Jammu, November 25: The Director of Agriculture Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen, today inaugurated the first seed sample trials for the Rabi 2024-25 season at the State Seed Testing Laboratory. These trials, conducted in the Grow-out field adjacent to the laboratory, involve a range of crops, including Wheat HD3226, Gram GNG217, Pea AS10, Oats Kent, Barley Kalash, Knol Khol King of Market, Radish Mino Early, Berseem Muscavi, and Turnip Purple Top, among others.
The primary aim of these grow-out tests is to enhance seed quality assurance and ensure genetic purity by evaluating seed samples under real-field conditions. By simulating the challenges seeds face in actual agricultural environments, the trials will complement laboratory testing, providing valuable data on seed performance in natural conditions.
Speaking at the launch, Director Arvinder Singh Reen emphasized that these trials would offer critical insights into seed quality, helping farmers access high-quality seeds for better agricultural yields. “This initiative will ensure that only the best seeds reach the farming community, contributing to improved productivity and sustainable farming practices,” he said.
The Director was accompanied by Sectoral Heads, Seed Analyst Gopal Krishan, SSA Sohnika Rani, JAEO Punamjit Kour, AEA Sanjay Razdan, and the staff of the State Seed Testing Laboratory (SSTL).