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Research Internship Report of Ramesh Kumar Shrestha
1. TO COMPARATIVE STUDY OF DIFFERENT SOURCES OF INDEGENOUS SEEDS
Submitted by
Shrestha Ramesh Kumar
Submitted to
Kathmandu University School of Education
Hattiban, Lalitpur through TITI, Sanothimi, Bhaktapur, Nepal.
For the partial fulfilment of B. Tech. Ed. (Agriculture) Program
And
Napal Agricultural Research Council (NARC)
Singhadarbar-plaja, Kathmandu, Nepal
2019
2. I
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
First and foremost, I am deeply grateful to coordinator of B.Tech.Ed., Educative Director,
Instructors, and all staff of TITI for providing me the opportunity to study Bachelor in Technical
Education (Agriculture) program as well as providing favorable venue, good learning
environment and coordinating during the study period.
Furthermore, I am very grateful to the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) for
providing big opportunity as well as study fund to forward a study area.
I would like to express special thanks to the Nepal Agricultural Research Council
(NARC), National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), National Agriculture Genetic
Resources Centre (NAGRC), Genebank Khumaltar, Lalitpur for providing me the learning
platform and good co-operation/suggestion/guidance for completion of research internship.
I also wish to express my deepest gratitude from inner core of heart to Dr. Ram Babu
Paneru Ph.D. Director of National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), Dr. Krishna Kumar
Mishra Ph.D. Chief of National Agriculture Genetic Resources Centre (NAGRC) and all the
scientist and technical officer for their cooperation as well as their valuable and constructive
during internship period.
I acknowledge to all the technical assistants, technical/officer/assistants and lab as well
as field workers for their good cooperation which help me to complete an internship on time.
I cannot close this note without expressing my honorable regards to my family.
3. II
ABSTRACT
The research work was accomplished at the laboratory of Genebak, khumaltar during 26
May to 28 June, 2019 in order to compare the seed quality between the seeds saved by the formal
organization and farmers. Two major cereal crops i.e. rice and wheat and one legume crop
(lentil) were chosen for propose. Among twenty six samples; fourteen, five and seven sample
size of rice (Oryza sativa L.), wheat (TriticumAestivum L.) and lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.)
respectively were collected from gene bank (formal sector) at Khumaltar, Lalitpur and farmers
(informal sector) of three different districts i.e. Morang, Rautahat and Sindhupalchock. The
collected samples were subjected to laboratory and did the quality test in completely randomized
design (CRD). The physical and physiological quality of seed samples was analyzed using
standards testing procedure. The result revealed that, the mean germination and purity percent
for rice, wheat and lentil were highest in the seeds saved by the formal organization compared to
the seeds obtained from the farmers. Most samples of farmer’s saved seed also met the minimum
seed standard for certified seed. Moisture content, a crucial factor for seed longevity, was
statistically lower in the seeds preserved by formal sector. In case of test weight, significantly
more weight of rice and lentil was observed in properly kept seed by the certified agencies. It is
concluded that formal sector have slightly better seed saving procedure than informal sector. So,
the government policy regarding seed production and storage should be in lined with the formal
sector.
Key words: Seed, Formal sector, Farmer, Germination, Purity
4. III
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
Acronym Full Form
BP Between Paper
CBSP Community Based Seed Production
CDD Crops Development Directorate
CV Coefficient of variation
DISSPRO District Level Seed Self Sufficiency Program
KUBK-IFSP Kisankalagi Unnat Biu-Bijan Karyakram (KUBK)-Improved Seeds for Farmers
Program
LSD Least significant difference
NAGRC National Agriculture Genetic Resources Centre
NARC Nepal Agricultural Research Council
NARI National Agricultural Research Institute
NSC National Seed Company
SEAN Seed Entrepreneurs Association Nepal
SQCC Seed Quality Control Centre
SRR Seed Replacement Rate
TITI Training Institute for Technical Instruction
5. TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .................................................................................................I
ABSTRACT........................................................................................................................II
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS ..........................................................III
TABLE OF CONTENTS.....................................................................................................I
CHAPTER I ........................................................................................................................ 1
INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................. 1
Problem Statement .......................................................................................................... 3
Objectives of the Study................................................................................................... 3
General Objective ........................................................................................................ 3
Specific Objectives ...................................................................................................... 3
Significance of the Study ................................................................................................ 4
Delimitation of the Study................................................................................................ 4
CHAPTER II....................................................................................................................... 5
LITERATURE REVIEW ................................................................................................... 5
Thematic Review............................................................................................................. 5
Policy Review ................................................................................................................. 6
Theoretical Review ......................................................................................................... 7
Related Literature Review............................................................................................. 10
6. The Gap Noticed ........................................................................................................... 11
The Conceptual Framework.......................................................................................... 11
CHAPTER III ................................................................................................................... 12
METHODOLOGY............................................................................................................ 12
Research Design............................................................................................................ 12
Population and Sampling .............................................................................................. 12
Data Collection Procedure ............................................................................................ 14
Data Analysis Procedure ............................................................................................... 21
Reliability and Validity of the Study............................................................................. 21
CHAPTER IV ................................................................................................................... 23
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION .............................................................. 23
CHAPTER V..................................................................................................................... 30
FINDINGS DISCUSSION CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................. 30
Findings of the Study .................................................................................................... 30
Discussion ..................................................................................................................... 30
Conclusion..................................................................................................................... 31
Recommendations ......................................................................................................... 31
Reference....................................................................................................................... 33
ANNEX A: Activities ................................................................................................... 34
7. 1
CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
This chapter deals with comparative study of indigenous farmer’s and farm station seeds
qualities and effectiveness on Seed Replacement Rate (SRR) of the Nepal. Study focus about
seed quality of farmers seed which is being continuously used for more than 5 years and study
the secondary data and record of the farm station’s seed which is produce in the farm and
recommended to use in the farmers field. The study compared the seed quality according to
purity, germination, viability, moisture contain, and 1000 grain weight in lab test of seed and
find out the seed replacement rate (SRR). Is it really inputs for drastically change in national
production to increase or not?
