Honoring Indigenous Seeds and Culture
August 23rd 2024 | IMDR Auditorium, Pune
The symposium opened with a keynote address by Sanjay Patil, a prominent figure in seed conservation who has spent nearly two decades with BAIF working at the grassroots level. His stirring remarks underscored the importance of supporting the “unsung heroes” who safeguard indigenous seed varieties.
Subsequent sessions featured trailblazers in the field of local agriculture, including Smt. Mamtabai Bhangre from Akole, known for her expertise in wild vegetables, organic farming, and the use of vermi briquettes. Shri. Mavanji Pawar, a Field Programme Officer from Jawhar, elaborated on the meticulous process of seed selection and varietal improvement in rice, millets, and pulses. Equally inspiring was Shri. Balu Ghode, whose community seed bank initiative in Akole, supported by ASK Foundation and Bioversity International, stands as a model for conserving millet diversity and other indigenous crops.
Adding to the day’s cultural richness, participants experienced performances and contributions from Madhukar Bhoye (Tribal Cultural Songs), Sitaram Bujad (Warli Artist), Tarpha artists from Jawhar, and several others including Mrs. Hirabai Khade, Mrs. Dhondabai Khade, Yogesh Nawale, Mrs. Ranjana Bhika Bhramne, and Mr. Bhika Munga Bharmne. Their music, art, and discussions on food culture and festivals brought alive the deep-rooted traditions tied to seed heritage.
