NSC Sunhemp (Crotalaria juncea), known locally in India as San, Sanpat, Tag, or Janumu, is a rapid-growth, tropical legume used primarily as a green manure, fiber crop, and fodder. It matures in 45–60 days, improving soil fertility, suppressing weeds/nematodes, and is well-suited for Kharif season.Local Names and Regional Usage

• Hindi: San, Sonai
• Bengali: Shon, Sanpat
• Marathi: Tag
• Telugu: Janumu, Gilaka, Shanama
• Tamil: Vakkunnar
• Malayalam: Vakku, Chanaka
• Kannada: Pundi, Saab
• Gujarati: Shan

Key Agricultural Benefits

• Green Manure: Incorporated into the soil to increase biomass and nitrogen content.
• Fiber Production: Used for making rope, twine, and fishing nets.
• Soil Health: Acts as a cover crop, reduces erosion, and controls nematodes.
• Fodder: Provides protein-rich forage (approx. 34.6% protein) for cattle and goats.

Cultivation and Characteristics

• Season: Primarily grown as a Kharif (rainy season) crop, sown with the South-West monsoon.
• Growth: A fast-growing, erect herbaceous plant growing 3 to 9 feet tall.
• Climate: Thrives in tropical/subtropical climates, is drought-resistant, and can grow in various soil types, provided they are well-drained.
• Seed Treatment: Soaking seeds for 24 hours in water or cow dung slurry before planting can improve germination