Thu Jul 03 13:23:18 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

A Desi Seed Festival, organized by Sahaja Samrudha in association with Rebuild India and Sahaja Seeds, will be held in Mysuru on July 5th and 6th to raise awareness about the alarming decline of agricultural biodiversity in Karnataka. The festival will showcase over 100 varieties of native crops, including rice, millets, pulses, and vegetables, many of which are at risk of extinction due to the increasing popularity of hybrid and commercial varieties. The event aims to promote the conservation of indigenous seeds and farming heritage, featuring seed conservators, farmers, enthusiasts, and consumers. Activities include seed exhibitions, identification contests, and a drawing competition for children.

**News Article:**

**Mysuru to Host Desi Seed Festival Amid Concerns Over Agricultural Biodiversity Loss**

**Mysuru, Karnataka – July 3, 2025** – Amid growing concerns over the erosion of Karnataka’s agricultural heritage, the Desi Seed Festival will take place in Mysuru on July 5th and 6th at the Nanjaraja Bahadur Choultry. Organized by Sahaja Samrudha, in association with Rebuild India and Sahaja Seeds, the festival aims to revive awareness about and promote the conservation of indigenous seed varieties.

The two-day event will feature over 100 varieties of native crops, including rice, millets, pulses, and vegetables, highlighting the rich diversity of Karnataka’s agricultural past. Organizers warn that many traditional seed varieties are vanishing from fields due to the increased preference for high-yielding hybrid and commercial crops.

“Traditional seeds, preserved for centuries by farming communities, are now at risk of extinction,” said Krishnaprasad of Sahaja Samruddha. He pointed out that regions once known for millet cultivation are now dominated by tobacco or maize, leading to the loss of genetic and crop diversity.

The festival will showcase rare and forgotten crops, as well as value-added products. Visitors can also sample juices made from underutilized fruits. A drawing competition for children, titled ‘Desi Seeds for the Future,’ encourages younger generations to explore the importance of seed culture. Seed identification contests for both children and adults will further promote knowledge sharing.

The event is expected to attract seed conservators, farmer scientists, enthusiasts, and consumers, providing a platform to celebrate and safeguard Karnataka’s agricultural heritage. For more information, contact 70900 09944.

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