Field Day held to commercialize TNAU's 'Hybrid' varieties

Coimbatore: In connection with the setting up of TNAU Private Seed Sector Research and Technology Consortium, a field day was organized on October 1 at TNAU, here to demonstrate the performance of high yielding varieties and hybrids to the private seed companies. 

Around 62 members from 28 seed companies, officials from the Directorate of Seed Certification and scientists from TNAU participated in the event. 

The inaugural function was presided by the Prof. Dr. N. Kumar, Vice- Chancellor, TNAU. In his presidential address, he informed that field day is organized to showcase the hybrids released by TNAU to the private companies for commercialization, so that they will reach the farmers in larger area in the shortest period. 

He observed that the hybrid varieties by TNAU will undergo rigorous field tests and can be trusted. He also emphasized that besides rice and maize hybrids, TNAU has castor, sunflower, vegetable hybrids and minor millet varieties. 

S.I. Mohideen, JDA, Seed Inspection in his special address mentioned that the department of seed certification has certified one lakh tonnes in 2018-2019.

Dr. S. Geetha, Director (CPBG) in her felicitation address stated that varieties and hybrids released by TNAU are resistant to pest and diseases. 

Dr. M. Ramasami, Chairman, Rasi Seeds in his keynote address appreciated the efforts of TNAU for conducting the field day and support private seed producing companies. He asked the seed producers to be prepared for the proposed regulations of New Seed Bill. He also emphasized that those companies which maintain quality can flourish.

Dr. S.D. Sivakumar, Director Agri Business Development welcomed the participants and informed that Directorate of Agri Business is co-ordinating the commercialization of TNAU hybrids to private seed companies. 

Dr. S. Sundarewaran, Director Seed Centre proposed the vote of thanks.