The 17th annual Old Seed Festival held in Araku Valley showcased the importance of conserving indigenous seeds and promoting natural farming practices. Organised by the Sanjeevini Organisation, the event brought together Adivasi farmers, researchers, and environmentalists to celebrate traditional agriculture and tribal biodiversity.
Farmers from regions including Rampachodavaram, Nilgiris, and Koraput displayed a diverse range of native seeds such as millets, pulses, and tubers. The festival began with a vibrant procession, accompanied by traditional drum performances and the Dhimsa Dance, symbolizing the cultural roots of seed conservation.
A key highlight was the exhibition of over 80 tuber varieties by farmers from Dumbriguda, demonstrating climate-resilient crops suited to local ecosystems. Experts and participants emphasized that indigenous seeds require fewer external inputs and play a crucial role in ensuring food security and biodiversity.
The festival also recognized farmers for their contributions and called for greater institutional support for organic farming in tribal regions. Overall, the event underscored the need to preserve traditional agricultural knowledge while promoting sustainable rural development.
