NOOR-2019: A High-yielding and Marvelous Chickpea Kabuli Variety Developed in Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

The advancement of the latest crop varieties with advantageous characteristics is an ongoing process. Over time, a cultivated variety becomes vulnerable to several factors of biotic and abiotic plant stresses. This article discusses creating a novel and inventive chickpea Kabuli variety known as "Noor-2019." This variety was developed using conventional plant breeding techniques to enhance yield capacity, seed form, coloration, and resistance against various diseases. During Rabi 2002-03 period, two local genotypes, namely K-90399 and K-52582 were interbred to induce heredity diversity. After a selection of six generations, a remarkably consistent lineage of Chickpea Kabuli PCK-09012, later denoted as Noor-2019, with pedigree noted as C.15/15/15/105/98/80/12, originated from the F6 generation in 2008-09. Concurrently, this line of Chickpea Kabuli was evaluated for yield potential, disease reaction, and other agronomic studies from 2009 to 2019 at eight different Chickpea growing areas of Punjab. On an average scale, Noor-2019 surpassed the corresponding control groups with a notable margin, displaying a 102.74% increase in PYT and 53.72% improvement in AYT. This specific candidate line exhibited slightly elevated yields, with 0.8% more in MYT and 2.84% increase in CYT. Throughout the national testing phase, this particular variety exhibited its superiority, achieving a 33.26% higher yield during 2014-15 season and 3.61% increase in the subsequent year, compared to the benchmark variety Noor-2013. This remarkable performance culminated in the candidate variant "Noor-19" achieving an impressive yield potential of 1963 kg/ha in the (NUYTs) during 2014-15 period at the Gram Breeding Research Sub Station, Kallurkot. Noor-19 contains 23.19% crude protein and 4.06% crude fat content. Significantly, it achieves higher seed yields and possesses in-built resistance against Fusarium wilt, accompanied by moderate resistance to Ascochyta blight. Furthermore, it shows a commendable tolerance towards insect pests. Notably, the cultivation of this novel variety doesn't necessitate specialized production techniques; instead, it harmonizes seamlessly with existing agronomic methods. Its adaptability extends to irrigated and rain-fed chickpea-growing regions within the province of Punjab.