Pantnagar university's hull-less barley 'Pant Jau-1121' beneficial for diabetics, cleared for cultivation in 12 states

Scientists at GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, have developed Pant Jau-1121, Uttarakhand's first hull-less barley variety. In August, the Government of India's Central Variety Release Committee released it for cultivation in 12 states of the north-eastern zone. According to its breeders, Dr JP Jaiswal, head of the genetics and plant breeding department, and Dr Swati, ordinary barley can be used only after processing because of its husk, while this variety can be used directly. Its glycemic index is 20-28, about a third of wheat's (60-70), and it contains up to 5-10 grams of beta glucan per 100 grams, so scientists consider rotis made from it beneficial for diabetics. The crop is ready in 125-135 days, the plant is sturdy and resistant to lodging, and it resists yellow rust and blight. Farmers are crowding the innovation stall at the Kisan Mela to see it. Some seed has been given to farmers, and given the demand, the university will produce seed on a large scale so that it is available at coming Kisan Melas. (Source: Amar Ujala)