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INDAM-6024 Chilli: A Promising Hybrid for Long Harvesting and High Yields

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India remains one of the largest global producers and consumers of chilli, cultivating a wide range of varieties to meet the demands of fresh markets, processing industries, and export trade. In response to the need for consistent yield, disease tolerance, and market-ready fruit quality, Indo-American Hybrid Seeds (INDAM) has introduced several outstanding hybrids. Among these, INDAM-6024 stands out as a high-performing chilli hybrid that is designed for long harvesting periods, high productivity, and tolerance to major diseases like Leaf Curl Virus (LCV) and Dieback.

With its bullet-shaped fruits, attractive green and red color, and robust agronomic traits, INDAM-6024 has been receiving widespread attention from chilli growers across key agricultural states like Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Bihar. Its suitability for both fresh green consumption and dry red chilli processing offers flexibility and higher profitability to farmers.

Overview of INDAM-6024 Chilli

INDAM-6024 is a hybrid variety developed through extensive field trials and advanced breeding techniques to offer resilience, uniformity, and high market value. This hybrid is particularly notable for its compact, erect plant structure and unique bullet-shaped fruits—traits that lend themselves well to both ease of harvest and desirable market presentation.

Its adaptability across diverse agro-climatic zones and superior resistance to common chilli diseases make it a dependable choice for farmers aiming for long-term productivity and stable income. With a planting window during the Kharif season and harvest from November to December, INDAM-6024 allows farmers to align cultivation practices with optimal climatic conditions and market demand.

Key Agronomic Features

  1. Plant Architecture and Growth Habit

INDAM-6024 is characterized by a strong, upright plant type that supports high fruit load without collapsing. Its semi-compact, erect stature reaches an average height of 80–100 cm, offering good air circulation and light penetration throughout the canopy.

This architecture is particularly helpful in reducing disease incidence by minimizing moisture accumulation on leaves and stems. Additionally, the robust stems and branching structure support multiple fruiting cycles, contributing to its long harvesting window.

  1. Fruit Characteristics

The hallmark of INDAM-6024 is its bullet-shaped fruits, which are short, thick, and exhibit an attractive shine and uniformity. These features are highly preferred by both fresh market vendors and dry chilli processors.

  • Fruit Color: Initially dark green, turning to a vibrant red upon ripening.
  • Length: Approximately 5.8 cm, making them ideal for compact packaging and bulk sales.
  • Diameter: Around 1.7 cm, contributing to the fruit’s sturdy, meaty profile.
  • Surface: Smooth with minimal wrinkling, enhancing shelf appeal and consumer preference.
  • Red Dry Color: Excellent pigmentation after drying, which is a major asset for spice markets and exports.

This variety delivers high uniformity in fruit size and shape, reducing grading time post-harvest and maximizing returns from bulk buyers.

  1. Disease Tolerance

One of the most critical advantages of INDAM-6024 is its good tolerance to Leaf Curl Virus (LCV) and Dieback disease. These two issues significantly reduce yield and quality in traditional chilli varieties.

  • LCV Resistance: Reduces the incidence of leaf distortion and stunted growth, which are common under virus pressure.
  • Dieback Resistance: Maintains stem integrity and flower-to-fruit conversion even during extended harvesting periods.

With built-in resistance to these diseases, INDAM-6024 minimizes the need for frequent chemical interventions, thus reducing input costs and environmental impact.

Recommended Cultivation Practices

  1. Sowing and Nursery Management
  • Season: Kharif
  • Sowing Time: July–August
  • Seed Rate: 100–110 gm/Acre

Start with a well-prepared nursery on raised beds enriched with organic matter. Ensure good drainage to avoid damping-off. Treat seeds with suitable fungicides or bioagents to prevent early-stage infections.

  1. Transplanting and Spacing
  • Spacing: 60–75 cm between rows and 45–60 cm between plants

This spacing facilitates better canopy management and efficient use of fertilizers and water. It also helps prevent fungal infections by improving air flow.

  1. Soil and Irrigation
  • Soil Type: Well-drained loamy to sandy loam soils with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5
  • Irrigation: Drip irrigation is ideal, especially during flowering and fruit development stages. Water stress should be avoided at these critical growth periods.
  1. Nutrient Management
  • Basal Application: Farmyard manure or compost at 8–10 tons per acre.
  • Fertilizers: Apply NPK in split doses—Nitrogen for vegetative growth, Phosphorus for root and flower development, and Potassium for fruit quality and shelf life.
  • Micronutrients: Supplement with Calcium, Magnesium, Boron, and Zinc to improve fruit strength and prevent physiological disorders like blossom end rot.
  1. Pest and Disease Management

Although INDAM-6024 shows good disease resistance, an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach is recommended:

  • Aphids and Thrips: Monitor regularly and control using neem oil, bio-pesticides, or selective insecticides.
  • Mites: Apply miticides only as needed, ensuring pre-harvest intervals are respected.
  • Fungal Diseases: Preventative fungicide sprays during rainy spells and good field sanitation practices help maintain plant health.

Harvesting and Yield Potential

  • Harvest Period: November to December
  • Green Fruit Harvest: Starts approximately 65–70 days after transplanting
  • Red Dry Fruit Harvest: Ready by 90–95 days, allowing flexibility based on market conditions

Farmers can plan staggered harvesting due to the hybrid’s long bearing ability, maximizing market opportunities and minimizing glut.

Regional Adaptability

INDAM-6024 is successfully cultivated in varied agro-climatic zones across Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Bihar. It has demonstrated consistent yield and fruit quality in both irrigated and rainfed conditions when managed appropriately.

Local weather, soil type, and farming practices may influence the performance slightly, but its built-in disease resistance and genetic vigor make it a reliable option across states.

Market Viability and Profitability

INDAM-6024 is suitable for dual-purpose cultivation:

  • Fresh Green Markets: Thanks to its dark, shiny green fruits and compact size.
  • Dry Chilli Markets: Due to its excellent red color retention, uniform drying, and pungent taste.