Background of the study
Agriculture is the mainstream of the country and has significant contribution to the total
gross domestic product (GDP). Nepal is very rich in agro-biodiversity due to its diverse farming
system; we can produce the different crops in different time and in different place. Agro-
ecological variations even within a small geographical area of the country make favor for
diversifying agricultural opportunities. Rice, wheat and maize are the major important cereals of
Nepal. Lentil, chickpea, Black gram, Bean etc. are the main leguminous crop. Quality seeds of
improved and desired varieties are the most important and least expensive agricultural input but
its availability and accessibility at right time and location is playing important role to determine
the local productivity, production and foods security. Presently, there are four different agencies:
public sector led (NARC, DOA, and NSCetc.), community led (DISSPRO, CBSP, CSB,
8. 2
cooperatives), private led (SEAN, Agro vets, Seed Companies) and import led (SEAN, Agro
vets, importers and distributors) are involving in seed sector development in Nepal (CDD,
2011a: CDD, 2011b). However, the seed replacement rate (SRR) of major field crops at present
situation in Nepal is very low (about 8%). Due to high demand of rice and leguminous in our
country so, we will study about this topic which may be helpful in the future. Among various
inputs, seed is the basic input for the successful agriculture and it govern return from almost all
agriculture based technological innovations. Seeds also transfer the genetic potentiality to
regenerate to new crop from research institute to farming community. Even-though it share very
low percentage on the total cost of cultivation in majority of crops, the returns one obtain from
using land and other costly inputs like farm machinery, irrigations, chemical fertilizers,
pesticides, labors, etc. the quality seed production is one of the specialized activity. The general
farm produce retained for seed cannot be substituted for quality seed as it generally lacks genetic
vigour and has poor germination (Singh et al., 1990).. Use of quality seed alone can increase
productivity by 15-20% (Behura, n.d.). However, lack of quality seed continues to be one of the
greatest challenges of bridging the vast yield gap. The use of traditional varieties coupled with
farm saved seed whose quality is not guaranteed, resulted in drastic reduction in yield. Therefore,
it is necessary to collect seed from certified or reliable sources. Seed replacement rate (SRR) is
the number of generations up to which the seed could be used from the previous crop is one of
the major aspects of crop production. SRRs have a strong positive correlation with productivity,
hence to meet desired productivity levels skewed SRRs and VRRs should be tackled (Bhaskar et
al., 2014). Nevertheless, through SRR the genetic gains of new cultivars can be realized in terms
of having higher yield.
9. 3
The seed renewal period as recommended by the seed vision 2013-25 for self and cross
pollinated crop is four and three years respectively. The present level of SRR for cereal crops in
Nepal is around 12-13 percent and for vegetables about 65-70 percent .This low SRR is one of
the limiting factors of production. SRR may be low due to different reason. It is therefore
necessary to find out these reasons behind low SRR. Therefore, Government of Nepal KUBK-
ISFP intends to find out the actual SRR of cereals and vegetables in the program districts.
Keeping in view all of these factors, the present investigation was done to study and investigate
the present SRR status in the KUBK-ISFP Program districts.
Seed is one of the few resources available for small holder farmers to ensure a sustainable
livelihood, food and nutritional security. Conservation of agro biodiversity in farmer’s fields is
very important to minimize its loss.
Problem Statement
This study analyses the Seed Replacement Rate and find out the needed of increasing
SRR that’s a main problem of this study.
Objectives of the Study
From this research the study comprise two; general and specific objectives
General Objective
To comparative study on indigenous varieties of farmer’s and farm station’s seed
qualities.
