Seed System in Bihar: An Overview

Seeds are a vital input for good production and productivity. Poorly performing seed can be
devastating for livelihood of farmers. Trust or quality assurance is a vital element in the
functioning and resilience of any seed system. A seed system encompasses the processes and
mechanisms through which farmers obtain seeds. Recently importance of seed system
received significant attention. An effective seed system gives all farmers access to quality
seed, reliable information, and up-to-date knowledge of improved varieties and seed
practices.These systems are crucial for ensuring the availability of high-quality seeds, which
are essential for food security and agricultural productivity.The agricultural seed system in
Bihar encompasses a combination of traditional practices i.e. informal seed system and
modern interventions i.e. formal seed system.Seed security can be sustained when the formal
and informal seed system can complement each other particularly in Bihar where, access of
quality seed to resource poor farmers is limited. Seed market in Bihar is robust and diverse, it
faces challenges related to yield, adoption of new seed varieties, and efficient water use.
Adoption of improved seed varieties is slow, which affects overall productivity. Efforts are
being made to introduce better quality seeds to increase yields and profitability. Addressing
these issues can significantly enhance productivity and profitability for the state's farmers.