Participatory Seed Production Workshop organized at ICAR-RCER, Patna

13 January 2026, Patna

A Workshop on “Participatory Seed Production” was successfully organized at ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna today. The program was sponsored by Bihar Agricultural Management & Extension Training Institute (BAMETI), Patna.

Addressing the participants, Chief Guest Dr. Anup Das, Director, ICAR-RCER, highlighted the pivotal role of quality seed in agricultural development and the significance of participatory seed production in strengthening local seed systems. He also emphasized the need for timely delivery of quality seed to farmers to maximize crop yield and income. He asked farmers to join ICAR RCER for participatory seed production of rice and pulses.

Senior officials highlighted the concept of Atmanirbhar Kisan and underscored the critical role of quality seed in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. Emphasis was placed on the importance of efficient seed marketing and robust distribution systems, noting that the timely availability of quality seed is essential for the adoption of improved agricultural technologies by farmers. The need for effective land and water management practices was also stressed, as these are fundamental to successful participatory seed production and the maintenance of consistent seed quality.

Earlier, the programme commenced with the rendition of Vande Mataram, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and the ICAR song. The Organizing Secretary welcomed the participants and outlined the theme and objectives of the workshop, emphasizing the significance of participatory seed production in ensuring the availability of quality seed at the farmers’ level. The programme also included a field visit to the experimental farms.

The workshop concluded with interactive discussions on possibility, challenges and strategies for participatory seed production which enhanced participants’ practical understanding and its role in promoting sustainable agricultural development in the region.

The workshop witnessed the active participation of 25 farmers and extension functionaries representing six districts of Bihar namely Patna, Nalanda, Bhojpur, Gaya Ji, Jehanabad and Vaishali reflecting strong stakeholder engagement in strengthening the seed system through participatory approaches.

(Source: ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna)