Abstract
YBS-98 is a high yielding pearl millet variety. It was developed at Maize and Millets Research Institute, Yusafwala through selection from ICRISAT germplasm. The experimental variety YBS-98 was evaluated against standard variety 18- BY in different yield trials during the years 2004- 2013. On an average basis of station, farmer field trials, it exhibited 17 percent higher grain yield than standard variety 18- BY with a potential of 4045 kg /ha. Its plant is medium height (245-282 cm) having 10-12 semi erect leaves. It takes 90-95 days to maturity and stay green character at maturity. Its grey coloured grain is bold as compared to check variety. The recommended seed rate for this variety is 1.5 to 2.0 and 2.0 kg / ha in the irrigated and rain fed areas, respectively. Its optimum time of sowing is from the start of moon-soon up to third week of July under rain fed conditions whereas in irrigated areas, sowing time ranges from 21th June to10th August. The recommended fertilizer dose is 100:50:50 and 80:50:50 NPK kg/ha to produce better grain yield of good quality. High grain /stalk yield, tolerance against diseases and suitability for both irrigated and rain fed conditions are major attributes of this new pearl millet variety.
