By : Dr. Shweta, Deptt of Genetics & Plant Breeding CSA University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur (U.P.) & Executive Editor-ICN
KANPUR : Finger millet (Eleusine coracana), popularly known as ragi, is one of India’s oldest and most resilient cereals. Known for its exceptional drought tolerance, short crop duration, and rich nutritional value, finger millet is regaining popularity among farmers and consumers alike. It is especially valuable for rainfed and marginal areas where other cereals struggle.
Why Should Farmers Grow Finger Millet?
- Highly Drought-Tolerant: Thrives with 400–1000 mm rainfall.
• Low Input Requirement: Grows well in poor soils with minimal fertilizers.
• Short Duration Crop: Matures in 90–120 days, suitable for various cropping systems.
• Increasing Market Demand: Preferred for health products like ragi flour, malt, biscuits, and baby food.
• Excellent Storability: Grains can be stored safely for up to 10 years.
Recommended Varieties
For Uttar Pradesh:
- VL Mandua 352: Early maturing (105–110 days), suited to plains and hills.
• VL Mandua 149: Tolerant to blast disease.
• PRM 1 (Pusa Ragi 1): Reliable for rainfed areas of Eastern U.P.
• PRM 801: Resistant to blast, suitable for kharif and rabi.
For Other States:
| Region | Varieties |
| Karnataka | GPU 28, GPU 67, GPU 48, ML 365 |
| Tamil Nadu | CO 14, CO 15, CO (Ra) 9 |
| Odisha | Bhairabi, Chilika, Subhra |
| Maharashtra | MR 1, MR 6, WN 562 |
| Madhya Pradesh | PRM 1, PRM 801 |
| Uttarakhand & U.P. | VL Mandua 149, VL 352, PRM 1 |
| Chhattisgarh | GPU 67, Bhairabi |
Cultivation Practices
- Soil Type: Loamy to sandy-loam, well-drained.
• Sowing Time:
– Kharif: June–July
– Rabi: January–February (limited areas)
• Seed Rate: 5–7 kg/ha for line sowing.
• Spacing: 22.5–30 cm (rows) × 10 cm (plants).
• Fertilizer: 40:30:30 kg NPK/ha + 5–10 tonnes FYM.
• Weed Control: Two hand weedings or Pendimethalin (1 litre/ha) as pre-emergence.
• Pest/Disease Management: Blast controlled by Carbendazim @ 1g/litre spray.
Yield Potential
- Rainfed Areas: 15–20 quintals/ha
• Irrigated or Well-Managed: 25–35 quintals/ha
Conclusion
Finger millet is a sustainable, low-risk, and high-return crop ideal for Indian farmers, especially in drought-prone and upland areas. With suitable varieties for different states and increasing health-food demand, it offers assured returns and long-term storage security.
