Seed Congress resolves to promote biofortified crops

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Last Updated03/12/2024

Scientists, policymakers and industry representatives who participated in the 13th edition of the three-day National Seed Congress (NSC), which concluded on Saturday (November 30, 2024), resolved to work more on innovative seed technologies for farmers in the country.

The 13th edition of the National Seed Congress (NSC), held from November 28 to 30, 2024, brought together scientists, policymakers, and industry representatives to deliberate on innovative seed technologies aimed at transforming India’s agricultural landscape.

Innovative Seed Technologies
- Promotion of hybrid and biofortified crops to improve yield and nutritional content.
- Development of stress-tolerant varieties to address climate challenges.
- Acceleration of breeding cycles through advanced technologies.
Climate-Resilient Agricultural Practices:
- Advocacy for methods like Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and zero tillage to reduce input costs and enhance resource efficiency.
- Integration of these practices to ensure sustainability amid changing climatic conditions.
Policy Frameworks and Partnerships:
- Discussions on the introduction of a new Seeds Bill to streamline regulatory processes.
- Emphasis on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to boost sustainable seed production and distribution.
- Promotion of seed entrepreneurship to empower farmers and improve supply chains.

With the theme, ‘Innovating for a Sustainable Seed Ecosystem’, the Congress saw participation from over 700 delegates, including global experts. The event was jointly organized by the Union Agriculture Ministry and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI).

Strengthening State-Level Seed Systems
- Uttar Pradesh, represented by Minister Dinesh Pratap Singh, announced initiatives to make the state a hub for quality seed production, leveraging recommendations from the NSC.
- Proposals included the establishment of seed parks, enhanced PPPs, and farmer capacity building.
Biofortification and Food Security
- Integration of biofortified crops, such as rice, into government programs like school nutrition schemes was endorsed.
- These crops are seen as pivotal in addressing malnutrition and ensuring nutritional security.
Climate-Resilient Practices
- Adoption of hybrid varieties and stress-tolerant crops as a response to climate change impacts.
- IRRI Director General Dr. Yvonne Pinto emphasized the importance of collective action to tackle challenges such as food insecurity and climate change.

The Congress’s discussions and recommendations provide a comprehensive blueprint for advancing India’s seed ecosystem. With the focus on innovative technologies, strengthened partnerships, and robust policy frameworks, the event underscores the need for sustained collective efforts to ensure food security, economic growth, and farmer welfare in the face of evolving challenges.