Hand Book of Bael

Bael (Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa), an ayurvedic plant with ethnomedicinal value is a native fruit crop of India and is widely distributed throughout the country. Besides, it has great mythological significance. The Hindus use trifoliate compound leaves of the tree and young fruit for the worship of Lord Shiva. Bael fruit is nutritionally rich in protein, fat, minerals (Ca and Fe) and vitamins (riboflavin, β carotene and Vitamin C). It is a potential source of several medicinal properties as all parts of plant viz., leaves, roots, bark, fruits, seeds, etc. are used in preparation of various medicines. It also acts as a sink for chemical pollutants, as it absorbs poisonous gases from atmosphere and make them neutral. The tree is also considered under the category of “Fragrant” species, whose flower and volatile vapours neutralize bad smell. In some rough estimate, it is estimated that around 8,000 hectares of land are now under the improved bael varieties cultivation with an approximate fruit production of 7,000 tonnes. The crop plays an integral part in the lives of many, not only by being a rich nutrient source and medicinal properties but also as a source of livelihood for millions of peoples.

The book "Hand Book of Bael" authored by Dr. A.K. Misra, Dr. D. Pandey and Dr. Himanshu Pandey focuses primarily on different aspects of bael crop cultivation including its mythological and medicinal importance. The information on the bael crop cultivation is given in crisp manner, so that it is easily understandable and is of practical utility. High-quality coloured photographs are included in the book on the various aspects of the bael crop, including varieties, propagation, cultivation, diseases, pests and post-harvest aspects for the better understanding of the operation, identification, understanding and concept. In this book, important bael varieties and new varieties developed are described with photographs, which is very useful for bael lovers to identify the varieties. Typical symptoms of the diseases, pests and disorders and life cycle of different diseases and pests are also depicted, which give better understanding about protection aspects. The photographs of the symptoms will be useful for identifying the diseases and pests by the fruit workers. Post-harvest aspects are described in a manner that it is useful for bael lovers, house ladies, farmers and entrepreneurs. Though, significant work has been done in the country and abroad on bael crop over the years, consolidated handy useful information on the crop in one place is lacking. The information presented in this book would be very useful for bael research workers, fruit workers, horticulturists, consultants, managers, extension workers, teachers, students, agribusiness representatives and bael lovers, growers/farmers, who are concerned with the bael cultivation, production, protection, post-harvest and commerce.