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KANPUR: Indian Institute of Pulses Research has developed a new variety of red lentil (masoor dal) seed - WBL 77, which can increase the yield by about 20 per cent.

One of the main characteristics of WBL 77 is the size of the seed that is smaller than the presently available varieties, said Masood Ali, Director of the Kanpur-based Indian Institute of Pulses Research (IIPR).

The normal productivity of masoor is 15-16 quintal per hectare and with WBL 77 the yield can be about 18 quintal.

He also said the new variety is good for those regions where there is late sowing of paddy. According to the IIPR scientist, WBL 77 will be suitable for eastern parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, Jharkhand and West Bengal.

The variety can be sown in the paddy fields a week before the grain is harvested as WBL 77 starts growing till harvesting begins, he said, adding this variety is protected from rust, a common disease in pulses and other crops. Ali also said the acceptanc e level of IIPR's hybrid gram Subhra IPCK 2002-29 has increased with more farmers adopting the pulse. - PTI

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