Evaluation Trials and Carbon Sequestration Potential of Jatropha curcas and Pongamia pinnata: Technologies and Way Forward

The Chapter focuses on two crops namely Pongamia pinnata and Jatropha curcas, their germplasm collection, evaluation trials including progeny trials, identification of superior germplasm for maximum yield of oil per unit area, mass multiplication, on-farm trials, carbon sequestration capacity, and successful agro-forestry models. Since India’s edible oil consumption needs are heavily dependent on imports, the only feasible way to augment biofuel production is through utilisation of non -edible tree borne oils. Indian demography (population size and population density) coupled with food-fuel competition warrants the use of only wastelands for cultivation with crops tolerant/resilient to severe environmental stress. P. pinnata and J. curcas are proven, ideal candidates that fit in the narrative and hence the chapter encompasses a holistic, multi-dimensional approach on biodiesel production technologies using P. pinnata and J. curcas and along with their future prospects.