Grand Basmati Seed Distribution Fair Attracts Over 1000 Farmers from Seven States

Meerut: The Basmati Export Development Foundation (BEDF), under the aegis of the Government of India, hosted a large-scale Basmati Seed Distribution Fair and Farmers’ Workshop at its demonstration and training farm in Meerut. The event was formally inaugurated by Dr. Sunil Tiwari, Director of the Indian Agricultural Systems Research Institute, along with Dr. Nilesh Chaurasia, Deputy Director of Agriculture, and Dr. Ritesh Sharma, Joint Director, BEDF.

Following the inauguration, the dignitaries distributed high-quality Basmati paddy seeds to the farmers. Officials were surprised to learn that farmers had started arriving at the venue as early as midnight to ensure they received the seeds. Anish, a farmer from Aligarh, was the first to arrive and was felicitated for his exemplary awareness and enthusiasm.

The overwhelming turnout served as a testament to the trust farmers place in BEDF's seed quality. By 6:00 AM, over 200 farmers had gathered at the farm, eager to collect seeds.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sunil Tiwari noted, “The tremendous demand for Basmati seeds indicates how aware and proactive today’s farmers are. They are willing to travel long distances in pursuit of quality.”

Dr. Ritesh Sharma, Joint Director of BEDF, emphasized the foundation’s commitment to providing high-quality seeds and continuous training for export-grade Basmati rice cultivation. He added that farmers trained by BEDF have contributed significantly to India's foreign exchange reserves through high-quality exports and have seen a marked improvement in their incomes and living standards.

Dr. Nilesh Chaurasia, Deputy Director, Agriculture (Meerut), encouraged farmers to learn seed production techniques themselves, a practice already adopted by many through APEDA’s training programs. He also advised balanced use of chemicals and advocated for organic and natural farming methods.

Farmers from distant regions praised the event's seamless arrangements, particularly the full meal provisions and the knowledge shared during the workshop.

According to officials, over 1000 farmers from seven states attended the fair, and approximately 700 quintals of seed, worth nearly ₹70 lakh, were distributed. Farmers also requested increased seed production to meet growing demand in the future.

Scientific Officer Dr. Pramod Kumar Tomar, Netrapal Sharma, and staff members Yogesh Kumar, Chandrakant Mishra, Yash Kapil, Shubham Sharma, Vinod Kumar, Brijpal, Dinesh, and Yashpal played a crucial role in ensuring the event's success.