A one-day virtual training program on improved technologies for commercial onion seed production was organized on 5th November by the ICAR-Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research (ICAR-DOGR), Rajgurunagar. Farmers, Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), and seed production companies participated in this training, which proved highly beneficial given the increasing demand for quality onion seeds and the technical challenges faced in production.
In the program, Dr S S Gadge Principal Scientist and I/C Director delivered welcome address. Mr. Anil Mahamulkar, Technical Officer for Quality Control at the Commissionerate of Agriculture, Pune, provided detailed guidance on the process of obtaining seed sale licence. Dr. Rajiv Kale, Senior Scientist in Agricultural Extension, discussed improved methods for onion seed production. Additionally, Dr. Shailendra Gadge and Dr. V. Karuppaiah presented advanced techniques for improved onion varieties and bulb production technology, pest and disease management, and pollination management.
This training introduced farmers and FPCs to the latest technologies for producing quality seeds, which can improve yield sustainability, profitability, and overall income. Furthermore, the training provided participants with a clear understanding of the certification process, inspiring them to make the necessary improvements in their production practices. Training was attended by 40 participants.
