Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan)

Pigeon pea, also known as tur (अरहर) in Hindi or Toor dal, is a popular legume crop widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. It is a significant source of protein and fiber and plays a vital role in Indian agriculture and cuisine. Pigeon pea is an essential component of dal and soup preparations, particularly in Indian and Southeast Asian dishes.

Pigeon Pea Production in India

India is the world’s largest producer of pigeon peas, contributing around 75% to 80% of the global production.

Top Producing States: Major producing states in India include Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Madhya Pradesh leads the country in pigeon pea production, followed by Maharashtra.

Global Production Rank: India ranks first in the global production of pigeon pea, making it the primary supplier of this essential pulse in the global market.

Export: Pigeon pea is one of India’s most important pulse exports, especially to countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

Temperature and Growing Conditions for Pigeon Pea

Temperature: Pigeon pea thrives in warm to hot climates. The ideal temperature range for its growth is 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). It is a heat-loving plant, making it suitable for areas with long, hot growing seasons.

Rainfall: Pigeon pea requires moderate rainfall, ideally between 500mm to 900mm annually. However, it is highly drought-tolerant and can grow in regions with limited water availability, making it ideal for dryland farming.

Soil Type: Pigeon pea grows well in well-drained sandy loam or clay loam soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It is tolerant of poor soils and can grow in marginal lands, which makes it a great option for small-scale farming.

Ideal Growing Conditions for Pigeon Pea

Planting Time: The sowing of pigeon pea generally takes place during the rainy season, from June to July. It requires the monsoon rains for initial germination and growth.

Harvesting Time: Pigeon pea requires about 6 to 9 months to mature. It is typically harvested during winter, from October to December, depending on the local climate and variety.

Key Benefits of Pigeon Pea

• Nutritional Powerhouse: Pigeon pea is a rich source of protein (up to 20-25%), making it an essential crop for vegetarians and vegans. It is also high in fiber, iron, and potassium, which are vital for overall health.
• Heart Health: The high fiber content helps in lowering cholesterol levels, which is beneficial for heart health.
• Blood Sugar Control: Pigeon pea has a low glycemic index, which helps in controlling blood sugar levels, making it a good choice for people with diabetes.
• Digestive Health: The fiber and antioxidants in pigeon peas help in improving digestion and preventing constipation.

Economic Importance

Cash Crop: Pigeon pea is a major cash crop for farmers, especially in semi-arid regions of India. It requires minimal water once established, making it ideal for regions with irregular rainfall.

Boosting Rural Economy: Pigeon pea cultivation supports the rural economy in India, providing income for small and medium-scale farmers and contributing to the food security of the country.

Crop Rotation: It is often used in crop rotation systems as it improves soil fertility by fixing nitrogen in the soil.

Uses of Pigeon Pea

Culinary Uses: Pigeon peas are a staple ingredient in Indian cuisine. The dried seeds are commonly used to make dal, curries, soups, and stews. 

Flour Production: Pigeon pea can be ground into flour and used in baking, as a thickening agent for soups, or for making snacks like dosa or idli.

Animal Feed: The residue of pigeon pea plants after harvesting is used as fodder for livestock, making it a valuable crop for both human and animal nutrition.

Oil Extraction: The seeds can also be used for oil extraction, which is used in various cooking and industrial applications.

Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Crop

Drought Resistance: Pigeon pea is extremely drought-resistant, making it a sustainable option for regions with irregular rainfall or dry seasons.

Soil Enrichment: Being a leguminous plant, pigeon pea is capable of nitrogen fixation, which improves soil fertility for subsequent crops.

Low Water Requirements: Compared to other crops like rice or wheat, pigeon pea requires much less water, which makes it an environmentally sustainable crop in the face of climate change and water scarcity.

Attractive Facts About Pigeon Pea

Rich in Protein and Fiber: Pigeon peas are superfoods packed with high protein and fiber, making them an excellent alternative to meat and other protein sources.

Versatility in Diet: Pigeon peas are used in a variety of dishes ranging from savory meals to snacks and sweets, making them incredibly versatile in the kitchen.

Environmental Benefits: Pigeon pea is a climate-resilient crop that helps improve the sustainability of farming practices by enriching soil health and conserving water.

Health and Wellness: Due to its low glycemic index, pigeon peas are beneficial for managing diabetes and promoting overall heart health.