The Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research (ICAR-IIOR) in Hyderabad has introduced a groundbreaking biopolymer-based 'Smart Seed Coating Technology,' a patented innovation poised to transform climate-resilient agriculture in India. This advanced technology involves creating a biodegradable protective layer around seeds that serves as a multifunctional delivery system. Unlike conventional single-purpose seed treatments, this smart coating integrates beneficial microorganisms, essential nutrients, micronutrients, crop protection agents, and plant growth-promoting compounds. These components are precisely delivered directly to the seed-soil interface, fostering an optimal microenvironment for germination and early seedling development.
The primary objective of this technology is to bolster seed quality, improve crop establishment, and enhance resilience against various biotic and abiotic stresses, including erratic rainfall, drought, temperature fluctuations, soil degradation, and pest attacks. Field demonstrations in Telangana have reported remarkable yield improvements, with groundnut and soybean crops showing nearly 30% higher productivity compared to traditional farming methods. Multi-location trials conducted under the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Seed, covering a diverse range of crops such as maize, chickpea, cotton, and mustard, consistently demonstrated productivity gains ranging from 12% to 37%. This innovation is particularly vital for rainfed agricultural systems, which constitute a significant portion of India's cultivated land and are highly susceptible to climatic uncertainties. ICAR-IIOR is actively seeking partnerships with public and private seed systems, including State Seed Development Corporations, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and private seed companies, to facilitate the widespread adoption of this promising technology.
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