A Book on Genetic improvement of Pigeonpea

Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] is one of the important grain legume crop grown predominantly in the semi-arid tropics of Indian sub continent which contributes nearly 92 per cent of the total world production. Major states in terms of area and production are Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh together contributes for about 90 per cent of area and 93 per cent of production of pigeonpea.Although India leads the world both in area and production of pigeonpea, its productivity is lower than the world average. This is attributed to factors such as lack of improved production technology and due to various abiotic and biotic stresses. A sound breeding strategy utilizing both indigenous and exotic germplasm for overcoming biotic and abiotic stress is very much essential for successful crop improvement.