‘Beej Utsav’ emphasizes the role of indigenous seeds in the sustainability of agriculture

A four -day long time ‘Beej Utsav‘(Seed Festival) held in the tribal belt at the Tri junction of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, emphasized the role of native seeds in the sustainability of agriculture earlier this month. Tribal farmers took a promise to rebuild the community of seed systems.

More than 9,400 members of tribal communities, including women and children, who participated in the events during the festival, learned the techniques of preserving indigenous seeds for use in various crass seasons. They were aware of the meaning of seed heritage, biodiversity and climate consciousness.

The festival was at the same time organized in more than 60 Village Panchyats spread over the three states, with activities such as’Beej Samvad‘(seed dialogue), biodiversity fairs,’ test ball ‘and plantation drives. Community Honors, including ‘Beej MRA‘(Seed friend), and’Bijenj Mata‘(Seed Mother) was awarded to exemplary seed -conserving farmers.

Tribale women participating in the events during the ‘Beej Utsav’ held in the Banswara district. Photo: Special package

Institutions guided by the community, including Krishi Evam Adivasi Swaraj Sangathan, Gram Swaraj Samooh, Saksham Samooh and Bal Swaraj Samuoh Wasoh Wasohwh were instance in organizing the festival. They were supported by Banswara-based voluntary group Vaaghara, which works on the tribal livelihood.

Seeds should not only be considered the basis of agriculture, but also be treated as symbols of identity, life, nutrition, culture and climate feather in tribal traditions, said the secretary of Vaaghara Jayesh Joshi here on Monday. “When almost 70% of the small farmers depend on market -driven hybrid seeds,” Beej Utsav “is a powerful memory to reclaim our seed sovereignty,” said Joshi.

Indigenous seeds of grains, pulses, fruit and vegetables that was exhibited during the festival include some rare and forgotten varieties. Traditional fruit seeds include wild mango, aakol and timru, while traditional grains includedDoodh Mogar (native maize) and the paddy variations of Kali Kamod and Dhimri.

Under native vegetables, In healthcare (wild melon), small bitter gourd, and Toi Bhaji (Water spinach) attracted participants, who said they used them for domestic consumption.

Seeds in the market often came with chemical inputs, health risks and high costs that agriculture had not made sustainable, said Mr. Joshi. The need for tribal farmers was to return to their roots and become a member of the community led and culturally well -founded action, which would offer solutions for climate change and food insecurity, the community leader said.