About 48% of India’s population is dependent on agriculture for livelihood but the share of agriculture in total GVA in 2014–15 is 17.6 per cent (2011–12 prices) (Government of India, 2015). With small and marginal holdings constitute 85% of the total holdings, one of the major challenges faced by the Indian economy lies in enhancing the viability of agriculture, the achievement of which could signifi cantly improve the growth prospects of the economy. Unavailability of agriculture has led to agrarian distress which in turn has added to the woes of farmers. Therefore, the goal of long-term food security can attained only if agriculture is made sustainable through gradual reforms in agricultural policies and agronomic practices.

In 2015-16, Gram Sathi with the support of NABARD implemented “Seed Production Program” in Pathargama block in Godda district in Jharkhand. Latalpakriya village under the Pathargama block was selected for the program. A total of 100 farmers were directly involved in the program and benefitted through regular training and awareness on important aspects of seed production like sowing and cultural practices, methods of seed procurement, seed storage and processing. The program was highly beneficial for the farmers.