Harnessing Polyembryony to Counter Rainfall Variability in Churu District, Rajasthan: Pathways to Enhanced Agricultural Productivity

Abstract

Churu district in Rajasthan faces increasing rainfall variability: erratic onset, intra‑seasonal dry spells, and occasional extremes. These changes compromise seedling establishment, crop uniformity, and yield stability, especially in rain fed crops. Polyembryony, the phenomenon where a single seed produces multiple embryos (often including nucellar clones of the mother plant), presents a potential tool for enhancing agricultural resilience.

 This review paper examines

(a) Rainfall pattern changes and their effects in Churu,

 (b) Biological basis of polyembryony and examples in India and elsewhere,

 (c) How polyembryony might ameliorate yield losses under variable rainfall,

(d) Evidence from similar interventions and case studies, and

(e) Recommendations for deployment in Churu to strengthen Rajasthan’s agricultural output.

Findings suggest that combining polyembryonic seed sources with improved agronomic practices may increase yield by 15‑30% in rain fed pearl millet and pulse crops, reduce risk in dry years, and contribute to overall agricultural strength at district/state/national levels. Key challenges include identifying suitable polyembryonic varieties, ensuring genetic stability, seed systems infrastructure, and farmer adoption. Policy and research interventions are proposed.