Guwahati, Aug 28: An improved variety of pepper IISR Chandra developed by Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) is to be introduced in Meghalaya to boost pepper cultivation in the state.

The Meghalaya Farmers’ Empowerment Commission (MFEC) has signed a license agreement for the introduction and propagation of IISR Chandra as part of a MoU with the ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (ICAR-IISR).

The MoU was signed by Shri B.K. Sohliya, Executive Adviser & Chairman in-charge of MFEC, and Dr. V. Srinivasan, Head of the Division of Crop Production and Post-Harvest Technology at ICAR-IISR, during a ceremony held in Kozhikode, Kerala recently.

This early maturing hybrid is renowned for its high fruit set, long spikes, high yield, and excellent quality attributes. “The introduction of IISR-Chandra is anticipated to enhance pepper cultivation in Meghalaya, providing farmers with access to superior planting material that could increase both yield and income” officials said.

The IISR Chandra variety can yield up to 7.5 kg of pepper per vine, which is higher than other varieties. It has a compact setting and long spike, and its berries are bold.

The IISR Chandra variety has a higher spike intensity than other varieties.

The IISR Chandra variety was developed by crossing two pepper varieties to create a hybrid, and then back-crossing the hybrid with Thommankodiens to retain the desired traits of the parents.

This collaboration aims to foster the research, development, and refinement of technologies in the spices sector, with a particular focus on capacity building, technology dissemination, and the introduction of new spice crop varieties.

The agreement also includes plans for the collaborative exploration, collection, and identification of spice germplasm in Meghalaya, an initiative expected to significantly boost the region’s agricultural diversity and productivity.

Dr. V. Srinivasan also presented a comprehensive report on the testing, identification, and classification of Meghalaya’s wild pepper. The findings, conducted by the IISR, offer valuable insights into the unique characteristics of the region’s wild pepper varieties and pave the way for further research and development in this area.

Officials said the partnership between MFEC and ICAR-IISR marks a significant milestone in the development of the spices sector in Meghalaya, promising to bring innovative agricultural practices and advanced technology to the region’s farmers.

This initiative aligns with MFEC’s broader mission to empower Meghalaya’s farming community through strategic collaborations and sustainable agricultural practices.

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