Special Reporter: Seed is the foundation of agricultural productivity and food security. Recognizing its critical importance, Farmers’ Meetings are being organised time to time by BCKV. One such programme on “High-Quality Paddy Seed Production with Improved Technologies” was organized at the Regional Research Sub-Station (RRSS), Chakdah, under the aegis of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV) on Friday (31st October).

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Ashok K. Patra, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, BCKV, who underscored the pivotal role of quality seed in enhancing crop yield and farm income. He urged farmers to adopt scientific methods and modern technologies for seed production while maintaining soil health and promoting organic cultivation for long-term sustainability.

The event was graced by Prof. Subhendu Bikas Goswami, Registrar, Prof. Subhra Mukherjee, Director of Research, Dr. Sudhibrata Mitra, Director of Farms, Prof. C. R. Sathpati, In-Charge, RRSS, Chakdah, Dr. Prabir Chakraborty, Nodal Officer, ICAR–Mega Seed Project, and Dr. Amitabha Banerjee, Assistant Director of Extension, who shared their insights on strengthening the seed production chain from breeder to certified seed.

Technical experts from the University delivered detailed sessions on soil testing, varietal selection, seed certification, genetic purity maintenance, integrated pest and disease management, and post-harvest seed handling.

The programme witnessed active participation from farmers, who enthusiastically exchanged their field-level experiences. The event concluded with an interactive session and the distribution of extension literature on scientific seed production techniques, reaffirming BCKV’s commitment to empowering farmers with knowledge and technology for sustainable agricultural advancement.