Bharatiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited

 

Context

On 26 October, 2023 “National Symposium on Production of Improved and Traditional Seed through Cooperative Sector” organized by Bharatiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (BBSSL).

About

1. BBSSL is a cooperative society established in 2023 under Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002.
2. It aims to ensure that traditional and certified and scientifically prepared seeds reach every farmer.
3. Focus on production, testing, certification, procurement, processing of seeds in country.
4. Traditional seeds are naturally grown in indigenous regions, ideally suited for quality and nutritional excellence in local environments.

Seed Production System in India

1. It adheres to limited generations’ system for seed multiplication in a phased manner.
2. Recognizes 3 generations namely: -

1. Breeder seed is the progeny of nucleus seed of a variety and is produced by the originating breeder or by a sponsored breeder.
2. Foundation seed is progeny of breeder seed and is required to be produced from breeder seed which can be clearly traced to breeder seed.
3. Certified seed progeny of foundation seed produced by registered seed growers under supervision of seed certification agencies.

Benefits of seed Certification

1. Enhancement in Seed Replacement Rate (SRR).

• SRR is a measure of cropped area covered with quality seed. 

2. Preserves genetic identity and ensures genetic purity of seeds.
3. Improving seed exports promoting Indian varieties (India’s share in the world seed export is only 0.6 per cent).

Other initiatives/provisions for Seeds sector in India

1. Seeds Act, 1966 (Act to provide for regulating the quality of certain seeds for sale).
2. National Seed Policy, 2002 to support seed industry, protecting farmers interests and conservation of agro biodiversity.
3. Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act, 2001 (PPVFR Act) protects the intellectual property rights of plant breeders.
4. Seed Village Programme (trained group of farmers are involved in production of seeds of various crops and cater to their own needs).
5. Sub-Mission for Seed and Planting Material (SMSP) under National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology (NMAET).

 

 

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