Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, recently chaired a comprehensive review meeting of Bhartiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) in New Delhi. This significant gathering was attended by Union Ministers of State for Cooperation Shri Krishna Pal and Shri Murlidhar Mohol, as well as senior officials, including Secretary of Cooperation Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani. Shri Shah emphasized BBSSL’s vital role in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sehkar Se Samriddhi” (Prosperity Through Cooperation). He highlighted the need to empower farmers by preserving and promoting traditional seeds to ensure sustainable agricultural development.
Key Objectives and Targets
Expansion of Cooperative Network
During the meeting, Shri Shah set a major target for BBSSL to expand its reach by connecting with an additional 20,000 cooperatives by 2025-26. This initiative aims to bolster the cooperative framework to enhance seed distribution networks across the country, directly benefitting farmers by improving their access to quality seeds.
Focus on Sustainable Seeds
Shri Shah directed BBSSL to prioritize the development and distribution of sustainable seeds, specifically those requiring minimal water and pesticides while offering higher yields. This focus on sustainability is intended to support small and marginal farmers while extending crop maturity periods to address the challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity.
Nutritional Value Assessment
To further improve seed quality, key organizations such as the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) and Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO) were instructed to assess the nutritional value of both indigenous and hybrid seeds. Laboratories were tasked to serve as role models in the field of agricultural innovation by setting exemplary standards in research and testing.
Production Highlights and Future Goals
Rabi 2024 Seed Production
BBSSL is actively cultivating certified seeds for the Rabi season on approximately 5,596 hectares of land spread across six states. This initiative aims to produce 1,64,804 quintals of seeds, encompassing 49 varieties of eight different crops. This effort reflects BBSSL’s commitment to meeting the diverse agricultural needs of farmers and contributing to the country’s food security.
Sales Achievements
BBSSL has achieved significant sales milestones, selling 41,773 quintals of seeds worth ₹41.50 crore. The primary focus has been on high-demand crops such as wheat, groundnut, oats, and berseem, which are vital for both small-scale farmers and larger agricultural enterprises.
Ambitious Revenue Target
The organization has set an ambitious goal of achieving a total turnover of ₹18,000 crore by 2032-33. This vision aligns with BBSSL’s long-term strategy to drive growth through innovation, sustainability, and cooperative empowerment.
Roadmap for Seed Development
To achieve its long-term objectives, Shri Shah stressed the importance of developing a comprehensive 10-year roadmap for BBSSL. This strategic blueprint will include periodic reviews to ensure progress and address emerging challenges effectively. By leveraging the expertise of scientists and laboratories from government universities, BBSSL aims to advance research and innovation in seed development.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to agricultural modernization, which includes developing seeds that are not only high-yielding but also tailored to address the nutritional and environmental needs of the country.
Summary of Key Highlights
Why in News
Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a crucial review meeting of BBSSL in New Delhi, setting significant milestones, including an ambitious turnover target of ₹18,000 crore by 2032-33 and an enhanced cooperative network of 20,000 additional cooperatives by 2025-26.
Organization Overview
Bhartiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) is dedicated to preserving traditional seeds, promoting certified seeds, and supporting sustainable agricultural practices across India.
Turnover Target
The organization aims to achieve a substantial turnover of ₹18,000 crore by the fiscal year 2032-33.
Cooperative Network Expansion
By 2025-26, BBSSL is tasked to increase its network by connecting with 20,000 more cooperatives to strengthen seed distribution.
Rabi 2024 Seed Production
BBSSL is producing certified seeds on 5,596 hectares in six states, targeting a yield of 1,64,804 quintals across 49 crop varieties.
Sales Milestone
BBSSL has already achieved sales of 41,773 quintals of seeds, generating ₹41.50 crore in revenue.
Key Organizations Involved
Organizations like IFFCO and KRIBHCO play a pivotal role in assessing the nutritional quality of seeds, supporting BBSSL’s commitment to agricultural excellence.
Government Initiative
This initiative is closely linked to PM Modi’s vision of “Sehkar Se Samriddhi”, aiming to empower farmers and strengthen India’s agricultural foundation through cooperative development.
Conclusion
BBSSL’s progressive initiatives and ambitious goals highlight its critical role in transforming India’s agricultural landscape. By focusing on sustainable seed development, cooperative expansion, and innovative research, the organization is setting a benchmark for empowering farmers and ensuring long-term food security. This aligns seamlessly with the government’s overarching vision of achieving prosperity through cooperation.