Event Overview
A brainstorming workshop on "Expansion of Acreage, Production and Productivity of Seed Spices in Rajasthan" was organized at Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University on 11th May 2026 by the ICAR-AICRP on Spices centre, Jobner. The primary objective was to develop a strategic roadmap for strengthening the seed spice sector in the state through enhanced acreage, productivity, quality seed supply, value addition, and export promotion.
The deliberations highlighted a significant disparity: Rajasthan accounts for nearly 20% of the seed spice area but contributes only about 7% of total production. This underscores the urgent need to enhance productivity through strategic interventions and reduce yield gaps.
Key Strategic Recommendations
Varietal Development
Participants stressed the importance of developing climate-smart cumin varieties, late-bolting and multi-cut coriander varieties, semi-dwarf fennel suitable for intercropping, and region-specific varieties for non-traditional seed spice-growing areas.
Policy & Market Support
The workshop emphasized the formulation of strong policies on residue management, quality standards, Minimum Support Price (MSP), crop insurance, and market intelligence.
Sustainable Growth
Focus areas include promotion of processing industries, environmentally sustainable packaging, G.I. registration, precision soil mapping, molecular breeding, and interdisciplinary research collaborations.
