Times Agricultural Journal

On problems facing the seed industry

One major problem facing the seed industry is the unfortunate shortage of seeds at times, which results in the overpricing of quality seeds. As a result, the seeds available in the market are not of good quality and gives way for adulteration, duplication and bogus seeds. Due to this, the private industries are blamed and get a negative image. The solution to it is ample supply of seeds.

On Mahyco’s plans to cope in the WTO regime with respect to imports, patents, etc.

We wish to be the leaders in this field. We are confident and don’t fear anyone. We hope to be prepared for anything.

On genetically modified seeds

I feel those who want it should go ahead with it. There should be no compulsion or restriction as such on anything. These are new doors opening due to the innovations and developments in science and research. We should welcome them. Those who need it should accept it and those who do not want could do away with it. Personally speaking, I feel it is important in India.

On Mahyco’s initiatives to step up exports

There are two ways of doing this, generally growing and exporting crops or taking into consideration what is required abroad and then growing them here and finally exporting them. For Mahyco the country comes first and then the international market. We need to be strong here and only then we can establish ourselves outside. We should see how much potential is there and then study the conditions. Exporting has always been our second priority.

On special microbial inoculants and his plans to develop them

Plants take nutrition from rhizobium (their roots). They require nitrogen. Some types of bacteria are very good for plants. It so happens that after the plant is removed, some traces remain in the root. We plan to work on this and improve the quality of plants. On Mahyco’s plans in floriculture and sericulture

The floriculture business is a very independent issue. I agree there is investment, but the results are comparatively less. For the time being, we plan to concentrate on hybrid seeds.

- Suchitra Poojari