Reciprocal crosses in early maturing x high yielding rice ( Oryza sativa L.) cultivars

Abstract

Jasmine, Jasminum sambac (L.) Aiton cv. Udupi Mallige belonging to family Oleaceae, is a fragrant commercial flower crop of coastal Karnataka. Udupi Mallige is being cultivated in homestead gardens and is concentrated in the surrounding villages of Shanakarpura, in Udupi district. The crop has been tagged under Geographical Indication (GI) due to its unique fragrance and quality flowers from Udupi region. Udupi Mallige is extensively used in religious functions and perfumery industry as it is having mild fragrance, which gives a feeling of optimism, euphoria and confidence. Its fragrance is also known to cure depression, nervous exhaustion and stress. Udupi Mallige which has been recognised internationally for its fragrance has got potential demand for export market, especially to Gulf countries. The crop flowers thought the year and the peak flowering is observed during March-April (on season). There is a demand for Udupi Mallige flowers during October to February (off season), as most of the religious functions and marriage ceremonies tend to occur during off season. At present there are about 20,000 farmers cultivating this crop in small and marginal land holdings (0.02 to 0.2 acres). The retrospect of trend in area and production statistics of Udupi district from 2008-09 to 2016-17 reveals marginal decline in crop area. But this crop has been extended to neighbouring districts of the state. Studies on Udupi Mallige with respect to production of quality planting material, techniques for enhancing flower production during off season and increasing the keeping quality of the flowers is very limited. The review on the production techniques on Udupi Mallige gives good scope for exploring in the area of research and development in the future.