Sources, Replacement and Management of Paddy Seed by Farmers in Punjab 1

The study has reported different sources of paddy seed, seed replacement rate of paddy growers, and management of paddy seed by the farmers in two selected districts of Punjab. Amongst different sources of paddy seed, the share of private seed dealers has been found maximum (H” 48 per cent), followed by authorized seed dealer (H” 19 per cent), self-retained (11.5 per cent) and commission agents (H” 11 per cent).The share of other sources like fellow farmers, relatives and friends, PAU, village shopkeeper, state agriculture department, etc. has been found only 1-2 per cent each. The overall seed replacement rate has been found to be about 24 per cent. The farm category-wise analysis has revealed a direct relationship between seed replacement rate and farm size. The seed rate has been found almost equal to the recommended level in the Ludhiana district while in Patiala district, it is much below the recommended value. Amongst determinants of quality of seeds, experience of the farmers has been reported at the first place, followed by advice of fellow farmers, reputation of institute, etc. Regarding linkages, the large farmers have more contacts with different seed agencies. The study has suggested that extension agencies should educate the farmers about the usefulness of quality seeds and their replacement with the seed procured form reliable sources like PAU, PUNSEED, Department of Agriculture, etc.