Its high yielding ability, combined with longer fruiting cycles and reduced disease management costs, translates to better returns on investment for commercial chilli farmers. Traders and aggregators also prefer this variety for its consistent quality, leading to stronger bargaining power for growers.

Conclusion

INDAM-6024 chilli hybrid is a well-rounded performer tailored for Indian conditions and market expectations. With strong resistance to LCV and Dieback, bullet-shaped attractive fruits, and high yield potential, it gives farmers the edge they need in a competitive market.

Its adaptability to various states, long harvesting period, and reduced pest vulnerability make it a valuable addition to the cultivation portfolio of both smallholders and commercial growers. When grown following recommended practices, INDAM-6024 has the capacity to deliver excellent returns, quality produce, and greater farmer confidence.

This hybrid represents the continued commitment of INDAM to develop crop solutions that respond to on-ground challenges and evolving market trends—making INDAM-6024 a dependable and profitable choice for the future of chilli cultivation in India.

Indam-54 Chilli: A High-Pungency Hybrid for Versatile Commercial Cultivation

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In the ever-evolving world of chilli cultivation, hybrids that combine adaptability, pungency, and dual-purpose utility are increasingly in demand. Among such elite cultivars is Indam-54, a robust and high-performing hybrid chilli developed by Indo-American Hybrid Seeds (INDAM). Designed to deliver excellence in both green and dry red chilli markets, Indam-54 stands out for its very high pungency, excellent virus tolerance, and broad regional adaptability.

Catering to the needs of farmers across Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, Indam-54 is optimized for Kharif season cultivation. With strong agronomic features and market-aligned fruit quality, it promises a productive and profitable harvest for both fresh and processed chilli segments.

Vigorous Growth and Semi-Upright Architecture

One of the signature traits of Indam-54 is its semi-upright plant architecture, which facilitates better air circulation and sunlight penetration across the plant canopy. This contributes to healthier growth, more flowering points, and better fruit setting.

  • Plant Height: 80–100 cm
  • Growth Habit: Semi-upright, strong stem support
  • Foliage: Dark green and broad leaves, indicating good nutrient uptake

The sturdy structure helps the plant withstand moderate wind and rain, supporting consistent yields even under variable field conditions. Its semi-upright nature also makes field operations like pesticide sprays and harvesting more manageable.

Fruit Traits: A Dual-Purpose Powerhouse

Indam-54 is specifically bred to serve both green chilli and dry red chilli markets. The hybrid produces long, moderately wrinkled fruits that are uniform in shape and size—ideal for market presentation and processing.

  • Fruit Length: 8–11 cm
  • Fruit Diameter: 0.8–1.1 cm
  • Color: Bright green when immature; deep red upon maturity
  • Surface: Moderately wrinkled, enhancing visual appeal
  • Pungency: Very high, suitable for both household and industrial spice production

The intense pungency makes Indam-54 a favorite among spice manufacturers, while the vibrant red color post-drying is a sought-after trait for domestic and export markets alike.

 

Maturity and Harvesting

Indam-54 offers a flexible harvesting window that gives farmers a strategic edge. The crop can be harvested early as green chilli or allowed to mature into deep red pods ideal for drying and processing.

  • For Green Chilli Harvest: 65–70 days after transplanting
  • For Red Chilli Harvest: 90–95 days after transplanting
  • Season: Kharif (July–August sowing)
  • Harvest Window: October to December (depending on sowing date and climate)

This dual-harvest feature allows farmers to optimize income by responding to real-time market demands—harvesting early for the fresh produce market or waiting for red chilli prices to peak.

Nursery Management and Sowing Guidelines

Indam-54 responds well to nursery sowing, ensuring robust seedling health and uniform transplant quality.

  • Sowing Period: July to August (for Kharif season)
  • Seed Rate: 80–100 grams per acre
  • Nursery Duration: 25–30 days
  • Soil Type: Well-drained sandy loam to loamy soil with neutral pH

The seedlings should be hardened before transplanting by gradually exposing them to sunlight and reducing water application in the nursery beds. This ensures better survival post-transplantation.

Transplanting, Spacing, and Field Establishment

Proper spacing is critical for achieving optimum plant population, reducing disease incidence, and ensuring efficient nutrient uptake.

  • Spacing: 60–75 cm between rows and 45–60 cm between plants
  • Plant Density: 10,000–12,000 plants per acre depending on spacing

The recommended spacing facilitates air movement and sunlight exposure, which are vital in preventing fungal and bacterial diseases, especially in humid conditions.

Irrigation and Fertility Management

Water and nutrients must be managed judiciously to unlock the full yield potential of Indam-54.

  • Irrigation Schedule:
    • Light watering post-transplanting
    • Consistent watering during flowering and fruit set
    • Reduce watering during ripening to enhance pungency and color
  • Drip irrigation is preferred for precise moisture control
  • Fertilization Plan:
    • Basal Dose: FYM (Farmyard Manure) @ 8–10 tons/acre, DAP, and potash at sowing
    • Top Dressing: Split doses of nitrogen and potassium during vegetative and fruiting phases
    • Micronutrients: Apply Boron, Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc to improve fruit set, reduce cracking, and boost overall quality

Use of fertigation and foliar sprays ensures uniform growth and reduces nutrient leaching.

Pest and Disease Management

While Indam-54 demonstrates good virus tolerance, integrated pest and disease management (IPM) practices are essential to maintain yield integrity and fruit quality.

  • Key Pests:
    • Thrips & Aphids: Neem-based or selective insecticides for control
    • Fruit Borer: Use pheromone traps and Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) formulations
  • Common Diseases:
    • Leaf Curl Virus: Controlled through vector management (mainly whiteflies)
    • Anthracnose & Powdery Mildew: Managed with timely fungicide applications and proper spacing
    • Damping-Off: Controlled by seed treatment and well-aerated nursery conditions

Regular scouting and threshold-based interventions are recommended for cost-effective crop protection.

Field Performance and Regional Adaptability

Indam-54 has shown consistent field performance across a range of agro-climatic conditions, making it highly adaptable. It has gained traction in the chilli belts of southern and central India due to its uniformity, high fruit set, and resilience.

