Contents
Introduction
The Krishonnati Yojana – Sub Mission on Seed and Planting Material (SMSP) is a significant initiative by the Government of India aimed at enhancing the quality and availability of seeds to farmers. By focusing on certified seed production and modernizing seed infrastructure, this scheme plays a crucial role in boosting agricultural productivity and farmer income.
The Krishonnati Yojana – Sub Mission on Seed and Planting Material (SMSP) is a flagship initiative under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India. As part of the broader Green Revolution – Krishonnati Yojana, this mission is designed to uplift India’s agriculture sector by focusing on one of its most critical elements—quality seeds.
Seeds form the very foundation of agriculture. No matter how good the soil, how favorable the weather, or how advanced the irrigation, poor-quality seeds can severely limit a farmer’s harvest. That’s where this scheme becomes a game changer. By making high-quality, certified seeds accessible and affordable, the government aims to increase farm productivity, reduce dependence on low-grade or untested seeds, and ultimately ensure food security for the nation.
At its core, SMSP is about empowering Indian farmers with modern seed technologies and infrastructure. It supports seed production, storage, processing, and distribution at both local and national levels. It also strengthens the seed certification system so that farmers can be confident in the products they use.
For a country like India—where agriculture is not just a livelihood but a way of life for millions—the importance of this mission cannot be overstated. SMSP doesn’t just improve yields; it strengthens rural economies, boosts farmer incomes, and promotes sustainable farming practices. With the right seeds in their hands, our farmers can sow not just crops but also a better future.
Every eligible farmer, seed producer, or agricultural entrepreneur should consider enrolling in this scheme. It offers a practical pathway to modernize farming methods and to be part of India’s larger movement towards self-reliance in agriculture.
Understanding the Krishonnati Yojana – Sub Mission on Seed and Planting Material
Launched under the umbrella of the Green Revolution – Krishonnati Yojana, the SMSP focuses on the holistic development of the agriculture sector. It aims to increase the production of certified seeds, improve seed replacement rates, and strengthen seed infrastructure across the country.
Objectives of Krishonnati Yojana – SMSP
The primary goals of the Sub Mission on Seed and Planting Material include:
- Enhancing the production of certified and quality seeds.
- Improving the Seed Replacement Rate (SRR) for crops like paddy, gram, groundnut, and cotton.
- Upgrading farm-saved seeds by covering 60,000 villages and producing 100 lakh quintals of seed annually through participatory seed production.
- Developing seed infrastructure facilities in the public sector.
- Promoting seed treatment, especially for farm-saved seeds.
- Strengthening the seed multiplication chain by supporting both public and private sectors.
- Encouraging the adoption of new seed varieties to facilitate varietal replacement.
- Introducing new technologies and methodologies in seed production, processing, and testing.
- Modernizing infrastructure for seed production, storage, certification, and quality control to comply with national and international standards.
- Facilitating international seed trade to increase India’s share in the global market.
- Supporting public and private seed-producing organizations and fostering partnerships.
- Ensuring seed availability during contingent situations.
- Disseminating seed-related information through education and communication initiatives.
- Providing a system for protecting plant varieties and the rights of farmers and breeders.
Key Components of SMSP
The scheme encompasses several components to achieve its objectives:
- Strengthening Seed Quality Control: Enhancing the mechanisms to ensure the quality of seeds distributed to farmers.
- Developing Grow Out Test (GOT) Facilities: Establishing facilities to test the genetic purity of seed samples.
- Supporting Seed Certification Agencies: Providing assistance to agencies responsible for certifying seed quality.
Benefits to Farmers
The SMSP offers numerous advantages to farmers:
- Access to Quality Seeds: Ensures the availability of certified and high-quality seeds, leading to better crop yields.
- Improved Income: Higher productivity translates to increased income for farmers.
- Enhanced Knowledge: Educational initiatives under the scheme inform farmers about the latest seed technologies and practices.
- Infrastructure Support: Development of seed infrastructure benefits farmers by providing better storage and processing facilities.
Eligibility Criteria
The scheme is primarily targeted at:
- Farmers: Engaged in agriculture and interested in adopting certified seeds.
- Seed Producers: Organizations involved in seed production and distribution.
- Public and Private Sectors: Entities participating in seed infrastructure development.
Application Process
Interested individuals and organizations can apply for the scheme through the official myScheme portal:Apply for SMSP
The portal provides detailed information on the application procedure, required documents, and eligibility checks.
Why Every Eligible Farmer Should Apply
The Krishonnati Yojana – Sub Mission on Seed and Planting Material is a transformative initiative that empowers farmers with the tools and knowledge to enhance their agricultural practices. By participating in this scheme, farmers can access high-quality seeds, adopt modern farming techniques, and ultimately achieve better yields and income. It’s imperative for every eligible individual to take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to the nation’s agricultural growth.
For more information and to apply, visit the official myScheme SMSP page.
