Constraints to pulses in North-Western Bangladesh: summary proceedings of a project inception workshop

Abstract

These proceedings summarize the outcomes of the Inception Workshop of ACIAR Project SMCN/2005/001, entitled "Addressing constraints to pulses in cereals-based cropping systems, with particular reference to poverty alleviation in north-western Bangladesh". The Project uses methodologies intended to hasten transfer of technology to the target resource-poor farming communities. These methodologies include on-farm research and development, business development services, whole family training and farmer field school approaches; brief descriptions of these methodologies are included. Activities proposed for the 2006-07 season are presented under the four objectives of the Project: Promotion of chickpea in the High Barind Tract. Expansion of cultivation of chickpea and lentil in northern Rajshahi Division. Mechanization of sowing of pulses using power tiller attachments. Fertilizer placement studies. Currently recommended integrated crop management (ICM) packages for lentil and chickpea are presented. Plans for conduct of demonstrations of this ICM technology are outlined and on-farm trials to examine some nutrient components of these packages are specified (effects of method of Rhizobium inoculation and response to Mo, Band lime application). The present state of development of seeder attachments for power tillers is described. As the project requires interaction of multiple partners, guidelines for management and coordination of the Project are elaborated.