The event saw seed savers from different parts of the State exhibit seeds of various crops that were becoming rare due to the introduction of hybrid varieties amid changing consumer demands.
| Photo Credit: M.A. SRIRAM
The two-day seed festival ‘Desi Beejotsava’, featuring a variety of seeds of a slew of crops, underscored the importance of ensuring seed sovereignty for farmers.
The event, which concluded on Sunday, was organised by Sahaja Samrudha and Rebuild India in Mysuru, where seed savers from different parts of Karnataka exhibited seeds of various crops that were becoming rare due to the introduction of hybrid varieties amid changing consumer demands.
Writer Kalegowda Nagawara, who spoke at the valedictory, said that desi seeds reflect the food culture and agricultural traditions of each region. “They ensure food security. Preserving and cultivating such seeds is the need of the hour,” he added.
The organisers drew attention to a farmer named Anjaneya, hailing from Kumbaluru village in Harihara taluk, Davanagere district, who participated in the event, and pointed out that he had conserved over 200 native paddy varieties and established a rice seed bank.
The varieties he developed — Sindhoora Madhusale, Andanooru Sanna, Kumbala Saale, Giri Saale, and Madhu Saale — have been registered as Farmer Varieties by the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPV&FR), New Delhi, and these varieties were officially released at the ‘Desi Beejotsava’.
The Sahaja Samrudha said that these varieties are in high demand among consumers, and that Anjaneya was offering the seeds to those interested in cultivating them. Those interested in obtaining the seeds can call at 7090009944.
As part of the Seed Mela, an art competition was also conducted for children in a bid to create awareness about the importance of indigenous seed culture.
Under the 5 to 7 years age category, Manvitha won the first prize, Yuktashaiva secured the second prize, and Ritav M.P. received the third prize.
Under the 8 to 12 years age category, Teerth Soni won the first prize, Punardatta secured the second prize, and Arya received the third prize.
Srinivasa Murthy, a rice conservator, said that seeds are nature’s artwork that spark curiosity and creativity. “Organising such a competition to educate children on seed heritage has also succeeded in spreading the importance of indigenous seeds among parents,” he added.
Published – July 06, 2025 07:44 pm IST