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Protecting the crops from DAY ONE
A national campaign on Seed treatment was conducted from 26th June to 10th July 2024. The initiative was undertaken by Deendayal Upadhyay Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) under the aegis of Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD). The campaign saw active participation of 2.8 Crore women farmers across all states and union territories. The objective of the campaign was to train women farmers and facilitate use of various seed sorting and treatment techniques.
India as a country is becoming pro-active and inclusive while launching national scale initiatives for growth and development. The national seed treatment campaign involving women self-help groups, krishi sakhis and farmers is a testament to the commitment that the government in putting in for women empowerment.
Seed treatment campaign activities
The main activities of the campaign were awareness creation meetings with women self-help groups, village organisations and cluster level federations. In person training had videos as a tool for these awareness creation campaigns. Mass preparation of Bheejamrit was done and distributed to Mahila Kisans. Demonstrations of seed treatment was done and hand holding support to Mahila Kisans is being provided.
Campaign focus was on Bheejamrit
Bheejamrit is a traditional Indian organic seed treatment solution used in natural farming practices. It is a bio-pesticide and growth enhancer made from natural ingredients that are easily available to farmers. Bheejamrit typically includes Cow Urine (Gomutra), Cow Dung (Gobar), Limestone (Chunna), Water and soil.
Seeds are soaked in Bheejamrit for about 30 minutes to an hour before sowing. This coating helps protect the seeds from pathogens and enhances their germination capacity. Seedlings can also be dipped in Bheejamrit before transplanting to ensure they are protected and have a good start in the soil.
Data points indicating seed treatment campaign success
(Data credits: Aajeevika DAY-NRLM and MoRD)
Total No of Krishi Sakhi oriented on the campaign: 1.5 Lakh
Total No of Krishi Sakhis Deployed: 1.5 Lakh
Total No of Mahila Kisan trained in the Campaign: 278 Lakh
Total No of SHG meeting conducted on Seed treatment: 31.5 Lakh
Total No of Demonstration Organised by Krishi Sakhis: 21 Lakh
Total No of Village Organisation meetings conducted on Seed treatment: 10.5 Lakh
Mass preparation of Bheejamrit: 15.75 Lakh Litres
Why seed treatment is crucial
Seed treatment in agriculture is a crucial step before sowing for several reasons. It involves applying chemical or biological substances to seeds to protect them from diseases, pests, and unfavourable environmental conditions. Here are the key benefits:
1. Protection Against Diseases and Pests
Seed treatments can protect seeds from soil-borne and seed-borne pathogens that cause diseases, such as damping-off, seed rot, and blight (bacterial or fungal infections). This protection is especially important during the early stages of seedling development.
2. Enhanced Germination and Vigour
Seed treatments can enhance germination rates by providing a protective coating that prevents pathogens from infecting the seed and improving overall seed health. They often produce more vigorous seedlings with better root and shoot development, which can lead to stronger plants that are more resilient to stress.
3. Nutrient Supplementation
Seed treatments can provide micronutrient coatings which can include zinc, manganese, and molybdenum, which are essential for early plant growth. Some seed treatments contain growth promoters or bio stimulants that enhance seedling growth and establishment.
4. Environmental Stress Protection
Certain seed treatments can help seeds and seedlings withstand environmental stresses such as drought and high salinity, improving their chances of survival and growth in challenging conditions. They may have better tolerance to temperature fluctuations, ensuring more uniform germination and emergence.
5. Improved Crop Yields
Seed treatments contribute to a higher plant stand, which can result in increased crop yields. Uniform and healthy seedling emergence leads to more consistent crop growth and development, which can improve overall crop productivity.
6. Cost-Effectiveness
By addressing potential issues early in the plant’s life cycle, seed treatments can reduce the need for additional pesticide applications in the field, lowering costs and environmental impact.
Seeds, fertilizers, water, labor are used more efficiently by improving seedling survival and growth.
7. Sustainable Agriculture
Seed treatments reduce overall quantity of chemicals used in agriculture and minimize their environmental impact. It is an important component to manage pests and diseases in an environmentally sustainable manner.
Seed treatment is an important agricultural practice that enhances seed germination, protects against diseases and pests, improves seedling vigor, and contributes to better crop yields. By ensuring the health and viability of seeds before they are sown, farmers can achieve more successful and sustainable crop production.
