Question

Which country is the centre of origin of pigeonpea ?

• A. Turkey
• B. Syria
• C. India
• D. Iran

Hint:

India remains the world's largest producer, consumer, and importer of pigeonpea, reflecting its historical and cultural importance in the Indian diet.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
According to Nikolai Vavilov's theory of centers of origin, cultivated crops originated in specific geographic areas where their wild relatives show the highest genetic diversity.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Pigeonpea (*Cajanus cajan*), commonly known as Arhar or Tur, is an important legume crop widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions.
Linguistic, archaeological, and genetic evidence confirms that the center of origin for pigeonpea is India.
The closest wild relative of cultivated pigeonpea, *Cajanus cajanifolius*, is found growing wild in the deciduous forests of peninsular India (specifically the Eastern Ghats).
The crop was likely domesticated in India more than 3,000 years ago, after which it spread to Africa, East Asia, and eventually the Americas.
The other regions listed are centers of origin for different crops:
- The Fertile Crescent (including Turkey and Syria) is the center of origin for wheat, barley, chickpeas, and lentils.
- Iran and central Asia are centers of origin for crops like pomegranates, alfalfa, and pistachios.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The center of origin of pigeonpea is India, corresponding to option (C).