The Seed Centre at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) recently hosted the 12th Annual Seed Workshop.
More than 85 scientists participated in the workshop to finalise the seed production plan for various crops in TNAU for the ensuing year 2026–27.
During the inaugural session, Umarani, Director of the Seed Centre, TNAU, welcomed the gathering and delivered the introductory address, in which she elaborated on the achievements made by TNAU in seed production during 2025–26.
Subrahmaniyan, Registrar and Acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, inaugurated the Golden Jubilee Exhibition of the Department of Seed Science and Technology at the Seed Centre. The exhibition showcases significant milestones in the institution’s 50-year journey of excellence in academics, research contributions, student innovations, and seed production.
Subrahmaniyan appreciated the institution’s remarkable growth and contributions to society and commended the efforts taken to establish the exhibition hall as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations.
He also inaugurated the 12th Annual Seed Workshop, where he emphasised that quality seed improves yield by 20–25%. Hence, quality seeds form the basis for achieving the country’s food security.
He further highlighted that TNAU varieties are in high demand among farmers in the state. At present, 1,800 tonnes of seeds are produced across 40 crops and 175 varieties and distributed to farmers.
To meet farmers’ demand for high-quality seeds, seed production in TNAU will be doubled to reach 3,500 tonnes in 2026–27.
Ravikesavan, Director of the Centre for Plant Breeding and Genetics of the university, highlighted the salient features of newly released varieties and the influence of climate change on crop productivity and seed yield. He emphasised the importance of maintaining genetic purity in nucleus and breeder seeds for further seed production in the supply chain.
Venkatesan, Dean (Horticulture), highlighted the importance of maintaining seed viability during storage and mentioned that in Tamil Nadu, more than 21,000 hectares are cultivated using TNAU varieties of vegetable seeds.
Finally, Manonmani, Head of the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Seed Centre, proposed the vote of thanks.
