Overview of pigeonpea research in Myanmar

Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) is the third most important pulse in Myanmar. Aberrant weather and climatic abnormalities significantly reduced the crop productivity in present-day rain-fed agriculture. Adoption of location-specific short and medium duration varieties as well as hybrids are needed to improve livelihood of vulnerable small holders. Monywashwedingar is a popular variety which has been selected by using pedigree method from naturally out-crossing local landraces. In 2013, ICPH 2433 (2507 kgha-1) showed 62.41% yield superiority over standard check, Yezin-3. In 2014, ICPA 2039 x Line-25 (2239 kgha-1) exhibited 57% yield superiority over ICPL 88039. These findings showed the prospects in enhancing the productivity of pigeonpea in Myanmar.