Facilitator: Mr. Ningappa Kakol
The facilitator explained that seed storage methods differ widely in the country. Some of the methods that are simple were explained and demonstrated.
• Storage methods for different crops :
• Using castor seed powder for pulses
• Using sand for pulses
• Using red soil for pulses
• Using turmeric powder for pulses
• Mude structure (grass structure) for pulses
• Steeping method for pulses
• Neem-lakki leaf method for paddy
• Fumigation using pongamia leaves burnt on dried cow dung cake for paddy
 The facilitator also explained the concept of seed banks – especially community or group based ones. The seed bank in GREEN Foundation’s operational area allows farmers to use seeds from the seed bank – the farmers must return 2 kg of the same variety of seeds for every kilogram of seeds taken after harvest. Some farmers who are self-motivated to save native seeds are also encouraged and are called seed savers. Janadhanya, the registered body of farmers will provide technical assistance to people who want to start similar initiatives elsewhere.
The participants also discussed topics like – how to choose seeds for preservation, how to produce seeds for dissemination.
Seed sowing methods:
The facilitator covered key seed sowing methods including
• SRI – Systems of Rice Intensification or SPI – Systems of Plant Intensification (for other plants)
• Guli method for ragi
The facilitator explained the logic of SRI – i.e. greater spacing between seedlings, less flooding or standing water – as a means to obtain stronger plants, greater tillering, better pest and disease resistance and higher yield recovery rates.
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