13th National Seed Congress (NSC)
13th National Seed Congress (NSC) 2024 – |
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Host | Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India |
Location | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh |
Date | November 28-30, 2024 |
Collaborators | – International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) |
Theme | “Fostering Regional Cooperation, Partnership, and Knowledge Exchange in the Seed Sector” |
Objective | |
Goal | – Unite stakeholders (policymakers, farmers, private, and public sectors) to create a roadmap for sustainable and equitable seed sector in India. |
Key Highlights | |
Strategic Goals | – Develop high-quality, climate-resilient, and nutritious seeds. |
Organizational Roles | |
ISARC | – Event convener; key contributor in advancing India’s seed systems. |
NSRTC | – Focus on seed quality enhancement and technological transfer. |
Event Leadership | |
Shubha Thakur (Addl. Secretary, Agri. & Farmers’ Welfare) | Emphasizes NSC’s role in empowering farmers and fostering sustainable agriculture. |
13th National Seed Congress (NSC)
The 13th National Seed Congress (NSC) 2024 is set to take place in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, from November 28 to 30, 2024, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India. This event is held in collaboration with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) and the National Seed Research and Training Center (NSRTC), both of which play crucial roles in advancing India’s seed sector. The congress promises to be a transformative platform for policymakers, farmers, researchers, and industry leaders aiming to establish sustainable, resilient, and equitable seed systems across India.
The theme for NSC 2024 is “Fostering Regional Cooperation, Partnership, and Knowledge Exchange in the Seed Sector.” With a focus on high-quality, climate-resilient seeds and improving farmers’ access to innovative cultivars, the congress underscores India’s commitment to food and nutrition security for its population. The gathering provides a much-needed platform for knowledge sharing on current challenges, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts to drive progress in the seed sector.
13th National Seed Congress (NSC)
NSC 2024: Key Themes and Focus Areas
The National Seed Congress 2024 will cover a diverse array of topics crucial for the growth of the seed sector in India. Key discussion areas include:
- Climate-Resilient Breeding and Seed Systems: To tackle the effects of climate change, NSC 2024 will highlight innovative breeding techniques and seed systems designed for resilience.
- Seed Quality and Technological Advancements: The congress aims to showcase advancements in seed quality and the latest technology in seed testing, quality control, and genetic improvements.
- Digital Innovations in the Seed Sector: Topics such as digital platforms for breeding, data-driven market insights, and seed system improvements will underscore the role of technology in agriculture.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Recognizing the importance of cooperation, NSC 2024 will focus on fostering public-private partnerships that drive sectoral growth, from seed quality enhancement to efficient distribution.
- Inclusive Seed Systems for Livelihoods: The event will emphasize inclusive approaches to seed system development, aiming to uplift rural livelihoods by improving access to quality seeds.
- Nutritional Security Through Strategic Seed Initiatives: With growing demand for nutrition-enhanced crops, the congress will address seed initiatives that align with India’s nutrition goals.
13th National Seed Congress (NSC)
Key Stakeholders and Organizational Leadership
NSC 2024 will bring together leaders from government, research institutes, and agricultural training centers. Smt. Shubha Thakur, Additional Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, has underscored the congress’s role in ensuring farmers have access to resilient and nutritious seeds. Dr. Yvonne Pinto, Director-General of IRRI, and Shri Manoj Kumar, Director of NSRTC, will contribute with insights on seed quality control, climate-resilient varieties, and strategies for cross-border seed exchange.
ISARC, since its 2018 inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has driven efforts to improve seed systems in India, including the development of climate-resilient rice varieties like Sahbhagi Dhan and Swarna-Sub 1. NSRTC will play a pivotal role in enhancing seed quality through training programs and technological transfer, with the aim of improving seed quality control networks across the country.
Expected Outcomes of the 13th National Seed Congress
NSC 2024 aims to drive policy, technology, and sustainable practices for a more resilient agriculture sector in India. By fostering partnerships and interdisciplinary research, the congress is set to yield actionable insights to strengthen India’s seed sector, influencing both policy and practice.
13th National Seed Congress (NSC)
Through enhanced collaboration, research, and public-private partnerships, the 13th National Seed Congress will play a critical role in building sustainable seed systems in India. With a holistic approach to challenges in the seed value chain, NSC 2024 seeks to bolster Indian agriculture, ensuring it remains robust and sustainable for future generations.