Hindu Business Line

Technology Drive Can Raise Soya Yield

National productivity of soyabean can be easily augmented from the present 800 kg to two tonnes per hectare, if effective research and development policies aimed at removing environmental stresses, technology gaps and information gaps are pursued, a survey sponsored by the Indore-based Soyabean Processors Association of India (SOPA) has revealed.

According to the report, various components for increasing the yield potential in soyabean in India could be genetic improvement, availability required quantity of high quality seeds of improved varieties, and narrowing of technology gap by adoption of appropriate production technology - namely agronomy, pest control, seeding, harvesting and marketing.

Among the major factors limiting productivity in many areas of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, the survey found lack of adequate soil moisture, or excess water, due to erratic nature of monsoon, and soil problems due to wide range of soil types and management conditions as main factors causing environmental stresses.

Lack of varietal diversification, limited access to high quality seeds, limited use of improved agronomic practices as also inadequate soil and pest management were seen as technology gaps. Information gaps included those relating to weather, input availability and marketing.

Speaking to Business Line, Mr O.P. Goel, Chairman of SOPA, said the survey gave a significant insight into the reasons for low productivity of soyabean in the country and enabled examination of different options to increase productivity at reduced cost by efficient use of resources and appropriate technology. ``It is important to improve and streamline all aspects of the production system as well as develop strong links among all segments of the soyabean value chain,'' he emphasised.

Soyabean has recorded a remarkable 13 per cent annual growth in recent years and has contributed over 10 per cent of foreign exchange earnings from the agriculture sector. In Madhya Pradesh, in particular, soyabean has helped reduce malnutrition and poverty among growers. However, for the last three years, this protein rich oilseed has been facing a crisis because of low market prices.

According to Dr C.R Hazra, Agriculture Commissioner in the Union Ministry of Agriculture, the findings of the study would be utilised for planning short-term and long-term strategy to augment national productivity of soyabean for providing sustainability to the sector.

The report called for intensified efforts to increase investments from both public and private sector institutions and corporates from within India and outside to enable accelerated modernisation of the soyabean sector.

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