Context
ICAR–Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI), Jodhpur, has developed new-generation moth bean varieties designed to withstand highly variable weather conditions, including prolonged drought and excessive rainfall.
About Moth Bean
- Scientific name: Vigna aconitifolia
- Also known as: Matki or Dew Bean.
- It is a creeping annual herbaceous legume belonging to the Fabaceae family.
- It is considered one of India’s hardiest pulse crops, particularly suited to dryland farming.
- Its deep-penetrating taproot helps the plant access moisture from deeper soil layers, enabling it to survive drought conditions.
Climatic and Soil Requirements
| Factor | Requirement |
| Temperature | Best suited to 24–32°C; can tolerate temperatures up to about 45°C |
| Rainfall | Ideal: 500–750 mm; can survive with around 200–300 mm |
| Soil | Prefers well-drained sandy loam soils |
| pH | Tolerates a wide range of about 3.5–10 |
| Salinity | Can tolerate slight salinity |
Major Growing Regions
- Mainly cultivated in the arid and semi-arid regions of:
- Rajasthan
- Maharashtra
- Gujarat
- Haryana
Importance
- Food: Provides protein-rich pulses such as matki dal.
- Livestock: Provides nutritious fodder.
- Soil health: As a legume, it contributes to soil fertility through nitrogen fixation and can be used as green manure.
- Climate resilience: Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for dryland and climate-stressed agriculture.
FAQs
Q1. What is moth bean?
Ans: Moth bean (Vigna aconitifolia) is a drought-tolerant pulse crop belonging to the Fabaceae family.
Q2. Which states are major producers of moth bean?
Ans: It is mainly cultivated in Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Haryana.
Q3. Why is moth bean considered climate-resilient?
Ans: Its deep root system and high heat and drought tolerance allow it to grow under low-rainfall and high-temperature conditions.
Q4. What are the uses of moth bean?
Ans: It is used as a food pulse, livestock fodder and green manure, contributing to both nutrition and soil fertility.
