In Andhra Pradesh, a concerted effort is underway to preserve and regenerate indigenous crop varieties. Farmers, often referred to as seed savers, cultivate, observe, and select native seeds for distribution, with sites like Gasaba functioning as block seed multiplication centers for nearby villages. By 2001, these initiatives coalesced into the Soil and Seed Information Centre at Kiloguda, which began with approximately 45 varieties and now serves as a central repository and meeting point. Here, a committee of experienced farmers oversees the selection and distribution of indigenous seeds, facilitating exchanges of varieties and knowledge among visiting farmers. This model also aims to create modest demand for produce from native seeds, attracting study from researchers across different states, and is supported by annual seed festivals. The sustained attention required for seed conservation is a key focus, particularly given trends of younger farmers transitioning away from agriculture.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/agriculture/from-hills-to-markets-indigenous-seeds-make-a-comeback-in-andhra-pradesh/article70783934.ece