  • Recommended States: Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh
  • Performance Highlights:
    • Early and uniform maturity
    • High number of fruits per plant
    • Better resilience under moderate abiotic stress

Growers have reported high market acceptability due to the hybrid’s shape, color, and pungency—all critical parameters for fresh and dry chilli buyers.

Market Opportunities and Profitability

Indam-54 enables farmers to access both fresh produce markets and processing industries, thereby enhancing income streams. With excellent drying quality and bright red color retention, the hybrid appeals strongly to exporters and spice companies.

  • Green Chilli Market:
    • Preferred for size, appearance, and pungency
    • Suitable for urban vegetable markets and bulk suppliers
  • Dry Chilli Market:
    • Good drying ratio and minimal weight loss
    • High pungency and color retention critical for spice manufacturers
  • Profit Potential:
    • Faster crop turnaround enables multi-cropping
    • Premium pricing due to fruit quality and pungency

By allowing growers to participate in both segments, Indam-54 increases market flexibility and return on investment.

Conclusion

Indam-54 is more than just another hybrid chilli; it is a carefully developed solution for farmers looking for versatility, high returns, and reliable performance. With strong agronomic traits, dual-purpose capability, and wide adaptability, it addresses the modern-day challenges of chilli farming.

When cultivated with attention to best practices—nursery care, balanced nutrition, pest vigilance, and proper spacing—Indam-54 can become a game-changer in the field. Whether you’re targeting the fresh green market or dry red chilli exports, this hybrid offers the traits needed for commercial success.

For chilli growers aiming for quality, consistency, and profitability, Indam-54 stands tall as a dependable and market-savvy choice.

INDAM Marshal Onion: A High-Performing Hybrid for Early Maturity and Market Leadership

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India ranks among the world’s top onion-producing countries, with onions forming a staple in Indian cuisine and a significant commodity in the agricultural economy. As consumer demand rises and climatic unpredictability intensifies, onion farmers require dependable, high-yielding varieties that not only thrive under challenging conditions but also ensure market competitiveness. One such breakthrough hybrid is INDAM Marshal, developed by Indo-American Hybrid Seeds (INDAM).

This early-maturing, high-yield onion hybrid has gained substantial attention among Kharif season growers across key agricultural states such as Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. Designed to deliver marketable bulbs with uniform shape, superior color, and excellent storage potential, INDAM Marshal is a smart solution for commercial onion cultivation in India.

A Next-Generation Onion Hybrid

INDAM Marshal stands out as a next-generation hybrid designed with multiple farmer-focused benefits:

  • Early maturity for quick market entry
  • Uniform bulb shape and size to reduce grading losses
  • Bright red coloration for better consumer appeal
  • High storability for market flexibility
  • Resilience in Kharif season conditions, particularly monsoon moisture and disease stress

The hybrid’s genetics are optimized for both yield and visual appeal. Each bulb weighs approximately 90–100 grams, with a globe-round shape and smooth, glossy outer skin—traits that ensure premium prices in local and regional markets.

Key Physical and Commercial Traits

  • Bulb Shape: Globe-round, symmetrical for easy packaging and appealing presentation
  • Bulb Weight: 90–100 grams, reducing grading and sorting losses
  • Color: Deep red, attractive in fresh markets
  • Skin Texture: Firm and glossy, enhancing post-harvest life
  • Storability: High, reducing spoilage and improving transportation logistics
  • Maturity: 90–95 days after transplanting, enabling early market access

These characteristics make INDAM Marshal ideal for fresh markets, institutional buyers, and short- to medium-distance transportation. Farmers benefit from uniformity in harvest and fewer rejections at wholesale markets due to inconsistent quality.

Plant Architecture and Agronomic Strength

INDAM Marshal is bred for vigor, featuring upright growth and strong foliage that contributes to bulb health and disease resilience. Its medium-spreading plant habit allows for:

  • Optimal leaf-to-bulb ratio, ensuring efficient photosynthesis
  • Improved canopy coverage for weed suppression and soil moisture retention
  • Reduced lodging, thanks to a sturdy base and erect posture

The hybrid’s early maturity gives it a distinct economic advantage. It allows farmers to harvest during high-demand periods—typically December and January—when early arrivals can command significantly better prices.

Recommended Cultivation Practices

  1. Seasonality and Sowing Schedule

INDAM Marshal is recommended for Kharif season cultivation (June to July sowing). It performs best under monsoon-fed or irrigated conditions, establishing quickly in nursery beds or directly in fields.

  • Nursery Sowing: Early June to mid-July
  • Transplanting Age: 25–30 days after sowing
  • Harvest Window: Late December to January

The short crop cycle enables faster turnover and the opportunity for sequential cropping or rotation, increasing overall farm productivity.

  1. Seed Rate and Spacing
  • Seed Rate: 3 kg per acre (approx.)
  • Plant Spacing: 15–20 cm between plants
  • Row Spacing: 30–45 cm

Proper spacing ensures bulbs develop evenly without competition for nutrients or light. It also facilitates airflow, reducing fungal disease incidence.

  1. Soil Requirements
  • Soil Type: Loamy to sandy loam with good drainage
  • Soil pH: 6.0 to 6.8
  • Fertility: High organic content and balanced micronutrient levels improve performance

Avoid water logging conditions as onions are sensitive to excess moisture, particularly during bulb formation stages.

Nutrient and Irrigation Management

INDAM Marshal responds best to precise nutrient scheduling and water delivery. Drip irrigation systems are recommended to minimize water usage and prevent foliage diseases caused by overhead watering.

Nutrient Guide:

Macronutrients:

  • Nitrogen (N): For healthy foliage during vegetative growth
  • Phosphorus (P): Critical for root development and early growth
  • Potassium (K): Improves bulb size, skin firmness, and color

Micronutrients:

  • Boron (B): Prevents tip dieback and ensures bulb compactness
  • Calcium (Ca): Reduces internal breakdown
  • Zinc (Zn): Improves overall stress tolerance

Fertigation—the application of nutrients through drip irrigation—is ideal for maximizing nutrient use efficiency and minimizing environmental runoff.

