Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The quality of seeds directly impacts crop yield and overall agricultural productivity. Recognizing this, India has a robust seed certification system governed by the Seed Act, 1966, and its subsequent amendments. "Improved seeds" refer to seeds that have been developed through plant breeding techniques to exhibit desirable traits like higher yield, disease resistance, and improved quality. These seeds are categorized into different classes to ensure quality and traceability, each with specific standards and certification processes. The National Seeds Policy, 2002, further emphasizes the importance of quality seed availability for enhancing agricultural output.
Classes of Improved Seeds in India
The Seed Act, 1966, classifies improved seeds into four main categories: Breeder Seed, Foundation Seed, Certified Seed, and truthfully labeled seeds. Each class serves a specific purpose in the seed supply chain and is subject to different quality control measures.
1. Breeder Seed
Breeder seed is the progeny of a breeder’s original seed or a selection from a breeder’s demonstration plot, handled by the plant breeder, breeder organization, or public sector research institution. It’s the purest form of seed and serves as the source material for all subsequent seed classes. It is not certified but maintained under strict breeder’s control.
- Purpose: Initial generation for variety multiplication.
- Control: Breeder's control, not subject to certification.
- Quality: Maintained through breeder’s records and pedigree.
2. Foundation Seed
Foundation seed is derived from breeder seed and produced under the supervision of Seed Certification Agency (SCA). It is of the highest quality and serves as the source for producing certified seed. The SCA conducts inspections and maintains records of seed production.
- Purpose: Source for certified seed production.
- Control: Seed Certification Agency (SCA) supervision.
- Quality: Subject to rigorous quality control measures, including genetic purity testing.
3. Certified Seed
Certified seed is produced by authorized seed producers under the strict supervision of the Seed Certification Agency (SCA). It is the seed available to farmers and must meet specific quality standards regarding germination, purity, and varietal identity. The SCA issues a certification tag ensuring its quality.
- Purpose: Seed for farmers, ensuring varietal purity and germination.
- Control: Seed Certification Agency (SCA).
- Quality: Subject to mandatory testing for germination, physical purity, and genetic purity.
4. Truthfully Labeled Seeds
This category is for seeds that do not meet the requirements for certification but are sold with a declaration that they are not certified. These seeds must be labeled truthfully and cannot make any claims about their quality or performance. They are increasingly regulated to prevent misleading farmers.
- Purpose: Provide a lower-cost alternative.
- Control: Limited control; truthful labeling is mandatory.
- Quality: No guarantee of quality; labeled accordingly.
| Class | Purpose | Control | Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breeder Seed | Initial variety multiplication | Breeder | No |
| Foundation Seed | Source for Certified Seed | SCA Supervision | Yes (internal) |
| Certified Seed | Seed for Farmers | SCA | Yes (Publicly Certified) |
| Truthfully Labeled Seeds | Alternative for farmers | Seller | No |
Recent Developments and Challenges
The National Gene Bank at IARI, New Delhi, plays a vital role in conserving seeds of indigenous varieties and landraces. The Seed (Organic) Rules, 2018, focus on organic seed production. Challenges include ensuring the availability of quality seeds, particularly for small and marginal farmers, and combating the proliferation of spurious seeds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the classification of improved seeds into Breeder, Foundation, Certified, and truthfully labeled categories is crucial for maintaining the quality and integrity of the seed supply chain in India. The Seed Act, 1966, and its subsequent amendments, along with the Seed Certification Agency, play a vital role in ensuring farmers receive quality seeds. Continuous efforts are needed to strengthen the seed certification system, promote research and development, and address the challenges of spurious seeds to enhance agricultural productivity and food security.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.