The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to increase the availability of certified seeds to farmers by approximately 62% for the 2026-27 kharif season, marking a significant push toward enhancing agricultural productivity, crop quality, and farmer incomes.
Seed Distribution Targets
According to agriculture department data accessed by TOI, the government has set a target of distributing 1,99,910 quintals of seeds in 2026-27, a substantial rise from 1,23,379 quintals in 2025-26. The supply of paddy seed, central to kharif cultivation, will increase from 76,642 quintals to 80,000 quintals. The focus is primarily on pulses and oilseeds, aligning with national efforts to reduce edible oil imports and boost domestic pulse production.
Key Increases in Seed Availability
Groundnut seed availability is proposed to nearly triple, from 19,949 quintals to 57,446 quintals. Among pulses, arhar seed availability will increase over fourfold, from 4,980 quintals to 21,225 quintals, while urad seed availability will nearly triple from 7,685 quintals to 23,958 quintals. Millet seeds are also set to increase: jowar from 585 quintals to 1,600 quintals, bajra from 1,747 quintals to 1,972 quintals, and kodo from 292 quintals to 775 quintals. This move supports the state's focus on coarse cereals, or 'Shri Anna,' in line with the Centre's millet promotion campaign.
Government Initiatives and Subsidies
Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi stated that efforts are being made to ensure farmers receive quality seeds on time and in adequate quantity before sowing operations commence. Seed consignments will reach distribution and sales centers by May 31. The government is also working on a seed policy that envisions seed production by farmers themselves. All certified seeds under the program will be provided at a 50% subsidy, improving affordability and encouraging the adoption of certified seed varieties over farm-saved seeds.
A senior official noted that over 75,000 quintals of certified seeds have already been made available through various agencies. The seed distribution drive involves multiple agencies, including the agriculture department, cooperative department, IFFDC, HIL, and BBSSL, ensuring a coordinated institutional effort to widen outreach. Advance stocking aims to avoid delays that often disrupt sowing schedules during the monsoon season. Agricultural experts emphasize that timely seed availability is critical for improving germination rates and maximizing yields, especially in rain-fed regions. Officials added that early paddy seed distribution prioritizes preparedness ahead of monsoon-dependent transplantation activities expected in June.