Pest and Disease Resistance Strategy

While INDAM Marshal possesses robust plant health, the crop still requires vigilance against common pests and diseases, especially under humid Kharif conditions.

Major Pests:

  • Thrips: Cause leaf curling and reduce photosynthetic efficiency
  • Onion maggots: Damage bulbs at the root level

Control Tactics:

  • Sticky traps and neem-based sprays
  • Crop rotation with non-host plants
  • Soil solarization before planting

Common Diseases:

  • Purple blotch: A fungal infection causing leaf spots
  • Basal rot: Affects bulbs and lower foliage

Prevention & Management:

  • Fungicidal seed treatment
  • Use of disease-free nursery beds
  • Timely fungicide sprays and cultural controls

IPM (Integrated Pest Management) practices, including the use of biocontrol agents and threshold-based chemical applications, are strongly advised for sustainable disease control.

Yield Performance and Post-Harvest Management

With optimal care and environmental conditions, INDAM Marshal can achieve significantly higher yields per acre compared to traditional varieties. Its bulb uniformity allows efficient mechanical or manual harvesting.

Harvest Guidelines:

  • Harvest Time: When 50% of the tops bend over naturally
  • Post-Harvest Curing: Dry under shade for 10–15 days to harden skins
  • Storage: Cool, dry storage areas prolong shelf life

Proper curing and handling ensure better skin quality, reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing market price.

Regional Adaptability:

Field trials and farmer experiences indicate excellent performance of INDAM Marshal across:

  • Karnataka: Particularly well-suited for Belgaum, Dharwad, and Bagalkot belts
  • Andhra Pradesh: Performs well in Anantapur and Kurnool
  • Maharashtra: Strong results in Nashik and Ahmednagar
  • Madhya Pradesh: Suitable for the Indore–Ujjain onion-producing belt

Its tolerance to mild abiotic stress and adaptability to varying soil profiles make it a reliable choice for onion producers in both irrigated and rain-fed zones.

Market Opportunities and Financial Advantages

INDAM Marshal’s early maturity, visual appeal, and storability make it a favorite among traders and aggregators. The hybrid enables farmers to enter markets ahead of supply gluts, securing higher prices.

Key Economic Benefits:

  • Faster returns on investment due to short crop cycle
  • Lower post-harvest losses through improved shelf life
  • Better market access through attractive bulb appearance
  • Repeat demand from buyers for consistent quality

In organized retail and bulk procurement markets, consistency and reliability are valued highly. The INDAM Marshal checks all these boxes.

Conclusion

INDAM Marshal is transforming the onion farming landscape with its agronomic resilience, superior quality, and profitability. Developed with a deep understanding of Indian growing conditions, this hybrid empowers farmers with:

  • Early harvesting advantages
  • Consistent yield and bulb quality
  • Lower production risks
  • Greater market acceptance and price realization

Whether you’re a progressive farmer aiming to modernize your cultivation approach or a wholesaler seeking consistent quality, INDAM Marshal offers a dependable, high-performance solution.

For those who wish to stay competitive in India’s evolving onion market, INDAM Marshal is not just a hybrid—it’s a strategic investment in agricultural success.

INDAM-5 Chilli: A High-Yielding Hybrid for Dual-Purpose Cultivation

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India, being one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of chilli, continues to see rising demand for superior chilli hybrids that cater to both domestic consumption and global export markets. Among the top-performing hybrid varieties that have shown remarkable results in trial fields is INDAM-5 Chilli, a product of Indo-American Hybrid Seeds (INDAM). This hybrid stands out for its high yield potential, superior quality for both green and red chilli markets, and strong adaptability across key chilli-growing regions of India.

INDAM-5 is especially suitable for dual-purpose use, ideal both for harvesting as green chillies and for drying to produce rich red chillies with excellent color retention. Its agronomic traits, robust plant architecture, and fruit quality make it an attractive option for commercial chilli cultivators seeking profitability and consistency.

Overview of INDAM-5 Chilli

INDAM-5 is a hybrid chilli variety developed through extensive research and rigorous field testing under varied agro-climatic conditions. Its ability to perform reliably in diverse growing zones makes it a promising hybrid for farmers in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh—some of the major chilli-producing states in India.

This variety is best suited for Kharif season planting, with nursery sowing recommended between July and August. With an adaptable growth cycle and impressive performance data from multiple trials, INDAM-5 offers farmers an efficient, high-return crop option.

Key Agronomic Features

1.Plant Structure and Growth Habit

INDAM-5 produces tall, spreading, and vigorous plants with dark green foliage, which is a strong indicator of plant health and nutrient uptake. This type of structure supports the development of a dense canopy, providing natural shade to the fruits and reducing damage from direct sunlight or sudden rainfall.

The plants exhibit strong branching, enabling more flowering nodes and hence, more fruiting potential. This robust architecture not only contributes to higher yields but also enhances the plant’s ability to support the weight of multiple maturing fruits.

2.Fruit Characteristics

The fruits of INDAM-5 are engineered for both market attractiveness and processing compatibility. Key fruit traits include:

  • Length: Medium-long, approximately 10–11 cm, making them ideal for green chilli markets and preferred by processors.
  • Weight: Each fruit weighs 7–8 grams, which strikes a good balance between market size preference and drying efficiency.
  • Diameter: Around 1.2 cm, contributing to a uniform fruit shape that enhances market presentation.
  • Pungency: Moderate pungency makes INDAM-5 versatile for a range of culinary applications, from fresh usage in households to industrial use in spice production.
  • Color Retention: One of its standout features is excellent red color retention post-drying, which is a critical parameter for chilli traders and exporters. Deep red pigmentation not only improves visual appeal but also indicates high capsaicin and pigment content.

3.Maturity and Harvesting Timeline

INDAM-5 offers a dual harvest window, which gives flexibility to growers based on market demand:

  • Green Chilli Harvest: Begins at 65–70 days after transplanting, suitable for fresh vegetable markets.
  • Red Chilli Harvest: Attained at 90–95 days, perfect for the dry chilli market.