Specific Objectives
The specific objectives of this study are listed as follows
a. To assess the differentiate seed qualities of farmer’s and farm station seed.
b. To evaluate/test the quality of farmer’s seeds.
10. 4
c. To know the importance of seed replacement rate increasing in Nepal.
Significance of the Study
This study has helped to understood about:
To know the farmer’s seed qualities
To know the difference between farmer’s and farm station’s seed qualities
Delimitation of the Study
This study is focus about the need of Seed Replacement Rate of crop and it focus in the
quality of farmer’s and farm station’s seed qualities. If the farmer’s seed quality is good and
meets to the standard than SRR increasing is not necessary otherwise SRR increasing is needed
for better increase in national production. Due to the few time period of the study; it only focus
on the seed sample collection and seeds sample quality test in lab (Genebank Lab, Khumaltar,
Lalitpur) and comparison of result was done.
11. 5
CHAPTER II
LITERATURE REVIEW
Literature review is most important part of research. I read some Books, Report and
Journals etc which is related with my study. Literature reviews help to understood about the
condition and opinion of the person, policy level literature help to understood about the standard,
rule and regulation about the study.
Thematic Review
Seed replacement rate will be increased at least up to 25 percent for cerealcrops and over 90
percent for vegetables. Yield of rice and vegetables will reach 3.8 mt. and 19 mt. per hectare respectively.
Nepal produced high quality seeds amounting to over 750 mt. will have an easy access to export market
annually. (NATIONAL SEED VISION2013-2025)
Ideally, the recommendation of seed replacement rate (SRR) is 25 percent for self
pollinated crops, 33 percent for cross pollinated crops and 100 percent for hybrid varieties. In
2009, SRRs of rice, maize, wheat and vegetable were: 9%, 7%, 9% and 66%, respectively. By
2025, SRR is expected to reach 25 percent in cereals and 90 percent in vegetable crops. The SRR
is on increasing trend since 2001. Therefore the set targets will be easily achieved once the Seed
Vision is implemented effectively (Figure 2 and 2a). Currently, hybrid seeds of maize, rice and
vegetables cover 10 percent, 2 percent and 60 percent, respectively in the commercial pocket
areas. Seed vision 2013, SQCC.
Seed technology, (second edition), Rattan lala grawal, oxford and ibh publishing co.
pvt.Ltd, New Delhi, 2013
12. 6
Rice seed requirement of a country is 77,463t/year (CBS, 2010) about 90% of the seeds
are supplied through the informal sector in the country (SQCC, 2011). Our Seed Replacement
Rate is still low as 9.75 % for major cereals (SQCC, 2011). Seed supply systems are an
association of formal and informal channels by which farmers meet their total seed requirements
each year (Turner, 2010). Also, the share of the government corporation also known as
‘National Seed Company’ in rice seed supply in 2010 was only 17%, and rest of the seed was
supplied through development projects, farmer’s cooperatives, and agro-vets–small traders
supplying agricultural inputs (SQCC 2011; Pokhrel 2012). The involvement of private
companies in rice seed supply is quite low (<5%), which might be due to low profit margin and
high fluctuation of rice seed demand in the market (Almekinders et al. 1994).
Policy Review
According to National seed policy minimum standards of germination (75%), Purity
(98%), and moisture 9% of Lentil, as well as germination (80%), Purity (98%), moisture 13% of
Rice and germination (85%), purity (98%), 12% moisture of wheat (Seed Certification Directive,
SQCC Government of Nepal 2074).
In 2009, seed replacement rate of rice, maize and wheat was: 9 percent, 7 percent, and 9
percent, respectively indicating that over 90 percent of the required seed of major cereals was
supplied by the informal sector. Here, seed replacement rate (SRR) is calculated on the basis of
seeds produced by formal sector over gross seed requirement and does not take into account the
informal hybrid and other seeds used by farmers. With increasing production and use of hybrids
through formal sector, the contribution of hybrid seeds to SRR is expected to reach around 10
percent in 2025. By 2025, seed replacement rate is expected to reach about 25 percent for cereals
(NATIONAL SEED VISION 2013- 2025).
13. 7
Theoretical Review
Seed Replacement Ratio denotes how much of the total cropped area was sown with
certified seeds in comparison to farm saved seeds. It also denotes actual quality seed distributed
to farmers vis-a-vis actual seed required for cultivation of crops. Due to huge demand supply
gap, India suffers from a dismal seed Replacement Ratio. The public sector was limited to
produce quality seeds of only low value food grain crops; while private sector since it was
allowed to enter into market has focused on high value crops. Further, since wheat and rice are
self pollinating crops; the entire R&D efforts can pass on to farmers who can save the progenies
of these plants as farm saved seeds. (SRR, GKTODAY, Last Updated April 7, 2018, Google
search)
Seed germination test
Germination test is necessary to gain information with respect to field planting value of
the seed. It is conducted in the laboratory. It determines the ability to develop into normal plant
under favorable conditions in the soil.
