Bihar's Cooperative Department Launches Pilot Project for Quality Rice Seed Production
The Cooperative Department of Bihar has launched a pilot project aimed at producing quality rice seeds through PACS for the Kharif season of 2026-27. This initiative, starting in six districts, seeks to provide farmers with certified seeds at reduced costs, enhancing local agricultural productivity. The project aims to empower farmers economically and strengthen the role of cooperative institutions in seed production. With the support of established agricultural bodies, this initiative could potentially expand to other districts based on its success.
Jun 19, 2026, 20:20 IST
Initiative for Quality Seed Production in Bihar
The Cooperative Department of Bihar has decided to initiate a pilot project for rice seed production through PACS (Primary Agricultural Credit Societies) for the Kharif season of 2026-27. This initiative aims to ensure the availability of quality seeds at lower costs for farmers and will commence in six districts: Rohtas, Kaimur, Aurangabad, Gaya, Bhojpur, and Siwan.
According to the directives issued by the Cooperative Department, PACS that are members of the National Cooperative Seed Committee (BBSSL) will be included in this scheme. The primary goal is to provide farmers with certified quality seeds and to ensure active participation of cooperative institutions in seed production. The process will be conducted with the support of the Bihar State Seed Corporation (BRBN) and the Bihar State Seed Organic Certification Agency (BASOCA). A list of registered farmers from BASOCA has been provided to the relevant districts, which will facilitate seed production through selected PACS.
Cooperative Minister Ramkripal Yadav stated that this initiative is a significant step by the Cooperative Department to give a new direction to the agricultural sector in Bihar. The PACS will not only be limited to rice procurement but will also serve as a center for the economic empowerment of farmers. With the involvement of PACS in seed production, farmers will have access to certified and quality seeds locally, which will reduce production costs and increase yields.
The Cooperative Department has instructed the district cooperative officers of the relevant districts to coordinate with district agricultural officers and the Indian Seed Cooperative Society to ensure that seed production is carried out in a timely manner according to the established work plan. This initiative will strengthen the role of cooperative institutions in seed production in the state, enabling farmers to access high-quality rice seeds locally. Based on the successful outcomes of this project, it may be expanded to other districts in the future.