This dual harvesting capability ensures farmers can respond dynamically to price signals—harvesting green fruits early when fresh chilli prices are high or waiting for full maturity for dried red chillies when market demand peaks.

Recommended Cultivation Practices: To unlock the full potential of INDAM-5, adherence to best cultivation practices is essential:

Nursery Preparation

  • Sowing Time: July–August for Kharif season.
  • Seed Rate: Approximately 80–100 grams per acre, ensuring adequate seedling density and minimizing wastage.
  • Prepare raised nursery beds with fine tilth, good drainage, and rich organic content.

Transplanting and Spacing

  • Spacing: Maintain a planting distance of 60–75 cm between rows and 45–60 cm between plants, depending on soil fertility and irrigation practices. Proper spacing ensures sufficient airflow and sunlight, reducing the risk of fungal infections and encouraging uniform growth.

Soil and Irrigation

  • INDAM-5 thrives in well-drained loamy to sandy loam soils with neutral to slightly acidic pH.
  • Regular irrigation is critical, particularly during flowering and fruit-setting stages. Drip irrigation is highly recommended to maintain soil moisture while conserving water.

Nutrient Management

  • Follow a balanced nutrient schedule based on soil test reports. Emphasize:
    • Nitrogen (N) for vegetative growth.
    • Phosphorus (P) for root development and flowering.
    • Potassium (K) for fruit development and color enhancement.
  • Use micronutrients like Calcium, Boron, and Zinc to improve fruit quality and reduce physiological disorders like fruit cracking or blossom end rot.

Pest and Disease Management

Although INDAM-5 is bred for vigorous growth, chilli crops remain susceptible to common pests and diseases. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies should be employed:

  • Aphids and Thrips: Regular monitoring and use of neem-based biopesticides or selective insecticides can control early infestations.
  • Fruit Borers: Pheromone traps and timely application of biologicals like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can help manage borers.
  • Fungal Diseases: Proper spacing and timely fungicide sprays (based on need) help manage anthracnose, powdery mildew, and damping-off.

Proactive disease and pest management ensure maximum yield realization and preserve fruit quality for the market (fresh and dry chilli).

Performance and Regional Adaptability

INDAM-5 has demonstrated excellent field performance in diverse agro-climatic conditions across its target states. However, it is important to note that the performance of the hybrid may vary slightly depending on:

  • Local weather conditions
  • Soil types
  • Cultural practices

Farmers are advised to tailor their crop management practices to suit regional conditions, with guidance from local agronomists or seed company extension experts.

Market Potential and Profitability

The versatility of INDAM-5 makes it a powerful asset in a grower’s crop portfolio. With its high yield potential and dual-use capability (green and red), it allows farmers to tap into multiple market segments. The hybrid’s excellent drying ratio, attractive red color, and balanced pungency further add value in both domestic and export markets.

In areas where red chilli prices spike post-harvest season, farmers growing INDAM-5 can gain a competitive edge due to better color retention and fruit uniformity attributes highly favored by traders and processing industries.

Conclusion

INDAM-5 represents a new generation of hybrid chilli that blends high productivity, market-friendly fruit traits, and regional adaptability. Whether a farmer is targeting the fresh green market or the dried red segment, this hybrid delivers on all fronts—yield, quality, and profitability. By following recommended agronomic practices, using optimal spacing, and managing pests effectively, growers can ensure that INDAM-5 meets its full yield and quality potential. As with all hybrid seeds, performance may vary slightly across locations, but when cultivated under proper conditions, INDAM-5 proves to be a reliable and rewarding investment for progressive chilli farmers.

For those looking to enhance their chilli production with a trusted hybrid that has been rigorously tested across multiple geographies, INDAM-5 stands tall both literally and figuratively as a leading contender in India’s thriving chilli cultivation sector.

Delegate protected my maize crop from fall armyworm and also increased the yield – Pradeep Suryabhan Sonawane, Jalgaon, Maharashtra

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When Pradeep Sonawane speaks, corn farmers across Maharashtra take note. In a season where Fall Armyworm continues to threaten maize fields across the country, his crop didn’t just survive, it thrived. What made the difference? Delegate. A scientifically advanced insecticide containing Spinetoram 11.7% SC, Delegate is Sonawane’s trusted partner in protecting his crop and ensuring maximum yield.
Across India, corn growers face rising cultivation costs, unpredictable rains, FAW outbreaks, and the looming risk of counterfeit seeds. But those who act early, spraying Delegate at 15–20 days report uniform stands, healthy foliage, and again at 30–35 days, got grain-filled, tip-packed cobs.

Delegate isn’t just another spray. It’s a performance-driven solution with: 

  • Fast action and long-lasting control (12–14 days)
  • Dual mode of action: contact + ingestion
  • Translaminar activity to control pests hiding beneath leaves
  • Rainfastness within 2 hours
  • Low-dose efficacy, IPM fit, and crop/pollinator safety
Corn farmers who delay spraying until visible damage often lose yield potential. But those who apply Delegate proactively, as recommended. witness greener fields, less labour, and more income per acre.
As Vishnu Patil from Sambhajinagar shares:
“My maize crop got complete protection from Fall Armyworm and I got 5 kg more yield per 100 cobs compared to other insecticides.” 
With rising demand from the starch and ethanol industry, corn is now a strategic crop. Investing in Delegate isn’t a cost, it’s a choice for full ROI and peace of mind. It’s a Green chemistry which is safe for crop consumed as Fodder and for applicator as well.
With Delegate, your crop and income stay in full control.
Delegate – कंट्रोल में खेत.
Watch their Delegate story here-

Win ₹500* cash : Corteva makes weed control rewarding

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Every rice farmer knows the pain. Before the crop stands tall, the weeds take over. EchinochloaCyperusLudwigia… they hit fast, draining your field of light, nutrients, and water. Miss the 15 to 45 day window and they can wipe out up to half your yield. More work. More cost. Less crop. But now there’s a smarter, faster way to strike back without mixing or second-guessing.

