Ministry of Cooperation has set up Bhartiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002. The BBSSL is promoted by Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO), National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED), National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC). The initial paid up capital of BBSSL is Rs. 250 Cr with contribution of Rs. 50 Cr each by the five promoters and authorized share capital is Rs. 500 Cr. The BBSSL will undertake production, procurement & distribution of quality seeds under single brand through network of cooperatives to improve crop yield and develop a system for preservation and promotion of indigenous natural seeds. BBSSL will help in increasing the seed replacement rate, and varietal replacement rate by ensuring the role of farmers in production of certified seeds. This society will focus on production, testing, certification, procurement, processing, storage, branding, labelling and packaging of two generations of seeds i.e. foundation and certified (breeder seeds will be sourced from Public Sector Research Organizations and International Research Institutes i.e., ICRISAT, IRRI, CIMMYT etc.) through Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) by leveraging various schemes and policies of different ministries of Government of India in a focused manner through ‘Whole of the Government Approach’.

            BBSSL will help in increasing the production of quality seeds in India through cooperatives thereby reducing the dependence on imported seeds, enhancing agriculture production, providing boost to rural economy, promoting “Make in India” and leading to Atmanirbhar Bharat.

        BBSSL has a full-time resource based in Patna and Bhagalpur. The cooperatives of all levels from primary to apex can become members of BBSSL. BBSSL will perform its activities through a network of its member cooperatives. So far, a total no. 14,816 cooperatives have become members of BBSSL. Out of which 418 cooperatives are from Bihar. So far as Balmiki Nagar is concerned, 05 cooperatives of West Champaran District have become member of BBSSL. Further, to start its operations in Bihar, BBSSL has posted an officer in Bihar for sales & marketing activities.  

   This was stated by the Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha. 

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RK/VV/ASH//RR/PR/PS/3634

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