develop linkage with other organization for crop oriented research.

Thrust Areas

ARSS, Diggi (Tonk) has identified major thrust areas as following:

• Development and assessment of specific technologies suitable for the zone.
• To carry out basic and strategic need-based research on major crops.
• To identify suitable crop varieties and their crop management practices for rainfed and irrigated crops.
• Production and supply high quality seeds of important crops of the area.
• To provide technical guidance to farmer community.

ARSS, Gonera, Kotputli-Behror

The Agricultural Research Sub Station, Gonera is started in the year 2004. Formerly, it was the Krishi Vigyan Kendra established in October, 1989 working under Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner. The seed production programmes of barley, mustard, methi, wheat etc. was started at this place and simultaneously field demonstration on agronomy and horticulture crops was taken at farmers’ fields. Unfortunately, due the policy of one KVK in one district, this KVK was bound-up and Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner established Agricultural Research Sub Station at this centre in the November, 2004. Now, this centre comes under Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner. This station is classified under Agroclimatic Zone IIIA (Semi-Arid Eastern Plain) of Rajasthan. The average rainfall of the station is 541 mm. The soil of the station are light textured sandy loam, the mean annual temperature lies between 40-43 ⁰C in the month of May and June while mean winter temperature range about 10-12 ⁰C during the months of December and January. The principal horticultural crops are tomato, chilli, cole crops, carrot, pea, cluster bean, leafy vegetables, watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, round melon and spices crops are also grown by the farmers. The mainly orchards are of aonla, pomegranate, bael, guava, lime, lasoda, karonda etc. This centre having 35 ha land along with two tube well facilitated with 24 hour city line electricity. A horticultural crop based demonstration definitely impels the farmers in this locality to adopt horticultural crops.

Aims and Objectives

Lead Functions

• To conduct horticulture based trials.
• To conduct need-oriented agricultural research.
• To coordinate the Breeder seed and TFL seed production programmes.

Verification Functions

• Testing and verification of different crop cultivars of kharif and rabi seasons under the dry farming situation.
• Research activities including testing and verification of irrigated wheat, barley, mustard, chickpea and vegetables.

Mandates

• To plan, coordinate and monitor need-based agricultural research.
• To develop appropriate production technology for the optional use of resources in a sustainable manner.
• To coordinate and monitor the breeder seed production programmes.
• To develop the linkage with other organizations for crop-oriented research.
• To extend consultancy and expertise service.

Thrust Areas

To accomplish the mandates, ARSS, Gonera has identified major thrust areas as follows:

• To carry out basic and strategic need-based research on major crops and vegetables
• To identify suitable crop varieties, INM, and other crop management practices for rainfed and irrigated crops.
• Testing and verification of cultivars of major crops viz. arid legumes, pearl millet and chickpea in rainfed, and wheat and barley in irrigated conditions.
• Assessment and development of specific technologies suitable for the zone.
• To coordinate the BS and TFL seed production programmes to cater the need of quality seed for farmers.

ARSS, Kumher, Deeg

Agriculture Research Sub Station, Kumher (Deeg) was established in the year 1989 under National Agricultural Research Project, Phase-II. This is one of the research sub stations of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner (Jaipur). This station is classified under Agroclimatic Zone IIIB (Flood Prone Eastern Plains) of Rajasthan and working under Agricultural Research Station, Navgaon (Alwar). The station is situated 12 km away from Bharatpur on Bharatpur-Alwar road.

Aims and Objectives

• To conduct applied research for sustainable development of agriculture sector.
• To develop improved varieties of agricultural crops of the zone.
• To develop package of practices for important agricultural crops of the zone.
• To produce and supply different categories of seed of important crops.

Mandates

Lead Functions

• Crop and soil management under water logged and tank bed situation.

Verification Functions

• Testing and verification of mustard, chick pea, wheat, pearl millet, kharif pulses and fodder sorghum.
• Improvement of fruits (Ber, Aonla, Guava, Lemon and Papaya) and spices crops.
• Nutrient management in saline soils.

Thrust Areas

To accomplish the mandates, ARSS, Kumher has identified major thrust areas as follows:

• To carry out need-based research on major field and horticultural crops.
• Development and identification of suitable high yielding varieties and crop management practices for different crops.
• Development and assessment of crop specific technologies for the zone.
• Production of breeder seed to coordinate seed production program of university.

Projects Completed

• Action research for refinement of package of practices for productivity enhancement of crops in different agro-ecological situations under RKVY.
• Developing technologies for stress agriculture under climate change scenario in Rajasthan under RKVY.
• Strengthening of seed production under RKVY.
• Multi-site evaluation of Transgenic Mustard Hybrid (DMH-11) based on barnase/barstar system conducted at ARSS, Kumher.
• Farmers Participatory Research to control viral diseases in tomato and bhindi financed by Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan.

ARSS, Tabiji, Ajmer

The Agricultural Research Sub-Station, Tabiji, Ajmer was established in the year 1976 at Tabiji farm which is approximately 12 km away from district headquarter on Ajmer-Beawar road. It falls under Agroclimatic zone IIIA (Semi-Arid Eastern Plain) of Rajasthan. The centre is engaged in need-based and production-oriented agricultural research for the semi-arid area.

Identity of the Sub-station

The Agricultural Research Sub Station, Tabiji, Ajmer is a volunteer centre for conducting testing and verification of different crop cultivars of kharif and rabi seasons under AICRP viz., arid legumes, pearl millet, wheat and barley. The centre is coordinating the breeder and TFL seed production programmes to cater the need for quality seed and conducting need-oriented agricultural research.

Aims and Objectives

Lead Functions

• Floriculture (Deshi rose/Pushkar valley).
• Conducting need-oriented agricultural research.
• To coordinate the breeder seed and TFL seed production programmes.

Verification Functions

• Testing and verification of different crop cultivars of kharif and rabi seasons under the dry farming situation.
• Research activities including testing and verification of irrigated cotton, wheat, barley, mustard, chickpea and vegetables.

Mandates

• To plan, coordinate and monitor need-based agricultural research.
• To develop appropriate production technology for the optional use of resources in a sustainable manner.
• To coordinate and monitor the breeder seed production programmes.
• To develop linkage with other organizations for crop-oriented research.
• To extend consultancy and expertise service.

Thrust Areas

To accomplish the mandates, ARSS, Tabiji, Ajmer has identified major thrust areas as follows:

• To carry out basic and strategic need-based research on major crops, vegetables and deshi rose.
• To identify suitable crop varieties, INM, and other crop management practices for rainfed and irrigated crops.
• Testing and verification of cultivars of major crops viz. arid legumes, pearl millet and chickpea in rainfed, and wheat and barley in irrigated conditions.
• Assessment and development of specific technologies suitable for the zone.
• To coordinate (BS and TFL) seed production programmes to cater the need of farmers.