Dear rice farmers, stop losing yield to stubborn weeds like EchinochloaCyperus, and Ludwigia. Take benefit of ‘Corteva Reward Program’ for all rice farmers that is here to help you earn up to ₹500 in cash for every purchase of Novixid™, Novlect™, Assert™, or Vivaya™ herbicides.

Why Novixid™ and Novlect™?

  • Novixid™ offers dual action control with Rinskor™ + Penoxsulam, wiping out grasses, sedges, and broadleaf weeds in both TPR and DSR rice within 12–14 days. It’s fast, rainfast in 1 hour, and ensures a healthy, high-yielding crop.
  • Novlect™ is a smart EC formulation that targets tough weeds with rapid kill and no tank mixing. It’s eco-friendly, easy to apply, and safe for your paddy.

How to win ₹500* cash:

  1. Scan the QR code on product
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Celjal: Revolutionizing Water Conditioning for Modern Agriculture

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Celjal

In agriculture, efficiency and productivity are always important. Imagine a solution that conditions your water and boosts the effectiveness of your plant protection chemicals and fertilizers. That’s Celjal, a water conditioner from Excel Industries. It helps you get the most out of your agricultural inputs, ensuring your crops receive the best care. By improving the performance of these inputs, Celjal ensures that your crops receive the best possible care, leading to healthier plants and higher yields. With Celjal, you can be confident that you are maximizing the efficiency of your farming practices and supporting the growth of your crops in the most effective way.

Mode of action of Celjel  product

Celjal works as a water conditioner by inhibiting dissolved solids in the water. This action ensures that the chemicals sprayed on crops, such as fertilizers and pesticides, remain effective. By preventing these dissolved solids from interfering, Celjal helps maintain the potency and efficiency of your agricultural inputs, leading to better crop protection and growth.

Benefits

  1. Improves Water pH: Excel Celjal adjusts the pH level of the water, creating an optimal environment for the application of plant protection chemicals. This adjustment ensures that the chemicals are more effective when sprayed on crops.
  2. Enhances Chemical Spreading: By improving the water’s pH, Celjal helps plant protection chemicals spread more evenly across the crop surfaces. This even distribution maximizes the coverage and effectiveness of the chemicals, ensuring better protection and nourishment for the plants.
  3. Boosts Input Efficacy: The application of Celjal enhances the overall efficacy of all agricultural inputs, including fertilizers and pesticides. By preventing dissolved solids from interfering with these inputs, Celjal ensures that they work at their full potential.
  4. Optimizes Agricultural Potential: Celjal helps farmers get the most out of their agricultural inputs. By maintaining the effectiveness of fertilizers and pesticides, it supports healthier plant growth and higher yields, ultimately optimizing the potential of your farming practices.

Crop Compatibility

Celjal is suitable for all crops, ensuring optimal growth and yield across different agricultural practices. By using Celjal, farmers can enhance the growth and health of a diverse range of crops, leading to better yields and more productive farming practices.

Dosage 

To achieve the best results, it is recommended to apply a dosage of 1 ml per liter of water. This application should be carried out every 20-30 days.

Method of application

Celja should be added to the water before introducing any agricultural inputs. It is suitable for all foliar treatments. Whenever you apply chemicals such as insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, or water-soluble fertilizers via foliar sprays, ensure that Celjal is mixed into the water first. This preparation helps enhance the effectiveness of the agricultural inputs.

Compatibility with other products:

Celjal is compatible with all agricultural inputs, such as herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, bactericides, soluble fertilizer, micronutrients, plant growth promoters, biopesticides, biofertilizers, etc.

Storage and Shelf Life

  • Storage: Celjal in a cool place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing or disposing of anything that could contaminate food, water, or feed. In case of a spill from a broken container, clean it up using clay or another suitable absorbent material.
  • Shelf Life:Celjal has a shelf life of two years from the date of manufacturing.

Conclusion

Celjal from Excel Industries is a versatile and essential water conditioner for modern agriculture. By improving water pH and inhibiting dissolved solids, it enhances the effectiveness of plant protection chemicals and fertilizers, leading to healthier crops and higher yields. Its compatibility with all agricultural inputs and suitability for all crops make it an invaluable tool for farmers. Regular use of Celjal ensures optimal growth and productivity, supporting efficient and sustainable farming practices. With Celjal, you can confidently maximize the potential of your agricultural inputs and achieve the best possible results for your crops.

Xscalent : Safe solutions to standing crops through drip cleaning mechanism

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Xscalent

Efficient water management is crucial in modern agriculture, and drip irrigation has revolutionized the way water is delivered to plants by targeting the roots directly, which minimizes waste and maximizes growth. However, even the most advanced drip irrigation systems can encounter issues like scale buildup, which clogs pipes and reduces overall efficiency. This is where Xscalent from Excel Industries comes into play. Xscalent is a groundbreaking solution specifically designed to prevent scale buildup, ensuring that your drip irrigation system remains unclogged and operates at peak efficiency, ultimately supporting healthier plant growth and more productive farming practices.

Product composition

Xscalent product is combination of Chelating Agents

Mode of action of Xscalent

Xscalent gently dissolves hard water-induced scales in drip systems, similar to how sugar dissolves in water, resulting in effective water flow. When the pump is resumed, the dissolved scales are washed out without damaging the crops.

Benefits

By incorporating Xscalent into a regular maintenance routine, farmers can ensure that drip systems remain clean and efficient, leading to healthier crops and more productive farming practices.

  1. Usable with Standing Crops: One of the standout features of Xscalent is its ability to be used even when crops are still in the field. This means you can maintain your drip systems without disrupting your growing plants.
  2. Labor-Saving: Xscalent simplifies the cleaning process, eliminating the need for labor-intensive tasks such as taping the laterals. This saves time and reduces the effort required to maintain your irrigation system.
  3. Prevents Dripper Blocks: Regular use of Xscalent ensures that dripper blocks are minimized or completely avoided. This helps maintain the efficiency of your drip irrigation system, ensuring consistent water delivery to your crops.
  4. Safe for All: Xscalent is a highly safe solution designed to clean choked drip systems. It poses no harm to humans, soil, crops, or the drip systems themselves, ensuring a safe and effective cleaning process.

