Sowing the Seeds of Change: AOL-SSIAST Leads Sustainable Agriculture Revolution

In a strategic move to enhance sustainable agriculture, The Art of Living's Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Trust (AOL-SSIAST) has entered into two important Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) and Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL). These agreements were signed in the presence of Shri Ashish Bhutani, Secretary of the Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India, marking a significant effort in revamping India's traditional agricultural practices with modern-day techniques and strategies.

The partnership with BBSSL focuses on preserving and promoting indigenous seeds, which is vital for food sovereignty and biodiversity. Key initiatives under this agreement involve establishing community seed banks, launching farmer training programs, organizing seed festivals, and implementing blockchain for seed traceability. Meanwhile, the MoU with NCOL is set to streamline the certification and marketing of organic produce cultivated by farmers trained by AOL-SSIAST. This includes providing marketing support through NCOL's cooperative network and strengthening the organic cooperative movement.

Shri Ashish Bhutani commented that these collaborations are a testament to the power of cooperative strength and grassroots innovation in creating a sustainable agricultural model for India. Shri Prasana Prabhu emphasized the importance of reviving native seed wealth to bolster soil health and farmer prosperity. AOL-SSIAST invites further collaboration with corporates and institutions to promote sustainable farming across the nation.

(With inputs from agencies.)