Quality Seed: A mega factor in enhancing crop productivity

Growers expect high-quality seed that is genetically pure. As a result, seed companies have quality control programs in place that track seed from harvest to sale. Seed quality tests, such as mechanical testing and genetic purity tests, seed germination and vigour tests, and seed health tests, are utilized, and seed quality assessment techniques are still evolving. Thanks to advances in molecular genetics, new kinds with only one gene difference can now be released. New molecular biology techniques may be able to detect these minor genetic changes.

Seed modifications like as pelleting, priming, and pre-germination necessitate additional inspection of segregation. New advances in computer imaging are being developed for improved purity and germination/vigour assessments. As new genetic advantages are imparted in the seed at a higher cost to the grower, seed quality assessment becomes increasingly vital.

The formal seed industry’s backbone is modern varieties. Increasing agricultural production, guaranteeing food security, and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods all need the availability, access, and usage of high-quality seed of adaptable crop types. However, compared to cereals, research on legumes, particularly lentils, is relatively recent at both IARCs and NARS . Farmers will only be able to reap the benefits of agricultural research if they have easier access to high-quality seed of new crop kinds. Seed quality is one of the most important variables affecting crop production potential, thus it should reach farmers in good condition . Seed quality is defined by a number of factors, with four main characteristics: genetic, physical, physiological, and health quality. However, the environmental circumstances in which the crop is cultivated, as well as the cultural procedures used in its development, can have an impact on seed quality.

If the variety is to match the expectations of farmers and consumers, seed quality must be maintained. Seed producers should be aware of the technical and regulatory requirements for cultivating a crop for seed, and make sure that all processes are completed in a timely and precise manner. Following a mix of critical technical measures and replanting can ensure the seed’s quality. By developing administrative rules and technological procedures, the quality control assurance system serves as a supervisor for the program’s smooth operation and implementation, as well as for enforcing regulatory measures to ensure the quality of seed produced. Some of the key restrictions impeding the development of an effective and efficient lentil seed industry are a lack of better varieties, a shortage of sufficient seed, mechanization issues in underdeveloped nations, and expensive seed production prices. Variety management, technical aspects of seed production, seed processing, seed storage, and seed quality assurance are all critical components.

Writer: Anjali Dhakal