Quality Seeds Can Boost Farm Yield by 20%
Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers Welfare, and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chauhan recently addressed the 13th National Seed Congress, emphasizing the vital role of farming for India and the world. Describing agriculture as the backbone of the economy and farmers as its soul, he highlighted the need for sustainable practices and the importance of quality seeds in enhancing agricultural productivity.
Agriculture: The Backbone of India’s Economy
During his address, Minister Chauhan underlined the critical role agriculture plays in India’s livelihood and economy. “In a country like India, a significant portion of the population relies on farming for sustenance and employment. Ensuring fair prices, reducing production costs, and diversifying agricultural practices are key priorities,” he stated.
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Launch of the Natural Agriculture Mission
He announced that the Union Cabinet recently approved the Natural Agriculture Mission, aimed at reducing the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. “The excessive use of chemicals has led to deteriorating soil health, human health, and the survival of living beings,” he cautioned, advocating a shift towards natural and sustainable farming practices.
Seeds: The Lifeblood of Farming
Chauhan highlighted that quality seeds are crucial to boosting agricultural production, meeting global food requirements, and addressing the challenges of climate change. He noted that ICAR recently released 109 climate-resilient seed varieties that require less water and produce faster yields. “Good seeds can enhance production by up to 20%. Ensuring timely and affordable access to these seeds is one of our foremost responsibilities,” he stressed.
Challenges in Seed Availability
Acknowledging the rising costs of seeds like cotton, Chauhan pointed out that this trend places quality seeds beyond the reach of small farmers. He emphasized the need for a robust roadmap to ensure timely and reasonably priced access to seeds. “We must bridge the gap between laboratory research and farmers’ fields to ensure that science directly benefits agriculture without compromising quality,” he added.
Combating Substandard Seeds
The Minister took a firm stance against the sale of substandard seeds, calling it a criminal act. “Providing poor-quality seeds not only jeopardizes farmers’ livelihoods but also affects agricultural productivity,” he said. Chauhan urged the Congress to evaluate the progress made in previous sessions and take actionable steps to ensure the availability of high-quality seeds.
Preserving Traditional Seed Varieties
India’s rich agricultural heritage was also a key topic. “India is home to more than 3,000 varieties of traditional rice. It is essential to preserve and promote these indigenous seed varieties,” Chauhan emphasized, calling for efforts to integrate traditional and modern practices.
Future Roadmap for Seed Congress
Chauhan proposed that the 13th National Seed Congress should present a comprehensive action plan at the next session. “A detailed report on progress and actionable outcomes should be prepared for the 14th Congress to drive further innovation and accountability,” he concluded.
Focus on Sustainable Farming
The National Seed Congress serves as a platform for policymakers, scientists, and farmers to collaborate on strategies for sustainable agriculture. The Minister’s address highlighted India’s commitment to improving seed quality, promoting eco-friendly farming practices, and supporting farmers with innovative solutions.
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