India must accelerate the adoption of hybrid technology in pulses and oilseeds to reduce import dependency and boost domestic production, said Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, P.K. Mishra, during a national symposium organized by the Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences (TAAS). While hybrid varieties have demonstrated potential, their adoption among Indian farmers remains limited, particularly in crucial crops like pigeon pea (toor dal).
Mishra stressed the importance of prioritizing these crops, pointing out that they remain underutilized despite advancements in hybrid technology. He highlighted that hybrid varieties of pigeon pea have not gained widespread acceptance, even though they promise higher yields and resilience. “These two crops need our attention much more than what we did so far,” Mishra emphasized, underlining their significance for food security and self-sufficiency.
Mustard, another vital crop, has seen some hybrid varieties entering the market, but their performance compared to traditional open-pollinated seeds requires further examination. Mishra acknowledged the challenges farmers face, such as the annual purchase of hybrid seeds, which adds to their financial burden. He noted ongoing global research efforts aimed at creating technologies that allow farmers to save and reuse hybrid seeds, which could significantly reduce costs.
India’s success with hybrid technology in crops like maize and cotton stands as a testament to its potential. The introduction of the first cotton hybrid in 1970 revolutionized productivity, making India a global leader in cotton production. However, this momentum has not extended to other crops. For instance, rice, a staple in Indian diets, has seen hybrid varieties cover only 8% of the total cultivated area, even after 35 years of technology availability. This uneven adoption highlights the need for targeted interventions to encourage farmers to embrace hybrid seeds in crops beyond maize and cotton.
The reliance on imports to meet domestic demand for pulses and edible oils presents a significant economic challenge. India’s imports of edible oils, in particular, contribute to a substantial portion of the trade deficit. Mishra pointed out that addressing these gaps through the adoption of hybrid seeds could lead to a significant reduction in import dependency while improving the livelihoods of farmers.
Mishra also stressed the role of climate-resilient agricultural practices, noting that hybrid seeds are often better equipped to withstand the challenges posed by climate change, such as erratic rainfall and rising temperatures. By adopting these technologies, farmers can ensure more stable yields, thereby contributing to national food security.
During the symposium, agricultural experts and scientists highlighted the need for government policies that support hybrid seed research, development, and distribution. Public-private partnerships could play a crucial role in making hybrid seeds more accessible and affordable to farmers. Subsidies, extension services, and awareness campaigns were identified as key mechanisms to bridge the gap between technological advancements and their on-ground adoption.
Mishra also lauded the efforts of researchers and agricultural institutions working towards advancing hybrid seed technology. He encouraged stakeholders to focus on developing region-specific hybrid varieties that cater to the diverse agro-climatic conditions in India. Tailoring solutions to local needs, he noted, would enhance adoption rates and maximize the benefits of hybrid seeds.
The symposium also shed light on the socio-economic challenges faced by farmers in adopting hybrid technology. Many farmers, particularly smallholders, lack the financial resources and technical knowledge to switch to hybrid seeds. Addressing these barriers requires a holistic approach, combining financial incentives with capacity-building initiatives.
Mishra concluded his address by calling for a collective effort to transform India’s agricultural landscape. He emphasized the need for collaboration among policymakers, scientists, and farmers to realize the full potential of hybrid technology. “India’s pioneering work in hybrid seeds must not stop here,” he said, urging all stakeholders to accelerate the adoption of innovative agricultural practices.
The discussion underscored the urgency of promoting hybrid technology in pulses and oilseeds, both to meet growing domestic demand and to position India as a leader in sustainable agriculture. The adoption of such technology could pave the way for enhanced productivity, reduced imports, and a more resilient agricultural sector.
The symposium also delved into the economic implications of adopting hybrid technology in pulses and oilseeds. Experts pointed out that the current reliance on imports for edible oils costs India billions of dollars annually. Encouraging hybrid technology could dramatically shift this scenario, creating a dual impact of reducing import expenses and improving domestic farmers’ incomes. Mishra highlighted the need to balance immediate costs with long-term benefits, emphasizing that hybrid seeds are an investment in the nation’s agricultural future.
To achieve widespread adoption, the government may need to strengthen infrastructure supporting hybrid farming. This includes building robust supply chains for seed distribution, ensuring timely availability, and educating farmers on the proper use of hybrid seeds. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of collaboration between state governments, agricultural universities, and private enterprises to make these technologies more accessible.
Additionally, panelists underscored the need for policy reforms to encourage private sector participation in hybrid seed development. Tax incentives, research grants, and streamlined regulatory processes could motivate companies to invest in developing region-specific solutions. Mishra pointed out that such collaborations could catalyze innovation and bridge the gap between lab research and field implementation.
Social equity also emerged as a crucial discussion point during the event. Small and marginal farmers, who form the backbone of Indian agriculture, often face significant barriers in accessing advanced technologies. Experts stressed the need for targeted support, such as subsidies for hybrid seeds and affordable credit facilities, to ensure that these farmers can also benefit from technological advancements. Empowering this segment of the farming community is essential to achieving equitable agricultural growth.
Another significant aspect discussed was the environmental benefit of hybrid seeds. Hybrid crops often require fewer inputs, such as water and fertilizers, compared to traditional varieties. This makes them more sustainable, particularly in regions facing resource constraints. Mishra emphasized that by adopting hybrid seeds, India could align its agricultural practices with global sustainability goals, further enhancing its international standing as an environmentally conscious nation.
The adoption of hybrid technology also holds potential for export growth. If India can boost production of pulses and oilseeds to surplus levels, it could position itself as a major global exporter, particularly to regions with high demand for these commodities. Such a shift would not only bring in foreign exchange but also strengthen India’s reputation in global agricultural markets.
The symposium ended with a call to action for all stakeholders. Mishra urged policymakers to prioritize hybrid technology adoption in upcoming agricultural policies and budget allocations. He reiterated that transforming agriculture through technology is not just a necessity but a national imperative. Experts and stakeholders echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that India must act decisively to overcome challenges and fully leverage the benefits of hybrid technology.
As the conversation continues, the focus remains on making India self-sufficient in pulses and oilseeds production. By adopting a multi-pronged approach that includes research, education, and policy reforms, India can achieve a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector, ensuring food security for generations to come.