In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah informed that the Bhartiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) has launched seeds for 14 major crops under its seed production programme, covering cereals, oilseeds, and fodder crops.
BBSSL ensures the distribution of quality seeds under its ‘Bharat Beej’ brand through a widespread network of cooperative and private distributors across the country.
The Ministry of Cooperation established BBSSL under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 as an apex organization for the production, procurement, processing, branding, labelling, packaging, storage, marketing, and distribution of seeds. The body also undertakes strategic R&D for quality seeds through various cooperative societies, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and other related entities.
BBSSL operates with active support from key ministries and institutions such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR), and the National Seed Corporation (NSC). Its functions are carried out in coordination with ICAR, NSC, State Universities, and both Indian and international agencies, ensuring a robust and integrated seed supply system for the country.