Crop compatibility

Xscalent  is a versatile drip solution suitable for a wide range of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and plantation crops. It can be effectively used for enhancing the growth and health of various crops such as potatoes, pomegranates, tomatoes, chilies, bananas, guavas, and ginger. Whether you are cultivating fruit-bearing plants, leafy greens, or root vegetables, Xscalent provides the Sufficient space needed to support drip irrigation systems and improve overall yield quality. 

Dosage

To ensure optimal performance of your drip irrigation system, it is important to use the correct dosage of Xscalent. Here’s how to apply it effectively. Apply 2 kg of Xscalent per acre of land for faster and better results.

Method of application

  • After completing the regular irrigation schedule, add 1 kg of Xscalent to the drip system for each acre of land just before shutting off the pump. 
  • The farmer should mix 1 kg of Xscalent in 100 liters of water and introduce this solution into the drip system using a venturi at a rate of 1 kg per acre. 
  • Allow the solution to remain in the pipes for 72 hours to dissolve the scale buildup. When the pump is turned back on, the dissolved scales will flow out in a chelated form near the plant roots, benefiting the crop.

Compatibility with other product

Xscalent is compatible with all agricultural inputs, including fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and other crop protection products. This means you can integrate Xscalent into your existing agricultural practices without worrying about adverse reactions or reduced effectiveness of other products. Its compatibility ensures that you can maintain your regular farming routines while benefiting from the enhanced efficiency and protection that Xscalent™ provides for your drip irrigation system.

Storage and Disposal

  • Storage and Disposal: Store Xscalent in a cool place, away from direct sunlight. If a spill occurs from a broken container, clean it up using clay or another suitable absorbent material. Ensure that Xscalent is stored and disposed of in a way that prevents contamination of food, water, or feed.
  • Shelf Life: Xscalent has a shelf life of two years from the date of manufacturing.

Conclusion

Xscalent from Excel Industries is an innovative and safe solution for maintaining the efficiency of drip irrigation systems. By preventing scale buildup, it ensures optimal water delivery directly to plant roots, promoting healthier and more productive crops. Its compatibility with all agricultural inputs and ease of use, even with standing crops, make it a valuable addition to any farming practice. Xscalent not only saves labor costs but also protects the environment and crop health.

Bioculum AW: Ready to use decomposer for crop sustainability

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BIOCULUM AW

In the heart of sustainable agriculture lies a simple yet profound concept: turning waste into wealth. Imagine a world where organic farm waste is not a burden but a valuable resource that enriches the soil, nurtures plants, and promotes a healthier environment. This vision is brought to life by Bioculum AW, a groundbreaking microorganism culture designed for rapid aerobic composting of organic waste.

Product Composition

It comprises microorganisms of proprietary nature. It contains cultures of bacteria/Fungi along with enzymes.

Mode of action of Bioculum AW

Bioculum-AW decomposes the material aerobically, increasing the temperature of the composting material by 25 to 300 C (degrees Celsius) above ambient. The process breaks down large organic molecules, absorbing nitrogen and releasing CO2. This accelerates the natural composting process, transforming garbage into rich manure without utilising any poisonous or hazardous ingredients.

Preparation of Bioculum AW

  1. Prepare the Slurry: Create a Bioculum AW slurry by mixing the product with water.
  2. Mix with Waste: Thoroughly mix the slurry into the organic waste.
  3. Form a Heap: Arrange the treated waste into a heap and monitor the temperature, which should rise to around 70°C.
  4. Weekly Turning: Turn the heap once a week to ensure proper aeration and decomposition.
  5. Functional Benefits: Accelerates aerobic composting of biodegradable Organic Farm Waste. Preserves plant nutrients and minerals in the end product. Very safe to handle and easy to apply. Helps in producing bio stabilized organic manure free from pathogens, foul smell and weed seeds. An eco-friendly product to solve waste management problems in agriculture farms.

Benefits

Bioculum AW enhances soil health and fertility by boosting microbial activity and releasing essential nutrients, while protecting plants from pests and diseases. For farmers, it means healthier crops, higher yields, and reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers, leading to increased profitability and sustainable farming practices.

  1. Enhances Soil Health and Fertility: Bioculum AW boosts microbial activity and releases essential nutrients, improving soil health and fertility.
  2. Defends Against Pests and Diseases: It helps protect plants from bacterial, fungal, and viral infections, reducing the incidence of pests and diseases.
  3. Rapid Composting: Bioculum AW quickly converts organic waste into nutrient-rich compost, providing valuable nutrients for plants.
  4. Improves Seed Germination and Seedling Protection: It enhances seed germination rates and safeguards young seedlings, promoting healthy early growth.
  5. Fast-Acting Composting Culture: This ready-to-use formulation is the fastest-acting composting culture available to Indian farmers, transforming organic waste into compost in just 30-35 days through aerobic processes.

Crop Compatibility

  • Recommended for all crops such as fields, horticulture, perennials, and vegetables, including nursery and main fields.
  • The completed compost manure can be used on lawns, nurseries, and farmer’s fields. It can be used as a bioorganic soil enricher in agriculture and horticulture crops.
  • It is ideal for all types of organic farm waste generated during agricultural operations. This trash is an excellent source of organic nutrients. Proper composting can convert it into a very rich supply of stable organic manure that is high in nutrients.

Dosage

To achieve optimal results with Bioculum AW, it is important to use the correct dosage. 1 kg of Bioculum AW is capable of degrading 1,000 kilograms (1 metric ton) of organic waste.