Type of germination test:
1. Germination methods using paper
a. top of paper (TP) : The seeds are germinated on top of one or more, layers of paper which
are placed in any of the following ways:
1. Enclosed in transparent petri-dishes, or boxes.
2. Directly on germination trays in cabinet or room type germinators.
b. Between paper (BP):
2. Germination Method using Sand
a. S (in sand)
Seeds are planted in a uniform layer of moist sand and then covered to a depth of 1 cm with
sand, which is left loose.
b. TS (Top of sand)
14. 8
3. Germination Method using
Seed vigour tests
The principal object of a seed vigour test is to differentiate a range of quality levels for
example high, medium, and low vigour seeds
Type of vigour tests are
Direct vigour tests
These tests simulate pertinent unfavourable field conditions on a laboratory scale. The
principle advantage of such tests is that it simultaneously evaluates all the factors affecting seed
vigour.
a. Brick gravel test
b. Paper piercing test
c. Accelerated ageing test
d. The cold test for corn
Indirect vigour test
a. Dry weight of seedlings.
b. Speed of germination
c. Seedling length measurements
d. Exhaustion test
e. Socking in water
f. Tetrazolium test
g. Conductivity test
h. Enzyme test
i. Respiration test
j. Cool germination test
k. Other test
Conductivity test:
This test is more commonly being uses for determining the seed vigour in crops such as,
wrinkle seeded garden peas. This is based on the principle that seeds which are loosing vigour
release materials, such as sugars, or other electrolytes, in solution into the soil which may
15. 9
increase the activity of soil fungi which in turn, may interfere with the development of the
seedling growth, especially under cold and wet conditions. This susceptibility to pre-emergence
failure can be detected by soaking seeds in deionized water and measuring the amount of
electrolyte leached out by determining the electrical conductivity of water.
The method consists of soaking weighed quantity (approximately 100 seeds; in two
replicates of 50 seeds each weighed to two decimal places) in a measured quantity of deionized
water, sufficient to ensure that all seeds are completely immersed for specified period and at
specified temperature . At the end of specified period the contents of the flask/beaker are gently
stirred and the liquid filtered into a 250 ml. beakers. The seeds are discarded. The electrical
conductivity is measured in micromhos/cm by inserting a cell connected to a conductivity bridge
into the solution in the beakers. The weights and conductivity readings for the test replicates of a
sample are averaged, and the conductivity per gram of seed weight is calculated. The samples
which give high reading have been weight is calculated. The samples which give high reading
have been found to be correlated with low field emergence. If the very high values are obtained
the seeds may not be suitable for sowing.
Enzyme test:
In these tests, the enzymatic activity, e.g. GADA activity is measured. The greater the
enzymatic activity, the greater is the vigour.
Respiration test:
Respiration during the first few hours of imbibitions has been shown to be correlated with
subsequent growth of seedling of many crops. Respiration rates, therefore, may provide useful
information regarding physiological condition of seeds. (Seed technology, (second edition),
Rattan lal agrawal, oxford and ibh publishing co. pvt.Ltd, New Delhi, 2013)
16. 10
Related Literature Review
As a result, the supply of improved seed from formal sector is only 10% of total seed
used for staple crops in developing countries (Almekinders, et al.1994); rest is supplied through
informal sources, for instances farmer's own source or exchange. The quality of such farm saved
seeds is questionable, and could be a limiting factor for production increment if the quality is
substandard. Smallholder seed enterprise in the absence of large companies, provide a valid
alternatives for production and distribution of food crops (Guei, 2010). Despite various efforts
since long in Nepal, the supply of improved seeds from formal sector is about 8% of total seed
requirement (Pokhrel, 2012) for major field crops (cereals, pulses and oilseeds).
The internal factors of group, service agency support and community factors have
significant impact in performance of farmers' organizations (Chamala, 1995).
The internal factors of group, service agency support and community factors have
significant impact in performance of farmers' organizations (Chamala, 1995). Similarly, the
economic benefit for seed producers is one of the important elements for the sustainability of
formal seed systems (Louwaars, 1995).Past efforts across West Africa to increase rice production
by introducing high-yielding varieties have not been that successful (Richards, 1986; Dalton,
2004). In Spain, a cooperative originally set up to produce food for its members in an agro-
ecologically friendly way, developed and evolved to a large organic seeds producer and a local
center of agro biodiversity research (Da Vià 2012).The varietal differences among rice cultivars
in terms of their physical, chemical and cooking characteristics are due to their varied genetic
and environmental adaptation to different regions of the world (Izawa 2008).Traditional cultivars
in India are repository of high genetic diversity and are highly impressive, thus motivating the
cultivars in conserving and maintaining this varied diversity (Singh et al. 2005).
