Trends in support for research and development of cool season food legumes in the developing countries

Abstract

In addition to their role in hUman nutrition, food legumes are an integral part of farming systems world wide. Their role in diversifying cropping systems and in maintaining soil fertility to sustain agricultural production is being realized increasingly among scientists and policy makers in most developing countries. Current (1996) world production is around 57 million tonnes. The population in developing countries is expected to be 6.06 billion by 20 I 0, and the demand for food legumes is expected to be around 110.65 million lonnes. This poses a challenge to scientists and policy makers to meet this demand. The growth trends during 1990-94 for arca, production, and productivity globally were negative, with few exceptions. Many countries in Asia need to inCrc.1se production by at least 50% by 2010, and double it by 2020, to meet the needs of the growing population. The current research and development (R&D) thrusts, in developing countries, are gearcd towards increased production, but with varied success. An increased reliance on plant breeding and extensive cultivation of legumes in marginal arcas has lead to over-exploitation of the limited genetic resourees (breeding for adaptation to harsh conditions thus losing genes for high yield). Some national governments (eg Turkey and India) have programs to increase production. The early successes have plateaued, and shifts in direction are needed. Research infrastructure, staff, and funding for agricultural research are inadequate in most developing countries. Compared to 3.29% of agricultural gross domestic product (GDP) invested in R&D by the developed cOllntries, the developing countries were spending on average only 0.39% in the late 19805. This has declined further in the 19905. The major proportion (50 to 75%) of the R&D funds in the developing countries is allocated to sk1plc cereals, and only a small portion of the remaining budget is available for legumes. AltllOUgh there arc specialized research institutes or programs for major cereals, food legumes arc lumped together and hence ICSCIU' ch cfforts are scattered and superficial when compared with cereals. TIle following strategies arc suggested to strengthen support for food legume research. Integrated cropping systeras management (variety + agronomic practices + crop rotations) to bridge the yield gap in different agroclimatic conditions. Initiate strategic research to breach yield ceilings, and to develop cultivars that can produce high and stable yields in better-endowed environments and thus compete with cereals. Strengthen research collaboration within and among national programs and with the international agricultural research centers. Increased role of regional, networks and working groups to enhance technical cooperation among developing countries (rCDe). Increase the collaboration between public and private sectors and exploit their comparative advantages to Ilehicve mutual goals. Create Food Legume Councils (that include fanners, traders, and exporters) which support R&D by levying laxes or cessc...