Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Seed testing is a crucial component of ensuring food security and agricultural productivity. It involves a series of laboratory and field tests designed to evaluate the quality of seed lots. With the increasing emphasis on high-yielding varieties and climate resilience, the role of seed testing has become even more critical. The Seed Act, 1966, and subsequent amendments, mandates seed quality control in India. Recent advancements in molecular techniques are also being integrated into seed testing methodologies to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
Objectives of Seed Testing
- Genetic Purity: To verify that the seed lot contains only the variety it is claimed to be.
- Physical Purity: To determine the percentage of inert matter (e.g., weed seeds, soil particles) present in the seed lot.
- Seed Quality: Assessing the physiological quality including germination percentage, vigor, and seed health.
- Seed Health: Detecting the presence of seed-borne diseases.
- Seed Size and Weight: Establishing uniformity and quality standards.
Testing Procedures for Paddy
Paddy seed testing involves several stages. The procedures are defined by the Seed Certification and Quality Control Act.
Key Tests
- Physical Purity: Visual inspection and sieving to remove inert matter.
- Moisture Content: Determined using a moisture meter; optimal moisture content is crucial for storage.
- Germination Test: Seeds are incubated under controlled temperature and humidity conditions (25°C and 95% relative humidity) for 5 days. Germination percentage is recorded.
- Vigour Test: Rapid emergence tests (e.g., cold test) are conducted to assess seedling vigor.
- Seed Health Test: Surface sterilization followed by incubation on agar medium to detect seed-borne pathogens like Rhizoctonia solani and Pyricularia oryzae.
Testing Procedures for Wheat
Wheat seed testing follows similar principles to paddy, but with variations in environmental conditions and specific tests.
Key Tests
- Physical Purity: Similar to paddy, visual inspection and sieving are employed.
- Moisture Content: Target moisture content is lower than paddy due to different storage requirements.
- Germination Test: Seeds are incubated at 20°C and 90% relative humidity for 7 days.
- Vigour Test: Controlled deterioration tests are used to evaluate seedling vigor under stress.
- Seed Health Test: Similar to paddy, but focusing on wheat-specific pathogens like Tilletia tritici (covered smut).
| Parameter | Paddy | Wheat |
|---|---|---|
| Incubation Temperature | 25°C | 20°C |
| Incubation Humidity | 95% RH | 90% RH |
| Germination Duration | 5 days | 7 days |
| Seed Health Focus | Rhizoctonia solani, Pyricularia oryzae | Tilletia tritici |
Importance of Accurate Testing
Accurate seed testing contributes to:
- Higher crop yields
- Reduced input costs (fertilizers, pesticides)
- Improved seed quality and farmer incomes
- Sustainable agricultural practices
Conclusion
Seed testing is an indispensable practice for ensuring the quality and viability of seeds, underpinning agricultural productivity and food security. The procedures for paddy and wheat involve rigorous assessments of physical purity, germination, vigor, and seed health. Continuous improvements in testing methodologies, incorporating advanced technologies, are crucial for adapting to changing climatic conditions and evolving agricultural challenges. The National Seed Quality Control Board plays a pivotal role in regulating and standardizing seed testing practices in India.
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.