17. 11
The Gap Noticed
The gap I noticed, SRR is low in our country, is only 11-13%. Farmers used self-
produced seed more than improved seed which is provide by NARC, Seed Company, Seed
production cooperative etc. so gap is noticed that what is difference between actually supply the
formal sector seed and minimum requirements of formal sectors seed supply standards; like
denotes: 25% self, 33% cross and 100% hybrid seed of cereals, in the context of Nepal 11-13% =
Gap 14- 20% formal sector seed supply. Another gap, in the context of farmer’s seed qualities is
unknown.
The Conceptual Framework
This study belongs to comparative study of different sources of indigenous seeds, which
compare the seed quality of farmer's with farm station’s seed qualities under experimental
research in Genebank lab by complete randomized design. It can be conducted in lab.
Seed quality depends on purity, germination, moisture, 1000 seeds weight, and vigour
(EC) of farmers and farm station’s seeds.
18. 12
CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY
This research conducted in the Genebank, Khumaltar, Lalitpur. We discussed and
finalized three districts for sample collection. Genebank had provided Sample and secondary
report of the farm station seeds; compared between farmer’s seeds and farm station’s seed
qualities repot of lab test results.
Research Design
A research design is a framework it has been created to find the answers to research
objectives. A plan that delineates the precise procedures to be followed in our study was based
on experimental design in lab test, where purity, germination, moisture, 1000 seeds weight, and
electrical conductivity test etc. I had conducted this research in four replications and 14 samples
of rice, 7 samples of lentil and 5 samples of wheat. We collected the 26 sample from farmer's
indigenous varieties and 26 samples farm station’s seed qualities lab test record of Genebank.
The study conducted at 12 Jestha to 13 ashad 2076 B.S., in this short period we decided the lab
test result of farmers and farm station’s seed qualities then comparative study to find out the
impact of Seed Replacement Rate in context
Population and Sampling
In statistics, a population is an entire set from which a sample is derived. The population
is not only a group of people but in statistics, it refers to set of objectives which may consists of
people, animals, businesses, buildings and many more similar set of things in nature.
A sample is a set of composed data chosen from a statistical population by a definite method. It
19. 13
commonly denotes a subset of convenient size. Samples were collected for a specific task and
represent the population.
Sampling methods are divided into two categories which are mentioned below:
1. Probability sampling - It is a method wherein samples are collected in such a way that all the
sample units in the population enjoy a fair opportunity of getting chosen. There are different
types of probability sampling methods. Some of them are listed below:
a. Simple random sampling- Under simple random sampling approach every sample unit has an
equivalent chance of getting selected from entire populace.
b. Cluster sampling- In this method entire population is grouped into clusters. Samples by way of
cluster are obtained using simple random sampling from all possible clusters. Data is collected
from every sampling unit.
c. Stratified random sampling- Under this method entire population is divided into sets based on
factors that may influence the variable that is being measured. These sets are called as strata and
individually called a stratum. Then samples are selected from each group using simple random
sampling.
2. Non-probability sampling - It is a method wherein samples are collected in such a way that
all the sample units in the population do not enjoy an equivalent chance of getting chosen. Some
of the examples of this method are listed below:
a. Convenience Sampling – Under this technique, samples are chosen as per the accessibility of
the researcher.
b. Judgmental sampling – Under this, samples are selected keeping in mind the specific purpose.
It is also known as purposive sampling.
20. 14
In this study use No one sampling method random sampling. We were selected the four
municipality from three district due to short period.
Data Collection Procedure
The headline was launched according to the inspector's recommendation of this study.
