Project at Karnataka

Pilot Seed Production Project for Open Pollinated Varieties of Vegetable, for the Biotechnologies Center, Department of Horticulture, Karnataka State.

Annadana was most honoured to have the opportunity to help and guide the department of horticulture of Karnataka to develop a pilot seed production project for the multiplication of organic OP seeds of vegetable.

This project situated at the Biotechnology Center in Bangalore, has attracted much interest by State officials after its first 8 months into existence and initial success. In effect, 45 varieties of vegetables among 15 species where put in cultivation under the technical guidance of Annadana for organic soil fertility management, seed isolation and extraction techniques.

Today the State is replicating this successful experience to 3 more locations and training its own technicians. The aim is to provide small scale organic farmers with qualities, replicable, organic, good yielding vegetable seeds.

This project is still under fine progress but holds a special place in the strategy of the department to bring about alternative and innovative practices to thousands of farmers.

The dedication, competence and innovative spirit of the Joint Director of Horticulture, Dr Ramakrisnappa and his team are highly commendable and noteworthy.