Discuss the production technology of pearl millet (Bajra) focusing on improved varieties, sowing time, seed treatment, weed and nutrient management. How does this technology impact yield and resilience to climate stress in Bundelkhand?
Pearl millet production technology involves selecting improved hybrid varieties like HHB 67 Improved, ICMH 356, and Pusa Composite 383 that offer higher yields (25-30 q/ha) and disease resistance. Optimal sowing occurs during kharif season from mid-June to mid-July when soil temperature reaches 28-32°C, using 3-4 kg/ha seed rate for hybrids and 5-6 kg/ha for composites. Essential seed treatments include fungicide application (Thiram 2g/kg seed) and biofertilizer inoculation with Azospirillum and PSB (10g/kg seed each). Weed management combines pre-emergence herbicides like Atrazine (1.0 kg/ha) followed by inter-cultivation at 20-25 days after sowing and hand weeding at 40-45 days. Nutrient management requires 80-100 kg N, 40-50 kg P₂O₅, and 40 kg K₂O per hectare, with nitrogen split-applied (half basal, quarter at tillering, quarter at panicle initiation stage). Proper spacing of 45×15 cm and timely irrigation during critical growth stages ensure optimal productivity in both rainfed and irrigated conditions.