NRCB Unveils Two Innovative Banana Varieties for 2024 Release

The National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB) in Tiruchi is set to launch two new banana varieties next year. Director R. Selvarajan announced the release of NRCB Selection 16 and NRCB Selection 19 during the centre’s 32nd Foundation Day and Kisan Mela. These new varieties aim to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in banana farming.

NRCB Selection 16 boasts a significantly higher pro-vitamin A content, nearly ten times that of the conventional Grand Naine variety. In contrast, NRCB Selection 19 is a high-yielding pachaladan type that can produce up to 40% more fruit. This variety is also resistant to Eumusae leaf spot, which eliminates the need for fungicide sprays, thereby promoting environmental sustainability, as noted by Dr. Selvarajan.

Advancements in Banana Cultivation

The NRCB, which operates under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), has previously developed eight climate-resilient banana varieties. This year alone, the institute produced over 78,000 tissue-cultured plants through high-throughput bioreactor technology, distributing them to farmers nationwide. Dr. Selvarajan highlighted that adopting precision farming techniques could reduce water usage in banana cultivation by 25% to 30% and urea consumption by 50%, without compromising yield.

Tusar Kanti Behera, Director of the ICAR–Indian Institute of Horticulture in Bengaluru, praised NRCB’s research efforts, emphasizing the critical role of quality planting material in disease-free and high-yield banana production. He also encouraged entrepreneurs to commercialize the innovative technologies developed by NRCB.

The Tamil Nadu government is taking an active role in promoting banana cultivation within tribal communities. S. Annadurai, Director of the Tribal Welfare Department, announced the implementation of a banana-based tribal development program in collaboration with NRCB.

Community Engagement and Recognition

During the event, R. Thangavelu, Director of the ICAR–National Research Institute for Integrated Pest Management, outlined the institute’s initiative to establish model villages promoting integrated pest management techniques. To further support local farmers, 4,000 tissue-culture banana saplings were distributed to Scheduled Caste farmers in Thottiyam, located within Tiruchi district.

Awards were presented to various stakeholders, recognizing the Best Banana Farmers, Best Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Best Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), and Best Entrepreneurs. The event also featured panel discussions on topics such as “AI Interventions in Banana Farming and Value Chain” and the importance of “Quality Planting Material to Boost Banana Productivity.” An exhibition showcasing banana and value-added products was organized, drawing significant interest from attendees.

The advancements made by the NRCB reflect a commitment to enhancing banana cultivation through innovative research and community-focused initiatives, ensuring that farmers can thrive in a sustainable manner.