A field study on evaluation of different varieties of Traditional storage practices of Finger millet [Eleusine coracana (L.)] in Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka for seed traits
1S.N.R. Srusti, 2H.N. Ramesh Babu and 3N. Rajeshwari
1,2,3Department of Botany and Seed Technology, Sahyadri Science College, Kuvempu University, Shivamoga-577 203 (India) Department of Botany and Seed Technology, Sahyadri Science College, Kuvempu University, Shivamoga-577 203 (India)
ABSTRACT
Current field survey study was conducted with the main aim to evaluate the traditional storage practices being practiced in southern dry zone of Karnataka viz. Mysore, Mandy, Hassan, Tumkur & Chamarajanagara districts and to identify the best storage practices being followed in these districts. Field survey was undertaken during work period in major finger millet growing region of all five districts of Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka. Information was documented by using Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) technique like observation and discussion. The survey was continued for different stages of crop and season (Kharif, Rabi and summer) for collecting the sample to assess the safe storage method. During the Survey it was observed that the Traditional storage structure practices to identify and gather description that are prevalent in the five viz. Mysore, Mandy, Hassan, Tumkur & Chamarajanagara districts of Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka. The data on various methods was collected by contacting the respondents through one to one interaction and group discussion methods, the indigenous technologies used by dry land farmers for storage of seed were documented. Findings of our study demonstrated that traditional technical skill teaches us how best the utilization of natural sources could be useful for storage and protection of life of grains or seeds. Furthermore, findings of our field survey study conducted at Mysore, Mandy, and Hassan, Tumkur & Chamarajanagara regions of southern dry zones of Karnataka revealed majorly earthen bin/pot, mud house, and vade type of traditional storage practices being followed for the storage of finger millet [Eleusine coracana (L.). In addition, precautionary measures before storage, during storage, and after receipt of grains highlighted in our study were being practiced by farmers in these regions to ensure protection from spoilage of grains.