Cumin variety · Released variety
CZC-94
Also known as CZC-94, Short-duration cumin
ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI), Jodhpur, Rajasthan · ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur · 2021
Game-changer for arid and semi-arid regions. Significantly shorter crop duration (90-100 days vs. 130-140 days standard) allows early harvest and escape terminal heat stress. Requires only 3 irrigations post-germination (saves 1-2 irrigations). Reduces pesticide requirement (2-3 sprays vs. 3-4 standard).
Key facts
| Type | Released variety |
|---|---|
| Origin | ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI), Jodhpur, Rajasthan |
| Breeder / source | ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur |
| Year released | 2021 |
| Parentage | Selected from germplasm collections for earliness traits |
| Yield | Comparable yield to standard varieties with 40-50% reduction in input costs |
| Tolerance | Short duration minimizes pest/disease exposure window. Good performance in terminal heat stress conditions |
| Distinctive features | Early flowering (40-42 days), early maturity (100-105 days), dwarf to semi-dwarf plant type, adaptable to late sowing |
| Grown in | Rajasthan arid zone (Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer); expanding to Gujarat |
| Also known as | CZC-94, Short-duration cumin |
Figures are indicative, compiled from public agricultural sources (ICAR institutes, State Agricultural Universities, the Spices Board and the National Innovation Foundation) and vary with soil, season and management. Confirm with your local package of practices.
CZC-94 in detail
Short-duration cumin that matures in roughly 100-105 days instead of the usual 130-140, bred at ICAR-CAZRI Jodhpur to suit arid regions with limited water and shorter cold seasons.
Origin & story
Developed by ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI), Jodhpur, Rajasthan as a response to water scarcity and heat stress in arid cumin-growing areas. In Rabi 2021-22 it was commercially cultivated by 15 cumin growers in the arid region.
How it grows
Flowers at 40-42 days and matures in 100-105 days total. Can be sown up to mid-December without reducing yield. Requires only 3 irrigations after germination, fewer than the 4-5 usual for other varieties. Performs well in Rajasthan (Barmer, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur), Gujarat (Banaskantha, Patan), and parts of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Telangana. Because it runs to maturity by around mid-February, it escapes the later terminal heat stress.
Quality & character
Dwarf to semi-dwarf plant type. Needs only 2-3 prophylactic sprays for Alternaria blight (the main cumin fungal disease) instead of the 3-4 needed for conventional varieties, largely because the short-duration crop exits the field before peak disease pressure. Seeds are typical cumin: small, oblong, aromatic umbelliferous fruits.
Why it matters to buyers
Early maturity by around mid-February can allow harvest ahead of the main market glut. Lower pesticide input (2-3 vs. 3-4 sprays) reduces chemical cost. The extended sowing window and lower water requirement make it suited to water-stressed, marginal farmland. Shorter field duration shortens time-to-market.
About cumin
India is the world's largest producer and exporter of cumin, with most cultivation concentrated in Gujarat and Rajasthan. The crop has evolved from traditional landraces to improved released varieties developed by ICAR institutes and State Agricultural Universities, each offering distinct advantages in yield, disease resistance, and oil quality. Below are…
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