Method of Application 

  • If the waste is soggy, then sprinkle the powder directly on the waste and mix it thoroughly. If the waste is dry, prepare a slurry using water at 30 litres of water per one kg of Bioculum AW and then spray on to the waste. After mixing, the treated waste may be arranged in the form of a heap. For better results, keep the width of the heap as 3 to 4 meters and height up to 2 meters. 
  • Moisture level of the heap should be maintained up to 40-45%. If necessary, spray water in between to maintain the moisture level.
  • Turn the heap upside down every week for proper aeration.
  • If temperature does not rise above 60°C during the first week of heap formation, add Bioculum AW at the rate of half the earlier dosage during first turning.
  • Bioculum AW can decompose the agriculture waste in the open plot too within 35 to 40 days, however in the open plot, the temperature rise is not achieved and removal of weed seed & insects is difficult.

Storage and Shelf Life of Bioculum AW

Bioculum AW should be stored in a dry environment, away from direct sunlight, at temperatures between 10 and 40°C. The product has a shelf life of one year.

Conclusion

Bioculum AW offers a sustainable and efficient solution for managing organic waste in agriculture. By rapidly converting waste into nutrient-rich compost, it enhances soil health, boosts plant growth. This innovative product supports higher yields and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, making it a valuable tool for farmers and gardeners. Embrace Bioculum AW to turn organic waste into a powerful resource for a healthier and more productive agricultural practice.

Epicel: Unlocking the Full Potential of Crops for Sustainable Agriculture

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Epicel Canva

In today’s changing agricultural landscape, finding sustainable and efficient farming methods is crucial. That’s where Epicel comes in. This innovative biostimulant from Excel Industries is set to revolutionize crop care. Epicel not only boosts plant growth but also strengthens them against environmental stresses and improves soil health. It’s a true game-changer for modern farming.

Product composition

  • Humic acid is a key component of Epicel, playing a crucial role in its effectiveness as a biostimulant. 
  • Humic acid is a complex organic substance formed through the decomposition of plant and animal matter over long periods. Humic acid is rich in carbon and contains various functional groups, such as carboxyl, phenolic, and hydroxyl groups, which contribute to its high reactivity and beneficial properties.

Mode of action of Epicel

Epicel works by converting fixed nutrients into available forms, stimulating root growth, and improving soil health, Epicel ensures that plants receive the optimal nutrition they need for both vegetative and reproductive growth. This leads to healthier plants, higher yields, and more sustainable farming practices.

Benefits

Epicel is a versatile biostimulant that converts fixed soil nutrients into accessible forms, boosting land productivity by an average of 20%.It remains in the soil for around 75 days before being degraded by microbes. Farmers have reported positive results with Epicel in their fields across various crops. 

  1. Enhanced Root and Shoot Growth: Epicel promotes the development of vibrant white roots, indicating a healthy root system for efficient nutrient and water uptake. It also stimulates vigorous shoot growth, contributing to a robust plant structure.
  2. Improved Leaf Quality: Epicel encourages the growth of thicker and flatter leaves, which are more resilient and better equipped for photosynthesis. This results in more energy for plant growth and development.
  3. Enhanced Stress Resistance: Epicel boosts a crop’s resistance to biotic stresses (pests and diseases) and abiotic stresses (drought, salinity, extreme temperatures). It strengthens plants’ overall health and nutrient status, ensuring productivity under challenging conditions.
  4. Comprehensive Growth Support: Epicel supports both vegetative and reproductive growth phases, leading to strong stems, leaves, and roots, as well as healthy flowers and fruits. This balanced growth results in higher yields and better-quality produce.
  5. Economic Benefits for Farmers: By improving plant growth and stress resistance, Epicel ensures good returns on investment. Healthier plants with higher yields mean more produce to sell, and reduced need for additional inputs like pesticides and fertilizers enhances profitability.

Crop Compatibility

Epicel is suitable for a wide variety of crops, ensuring optimal growth and yield across different agricultural practices.

  1. Vegetables:

  • Includes a broad range of vegetables such as potatoes, tomatoes, chillies, ginger, and more. Epicel enhances nutrient uptake, leading to healthier and more productive plants.

2. Fruit Crops:

  • Grapes, Guava, Sapota, Citrus, Mango, Pomegranate, Custard Apple, Banana, Apple, Coconut etc. Epicel improves fruit set, quality, and flavour, ensuring a bountiful and nutritious harvest.

3. Field Crops:

  • Includes major crops like Cotton, Paddy, Sorghum, Sunflower, Groundnut, Potato, Mustard, Cumin and more. Epicel promotes vigorous growth, better blooming, and improved resistance to environmental stressors.

4. Plantation Crops:

  • Cardamom, Tea, Coffee, Floriculture, Home gardening, Medicinal plants etc. where it enhances soil fertility and microbial activity, crucial for long-term crop health and yield.

Dosage

  • 2.5 kg per hectare of Epicel through drip or drenching after three weeks of planting or two weeks of transplantation. 
  • A second application is advised based on crop requirements and duration. 

Method of application and time of application

  • Drip Irrigation: Ensures precise and efficient delivery of the dosage directly to the root zone.
  • Drenching: Allows for thorough soaking of the soil, ensuring deep penetration.
  • Broadcasting:Suitable for larger areas, providing uniform coverage across the field.Epicel can be delivered through drip systems as well as drenching, farmers may mix it with granular fertilizers for broadcasting.

Compatibility with other products

  • Epicel  is designed to be highly versatile and can be used in conjunction with a wide range of agricultural products. This includes compatibility with various fertilizer except urea, pesticides, herbicides, and other plant growth regulators. 
  • Mixing with urea is challenging since urea granules become liquified when in contact with Epicel. Urea is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air when the humidity is high. 

Storage and Shelf Life

  • Storage: Store in a dry and cool place, avoiding direct sunlight.
  • Shelf Life: 2 years from the date of manufacturing when kept in the original sealed pack.

Conclusion

Epicel is a transformative biostimulant that significantly enhances crop productivity and resilience. By converting fixed soil nutrients into accessible forms, it boosts plant growth, improves soil health, and increases land productivity by an average of 20%. Its versatility in application and compatibility with various crops and agricultural products make it an invaluable tool for modern farming. With Epicel, farmers can achieve healthier plants, higher yields, and more sustainable farming practices.