The NSC focused on "Innovating for a Sustainable Seed Ecosystem," highlighting seed technologies, biofortified crops, and climate-resilient practices like Direct Seeded Rice (DSR).

• Sustainable Seed Ecosystem: Ensures timely access to affordable, quality seeds of suitable crop varieties for farmers (FAO).

Significance of quality seeds:

• Ensures genetic and physical purity of the crops & capacity to withstand the adverse conditions.
• Seedlings produced will be more vigourous, fast growing and can resist pest.
• Development of root system will be more efficient that aids absorption of nutrients efficiently and result in higher yield.
  • Good quality seeds of improved varieties ensure higher yield at least 10 – 12 %

Challenges in India’s seed ecosystem

• Seed Replacement Rate (SRR): In India SRR is around 15 – 20% which may vary with crop varieties. However, it’s 100% for hybrid seeds.
  • SRR: It’s the percentage of a crop area sown with certified seeds instead of farm-saved seeds.
• Monoculture Farming: Widespread use of Bt cotton reduces biodiversity and increases pest vulnerability.
• Seed Market Monopoly: Multinational companies (e.g., Bayer) dominate seed markets, limiting access to local seeds.
• Other issues: Pending Seed Bill, lack of seed entrepreneurship, etc.