29th October 2024, Dehradun
ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation distributed high-quality foundation seeds of wheat varieties suitable for both irrigated and rainfed conditions in Uttarakhand at Raipur Block of Dehradun under the Farmers First project of ICAR, executed at ICAR-IISWC, Dehradun today.
Seed distribution and buy-back arrangements were formalized through a suitable MoU with farming communities. Two wheat varieties were distributed: Unnath-PBW 343 for irrigated fields and VL 967 for rainfed conditions.
The seeds were provided through a buy-back arrangement with the Uttarakhand Seeds and Tarai Development Corporation Ltd (UKS&TDC) in Dehradun. Each farmer received between 20 to 40 kg of seeds. Under this model, farmers are required to return at least double the quantity of seeds they receive at the current market rate for processing as certified seeds by UKS&TDC, while they can use any remaining seeds as they wish.
The varieties distributed are new to the region and offer improved yields of up to 50 Q/ha. They also feature an extended sowing window from November 15 to 25, easing the pressure on irrigation and minimizing water competition within the community.
Over the past three years, four other wheat varieties—DBW 222, DBW 303, DBW 187, and VL 953-were introduced under the same project. These varieties have been well-received, providing excellent yields and becoming self-propagating through successive sowing cycles.
A total of 21 quintals of seeds were distributed among 90 farmer-beneficiaries.
(Source: ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Dehradun)
