First in India! MPUAT's Three Medicinal Crop Varieties Notified —Rajasthan Farmers to Benefit

Udaipur- Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT) has achieved a major milestone by getting three medicinal crop varieties—Pratap Ashwagandha-1, Pratap Isabgol-1, and Pratap Asalia (Alia)-1—notified for the state of Rajasthan. This marks a historic hat-trick, as it is the first time any agricultural university in the country has successfully notified three varieties simultaneously under a research project. This will enable farmers in the state to undertake large-scale, systematic cultivation of these crops.

Dr. Arvind Verma, Director of Research at MPUAT, stated that farmers in the state have been cultivating Isabgol, Ashwagandha, and Asalia for centuries due to their medicinal value. However, after extensive research, the official notification of these varieties will greatly benefit farmers. Recently, in New Delhi, the 32nd meeting of the Central Sub-Committee on Horticulture Crop Standards, Notification, and Release of Varieties, chaired by Dr. Sanjay Kumar Singh, Deputy Director General (Horticultural Science) of ICAR, approved the notification of these three varieties, deeming them suitable for Rajasthan.

Dr. Amit Dadheech, in-charge and breeder of the All India Coordinated Research Project on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, operated by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi at MPUAT, shared details about the qualities and characteristics of the Isabgol, Ashwagandha, and Asalia (Alia) varieties developed under the 'Pratap' name.

Features and Medicinal Properties of the Varieties

Pratap Isabgol-1 has an average seed yield of 1207 kg/hectare. This variety matures in 115 days, which is earlier compared to other varieties. It demonstrates multi-disease resistance against major diseases. Isabgol possesses several medicinal properties that provide relief from various health issues, including constipation, diarrhea, dysentery, obesity, diabetes, and dehydration. It is a dietary fiber that helps maintain a healthy digestive system and improves intestinal function.

Pratap Ashwagandha-1 is the first variety developed and notified from Rajasthan. It has an average dry root yield of 421 kg/hectare and exhibits multi-disease resistance against major pathogens. This ancient Indian herb holds a special place in Ayurveda. Its roots and leaves are rich in medicinal properties and are used in various forms. It enhances the body's ability to combat stress, fatigue, and environmental changes and is renowned for improving sleep, strength, and mental peace.

Pratap Asalia (Alia)-1 has an average seed yield of 2028 kg/hectare and matures in 111 days, earlier than other varieties. It also shows multi-disease resistance. Chandrasur (Asalia) Alia can be cultivated with low cost, minimal irrigation, and limited resources during the Rabi season. Its botanical name is Lepidium sativum, and it belongs to the mustard family (Brassicaceae). It is primarily useful in treating anemia and skin disorders. Various medicines for digestive ailments, flatulence, eye pain, weakness, and height enhancement are prepared from it.

Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ajit Kumar Karnataka stated that the simultaneous notification of three medicinal varieties—Pratap Ashwagandha-1, Pratap Isabgol-1, and Pratap Asalia-1—is a matter of immense pride for MPUAT. The university continues to achieve new milestones in extension education, research, and entrepreneurship development.

Over the years, the university has secured 54 patents across various technologies. Additionally, it has nationally registered three goat breeds: Sirohi, Gujari, and Karouli. This year, it also developed the Chetak opium variety, PHM-6 maize, and Pratap Groundnut-4. The university remains fully committed to the welfare of the state's farmers.