Under the Ministry of Agriculture, the National Seed Corporation (NSC) is modernizing agriculture by selling seeds and planting materials online via the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). This initiative represents a game-changer for Indian farmers, offering direct access to high-quality seeds without intermediaries. With a focus on delivering better products at lower costs, NSC’s venture into e-commerce promises to reshape the agricultural landscape.
Direct Access to Certified Seeds: A Farmer’s Advantage
NSC’s decision to sell seeds directly to farmers eliminates the need for intermediaries, which helps lower costs and enhances trust. Farmers can now buy seeds through MyStore, an online marketplace connected to ONDC. This platform allows farmers to access 211 products, including seeds and planting materials for 60 crops such as cereals, oilseeds, pulses, fodder, and vegetables. Currently, 88 of these products are available online, with plans to expand further.
NSC has also partnered with India Post and other ONDC logistics players to ensure seamless delivery. Farmers can track their orders in real time, reducing the uncertainty often associated with traditional seed procurement methods. This direct sales model not only makes seeds more affordable but also ensures the quality and authenticity of the products.
Enhancing Seed Replacement Ratio for Higher Yields
One of the key goals of NSC’s online sales initiative is to improve the seed replacement ratio for major field crops. The availability of certified seeds directly through the ONDC platform means that farmers can more easily access high-quality seeds. This shift is crucial for enhancing crop yields and overall productivity in Indian agriculture.
Annually, NSC produces over 100,007 tonnes of certified seeds covering 300 crop varieties. By making these seeds available online, NSC simplifies access for farmers, who no longer need to rely on local vendors or regional offices. This approach not only saves time but also boosts confidence in the seed quality, which is essential for achieving better harvests.
Streamlining Operations: Reduced Need for Physical Marketing Points
The move to online sales also helps NSC streamline its operations. Traditionally, NSC established physical marketing points across various states to distribute seeds. However, with the integration of 62 NSC regional offices, area offices, and central seed farms into the ONDC network, the need for these physical points has reduced significantly.
By maintaining seed inventories at its regional offices, NSC can quickly fulfill orders placed online. This shift not only reduces operational costs but also speeds up the delivery process, ensuring farmers receive seeds when they need them most. The direct sales model helps NSC enhance efficiency while maintaining a strong connection with its customer base.
Financial Growth and Future Prospects
NSC’s online initiative comes at a time of robust financial growth for the corporation. In the fiscal year 2024, NSC reported a net profit of ₹73 crore, with a turnover of ₹1,143 crore, marking a 6% increase from ₹1,078 crore in FY23. The positive financial performance underscores NSC’s ability to adapt and thrive in a changing market environment.
Looking ahead, NSC aims to onboard more products and expand its online presence, potentially setting a precedent for other state-owned seed companies. The current strategy not only supports NSC’s growth but also aligns with broader government efforts to digitize the agricultural sector. By pioneering this online sales model, NSC is positioning itself as a leader in agricultural innovation. Follow for more- https://viralenews.com
Empowering Farmers Through Digital Access
NSC’s foray into online sales via ONDC exemplifies how digital platforms can empower farmers. By removing barriers and providing direct access to certified seeds, NSC is playing a pivotal role in modernizing Indian agriculture. This initiative not only makes farming more sustainable but also contributes to greater food security and economic stability.
The success of NSC’s online seed sales could inspire other government-owned and private seed companies to adopt similar models. As more farmers embrace digital platforms, the agricultural sector stands to benefit from improved efficiency, transparency, and quality. This transformation is just the beginning, and NSC’s commitment to innovation will undoubtedly drive further progress in the years to come. Follow for more- https://viralenews.com
NSC’s integration with ONDC marks a significant milestone in the evolution of seed distribution in India. By making certified seeds accessible online, NSC not only cuts costs for farmers but also enhances the quality and traceability of agricultural inputs. This initiative represents a critical step toward a more modern, efficient, and farmer-friendly agricultural ecosystem. As NSC continues to expand its online offerings, the future looks bright for Indian agriculture, with technology and innovation leading the way.
source- www.financialexpress.com
