The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, will host the 13th edition of the National Seed Congress (NSC) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, from November 28 to 30, 2024. Organized in partnership with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) and the National Seed Research and Training Center (NSRTC), this pivotal event aims to address the critical challenges and future growth potential of India’s seed sector.
For those interested in attending, further information and registration can be found on the official website: https://13thnscindia2024.com/index.html.
National Seed Congress 2024: A Platform for Progress
The National Seed Congress is designed to bring together experts, researchers, policymakers, and industry representatives from across the seed value chain, providing a collaborative platform to explore solutions for evolving agricultural challenges. In her remarks, Smt. Shubha Thakur, Additional Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, emphasized the importance of high-quality, climate-resilient seeds for sustainable agriculture. “Access to these advanced seeds and cultivars is key to increasing farmers’ income and achieving food and nutritional security,” she stated. Thakur highlighted that NSC 2024 will serve as a collaborative platform to empower India’s farmers and strengthen the agricultural sector.
This year’s theme, “Fostering Regional Cooperation, Partnership, and Knowledge Exchange in the Seed Sector,” underscores the Congress’s role in promoting innovative practices and resilient seed systems to support India’s agricultural sustainability and growth.
Strengthening Seed Systems through Science and Partnerships
Dr. Yvonne Pinto, Director General of IRRI, noted that NSC 2024 will come at a crucial time when agriculture faces rising demands for sustainable and inclusive seed systems. “The Congress will generate impactful solutions by connecting stakeholders from diverse agro-ecologies, tackling complex issues such as climate resilience, market adaptation, and technological advancement,” Pinto remarked.
Shri Manoj Kumar, Director of NSRTC and co-convener of the event, spoke on NSRTC’s focus on seed quality control and training. Kumar stated, “NSC is a vital forum for knowledge exchange and capacity building in seed quality. By participating, NSRTC aims to strengthen the seed testing network and facilitate modern technological transfers across India’s seed sector.”
Key Topics and Goals of NSC 2024
NSC 2024 aims to catalyse scientific progress and provide a roadmap for an equitable, resilient seed sector. The Congress will cover a wide range of pressing topics, including:
- Breeding and Seed Systems for Climate Resilience
- Advancements in Seed Quality and Technology
- Digital Solutions for Breeding and Seed Systems
- Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships
- Inclusive Seed Systems for Livelihood Improvement
- Innovative Approaches for Seed Delivery
- Nutritional Security through Strategic Seed Initiatives
These sessions will provide participants with insights into the latest innovations in seed and crop improvement, delivery systems, and sustainable development strategies. The event will emphasize the importance of public-private partnerships to support farmer empowerment and livelihood improvements through an inclusive approach to seed systems.
Building a Resilient Future for India’s Seed Sector
NSC 2024 is set to be a pivotal event, aligning with India’s agricultural goals by promoting collaboration across sectors and enabling interdisciplinary research. It will provide insights into technological innovations and policy changes that can drive long-term sustainability and resilience in the sector.
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