India's First Drought-Tolerant Basmati Variety Gives Higher Yield with Less Water

Key Highlights

• India's first MAS-derived drought-tolerant Basmati rice variety.

• Developed by IARI, Pusa, and notified in 2022.

• Produces nearly double the yield under drought conditions.

• Delivers 10.26% higher yield under normal irrigation.

• Requires less water and matures in about 135 days.

Rice farmers across India are increasingly facing problems due to climate change, irregular rainfall, declining groundwater levels, and frequent drought conditions. These challenges are especially affecting Basmati rice-growing regions, where water availability plays a crucial role in production.

To address this issue, the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Pusa, has developed Pusa Basmati 1882, India's first MAS-derived drought-tolerant Basmati rice variety. This innovative variety offers farmers the ability to maintain good production even during water shortages while delivering high yields under normal irrigation conditions.

Also Read: 10 Best Paddy Varieties That Give Higher Yield in Less Water

What Makes Pusa Basmati 1882 Special?

Pusa Basmati 1882 is an improved version of the well-known Pusa Basmati 1 variety. Scientists have introduced a special QTL (Quantitative Trait Locus) gene called qDTY 1.1, which helps the crop tolerate drought conditions.

This gene becomes particularly effective during the reproductive stage of the crop, when ear formation takes place and the plant experiences water stress. As a result, the variety can continue producing better yields even when water availability is limited.

Recognizing its scientific and agricultural importance, the Central Variety Release Committee officially notified this variety in 2022.

Recommended States for Cultivation

Pusa Basmati 1882 has been developed specifically for traditional Basmati-growing regions of northern and northwestern India. It is recommended for cultivation in:

• Delhi

• Punjab

• Haryana

• Uttarakhand

• Jammu and Kashmir

• Basmati-growing areas of Western Uttar Pradesh

Farmers in these regions can benefit from better production even during periods of water scarcity.

Crop Duration and Yield Potential

Pusa Basmati 1882 is a Kharif season crop grown during the monsoon season.

Key Production Details

• Crop maturity period: Around 135 days

• Average yield: 46.9 quintals per hectare

• Maximum yield: 59.7 quintals per hectare under favorable conditions

• Suitable for irrigated cultivation

Its relatively short maturity period also helps farmers complete the crop cycle efficiently.

Research Trials Show Impressive Results

During drought simulation trials conducted under rain-out shelter conditions, Pusa Basmati 1882 delivered remarkable performance.

Yield Under Drought Conditions

• Pusa Basmati 1: 496 kg per hectare

• Pusa Basmati 1882: 987.5 kg per hectare

The results showed that Pusa Basmati 1882 produced nearly double the yield compared to its parent variety under drought conditions.

Even under normal irrigation, the variety recorded approximately 10.26% higher yield than Pusa Basmati 1, highlighting its strong productivity potential.

Benefits for Farmers

Pusa Basmati 1882 offers several advantages for farmers dealing with uncertain weather and water shortages:

• Performs well during drought conditions

• Requires less water compared to conventional varieties

• Helps protect yields during sudden water stress

• Produces higher yields under both drought and irrigated conditions

• Matures in about 135 days

• Reduces production risks

• Improves profitability through better yield potential

These benefits can help farmers lower cultivation risks and improve income stability.

A Sustainable Solution for Future Agriculture

Experts believe that Pusa Basmati 1882 can play an important role in maintaining stable Basmati production in areas facing water scarcity. Its ability to perform well under drought conditions while maintaining high productivity makes it a valuable option for farmers.

With climate-related challenges becoming more common, this variety represents not only a major technological achievement but also a sustainable agricultural solution that can support India's Basmati growers for years to come.

Also Read: How Banana Stem Waste Becomes Free Organic Fertilizer for Sustainable Farming

CMV360 Says

Pusa Basmati 1882 is a major breakthrough for India's Basmati farmers, especially in regions facing water shortages and unpredictable weather. With its drought-tolerant traits, lower water requirement, and higher yield potential, this variety offers a practical solution for sustainable rice cultivation. Its ability to perform well under both drought and irrigated conditions can help farmers reduce risks, improve productivity, and secure better returns while supporting long-term agricultural sustainability.​