Organic Seed Production at INDAM
Organic seed production is a vital aspect of agriculture, focusing on growing seeds without synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). At INDAM, organic seed production is more than just a method—it's a commitment to the environment, farmers, and future generations.
We have developed organic foundation seeds in 17 crops, including Tomato, Brinjal, Chilli, Cucumber, Ridgegourd, Bottlegourd, Sweet Corn, Okra, Amaranthus, Spinach, Coriander, Methi, Green Gram, Cluster Bean, Groundnut, Cowpea, and Sesamum. This achievement makes us a pioneer in the field, likely the only seed company in India focused on organic seed production versus just organic production of fresh vegetables.
The Genesis
INDAM's organic farming project began in 2009 at its R&D station in Bangalore. The transition from conventional to organic farming is not instantaneous; it requires a deep understanding of the land and an unwavering commitment to natural methods. At INDAM, it took us three years to convert the land from inorganic to organic farming practices. This conversion was essential to enhance soil fertility, structure, and overall health naturally. The process involved enriching the soil with compost, green manure, and other organic amendments to create a robust foundation for sustainable seed production.
But the journey didn't stop at converting the land. It took several crop cycles to convert inorganic seeds into organic ones, ensuring that each seed produced was of the highest quality and in harmony with organic principles. This meticulous approach has positioned INDAM as a leader in organic seed production in India.
Good Practices in Organic Seed Production
Crop rotation is one of the key techniques used to maintain soil fertility, reduce pests and diseases, and promote ecological balance. By rotating crops, the soil remains nutrient-rich, and the risk of pests and diseases is minimised without the need for chemical interventions.
Pest management in organic farming is another critical area where INDAM excels. Instead of relying on synthetic pesticides, INDAM employs a combination of biological control, cultural control, and mechanical control methods. These techniques include using natural predators, crop covers, and manual removal of pests to maintain the health of the crops without compromising the organic integrity of the seeds.
Ensuring Quality and Compliance
Maintaining the quality of organic seeds is a rigorous process that extends beyond the field. At INDAM, organic standards are strictly followed during harvesting, drying, cleaning, and storage to preserve seed quality. We adhere to recognised organic certification standards, ensuring that the seeds meet the stringent requirements set by certification bodies.
In 2012, we at INDAM, received the Scope Certificate for organic farming from the certification agency CONTROL UNION, underlining its commitment to organic principles. The certificate, with the NPOP number: ORG/SC/1008/000884, validates INDAM's dedication to producing high-quality organic seeds.
While many companies are engaged in the organic production of fresh vegetables, INDAM's unique focus on organic seed production sets us apart, ensuring that the future of farming in India is truly healthy and in harmony with nature.