• Pusa Arhar-16 is an extra-early maturing (120 days), high-yielding (19-20 q/ha) pigeon pea variety developed by ICAR-IARI, characterized by its semi-dwarf, compact, and determinate structure. It is specifically designed for high-density planting and machine harvesting, making it suitable for modern farming systems and facilitating subsequent crops like wheat or mustard.

Key Characteristics of Pusa Arhar-16:

• Maturity Duration: Extremely early maturity, harvesting in approximately 120–125 days. 
• Plant Type: Semi-dwarf (around 120 cm) and semi-erect with synchronous maturity, making it ideal for combine harvesting.
• Yield Potential: Produces a high yield of approximately 19.76 quintals per hectare. 
• High-Density Planting: Suitable for close row-to-row spacing, commonly at 30 cm × 10 cm or 30 cm × 12.5 cm, allowing higher plant population. 
• Suitability for Crop Rotation: Due to early maturity, it fits well in intensive cropping systems (e.g., Arhar-Wheat, Arhar-Mustard). 
• Management: Its compact structure allows for easier insect pest management, specifically against pod borer and pod bug, using knapsack sprayers.