Lucknow, 13 June (HS): The Uttar

Pradesh government has set a new standard for strengthening the basis of

sugarcane growing in the state, with the number of breeder seed nurseries

virtually doubling in the last eight years. While just 150 nurseries were

active in 2016-17, the number will increase to 267 in 2024-25. This rise was

accomplished by successfully utilizing the fields of sugar mills around the

state, authorities here asserted on Friday. In a significant boost to sugarcane

farming, the state distributed 4.4 crore single buds of newly produced

varieties in 2024-25, the most in the country when compared to breeder seed

output by any research institute.

This project is likely to result in a significant boost in sugarcane

productivity, cementing Uttar Pradesh's leadership in the industry. Officials

stated that to guarantee seed quality, a thorough three-tier certification

process is carried out under the supervision of a scientific team. A rigorous inspection plan maintains quality

at all stages, including sowing, post-germination (45-60 days), tillering

(100-120 days), millable cane development (180-200 days), and pre-harvest

(15-20 days before cutting). This scientifically driven approach ensures a

regular supply of certified, high-quality seeds to farmers, hence increasing

production throughout the state.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi