Researchers from the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), along with their international team, have unraveled significant factors contributing to the heat and drought tolerance in chickpea. Through a comprehensive genomic study of 429 chickpea lines from 45 countries, they have identified four crucial genes for heat tolerance and three critical genes for drought tolerance. This development could drastically shorten the time required to cultivate new varieties of heat- and drought-resistant chickpeas, from eight years to just about four.
A Glimpse into Chickpea’s Past
The study also sheds light on the historical journey of chickpea, tracing its origins back to the Mediterranean/south-west Asia. From here, it moved to south Asia and finally landed in India about two centuries ago, likely through Afghanistan. Unraveling this evolutionary path has offered scientists invaluable insights into the genetic diversity and domestication of the chickpea.
Battle Against Climate Change with Heat & Drought Tolerance
With the world facing increasing temperatures due to climate change, heat- and drought-tolerant chickpea varieties will be a boon for Indian farmers. Traditionally, chickpea is sown in September-October and harvested by January-February. The development of heat-tolerant chickpeas could potentially enable farmers to undertake a second crop cycle, helping them increase their yield and income, despite a comparatively lower yield of the second crop.
An Overview of Chickpea and its Importance
Famous for its high-quality protein content and low fat, chickpea grain has a rich profile of essential amino acids and is known for its capability to fix large amounts of atmospheric nitrogen. Despite being the world’s largest producer, India also ranks as the largest importer of chickpea. Its cultivation is primarily concentrated in South Asia, making up more than 90% of the global chickpea farming area.
However, chickpea crops remain at risk from various diseases and insect pests, with yields suffering heavily under extreme temperature or drought conditions. This vulnerability is a serious concern since chickpea is a winter crop, and a rise in temperature could further diminish the yield. Due to these challenges, more than 70% of the global chickpea yield is lost.
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Origins of Chickpea | Mediterranean/South-west Asia |
| Significant Genes for Heat Tolerance | 4 |
| Significant Genes for Drought Tolerance | 3 |
| Time saved in Cultivating Resistant Varieties | 4 years |
| Expected Yield Loss due to Drought & High Temperature | More than 70% |
About International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics
Established in 1972, the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) is a non-profit, non-political organization dedicated to conducting agricultural research for the development of dryland regions in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Headquartered in Hyderabad, Telangana State, India, ICRISAT has two regional hubs located in Nairobi, Kenya, and Bamako, Mali. The institute’s research primarily focuses on six drought-tolerant crops recognized as Smart Food: Chickpea, Pigeonpea, Pearl Millet, Finger Millet, Sorghum, and Groundnut. The criteria of Smart Food are to be beneficial for consumers, the planet, and farmers, offering a comprehensive solution to address these aspects in tandem.