Sabour: In a major push to enhance the livelihoods of farmers in Bihar, Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour has launched a linseed seed production initiative that promises higher earnings and greater market access. The programme was formally introduced at a one-day workshop held in Machhipur to mark Linseed Day, drawing the participation of local farmers and key agricultural stakeholders.
Dr Fiza Ahmed, Director of Seeds and Fields at BAU, led the event and urged farmers to embrace linseed cultivation, underlining its multifaceted uses and the potential for profit. “We are committed to empowering farmers through quality seed production, training, and access to better markets,” she said. Attendees were trained in best practices for linseed cultivation and informed about the commercial possibilities of the crop.
Dr Saurabh Kumar Chaudhary, Principal Investigator of the university’s linseed project, outlined plans to scale up production. “The university will facilitate linseed cultivation on farmers’ fields using high-quality varieties developed in-house,” he said. Seed production will be supervised by university scientists to maintain purity and quality standards.
In a notable step towards ensuring fair compensation, BAU has committed to buying back the seed harvest at 30% above the Minimum Support Price (MSP). The seeds, once processed and treated, will be distributed to farmers via the Bihar State Seed Corporation.
As part of the All-India Coordinated Research Project on Linseed, the university has already undertaken experimental seed production of two varieties – Sabour Linseed-2 and Sabour Linseed-4 – on 13 acres. Encouraged by the response, the university plans to extend similar efforts to pulses and other oilseeds including gram and lentils.
