Bengaluru: Desi Seed Festival on June 14-15 to showcase over 1,500 indigenous varieties

The Karnataka government has proposed establishing community seed banks to promote and preserve indigenous seed varieties.
| Photo Credit: MUSTAFAH KK

The Institution of Agricultural Technologists (IAT), Bangalore, and Sahaja Samrudha, in collaboration with WASSAN, Keystone Foundation, CROPS4HD and Using Diversity are organising Desi Seed Festival on June 14 and 15 on the institution’s premises in Bengaluru.

“The festival aims to bring together seed conservators, farmer scientists, agricultural enthusiasts, and consumers from across the country to discuss and celebrate the importance of conserving indigenous seed diversity,” said a release from the organisers of the festival.

The Karnataka government has proposed establishing community seed banks to promote and preserve indigenous seed varieties. These banks will distribute seeds to farmers and create market linkages for them. Indigenous seeds are seen as resilient to climate change and offer solutions to several agricultural challenges, said the release. “This festival is a step towards raising awareness among farmers about the significance of preserving these seeds,” it added.

Over 1,500 indigenous seed varieties, including rice, millets, pulses, tubers, leafy greens, and vegetables, will be exhibited. Tribal farmers will also present wild plant resources preserved for generations.

The festival will be inaugurated by Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Chairman of the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPVFR). The closing ceremony will feature notable guests, including Dr. Ashok Dalwai (Chairman, Karnataka Agricultural Price Commission).