Cabinet Approves Five New Seed Parks in Uttar Pradesh

Lucknow, May 16 (KNN) In a significant boost to the agricultural sector, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet on Thursday approved a proposal to make the state self-reliant in seed production.

Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi announced the establishment of five new seed parks aimed at ensuring farmers have easy access to high-yielding and affordable seed varieties.

Currently, Uttar Pradesh requires around 70 lakh quintals of seeds annually to cover 270 lakh hectares of farmland. However, the state produces only 40 lakh quintals, with the remainder sourced from other states at a cost of Rs 3,000 crore. “This move will drastically reduce our dependency and cut costs for farmers,” Shahi stated.

The first seed park will be set up in Attari, Lucknow, on 130.63 acres of land, with an investment of Rs 266.70 crore.

It will feature modern facilities for seed production, processing, storage, hybrid research, and speed breeding. The government plans to lease the land for 30 years, extendable up to 90 years.

Each of the five parks will be located in different agro-climatic zones and named after former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, honouring his legacy in Indian agriculture. Private investment will be encouraged through various incentives.

The initiative is expected to create direct employment for 6,000 people and indirect jobs for another 15,000. Additionally, around 40,000 farmers engaged in seed production will benefit directly.

Shahi emphasised that an improved Seed Replacement Rate (SRR) will enhance crop productivity and significantly increase farmers' incomes.

The state also aims to become a major exporter of seeds, positioning itself as a hub for quality seed production in India.

(KNN Bureau)