A meeting of Board of Directors of Madhya Pradesh Seed Producers and Marketing Federation undertook detailed review of preparations for availability and distribution of certified seeds for ensuing Kharif season. The meeting was chaired by Cooperatives Minister Gopal Bhargava. Agriculture Minister Gaurishankar Bisen was also present.
The meeting was informed that a software is being developed through MP Online for collecting information about seed production and distribution. Through MP Online’s kiosks at various places in the State, data regarding seed production and distribution can be collected easily and information can be exchanged speedily.
It was informed that 2.50 quintal certified seeds are available for soybean crop in the State. Arrangements will be ensured to get seeds from other states as per farmers’ requirements. For Rabi season 2014-15, seed producer societies have been provided 1113 germinating seeds of various crops and varieties. Besides, 3.33 lakh quintal seeds have been distributed to farmers through various mediums for general production. In Kharif season 2014-15, as much as 3.50 lakh quintal seeds were produced in 35.79 lakh hectares. Seed production programme was affected by delay and paucity of rains.
Principal Secretary Cooperatives Ajit Kesari informed that 2,338 primary seed producer cooperative societies are registered in the State presently. Of these, 711 societies are members of the federation and producing certified seeds throughout the State.
It was informed that 20 godowns of 1,000 MT capacity each are being construction with the cooperation of Housing Board. Seed godowns are under construction in Sagar, Dewas, Khandwa, Khargone, Mandsaur, Vidisha, Satna, Balaghat, Sehore, Ujjain, Dhar and Tikamgarh. Besides, land has been allotted to Housing Board for construction of seed godowns in Hoshangabad, Raisen, Mandla, Damoh, Jhabua and Betul. On completion, the Housing Board will hand over the godowns to Seed Federation. At all godowns, grading equipments will be installed with the cooperation of MP Agro. Commissioner Cooperatives Manish Shrivastava was also present at the meeting.