ICRISAT Pigeonpea: A seed for positive change - Odisha Pigeonpea Success Stories

The improved technologies of the pigeonpea varieties and hybrids were introduced among the farmers through a project “Introduction and expansion of improved pigeonpea (Arhar) production technology in rainfed upland ecosystems of Odisha”. Pigeonpea is one of the most important pulse crops of India. It does well in low fertility soils, making it a favorite among subsistence farmers. The farmers belonging to the different districts of the state (Kalahandi, Boudh, Bolangir, Rayagada and Nuapada) expressed their happiness after taking up the pigeonpea variety cultivation over the traditional landrace. The report carries some of the success stories of the farmers in the districts of Odisha, that narrate the way, how ICRISAT and its project changed their lives.