Survey on Seed Sources and Quality Seed Availability in Telangana Districts

Our study was conducted to understand the significance of existing seed systems and extent of seed availability of major crops viz., paddy, maize (cereals); red gram (pulses); and cotton (commercial crops) in 4 major agrarian districts (Mahbubnagar, Karimnagar, Warangal and Nalgonda) of Telangana state. There is a striking influence of seed source on the productivity & profitability of farmers, and hence, our study was aimed at understanding the nature and extent of seed quality parameters like genetic identity, genetic purity and seed health contributing to gross output of the crop. Our survey conducted during 2 Kharif & 2 Rabi seasons during 2017 to 2019 brought out interesting facts that formal sector contributes 96 to 100% of seed replacement rate (SRR) for commercial crops, 70 to 90% for cereals, 75 to 100% for pulses and negligible in case of oilseeds. The reasons for highest contribution of formal sector are due to prevalent seed subsidy schemes and also, availability of good quality seeds. The informal supply of seed majorly involves farmer to farmer exchange and farm saved seeds which is a major source of seeds to resource poor farmers.