13th National Seed Congress (NSC)

Table of Contents

On the 2nd day of the National Seed Congress (NSC), experts, scientists and industry representatives urged the government to modernize the Seeds Bill of 2004 and the Seeds Policy of 2002.

13th National Seed Congress 2024

It is a 3 day conclave of policymakers, scientists, and farmers seeking transformative solutions, in the wake of climate change and increasing diseases in various crops.
Organisers of the conclave: Union Agriculture Ministry, UP Agriculture Ministry, International Rice Research Institute, National Seed Research and Training Centre and Federation of Seed Industries of India.
International Rice Research Institute (IRRI): It is a non-profit organization that conducts research and training on rice to improve the quality of life for communities that rely on rice as a subsistence food. (Established in 1960, HQ-Manila, Philippines)
The seed industry has demanded “one nation, one licence” to promote research and development and use of hybrid seeds introduced by the private sector.

Challenges in the Seed Sector

Outdated Legislation & Policies:
- Existing legislation like the Seeds Act (1966) lacks relevance to modern agricultural needs.
- A new bill was introduced in Parliament in 2004 but has not been passed due to opposition from farmers.
- Currently, we are following the National Seeds Policy of 2002, which needs to be updated to meet the evolving requirements of the seed industry.
Low Quality Assurance:
- India’s seed standards lag behind international levels, affecting competitiveness in global markets.
High Costs:
- For many small and marginal farmers, high-quality seeds are financially out of reach.
- This limits their access to improved crop varieties and technologies.
Lack of Awareness:
- Many farmers are unaware of the benefits of using certified seeds or improved varieties. It results in continued reliance on traditional or low-quality seeds.

Way Forward

Policy Reforms:
- Modernize seed laws to reflect technological advancements and address farmer concerns.
- Define clear distinctions between farmer-saved seeds and commercial seeds to ensure clarity and compliance.
Strengthening Quality Assurance Systems:
- Enhance seed testing and certification infrastructure to meet international standards.
Investment in Research and Development:
- Increase funding for R&D to develop climate-resilient and high-yielding seed varieties.
- Encourage the use of biotechnological advancements to address pest resistance and nutritional challenges.
Promoting Public-Private Collaboration:
- Encourage partnerships between public research institutions and private companies to leverage their respective strengths in innovation and market access.
Capacity Building for Farmers:
- Educate farmers about modern seed technologies, quality standards, and efficient utilization practices through comprehensive extension services.
- Promoting awareness campaigns to inform farmers about government policies, schemes, and subsidies in the seed sector.