The decision was taken to take 26 farmers of three districts to collect this model. We took three
districts to collect this model. After this, the sample resulting in the use of the sample of the
seeds collected was examined in the lab. Likewise secondary data also
Data tables are:
List of samples collection format:
S.N Name of
farmer
Address Crop Cultivar Sample
Collection
Date
Typical characters tics
1 Hari Karki Sunkoshi ga.pa.-3,
Sindhupalchok
Rice Makawa
npure 1
2076-2-17 Mota (khanaadilo)
2 Onju Lama Sunkoshi ga.pa.-4,
Sindhupalchok
Rice Makawa
npure 1
2076-2-17 Mota (khanaadilo)
3 GhanashyamC
haudhari
Gramthan Ga.Pa.-4,
Morang
Rice Kanchhi
(Local)
2076-2-13 Soft rice
Drought Tolerant
High production
good for making
beaten rice
4 GhanashyamC
haudhari
Gramthan Ga.Pa.-4,
Morang
Rice Mansuli 2076-2-13 Soft rice
High production
Testy
High production of
Straw
5 Rato Devi
Chaudhari
Gramthan Ga.Pa.-5,
Morang
Rice B.B 11 2076-2-13
6 KabitaKha Gramthan Ga.Pa.-5, Rice Ranjit 2076-2-14 Soft rice
High production
21. 15
Morang (Local) Low production of
Straw
Cover large area
7 Sukhan Lal
Chaudhari
Gramthan Ga.Pa.-6,
Morang
Rice Mansuli 2076-2-15 Soft rice
High production
Testy
High production of
Straw
8 Sukhan Lal
Chaudhari
Gramthan Ga.Pa.-6,
Morang
Rice Ranjit
(Local)
2076-2-15 Soft rice
High production
Low production of
Straw
Cover large area
9 Bimala
Shrestha
SundharHaraicha
Na.Pa.-1 Morang
Rice Chaite
(Local)
2076-2-16 Soft rice
Drought Tolerant
Easily damage
straw
10 Nagendra Sah Ishanath Na.pa.-3,
Rautahat
Rice Katarni
(Local)
2076-2-1 High production
low production of
straw
11 DevnarayanRa
ut
Ishanath Na.pa.-3,
Rautahat
Rice Local 2076-2-17 Medium
production
Low water resist
capacity
12 MahendraSah Ishanath Na.pa.-3,
Rautahat
Rice Subarna 2076-2-17 High production
low water resist
capacity
13 Gita Devi Ishanath Na.pa.-3,
Rautahat
Rice Katarni 2076-2-16 Low production
Testy
14 Sanjay Kumar
Yadav
Ishanath Na.pa.-3,
Rautahat
Rice Unnat 2076-2-14 Low production
Testy
15 KabitaKha Gramthan Ga.Pa.-5,
Morang
Lentil Local 2076-2-14 Cultivate from 5 years
16 Bimala
Shrestha
Sundarharaicha
Na.Pa.-6,Morang
Lentil Local 2076-2-16 Fast production
17 Rato Devi
Chaudhari
Gramthan Ga.Pa.-5,
Morang
Lentil Local 2076-2-14
27. 21
85 76 2 5 1 16 98.47 0.34 0.35 0.84
Average 83.14 1.28 3.43 1.29 10.86 98.63 0.20 0.57 0.60
Data Analysis Procedure
We analysis the data by using Microsoft-excel, and Zin-stats software of computer
programs in that find out the grand mean, F-test, LSD, and CV of the samples.
Reliability and Validity of the Study
With the reference of already tested reliability and validity data of National seed policy
minimum standards of germination (75%), Purity (98%), and moisture 9% of Lentil, as well as
germination (80%), Purity (98%), moisture 13% of Rice and germination (85%), purity (98%),
12% moisture of wheat (Seed Certification Directive, SQCC Government of Nepal 2074). The
research has found the final result the germination (74.79%), purity (94.58%) and moisture
(8.71%) of Lentil; germination (92.18%), purity (97.90%) and moisture (11.49%) of Rice and
germination (87.2%), purity (97.97%) and moisture (10.3%) of Wheat which analysis with
comparative date are presented in tabulated form as bellow. The comparative data showed that
the data met the minimum standard as per the standard of National Seed Policy Minimum
Standards (NSPMS).
Table i. Standards of different crops for certified seed quality attributes
S.
N.
Physical
purity
Inert
matters
Other crops
seeds no.
/kg
noxious
weeds seeds
no./kg
Known others
varieties
no./kg
Germination
% minimum
Moisture
maximu
m
crop
1 98% 2% 20 5 20 80% 13% Rice
2 98% 2% 20 5 20 85% 12% wheat
3 98% 2% 10 10 20 75% 9% Lentil
Source: seed certification directive 2074 (SQCC)
28. 22
Table ii. Final result of different crops for farmer’s seed quality attributes.
S.N
.
