Okra Research Programme


Okra is one of the world's oldest cultivated crop and is the most important vegetable grown in tropical region. The special taste and nutritional value of this crop attracts more attention in some tropical and subtropical countries. Yellow Vein Mosaic virus (YVMV) is the main constraint in cultivation of okra especially during summer. Genetic resistance involving inter-specific crosses have been exploited commercially for YVMV. Considering the importance of this crop, INDO US BIO-TECH LIMITED has initiated extensive breeding program and screening program-mmes for YVMV at hotspot locations like Varanasi (North india). This has resulted in development of a potential and broad based genetic resources as well as several superior hybrids and varieties for commerciallsation

Strengths


Large collection of diverse germplasm having following economic traits
  • Earliness
  • Green-to-dark green fruit
  • Diversity in fruit shape
  • Resistance to YVMV
  • Medium–to high mucilage content
  • Wider adaptability
  • Prolific fruit bearing

Genetic enhancement :


Genetic enhancement programme to develop lines with
  • High per se performance
  • Very high tolerance to YVMV
  • Tolerance to PM, red mites and fruit borers

Objectives :


Development of hybrids having
  • Tolerance to YVMV with higher yield potential having
    • green–to-dark green fruit color
    • prolific bearing and tenderness
  • Early maturity with multiple pickings
  • Slow fibre development
  • Suitability for export market
  • Extended shelf life