Quality seed

Crop production can be augmented through improved varieties complemented with quality seed and good agricultural practices. Use of farmers-saved seeds from cultivation is one of the main reasons for the low productivity of crop in the Island. High yielding varieties and their quality seed play a very significant role in agriculture. It has been estimated that improved varieties with good quality seed and proper management practices contribute 36-54% to crop production. About 80% of farmers are found using farm-saved seed. To enhance the seed production, seed chain should be strengthened, which not only increases the productivity but also lead to seed quality control. CIARI being a research institute hold the responsibility of providing breeder or foundation seed of developed improved varieties of crop viz. rice, mung, urd, brinjal etc to interested parties. Participatory seed production could be a better approach in quality seed production for which farmers can be trained for establishing seed villages and community seed banks.

Benefit:More yield per unit area, uniform crop stand, less infestation of insect and pests, good germination of seed and less seed required for sowing.

Source : Contact person with Name, Designation e-mail and phone no: Dr. P K Singh, Principal Scientist E-mail: Pankaj.singh1@icar.gov.in Mob: 9474273099