Stored Pulse Protection: Role of Essential Oils in Managing the Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis

Pulses are an important part of Indian agriculture and daily nutrition. They are a major
source of protein, People who refrains from consuming meat and fish. In India, people take
their protein sources by pulses, it may fulfil to help in meeting their protein and nutrient
requirements. They also provide vitamins and essential micronutrients that are necessary for
good life (Joshi and Saxena, 2002). The main pulses grown in India are chickpea, pigeon pea,
green gram, black gram, lentil, field pea, and etc. India is the largest producer and consumer of
pulses in the world. More than 35 million hectares of land in the country are used for pulse
cultivation. India contributes about 37 percent of the total area under pulses globally and
produces nearly 29 percent of the world’s total pulse production. Since pulses are harvested
during specific seasons, proper storage is necessary to ensure availability throughout the year.
Stored grains are continuous supplied to the market during the demanded period, which helps
in maintaining price stability and maintain the price fluctuation. Storage is also important for
preserve the seed quality. It maintains seed viability and keeps seed vigour at a period from the
time of harvest to the next planting season.