Origin, Domestication, Taxonomy, Botanical Description, Genetics and Cytogenetics, Genetic Diversity, Breeding of Bajra [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.]

Bajra belongs to the Family Poaceae, Subfamily Panicoideae, Tribe Paniceae, Subtribe Panicinae, Section Panicillaria, Genus Pennisetum and Species glaucum. The word “millet” is derived from the Latin milium, which means “grain.” Pearl millet gets its name from the small, round seeds, which are similar in size and shape to pearls. The plant is also sometimes called “bajra” in India and “bulrush millet” in the United States. Further, Pennisetum glaucum is the scientific name for pearl millet. The genus name “Pennisetum” is derived from the Latin words “penna,” meaning “feather,” and “seta,” meaning “bristle.” This refers to the feathery appearance of the plant’s inflorescence, or flowering structure. The species name “glaucum” is derived from the Latin word “glaucus,” which means “grayish-blue.” This refers to the color of the plant’s leaves and stems. It is also known as 'Bajra' in Hindi, 'Sajje' in Kannada, 'Kambu' in Tamil, 'Saujalu' in Telugu, 'Bajeer' in Kumaoni and 'Maiwa' in Hausa, 'Mexoeira' in Mozambique. 'Baajri' in Marathi, 'Za' in the Dagbani language of Ghana, Mawele in Swahili and mwere in Meru languages of Kenya. Mahangu in Kwanyama of Namibia. It is also popularly known as African millet or barbed millet in various parts of the world. According to archaeobotanical researchers, the cultivation of Bajra dates back to 2000 BC. C. and was first cultivated in the Hallur district of Karnataka. Top 10 bajra producing countries (Byjus, 2023) are India, Nigeria, Niger, China, Mali, Burkina Faso, Sudan, Ethiopia, Chad and Senegal. Top bajra producing states in India (Byjus, 2023) are Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Pearl millet, also known as bajra, is a type of grain that is widely grown in arid and semiarid regions of Africa and Asia. It is a staple food in many countries, including India, and is often used to make rotis, chapatis, and other flatbreads. Pearl millet is a good source of nutrients, including protein, fiber, and minerals such as iron and zinc (Abbott, 2023). Pearl millet is relatively drought-resistant, making it an important crop in areas with limited access to irrigation. Pearl millet has a nutty flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes, including porridge, bread, and even desserts. It is also sometimes used as feed for livestock. It is a member of the grass family and is closely related to other millet species, such as foxtail millet and proso millet (Abbott, 2023). In this review article on Origin, Domestication, Taxonomy, Botanical Description, Genetics and Cytogenetics, Genetic Diversity, Processing, Uses, Breeding, and Health Benefits of Bajra are discussed.