Introduction: The Protein-Packed Pulse
Urad Bean, commonly known as Black Gram or Kaala Chana (though distinct from chickpea) and locally as Urad or Mashkalai, is one of the most important pulse crops in Bihar. It is a key source of affordable, plant-based protein and plays a critical role in sustaining soil health through nitrogen fixation.
1. Importance and Ranking
Key Pulse Crop: Urad is among the top three most cultivated pulses in Bihar, alongside Masoor (Lentil) and Moong (Mung Bean).
Nutritional Security: As a primary source of protein in a predominantly vegetarian diet, it is crucial for combating malnutrition and ensuring food security.
Soil Health Improver: Being a leguminous crop, it fixes atmospheric nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and benefiting subsequent crops in the rotation.
2. Major Growing Regions
Urad is cultivated across Bihar, but its production is concentrated in specific agro-climatic zones suited to its growth.
Mithila Region: Districts like Madhubani, Darbhanga, and Samastipur are significant producers.
Kosi Division: Districts such as Saharsa, Supaul, and Madhepura.
Other Districts: Cultivation is also prominent in Purnia, Katihar, Khagaria, and Bhagalpur.
3. Agro-Climatic Conditions and Varieties
Climate: Urad is a warm-season crop but is sensitive to extreme weather. It is typically grown in the Kharif (monsoon) season.
Ideal Temperature: 25°C – 35°C
It is sensitive to frost and waterlogging.
Soil: It performs best in well-drained, loamy to sandy loam soils. Good drainage is absolutely critical, as waterlogging can be fatal.
Cropping Systems:
Pure Crop: Grown exclusively in a field.
Intercropping: Very commonly intercropped with other Kharif crops like Pearl Millet (Bajra), Sorghum (Jowar), or Maize. This practice spreads risk and maximizes land use efficiency.
Popular Varieties:
PU-35, PU-40, Pant U-35, T-9: High-yielding varieties promoted in the region.
Azad Urad-1, Azad Urad-2
Local Landraces: Many farmers still cultivate traditional varieties adapted to local conditions.
4. The Cultivation Cycle
Sowing (June – July): Sowing is done with the onset of the monsoon rains, either by broadcasting or in rows.
Growing Period (July – September): The crop has a short duration of 80-90 days. This allows it to fit well into various crop rotations.
Harvesting (September – October): The crop is ready for harvest when the pods turn black or dark brown. The plants are either uprooted or cut close to the ground.
Threshing & Winnowing: The dried plants are beaten to separate the grains from the pods. This is often done by trampling under bullocks or using mechanical threshers.
5. Economic and Culinary Importance
Staple Food: Urad is a fundamental ingredient in Bihari cuisine. It is used to make:
Dal: The split and dehusked form (Urad Dal) is used to make a nutritious lentil soup.
Badi / Bari: Sun-dried dumplings made from a paste of urad bean, which are later fried and used in curries.
Papad (Papadum): A popular thin, crisp discus.
Economic Security for Farmers: Its short duration and high market demand make it a reliable source of quick income for small and marginal farmers.
Price Stability: As an essential commodity, it often has a stable and remunerative price, though it can be subject to fluctuations.
6. Major Challenges
Urad cultivation in Bihar faces several significant challenges:
Pest Infestations:
Whitefly: A major pest that sucks sap and acts as a vector for the deadly Yellow Mosaic Virus (YMV).
Pod Borer: Larvae bore into the pods and feed on the developing seeds.
Jassids: Sap-sucking insects that can stunt growth.
Diseases:
Yellow Mosaic Virus (YMV): This is the most destructive disease. It causes yellowing of leaves, stunting, and drastic yield loss. It is transmitted by whiteflies.
Leaf Curl Virus: Another viral disease that can cause significant damage.
Cercospora Leaf Spot: A fungal disease that affects the leaves.
Erratic Monsoon: Delayed rains, long dry spells, or unseasonal rains during flowering or harvesting can severely impact yield.
Lack of Improved Seeds: Access to certified, disease-resistant seeds is often limited, leading to lower productivity.
Government Initiatives and The Way Forward
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Promotion of IPM strategies to control whiteflies and other pests, including the use of yellow sticky traps, bio-pesticides, and need-based insecticide application.
Distribution of Resistant Varieties: Dissemination of high-yielding, YMV-resistant varieties to farmers.
National Food Security Mission (NFSM)-Pulses: This government scheme provides support for quality seeds, seed treatment, and micronutrients to enhance productivity.
Awareness and Training: Educating farmers on improved agronomic practices, including proper sowing time, spacing, and water management.
Conclusion
The Urad Bean is a cornerstone of nutrition and sustainable agriculture in Bihar. Its ability to provide a quick, protein-rich harvest makes it indispensable for both the plate and the farmer’s pocket. While the threat from the Yellow Mosaic Virus and other pests is formidable, the combination of improved, resistant varieties and scientific farming practices is key to stabilizing and increasing Urad production. By strengthening the supply chain and ensuring fair prices, Bihar can continue to rely on this vital pulse to nourish its population and support its farming community.
