Influence of Blast (Pyricularia setariae Nisikado) on Protein Content of Leaves

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glacum (L) RBr) provides 11-12% of the world's supply of proteins, 67.5% of carbohydrate and 8.8% of iron. Though the maximum acreage and production of pearl millet is in Rajasthan (5.17M/ha. And 4.28M/tonne) but Haryana gives highest average yield per hectare (1769 kg/ha.). Blast incited by Pyricularia setariae Nisikado is prevalent in many pearl millet growing regions of the country. Severe infection reduces fodder value considerably. Protein is an important ingredient of the fodder but the information regarding the effect of blast severity on protein content of leaves is not known. The disease has occupied key position in the reduction of pearl millet fodder quality in northern Madhya Pradesh. Pearl millet blast increases nitrogen (N₂) and protein content in the infected leaves. Regression studies indicate 12.8% protein in the leaves of healthy pearl millet hybrid which may increase by 0.095% due to per unit increase in the blast severity.