Smart Seed Systems Take Centre Stage at ICAR–IIOR National Consultation and Industry Meet

28 January 2026, Hyderabad

India’s efforts to enhance oilseed productivity through integrated and innovative seed solutions were prominently highlighted at the National Consultation and Industry Meet on Smart Seed Systems and Oilseed Innovations for Yield Gains, held at the ICAR–Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, today.

The national-level consultation brought together policymakers, scientists, representatives from seed corporations, industry leaders, farmer organizations, and regulatory bodies to deliberate on next-generation seed systems aimed at reducing early-stage yield losses and improving farm profitability.

Addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest, Dr. Praveen Kumar Singh, Agriculture Commissioner, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, emphasized the importance of convergence among improved varieties, safe seed enhancement technologies, microbial inputs, and value-added platforms to achieve sustainable yield gains under changing climatic conditions.

Setting the context for the consultation, Dr. R. K. Mathur, Director, ICAR–IIOR, underscored the need for close alignment between public research institutions, seed corporations, and private industry to translate laboratory innovations into field-ready solutions for farmers.

Technical presentations by the Principal Scientists, showcased newly released and pipeline oilseed varieties and hybrids, microbial biopesticides, biopolymer-based delivery systems, and innovations in post-harvest management and storage technologies relevant to oilseed crops.

An interactive session involving national and state seed corporations, seed certification agencies, industry representatives, farmer producer organizations (FPOs), and scientists generated actionable recommendations for accelerating adoption and scaling up of smart seed technologies. Senior representatives from seed associations, oilseed processors, and regulatory bodies shared valuable insights on policy support, regulatory frameworks, and market linkages.

The programme concluded with breakout sessions followed by a field visit to the Technology Cafeteria at the Narkhoda Farm, where participants gained first-hand exposure to ICAR–IIOR’s latest technological innovations. The outcomes of the consultation are expected to contribute to the formulation of a national roadmap for strengthening India’s oilseed seed systems and allied technologies.

(Source: ICAR–Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad)