Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, inaugurated the Asian Seed Congress 2025 in Mumbai today. The official logo of the Congress was also unveiled during the event. This year’s theme is “Sowing Prosperity Through Quality Seeds.”
In his inaugural address, the Union Minister emphasized that the government’s primary goals are to ensure national food security, provide nutritious food to citizens, and make farming a profitable occupation for farmers. He stated that the government is focusing on increasing per-hectare productivity, providing farmers with high-quality seeds, and reducing production costs. Additionally, continuous efforts are being made to ensure fair prices for farmers’ produce, compensate them when required, and promote diversification in agriculture.
Chouhan highlighted that ICAR and various state institutions are actively working to develop bio-fortified and climate-resilient crop varieties to address the challenge of malnutrition. He stressed that private-sector participation is crucial for developing superior-quality seeds. Many seeds produced by private companies are expensive, he noted, making them unaffordable for small and marginal farmers. He therefore urged private companies to make seeds available at more affordable prices.
The Minister stated that if farmers are provided with seeds that do not require frequent replacement, one of their major concerns can be resolved. He sternly warned seed companies that strict action will be taken against individuals or organisations involved in selling poor-quality or low-germination seeds.
Chouhan urged all stakeholders in the agriculture sector to log in to the Ministry’s SATHI Portal and make use of its services. He pointed out that India has 15 agro-climatic zones, making it essential to develop seed varieties capable of resisting drought, heat and pests. He informed that two new rice varieties, developed through genome editing, can produce 19% to 40% higher yields with less water while also reducing carbon emissions.
Boost to Research on Coarse Grains and Faster Seed Testing: During his discussion with seed producers, the Minister stressed the need for increased research and innovation in coarse grains (millets). He invited private companies to present their challenges to the government so that the time required to bring new seed varieties to market can be reduced. He acknowledged that current seed testing costs are high and assured that the government is ready to partner with the private sector to address this issue.
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