The Complete Guide to Bajra (Pearl Millet)

Popular Varieties / Hybrids

• Ananta (APS‑1), ICMV 221, ICTP 8203 (WCC‑75), Pusa Composite‑612, GK‑1004, PAC‑903, Nandi‑35/360, GHB‑558, MLHB‑504, Proagro series, 86M hybrids, and SiA series or recent biofortified lines.
• Hybrids typically outperform local varieties by 20–50%; select downy mildew‑resistant types for rainfed areas.

Detailed Process:

1. Field Sanitation: Clear all weeds, stubble, and debris from the previous crop cycle.
2. Ploughing: Conduct 2–3 rounds of ploughing, including one deep plough (20–25 cm) to facilitate root penetration.
3. Tilth Achievement: Use a harrow to ensure a fine tilth, which is essential for small seeds like bajra.
4. Moisture Management: In rainfed zones, prepare ridges and furrows or broad beds to manage heavy rain runoff.
5. Organic Fertilization: Apply 5–8 t/ha of FYM or compost during the last ploughing phase.
6. Seedbed Levelling: Level the field to ensure uniform moisture distribution and sowing depth.
7. Nutrient Application: Apply basal fertilizers (roughly 40–60 kg N and 20–40 kg P2O5/ha) as per soil test results.

Detailed Process:

1. Variety Selection: Choose downy mildew-resistant hybrids (e.g., GHB-558, 86M series) or varieties (e.g., Ananta).
2. Source Verification: Purchase from APSSDC, ANGRAU centers, or recognized private suppliers like Pioneer or Kaveri.
3. Label Check: Verify the seed tag for at least 80% germination and physical purity.
4. Measure Quantity: Ensure you have 4–5 kg/ha for line sowing or 3–4 kg/ha for hybrids.
5. Seed Protection: treat seeds with fungicides (Thiram) and insecticides to protect against soil pests and shoot fly.

Detailed Process:

1. Optimal Timing: Sow with the onset of the monsoon (late June to mid-July).
2. Sowing Technique: Use a seed drill for uniform row placement.
3. Depth Precision: Sow seeds at a depth of 2.5–5 cm (avoid deeper sowing in heavy soils).
4. Spacing Standard: Maintain 45–60 cm between rows and 10–15 cm between plants.
5. Population Control: Place 2–3 seeds per hill and thin to 1 healthy plant after 10–15 days.
6. Germination Care: If a dry spell follows sowing, provide a light 'life-saving' irrigation if possible.

Detailed Process:

1. Maturity Indicators: Harvest when grains are hard, panicles turn straw-colored, and glumes are dry.
2. Cut Moister Level: Aim for 15–20% grain moisture at the time of harvesting.
3. Collection Method: Cut panicles manually or use a combine; cut stalks low if fodder is required.
4. Initial Curing: Spread harvested panicles in the sun for 3–4 days.
5. Threshing: Use a mechanical thresher or manual beating to separate grains.
6. Grain Drying: Dry the grains until the moisture level reaches 12–14%.
7. Safe Storage: Store in cool, dry, pest-proof gunny bags to prevent weevil infestation.