Bhakkar Star – A Breakthrough Wheat Variety for Sustainable Farming in Pakistan

Abstract

A new wheat variety, Bhakkar Star, has been developed through selection from CIMMYT germplasm. It combines high yield potential, tolerance to temperature stress and resistance to major diseases. From 2011 to 2018, the variety underwent preliminary and advanced yield trials at the Arid Zone Research Institute, Bhakkar, in collaboration with provincial and national wheat research organizations. Morphologically, Bhakkar Star has a semi-erect flag leaf, white auricles, and a tapering head measuring 12-14 cm with 22-24 spikelets per spike. It demonstrates strong tillering capacity, producing about 140-145 tillers per meter row. The grains are ovate, medium-sized, amber-colored and weight 42-46 g per 1,000 kernels, with a protein content of 16%. The variety performs exceptionally well under poor sandy soils, early season sowing and terminal heat stress conditions. It also maintains productivity under late and very late planting environments, making it a versatile choice for farmers in hot irrigated and dry climates of Pakistan. Its high protein content, along with desirable gluten quality, contributes to excellent chapatti-making and bread quality. Bhakkar Star is resistant to prevailing strains of leaf and yellow rusts and shows a tolerant response to local stem rust strains. Recognizing its agronomic and quality traits, the Punjab Seed Council (PSC) has approved Bhakkar Star as a commercial wheat variety aimed at enhancing wheat yield potential for farmers in stress-prone environments.