Assessment of Chilli Hybrids for Higher Productivity in Kallakurichi District of Tamil Nadu, India

Chilli is an annual or perennial herbaceous plant with branches. The lone blossoms have an off-white hue. Berries make up the fruit, which can be green, yellow, orange, or red depending on maturity. It is not merely a culinary delight but an integral part of our traditions with significant links to agriculture and day today life. An on-Farm Testing (OFT) on Assessment of Chilli hybrids for higher productivity in Kallakurichi District of Tamil Nadu was carried out in 15 farmer’s field at five locations during 2022-23 and 2023-24. Among the hybrids tested, the maximum fruit length (9.96cm), fruit girth (1.46cm), number of fruits per plant (244.62) and maximum number of fruits per kg (142.96) were observed in Chilli hybrid TNAU Co (CH) 1. Further highest green chilli yield (21.26t/ha) was obtained from Co(CH) 1 than Arka Tanvi (15.41t/ha). Farmers also realized that the highest net profit (2.733 lakhs) with highest B: C ratio (1:2.6) from the cultivation of Chilli hybrid Co (CH)1 than Arka Tanvi (1.76 lakhs and 1:1.62). Based on the result obtained in OFT, the chilli hybrid Co (CH) 1 further popularized through Front Line Demonstrations in 10 farmers field, training and other awareness programmes in Kallakurichi District of Tamil Nadu. Apart from yield attributes, Chilli hybrid Co (Ch)1 fetches good market preferences. The same hybrid was promoted under FLD programmes for popularization of this hybrid among the farming community. Therefore, it is feasible to suggest that this hybrid for commercial cultivation in Kallakurichi District.