Bananas and Food Security - Bioversity International

210 Les productions bananières / Bananas and food security – Session 1
ont été mises au point. Les régimes sont récoltés à 90 % de maturité pour le marché local
et à 75 % pour les marchés éloignés. L’hydro-cuisson, l’utilisation d’éthylène-absorbant
et l’emballage sous feuilles de polyéthylène augmentent la durée de vie verte. Le stockage
et le transport à 12-14°C augmentent la durée de conservation. Le pré-traitement
pour les maladies post-récolte est également recommandé. La maturation lente à l’éthylène
à 20°C permet le développement d’une couleur excellente. La banane peut être
transformée en différents produits. Il existe une forte demande à l’exportation pour la
pulpe emballée de façon aseptique.
Abstract
Among the fruits grown in India, banana (Musa spp.) ranks first in production and
second in area accounting for the induction of 13.3 million tonnes annually from an area
of nearly 400.000 ha. Its share in total fruit production is 31.75% from 12.36% area
under fruits. India harbours a wide range of Musa cultivars with varying genomic status.
Its effective utilisation through breeding coupled with biotechnology will definitely
bring about the expected results in developing cultivars resistant to biotic and abiotic
stresses. Emphasis has been paid on collection, conservation and evaluation of genetic
diversity and the centre has assembled the major diversity from all parts of the country
totalling 670 accessions, of which 32 are exotic collections. The accessions are planted in
the field genebank and efforts are underway for in vitro conservation. Four promising
high yielding clones, two of Monthan and one each in Pisang Awak and Silk sub groups
were identified, and are being multiplied for further evaluation. Systematic evaluation
has been done to identify the source of resistance to major diseases. FHIA-01, or
Goldfinger, a Pome hybrid and FHIA-03 are found to be resistant to major diseases,
insect pests and nematode which are promising for subsistence cultivation in India.
Refinement of production technology through integrated management of nutrients,
water, pests and diseases is vital for sustainable production of banana. Trials have been
laid out for production system, canopy management, recycling of nutrients, efficient
water management, bio-control and integrated management of pests and diseases.
Survey conducted has indicated that banana streak virus (BSV) and banana bract mosaic
virus (BBMV), which were not reported earlier, are present in the country at alarming
levels. These viral diseases may become serious, if the spread is continued through
infested plants. Kokkan disease, hitherto known as disease of unknown etiology was
identified to be BBMV, using serological techniques. Management strategies for these
diseases are being developed. Methods of safe handling, storage and transport of
banana have been worked out. Bunches are harvested at 90% maturity for the local
market and 75% maturity for distant markets. Hydro-cooking, use of ethylene absorbent
and packing with polyethylene wrapping increased green shelf-life. Storage and
transport at 12-14°C improved shelf-life. Pre-treatment for postharvest diseases is also
recommended. Slow ripening at 20°C through the use of ethylene permits the
development of excellent color. Banana can be processed in different forms. Aseptically
packed pulp has high demand for export.