In a call for greater collaboration and investment, Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi highlighted the critical need to enhance agricultural innovation during a conference organized by the Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII).
Held as part of FSII’s 8th Annual General Meeting, the event gathered experts to discuss key agricultural issues, including self-reliance in oilseeds, cotton, and maize, as well as intellectual property rights (IPR) implementation.
Shahi highlighted the importance of modern agricultural technologies in transforming farming practices, emphasising the unique role of Uttar Pradesh in India’s agriculture sector.
“Technology is the cornerstone of agricultural prosperity.
With UP contributing a third of the nation’s wheat production, we aim to establish a seed park and a common resource center for advanced research, in line with PM Modi’s vision for a Viksit Bharat,” said Shahi.
He also announced the creation of a state-of-the-art seed park in Lucknow, which will span 200 acres and focus on providing farmers with high-quality, climate-resilient seed varieties.
“This initiative will not only boost productivity but also contribute to a prosperous future for our farmers,” Shahi added, inviting the private sector to collaborate through public-private partnerships (PPP).
Experts at the event stressed the necessity of aligning policies between the state and central governments to leverage new technologies.
Ajay Vir Jhakar, Chairman of Bharat Krishak Samaj, noted, “Investments in agricultural R&D are crucial for sustainable progress, as is the development of climate-resilient crops.”
FSII Chairman Ajai Rana emphasised the role of policy and regulatory frameworks in fostering agricultural growth. “Strengthening IPR and encouraging public and private investments are essential to achieving India’s agricultural goals,” said Rana. As India strives for agricultural self-reliance and resilience during the transformative Amrit Kaal, collaborative efforts in research and innovation will be key drivers in shaping the future of the sector.
