In news
The Seed Minikit Programme was launched by the Union Agriculture Minister by distributing Seed Minikits (higher yielding varieties of seeds) to farmers recently.
Key features of the programme
- The mini kits are being provided by the Central Agencies National Seeds Corporation (NCS), NAFED and Gujarat State Seeds Corporation and wholly funded by the Government of India through the National Food Security Mission.
- The distribution of seeds will continue till 15th June 2021 so that the seeds reach the farmers before the Kharif sowing commences.
- 20,27,318 Seed Minikits of pulses, about 10 times more than last year, and more than 8 lakh Soybean seed mini kits and 74 thousand Groundnut mini kits are to be provided free of cost directly to the farmers under the National Food Security Mission alongwith free distribution of soybean seeds for intercropping and in high potential districts in 41 and 73 districts respectively.
National Seeds Corporation Ltd. (NSC)
- It is a Schedule ‘B’-Miniratna Category-I company wholly owned by Government of India under the administrative control of Department of Agriculture Cooperation & Farmer’s Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
- NSC was established in March-1963 to undertake production of foundation and certified seeds.
- At present, it is undertaking production of certified seeds of nearly 600 varieties of 60 crops consisting of Cereals, Pulses, oilseeds, Fiber, Fodder, Green Manure and Vegetables, in its Farms and through its registered seed growers.
- It also undertakes supply of seedlings/saplings of fruits crops from elite progeny orchards at its farms.
- Seed marketing is carried out through different channels namely sale through dealers/distributors, Govt. (State/Central), through NSC owned Sale counter and in Kisan Melas.
Extra reading: https://journalsofindia.com/nafed/
Source: PIB
