Do you think The seed festival and bank will facilitate use of indigenous varieties and traditional farming which farmers have abandoned since the Green Revolution in India?

 Since 2019, members of the Kondh tribe in Odisha’s Nayagarh district have added one more event to their calendar of festivals and celebrations. Called Bihan Mela, literally the seed festival, the event is participated by farmers from as many as 40 villages in Dasapalla block, sorrounded by hills and forests.

The Seed Festival and Seed Bank can play an important role in facilitating the use of indigenous varieties and traditional farming methods that farmers have abandoned since the Green Revolution in India. These initiatives can help to promote the conservation and utilization of traditional seed varieties that are adapted to local conditions and have unique properties that are important for food security and environmental sustainability.

The Seed Festival can help to raise awareness about the importance of traditional seed varieties and promote their use by showcasing their value and encouraging farmers to use them. The Seed Bank can provide a platform for farmers to exchange and store traditional seed varieties and ensure their long-term conservation.

However, the success of these initiatives depends on several factors, including the availability of quality traditional seed varieties, access to training and resources for traditional farming methods, and support from policymakers and other stakeholders. Moreover, it is essential to address the challenges faced by farmers in accessing markets, credit, and other essential services to make traditional farming profitable and sustainable.

In conclusion, the Seed Festival and Seed Bank can facilitate the use of indigenous varieties and traditional farming methods in India. However, these initiatives need to be supported by adequate resources, policies, and partnerships to ensure their success and contribute to the development of a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system.