A Legacy Revived
In the heartland of Punjab, a profound agricultural heritage is being meticulously preserved on a modest 4-acre plot. This isn't merely a farm; it's a living
testament to the foresight of Gurmukh Singh and the passion of his grandson, Jaspreet Singh. Their shared vision is to rescue and propagate indigenous seed varieties that have long sustained local communities but are now facing extinction due to the widespread adoption of hybrid alternatives. This endeavor is deeply rooted in their connection to the land and a commitment to ecological well-being, aiming to ensure that the rich biodiversity of Punjab's agriculture thrives for future generations. They understand that these traditional seeds are more than just genetic material; they represent culture, history, and a resilient way of life adapted to local conditions.
Nurturing Biodiversity
The duo's 4-acre sanctuary is a vibrant repository for a diverse array of traditional crops, encompassing various types of wheat, rice, pulses, millets, and vegetables. Each seed variety is treated with utmost care, meticulously documented with its origin and unique characteristics recorded. This careful cataloging ensures that the genetic integrity and historical significance of each type are maintained. Beyond cultivation, they actively engage in educational outreach, conducting workshops and awareness programs. These initiatives aim to enlighten both farmers and the public about the critical importance of indigenous seeds, fostering a broader appreciation for agricultural biodiversity and its role in food security and cultural preservation. Their farm is transforming into a hub for knowledge exchange and a beacon of hope for heritage agriculture.
Community and Exchange
Jaspreet Singh articulates their core philosophy: making these precious seeds accessible to all farmers eager to cultivate them. Their distribution model is centered on exchange rather than sale, embodying a spirit of community and shared responsibility. This approach not only promotes the multiplication of indigenous varieties but also revives traditional farming practices that are inherently sustainable and work in harmony with the natural environment. By eschewing profit-driven motives in favor of community well-being and heritage preservation, they are building a network of farmers committed to ecological agriculture. This fosters a collaborative ecosystem where knowledge and resources are freely shared, strengthening the resilience of the agricultural landscape.
Digital Reach, Ancient Wisdom
Amarjit Sharma, 68, and his grandson Ravi Sharma, 24, have skillfully merged traditional wisdom with modern digital strategies to elevate rare seed preservation into a valuable enterprise. Operating from their 4-acre farm in Faridkot district, they've established 'Senior Seeds,' a brand that reflects their reverence for indigenous varieties. Ravi's expertise in digital outreach, including a dedicated website and social media promotion, has propelled their mission globally, reaching farmers across India and several other countries. This blend of ancient knowledge and contemporary marketing allows them to not only preserve agricultural heritage but also contribute to soil and water conservation through sustainable farming methods. Their venture demonstrates how innovation can empower traditional practices and create a viable economic model.
A Seed Enterprise
Ravi's involvement began during his BBA studies, initially to bolster family income. However, witnessing his grandfather's dedication shifted his perspective, transforming the initiative into a significant heritage conservation effort. Senior Seeds now cultivates over 100 traditional varieties, offering seed packets starting from Rs 20 for 15 grams, with pouches typically containing 15 to 200 seeds depending on the crop. Their offerings include unique items like chappan tinda, various gourds, red maize, red musk melon, red ladyfinger, white kakri, sweet black carrot, and traditional pulses and millets. Annually, they produce approximately 25 to 26 quintals of seeds, with an average yield of six to seven quintals per acre. This focused approach yields significant economic returns, with an average profit of nearly Rs 3 lakh per acre, substantially outperforming conventional crop cycles.
Global Impact, Local Roots
The Sharmas' impact extends beyond national borders, with around 15% of their seed production exported to countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, and New Zealand, with temporary pauses in US exports due to tariff issues. Ravi actively procures region-specific indigenous varieties from across India, ensuring farmers receive seeds best suited to their local climates. He emphasizes that desi seeds offer superior taste, enhanced nutritional value, and better disease resistance compared to hybrid varieties. While financial success is a component, their primary motivation remains the passion for preserving indigenous seeds. Amarjit aptly summarizes their dynamic: 'I preserved the past, he built the future,' highlighting their successful fusion of heritage preservation and modern enterprise.
