SEED DAY CELEBRATED: Over 1K farmers given quality wheat seeds at research institute in Karnal

A seed distribution programme was organised at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) Regional Station, Karnal, under the Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan, in which over 1,000 farmers participated. High quality seed of wheat variety–HI-1620 was distributed to farmers free of cost. A bag of 40 kg was distributed to each farmer belonging to the SC community.

Satbir Singh Kadian, administrator of Micro Irrigation Command Area Development Authority (MICADA), Haryana, was the chief guest, while RN Padaria, Joint Director (Extension), ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, was the guest of honour of the programme.

MICRO-IRRIGATION NEED OF THE HOUR, SAYS EXPERT

• Under the Scheduled Caste sub-plan of the institute, in which over 1,000 farmers participated, high quality seeds of wheat variety HI-1620 was distributed to farmers free of cost. A bag of 40 kg was given to each farmer belonging to the SC community.\
• Satbir Singh Kadian, administrator of Micro Irrigation Command Area Development Authority, Haryana, who was the chief guest at the event, stressed the importance of water resource conservation. He highlighted the need for micro-irrigation to save water for future generations.

Kadian stressed the importance of water resource conservation, saying that the government was working on multiple projects to tackle declining groundwater levels. He highlighted the importance of micro-irrigation to save water for future generations. “Micro-irrigation is the need of the hour and it is high time that farmers should adopt it,” said Kadian.

He emphasised the government’s efforts to provide top-quality seeds and agricultural equipment to farmers from marginalised communities, ensuring they can progress. “Our goal is to supply farmers with the latest technology and best seeds, so that they can increase their crop yields and benefit financially,” he said.

Padaria also emphasised on the use of advanced technologies, including improved varieties.

Shiv Kumar Yadav, Head, IARI Regional Station, said the Seed Day had been organised for the second time in this year. Earlier in March, a camp was organised to distribute paddy seed.

Dr Sandeep Kumar Lal, nodal officer of SC Sub-Plan, said this programme was effectively taking the latest technologies to the needy farmers, which would help in enhancing their productivity as well as income.

The scientists revealed that they were working to provide seeds free of cost to SC farmers. “We ensure that farmers receive seeds after thorough testing of the advanced varieties,” said the head.

The event also witnessed significant participation from women farmers.