Physical
purity
Inert
matters
Other crops
seeds %
Weeds seeds
%
Germination
%
Moisture
contain
crop
1 97.90% 2.05% 0.25 0.25 92.18% 11.49% Rice
2 97.97% 1.92% 0.25 0.25 87.2% 10.3% Wheat
3 94.58% 2.15% 0.5 1.40 74.79% 8.71% Lentil
Note: Working seed sample Rice 70 gm, Wheat 120 gm, Lentil seed 60 gm which tested in the
lab
29. 23
CHAPTER IV
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
All the data which are collected during the research in the lab test are analysis in the
tabulated form with details as bellow. Similarly the data interpretations are done in the text form
as bellow;
Table 1: Germination percent and its related parameters of farm station and farmers
saved seed of rice
Types ofseed Germination
(%)
Abnormal seed
(%)
Fresh seed
(%)
Hard Seed
(%)
Dead Seed
(%)
Farmer saved seed 92.18 2.07 2.96 0.18 2.61
Farm station seed 95.50 2.07 1.29 0.00 1.14
Grand Mean 93.84 2.07 2.13 0.09 1.88
F test * - - - -
LSD (0.05) 3.18 - - - -
CV % 4.40 - - - -
30. 24
Table.2 Purity percent and its related parameters of farm station and farmers saved seed
of rice
Types ofseed Purity
(%)
Other crop seed
(%)
Inert matter
(%)
Weed seed
(%)
Farmer saved seed 97.90 0.05 2.05 0.00
Farm station seed 98.97 0.65 0.38 0.00
Grand Mean 98.44 0.35 1.21 0.00
F test * - - -
LSD (0.05) 0.90 - - -
CV % 1.20 - - -
Table 3: Moisture content percent and test weight of farm station and Farmers saved
rice seed
Types ofseed Moisture
(%)
Test weight
(gm)
Farmer saved seed 11.49 20.71
Farm station seed 10.11 28.81
Grand Mean 10.80 24.76
F test ** **
LSD (0.05) 0.17 3.54
CV % 2.00 18.40
31. 25
Table 4: Germination percent and its related parameters of farm station and farmers
saved seed of wheat
Types ofseed Germination
(%)
Abnormal
seed (%)
Fresh seed
(%)
Hard Seed
(%)
Dead Seed
(%)
Farmer saved seed 87.2 3.7 0 0 9.1
Farm station seed 91.6 2.4 0.4 0 5.6
Grand Mean 89.4 3.05 0.2 0 7.35
F test ns - - - -
LSD (0.05) 9.95 - - - -
CV % 7.6 - - - -
Table 5: Purity percent and its related parameters of farm station and farmers saved
seed of wheat
Types ofseed Purity
(%)
Other crop seed
(%)
Inert matter
(%)
Weed seed
(%)
Farmer saved
seed
97.97 0.036 1.928 0.064
Farm station seed 98.79 0.346 0.76 0.104
Grand Mean 98.38 0.191 1.344 0.084
F test * - - -
LSD (0.05) 0.57 - - -
CV % 0.4 - - -
32. 26
Table 6: Moisture content percent and test weight of farm station and Farmers saved
wheat seed
Types ofseed Moisture
(%)
Test weight
(gm)
Farmer saved seed 10.3 53.2
Farm station seed 9.54 42.76
Grand Mean 9.92 47.98
F test Ns **
LSD (0.05) 0.93 6.38
CV % 9.1 9.1
Table 7: Germination percent and its related parameters of farm station and farmers saved seed
of lentil
Types ofseed Germination
(%)
Abnormal
seed (%)
Fresh seed
(%)
Hard Seed
(%)
Dead Seed
(%)
Farmer saved seed 74.79 1.50 2.07 18.64 3.00
Farm station seed 83.14 1.29 3.43 1.29 10.86
Grand Mean 78.96 1.39 2.75 9.96 6.93
F test * - - - -
LSD (0.05) 7.83 - - - -
CV % 8.5 - - - -
33. 27
Table 8: Purity percent and its related parameters of farm station and farmers saved
seed of lentil
Types ofseed Purity
(%)
Other crop seed
(%)
Inert matter
(%)
Weed seed
(%)
Farmer saved seed 94.58 0.94 2.15 2.34
Farm station seed 98.63 0.21 0.57 0.60
Grand Mean 96.60 0.57 1.36 1.47
F test *
LSD (0.05) 2.91
CV % 2.6
Table 9: Moisture content percent and test weight of farm station and Farmers saved
lentil seed
Types ofseed Moisture
(%)
Test weight
(gm)
Farmer saved seed 8.71 17.28
Farm station seed 7.76 19.49
Grand Mean 8.24 18.38
F test ** *
LSD (0.05) 0.44 2.26
CV % 4.7 10.6
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Germination:
Germination is the most important factor for acceptance of seed as seed. There are many
factors that can hamper in germination of any seed such as diseased seed, old seed, mechanically
damaged seed, and seed stored under high moisture and excessive heating of seed during storage
or drying (Basra, 2006).
The laboratory analyzed data revealed that there was remarkably higher germination
percentage (93.84 %) in both types of seed which exceeded the minimum requirement of
germination (≥ 80%) for rice. Differences were found statistically significant between the types.
The mean germination for farm station’s seed from the formal sector was highest (95.50 %)
compared with seed obtained from farmers (92.18 %) (Table 1). In case of wheat, higher
germination percentage (89.4 %) was recorded in both types of seed which also beyond the
germination standard (≥ 85%). Differences were not found statistically significant between the
types. The mean germination was found higher (91.6 %) in farm station’s seed as compared with
farmer’s saved seed (87.2 %) (Table 4). In lentil, statistically significant result was observed in
the germination percent for both types of seed saved. The higher germination (83.14) was found
in farm station’s seed as compared to the farmer saved seed (74.79) (Table 7)
Purity:
Purity test is one of the important tests which quantify the weight percentage in a seed lot
of pure seed, other crop seed, inert matter and weed seed. The data showed the significant result
in case of purity of rice seed also. Significantly higher purity percent (98.97 %) was obtained in
farm station’s seed. However, the purity percent of famer saved seed (97.90 %) was near to the
standard (≥ 98%) (Table 2). Similarly, in wheat, the purity percentage was found statistically
higher (98.79 %) in formal sector saved seed (farm station seed) in comparison with farmer
35. 29
saved seed (97.97 %) (Table 5). The same result was also recorded in lentil where statistically
higher purity percent (98.63 %) was seemed in farm station seed comparing with farmer saved
seed (94.58%) (Table 8).
