Farming in India consists of a diverse array of techniques, including conventional, marginal, and organic systems. These varied farming methods require targeted breeding efforts to develop varieties suited to the distinct conditions of each system, driven by differences in management practices. For instance, a variety bred for conventional farming may not be suitable for organic and low-input systems, as the former typically involves high inorganic fertilizer and crop protection inputs, while the latter focuses on minimal or no chemical use. The challenges faced by Indian farmers—such as stagnated yields, malnutrition, biotic and abiotic stresses, and climate resilience—necessitate a robust research focus to address these issues across different farming systems.
Focus on Conventional Breeding in the Private Sector
Most seed companies in India concentrate on conventional breeding techniques to develop improved crop varieties. These private companies typically have strong research and development (R&D) facilities, and they release most of their varieties from their own breeding programs. Investments in crop research are generally proportional to the market demand for the crops, with wheat and rice receiving the largest portions of funding, followed by maize, millets, and vegetables. These crops are becoming increasingly important due to their economic value, with seed companies heavily investing in high-value hybrids, including Bt cotton.
Cereal Crops: Dominating Research and Development
Cereal crops dominate India’s seed market, with crops like maize, rice, wheat, sorghum, and millets receiving substantial research attention. Maize, in particular, is a significant driver of the seed industry, with an estimated market value of Rs. 14.91 billion in 2016, due to its diverse applications beyond food, including biofuel, feed, and industrial uses. Global seed companies are expected to increase investment in maize through technology transfer and public-private partnerships in the coming decades.
Hybrid rice production in India is also gaining traction, driven by efforts from government organizations and crop development programs such as the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) and the Green Revolution in Eastern India (BGREI). The area under hybrid rice cultivation has grown steadily, from 2.5 million hectares in 2015 to 3.1 million hectares in 2018, reflecting the growing demand for hybrid rice seeds.
Rising Demand for Vegetable Seeds and Organic Farming
Alongside cereal crops, the demand for vegetable seeds is increasing due to changing dietary preferences and the high economic returns from vegetable farming. The development of climate-resilient and technology-driven seed products through marker-assisted breeding and computational breeding is encouraged by both a supportive regulatory framework and advances in technology. Furthermore, organic farming is gaining momentum as consumers become more aware of the health benefits of chemical-free food. The organic food market in India reached a value of US$ 815 million in 2020 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24% from 2021 to 2026.
As a result, seed companies are increasingly focusing on organic seed production and plant breeding to meet the growing demand for organic crops. The cultivated area under certified organic farming has risen substantially, from 0.042 million hectares in 2003–2004 to 3.67 million hectares in 2019–2020. India ranks eighth globally in terms of organic crop production area and leads the world in the number of organic farmers.
The Role of Multinational and Local Seed Companies
The Indian seed market is highly competitive, with numerous multinational corporations (MNCs) and local players, such as Nuziveedu Seeds, Mahyco, Advanta, Monsanto, Rasi Seeds, Bayer India, DuPont Pioneer Seeds, and Syngenta, driving the market with advanced breeding programs. These companies are investing heavily in R&D to develop high-yielding varieties, particularly for crops like maize, rice, and soybeans. In addition, many of these companies are exploring genetic engineering as a means to enhance crop traits such as herbicide tolerance, insect resistance, and environmental stress resistance.
However, smaller seed companies, which constitute over 90% of the seed industry in India, face challenges related to infrastructure, technology access, and research facilities. These companies, though transforming in terms of management culture and technology adoption, could benefit significantly from improved access to credit, better research support, and skilled human resources.
Investment in Research and Development
The top global seed companies are investing heavily in breeding programs, particularly in South and Southeast Asia, where the demand for improved seeds is growing rapidly. For example, companies like Corteva Agriscience, Advanta, and Limagrain are leading the development of maize hybrids and other high-yielding varieties. The hybrid seed market is dominated by these companies, as hybrids ensure high yields, which are crucial for commercial success. In contrast, open-pollinated varieties (OPVs) have a strong market presence, as they allow farmers to save and reuse seeds, reducing the need to purchase new seeds each season.
Regulatory Support and Infrastructure for Research
The Indian government plays a vital role in promoting plant breeding research through various schemes and initiatives. The establishment of national-level research facilities for product testing, seed quality control, and regulatory support could further accelerate the development of new varieties. Additionally, foreign direct investment (FDI) policies in India are favorable for MNCs, allowing them to bring in elite global germplasm and improve research capabilities in the country.
The Future of Plant Breeding Research
As the seed industry continues to grow, the demand for improved, climate-resilient, and high-yielding crop varieties will drive further research. There is also an increasing focus on developing seed varieties that cater to the needs of smallholder farmers, especially those in regions affected by climate change and biodiversity challenges. Seed companies, both large and small, must continue to innovate and invest in R&D to stay competitive and meet the diverse needs of farmers across India.
With the rise of biotechnology and the increasing emphasis on sustainability and productivity, plant breeding research in India is poised for continued growth in the coming years, ensuring that the seed industry remains a key component of the nation's agricultural development.
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