ICAR Develops Smart Seed Technology to Boost Crop Yields

According to ICAR-IIOR, field demonstrations conducted under farmer conditions have produced encouraging results across several crops.

Scientists at the ICAR–Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research (ICAR-IIOR) in Hyderabad have developed an innovative Smart Seed Coating Technology that has shown the potential to significantly improve crop establishment, productivity and resilience against environmental stresses.

The patented technology uses biodegradable biopolymer materials to create a protective coating around seeds. This coating delivers nutrients, beneficial microbes, micronutrients and crop protection agents directly to the seed-soil interface, helping young plants establish themselves more effectively during the critical early stages of growth.

The development comes at a time when farmers are facing increasing challenges from climate change, irregular rainfall, drought, temperature fluctuations, soil degradation and emerging pest and disease threats. Researchers believe improving seed performance offers one of the most practical and cost-effective ways to increase agricultural productivity.

Field Trials Show Yield Gains of Up to 30 Percent

According to ICAR-IIOR, field demonstrations conducted under farmer conditions have produced encouraging results across several crops. Trials in Telangana recorded yield increases of nearly 30 percent in groundnut and soybean compared to conventional farming practices. Multi-location trials carried out under the All India Coordinated Research Project on Seed (AICRP-Seed) also reported productivity gains ranging from 12 percent to 37 percent in crops such as soybean, maize, chickpea, cotton, mustard, pigeon pea and groundnut.

Researchers found that coated seeds showed stronger germination, healthier root development, improved seedling vigour and better tolerance to environmental stress. These benefits translated into improved crop establishment and higher productivity.

The technology is expected to be particularly valuable in rainfed farming regions, where delayed monsoons, moisture stress and poor soil conditions often affect crop performance during the early growth stages.

Versatile Solution for Multiple Crops

Unlike conventional seed treatments that usually address a single challenge, the ICAR-IIOR platform combines several functions into one application. The technology can simultaneously provide protection, nutrition and biological support to seeds before planting.

Scientists say the coating system can be adapted for a wide range of crops, including cereals, millets, pulses, oilseeds, fibre crops, fodder crops, vegetables, spices and horticultural crops.

The innovation supports national goals related to sustainable agriculture, climate adaptation, efficient resource use and stronger seed systems. By improving nutrient utilisation and reducing input losses, the technology could help farmers achieve higher yields while lowering production risks.

To accelerate adoption, ICAR-IIOR is encouraging partnerships with public and private seed organisations, including State Seed Development Corporations, the National Seed Corporation, farmer-producer organisations, seed hubs, seed processing units and private seed companies.

Researchers believe widespread use of Smart Seed technologies could strengthen India's agricultural resilience, improve food security and support better livelihoods for millions of farmers. ICAR-IIOR continues to expand research into next-generation seed enhancement technologies involving biopolymers, beneficial microbes and sustainable nutrient delivery systems aimed at transforming conventional seeds into climate-resilient Smart Seeds.