Here are all the details of “Chandigarh Barseem,” a crucial fodder crop in the region’s agricultural landscape.
1. The Core Concept: What is “Chandigarh Barseem”?
The term “Chandigarh Barseem” refers to the widespread cultivation of Barseem, also known as Egyptian Clover or Bersim, in the agricultural areas surrounding Chandigarh, primarily in the states of Punjab and Haryana.
Unlike grain crops, Barseem is exclusively grown as a high-quality, nutritious, and palatable green fodder for livestock. Its reputation in the region is built on its exceptional quality and its critical role in supporting the dairy industry.
Botanical Name: Trifolium alexandrinum
Common Names: Barseem, Bersim, Egyptian Clover.
2. Primary Growing Regions
Barseem is cultivated extensively in the “green belts” of the Chandigarh region:
Punjab: Districts with significant dairy activity, such as Ludhiana, Patiala, Jalandhar, SAS Nagar (Mohali), and Rupnagar (Ropar).
Haryana: Districts like Ambala, Panchkula, Karnal, and Kurukshetra.
It is a staple fodder crop on countless dairy farms throughout the area.
3. Key Characteristics of Barseem
Plant Type: A fast-growing, succulent annual legume. It grows in dense, lush green patches.
Root System: Has a strong root system that also helps in fixing atmospheric nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility for the next crop.
Palatability: Highly palatable and loved by all types of ruminants – buffaloes, cows, and goats.
Nutritional Value: It is a highly nutritious fodder, rich in:
Crude Protein (18-20%): Essential for milk production.
Digestible Energy: Provides high energy for livestock.
Minerals and Vitamins: Especially calcium and phosphorus.
4. The “Chandigarh” Advantage: Why It’s a Fodder Champion
The region’s farming practices make Barseem cultivation highly successful:
Ideal Climatic Conditions: The cool, dry winter of the Punjab-Haryana plains is perfectly suited for Barseem, which is a Rabi (winter) season crop.
Research-Backed Cultivation: The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, and CCS Haryana Agricultural University (CCS HAU), Hisar, have developed improved varieties and optimized package of practices for high yield and quality.
Multiple Cuttings: This is its biggest advantage. Once sown, Barseem can be cut multiple times, providing a continuous supply of green fodder throughout the winter and spring.
5. Primary Varieties Grown
Farmers in the region typically grow improved varieties developed by agricultural universities:
BL 1, BL 10, BL 22, BL 42: These are popular “Barseem Local” selections and improved strains from PAU, known for high yield, tolerance to diseases, and good regrowth after cutting.
Mescavi: An early-maturing variety that allows for quicker first cutting.
Wardan: Another high-yielding variety suitable for the region’s conditions.
6. Crop Cycle and Cultivation Practices
Sowing Time: The seeds are sown from mid-October to mid-November, right after the harvesting of the Kharif (monsoon) crops like rice.
First Cutting: The first cut is ready approximately 55-60 days after sowing.
Multiple Harvests: After the first cut, the crop regenerates. Farmers can typically take 4 to 6 subsequent cuttings at intervals of 25-35 days, lasting until March or April.
Irrigation: Requires frequent and light irrigation to maintain its succulent nature.
7. Economic and Agricultural Significance
Backbone of the Dairy Industry: The availability of cheap, high-quality Barseem fodder is fundamental to the economics of milk production in the region. It directly enhances both the quantity and quality of milk.
Soil Health Improver: As a legume, it fixes nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for chemical nitrogen fertilizers for the subsequent crop (often maize or rice), making the system more sustainable.
Cost-Effective for Farmers: Growing their own green fodder is far more economical for dairy farmers than purchasing concentrated feed.
Conclusion
Chandigarh Barseem is not a crop for human consumption but is an indispensable pillar of the region’s agri-livestock economy. It represents the scientific and intensive cultivation of a superior fodder crop that directly supports the thriving dairy sector in Punjab and Haryana. Its lush green fields are a common and vital sight in the countryside around Chandigarh, symbolizing the direct link between advanced agriculture and successful dairy farming.
