Annamalai Agro Foundation (NAF)
Seeds are small embryonic plants enclosed in a protective cover with a food reserve. They are found inside fruits and develop into new plants when grown under optimum environmental conditions. They consist of undeveloped miniature plants, endosperm, and seed coats and are formed from the fertilization of an ovule after pollination. They are good sources of fiber, healthy monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Their regular consumption help reduce blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure. They are consequently utilized for growing fruits, vegetables, cereals, and lentils and obtaining oils for cooking, margarine production, lubrication, cooking, and painting. At present, seeds are available in varied colors, shapes, sizes, weights, and specific gravity across India.
The growing population and the availability of rich arable lands and various agro-climatic zones in India represent one of the key factors positively influencing the market. In addition, the commercialization of agriculture and the active collaboration of private and public sectors are propelling the growth of the seed industry in the country. Apart from this, leading seed breeders are increasingly introducing advanced digital technologies to help farmers overcome the negative impacts of pests, climate, and other environmental factors.
This, in turn, is contributing to the market growth. Additionally, the integration of data science, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, advanced phenomics, and genomics in the agricultural sector is offering a favorable market outlook. Along with this, various opportunities provided by the Government of India (GoI) to encourage farmers and breeders are creating a positive outlook for the market. It is also launching various programs, such as Integrated Scheme for Oilseeds, Pulses, Oil Palm, and Maize (ISOPOM), and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, which, in turn, is providing continuous support and offering lucrative growth opportunities to farmers and seed breeders. Moreover, increasing investments by research institutes in research and development (R&D) activities to enhance crop production, supply chain management, and quality assurance is expected to drive the seed industry in India.
Hybrid seeds are a result of controlled cross-pollination between two or more different inbred lines. They are often favored in agriculture for their uniformity and higher yield potential. Heirloom or open-pollinated seeds are varieties that have been passed down through generations and can be saved and replanted by farmers with consistent results.
| Row number | Seed name | classes |
| 1 | Breeder Seed | High class |
| 2 | Foundation Seed | Second class |
| 3 | Certified Seed | Third class |
| 4 | Registered Seed | fourth class |