Varanasi, Jan 15 (IANS): 'Kashi Shubhangi' or 'Chhappan Bhog' Pumpkin, developed by scientists of the Indian Vegetable Research Institute in Varanasi, is now known for its qualities.

Cultivation of this variety of pumpkin not only promises an increase in income but also has greater health benefits.

According to principal scientist of the institute, Dr Sudhakar Pandey, 'Chhappan' pumpkin is not only an important vegetable crop, but also has medicinal properties. This small pumpkin is full of medicinal properties, giving economic strength to farmers. It has the ability to reduce hydrolysis risk, blood pressure and obesity.

The plants yield the first crop in 50 to 55 days and then the yield continues for almost 70 days.

"This variety of pumpkin is rich in almost all types of vitamins and minerals in this crop. Among them, mainly vitamin A (211 mg), vitamin C (20.9 mg) and potassium (319 mg) and phosphorus (52 mg) are found. It is found in fruits per 100 grams. Not only this, this vegetable is also rich in nutrients. Moreover, this specie developed at the IIVR can be planted in pots as well as fields," said the scientist.

Explaining further, he said that the land should be ploughed properly and crop should be sown in mid-September. The crop requires mild irrigation at intervals of one fortnight or so. Drip irrigation is more suitable for the crop.

Each plant yields 8 to 10 pumpkins and the total yield is around 325-350 quintals per hectare.