Varanasi, November 30, 2024 — The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, the International Rice Research Institute South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC), and the National Seed Research and Training Centre (NSRTC) successfully concluded the 13th National Seed Congress (NSC) 2024 in Varanasi. Over three days, the Congress brought together more than 700 delegates, including experts, policymakers, industry leaders, research scholars, and farmers, to deliberate on advancements and challenges in the seed sector.
Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, Agriculture Secretary, Uttar Pradesh, Smt. Shubha Thakur, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare; IRRI Deputy Director General for Research Dr. Ajay Kohli, ISARC Director Dr. Sudhanshu Singh, and other key dignitaries from the country’s seed sector joined Shri Surya Pratap Shahi and Dr. Pinto in the inaugural ceremony.
Inaugurated by Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the Congress served as a platform for knowledge exchange and partnership building. Shri Chouhan highlighted India’s leadership in the global seed sector, stressing the role of biodiversity, research, and innovation in addressing challenges such as climate change and food security. “The National Seed Congress provides a vital platform for exchanging knowledge, fostering partnerships, and driving innovation to strengthen seed systems. This Congress reflects India’s commitment to ensuring food security, addressing climate challenges, and empowering smallholder farmers with access to quality seeds. I encourage the experts and participants to develop actionable strategies to make seeds more accessible, affordable, and impactful through strengthened public-private partnerships,” he stated.
IRRI Director General Dr. Yvonne Pinto, among the event’s chief patrons, underscored the critical need for collaboration, “This Congress is a vital platform to foster collaboration, innovation, and shared solutions in the seed sector. The theme, ‘Fostering Regional Cooperation, Partnerships, and Knowledge in the Seed Sector,’ could not be more relevant as we face global challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and the need for sustainable agriculture. Regional collaboration and partnerships play a pivotal role in strengthening seed systems, increasing productivity, and promoting practices that are both equitable and resilient.”
NSC 2024 highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s agricultural contributions, including initiatives like seed parks and research centers, while plenary sessions focused on strengthening India’s global seed sector through public-private collaborations, fostering South-South partnerships, and advancing seed quality. A side event showcased geo-spatial technologies for Eastern India’s agriculture, and technical discussions addressed emerging seed technologies and regulatory frameworks. “Uttar Pradesh has a rich tradition of advancing agriculture and is honored to host this Congress in Varanasi. This event allows us to align with cutting-edge innovations and promote sustainable practices that reach every farmer. Initiatives like ISARC and the upcoming International Potato Center will further strengthen seed systems in the state and South Asia. Our plans for 200 seed parks, alongside increased oilseed and millet cultivation, will bolster Uttar Pradesh’s agricultural leadership,” said Agriculture Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Surya Pratap Shahi.
Critical dialogues on reaffirming India’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices, food security, and empowering smallholder farmers, were also facilitated. The event concluded with a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen India’s leadership in the global seed sector while addressing critical challenges such as climate resilience and food security.