Pearl Millet

Food grain, fodder and drought-resilient staple.

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Pearl Millet

Overview

Food grain, fodder and drought-resilient staple.

Varieties

Okashana

Suitable zones

Highly adaptable to arid and semi-arid zones (NR IV-V).

Production and inputs

  • Seed & inputs: Low to moderate seed rates; tolerant of low-input systems.
  • Typical yield: 0.6-1.5 t/ha under smallholder conditions.
  • Common pests & diseases: Bird damage, head bugs and occasional fungal issues.
  • Post-harvest storage: Dry and protect from pests; traditional storage works for smallholders.

Markets & economics

Limited export markets but important for local food security.

Indicative price: $300 / MT (indicative) — Local market reports (indicative)

GDP potential: Critical for household food security in marginal zones.