Moisture Content:
Seed moisture is a critical factor determining the viability and longevity of all seed types.
It differs with the crop and species. From the laboratory report, it was concluded that the
moisture content in the rice seeds saved by the formal sector was significantly lower (10.11) than
the farmer saved seed (11.49%) (Table 3). But in case of wheat, statistically non-significant
result was observed in moisture content in both types of seed. However, the lower moisture
content (9.54 %) was recorded in certified seed (formally saved seed) as compared to the farmer
seed (Informally saved seed) (Table 6). Similarly, there was a significant result on moisture
content in lentil in both types of seed. Moisture content in seed was higher (8.71 %) in farmer
saved seed as compared to the farm station seed (7.76 %) (Table 9).
Test weight:
Test weight is also an indicator of general seed quality and a measure of grain bulk
density. Test weight varies depends upon the crops, varieties and managements. Our result
revealed that, there was a strong significant difference in rice seed test weight between formal
sector saved seed and farmer saved seed. Statistically more test weight (28.81 gm) was recorded
in formal sector saved seed as compared to farmer saved seed (20.71 gm). But in case of wheat,
more test weight was recorded in farmer saved seed (53.2 gm) as compared to formal sector
saved seed (42.76 gm). While in lentil, the seed saved by the formal sector had statistically
greater test weight (19.49 gm) as compared to the seed saved by the farmers themselves (17.28
gm).
36. 30
CHAPTER V
FINDINGS DISCUSSION CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The findings of study, discussion, conclusion and recommendations of the study have
been explained below:
Findings of the Study
Findings of the study are summarized and listed below;
a. It was found that germination of farmer's seed 92.5% in average. Where 85% standard of rice
germination, as well as the germination % of wheat was87.2%and lentil 74.79% where
standard was 80% for wheat and 70% for lentil.
b. It was found that purity of the farmer's seeds 98.54%, 98.18%, and 94.58% of rice, wheat and
lentil respectively where standard was more than 98 %. So this result describe rice and wheat
is good but lentil is needed to increase for improve seed production.
c. According to this study, it is good to apply improved seeds, even the seed produces by the
farmer seems to be very high.
Discussion
After identifying the result of the test, percentage of germination (92.18% rice,
87.2% wheat, 74.79% lentil) and purity (97.98% rice, 97.97% wheat, 94.58% lentil) seems to be
better than the standard rate of germination (85% rice, 80% wheat, 70% lentil) and standard rate
of purity (98% rice, 98% wheat, 90% lentil). So, according to the lab test report, it does not seem
to be any kind of risk if the Seed Replication Rate is not increased, too. It is essential to provide
37. 31
information about the sanitation and awareness on the matter of seed to the farmers who are
involved in seed production but low SRR does not seem to be danger in context of Nepal.
Conclusion
The lab testing result of different seed samples concluded that the physiological
and physical quality only in terms of germination capacity and purity aspect of rice wheat and
lentil, it was found remarkably better in formally preserved seed by the certified organization.
Besides this, most of the samples of farmer’s saved seed also met the minimum seed standard for
certified seed. It means farmers are also sensitive towards seed selection, cleaning practices and
keeping/storing the seed in the proper way. The seeds saved by the formal sector had lower
moisture content percent for all crops which means that those seed have more longevity than the
seeds saved by the farmers themselves. More use of seed through the informal sector may be the
cause of low production of crops in Nepal but low seed quality is not the cause. There may be
other factor like low yield potentiality of those seeds.
After viewing the results, farm station seeds are superior than farmer saved seeds.
Although, farmer’s seed also maintained minimum seed qualities standards. In this way, we
conclude that low seed replacement rate is not so danger in context of Nepal.
Recommendations
This study can be recommended according to the request of the study.
It needs to train the farmers related to seed production.
It is suggested to the farmers to use farm station seed as a source seed.
Assured seed quality with respect to germination, purity, and moisture content aspects
can be acquired from formally saved seed by the certified agencies. Therefore,
38. 32
government policy should focus on strengthening the formal sector for the production of
improved seed and storage mechanism.
There should be the easy mechanism for providing high yielding improved variety to the
farmers rather than making aware for selection and storing the seed properly.
39. 33
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