Annual Report 2009-2010 - Department of Agriculture & Co-operation

Annual Report 2009-2010
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research institutes have collected about 4,225
Candidate Plus Trees(CPT)/superior genotypes of
TBOs, i.e., jatropha (2,844), karanja (938), wild
apricot (393) and cheura (50), which have a high
yield and oil content. A total of 1,234 CPTs/
superior genotypes have been cryo-preserved in
the National Gene Bank at NBPGR, New Delhi.
Besides, efforts have also been made for DNA
fingerprinting and molecular characterisation of
these TBOs. Propagation techniques through
seeds and cuttings have also been developed
for various TBOs. A standard package of
practices for jatropha, karanja, wild apricot, and
cheura are being standardised. Varietal
development is being made through mass and
recurrent selection by using 59 superior
genotypes under different agro-climatic
conditions. Under the hybridisation programme,
first generation jatropha hybrids have been
developed by crossing jatropha curcas and
jatropha integirrima. 39 hybrid clones were
evaluated, which showed wide variation in their
morphological trades. The evaluation of these
hybrids is under progress. Success has been
achieved in regenerating jatropha plants through
tissue culture. The development of commercially
viable tissue culture of jatropha for massmultiplication
is in progress. The protocols
related to detoxification of seed cakes of
jatropha, karanja, and simarouba are almost
nearing development. Post-harvest equipment,
i.e., decorticator, oil expeller, and
transesterification, have been developed. About
2000 seed samples of various TBOs have been
analysed for oil content. For creating awareness
among farmers, entrepreneurs, and other
stakeholders, 281 farmers' training and 95
trainers' training programmes have been
organised. Besides, three R&D reports and
booklets on jatropha, karanja, wild apricot, and
cheura have already been published by the
NOVOD Board.
4.48 Under the R&D programme, 57 superior
genotypes are under national trials across the
country in various agro-climatic conditions, as a
result of which, location specific high yielding
varieties are expected to be developed. The
development of a commercially viable protocol
for tissue culture in jatropha is also expected
soon. Developed hybrids are under evaluation,
and their genetic traits and yields are expected
to be established. Packages of practices for
various TBOs have been standardised, and these
have been published. Complete detoxification of
seed cakes of jatropha, karanja and simarouba
is expected in the coming year, leading to their
use as cattle feed.