The State Government has adopted a Free Fodder Seed Plan to grow fodder seed through private seed growers.
Under the scheme, foundation seed to be provided to seed growers for production and then the produce would be bought back from them. These fodder seeds would be distributed free of cost to dairy farmers for cultivating fodder in their own land.
Such initiative by Animal Resources Development Department would ensure availability of quality fodder seed for fodder production in the State. Feeding green to dairy animals would remarkably reduce the cost of production of milk, pointed out an official.
Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Secretary Bishnupada Sethi Secretary reviewed the programme implemented under the National livestock Mission. Fodder seed production through seed growers have undertaken in Nabarangpur and Dhenkanal districts this year. It was revealed tht 20 quintals of African Tall Maize Foundation Seed was procured from the Regional Fodder Station, Hyderabad and was cultivated in total 200 acres in Nabarangapur, Papadahandi, Kosagumuda, Jharigan, Umarakote and Raighar block of the district.
Similarly, 10 kgs of Cowpea (EEC-4216) was procured from the Regional Forage Station, Chenai and it was multiplied through registered seed growers in 125 acres in Dhenkanal Sadar block.
Officials found that sowing of maize seed has been completed in farmers’ fields and germination rate is 80 per cent to 90 per cent in Nabarangpur district. Till date, 180 acre has been registered for Certified seed production with the OSSOPCA.