Theses paddy varieties have been officially approved by both state and national varietal release committees for cultivation in the hilly regions of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, has made a significant stride in agricultural innovation by developing two new blast disease-resistant and high-yielding paddy varieties — Him Palam Dhan-3 (HPR-2865) and Him Palam Dhan-4 (HPR-3201). This achievement was shared by Vice Chancellor Prof. Naveen Kumar, who praised the dedicated scientists of the Paddy and Wheat Research Center, Malan.
These improved paddy varieties are specially designed for hilly regions like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Both mature within 120–130 days, are resistant to blast disease caused by Magnaporthe grisea, and offer high yields — 38–40 quintals/ha for Dhan-3 and 40–42 quintals/ha for Dhan-4. Dhan-3 produces long, thick grains, while Dhan-4 has long, slender grains similar to Basmati. Their disease resistance means less chemical use, making them eco-friendlier and more economical for farmers.
This breakthrough is expected to enhance food security and increase farmers’ income in the state, marking a new chapter in sustainable and productive hill agriculture.
These varieties are not only based on advanced agricultural technology but are also tailored to meet the practical needs of farmers. The new strains would contribute to the food security of the state and play a crucial role in boosting farmers’ incomes by reducing losses caused by blast disease, a major threat to paddy crops in Himachal Pradesh, explained Prof. Kumar.
Blast disease, caused by the fungus Magnaporthegrisea, severely affects the leaves, stems, and panicles of paddy plants, leading to significant yield reduction. With paddy being the principal crop in ten districts of Himachal Pradesh, combating this disease has been a longstanding challenge for the agricultural community.
The newly developed varieties – Him Palam Dhan-3 (HPR-2865) and Him Palam Dhan-4 (HPR-3201) – have been officially approved by both state and national varietal release committees for cultivation in the hilly regions of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
