An indigenous paddy variety, Keonjhar Kalachampa, traditionally cultivated in Odisha, is now stepping into the commercial spotlight. Originally preserved and promoted by a farmer’s family, this variety is now poised for financial recognition under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act.
Initially registered in 2015 by Anirudha Jena from Guhalia Village, this paddy variant has been a family legacy. After Anirudha's passing, the rights transferred to his son, Jayant Jena, continuing the tradition.
In collaboration, the Odisha Agriculture Department, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, and the State Seed Testing Laboratory have been pivotal. They refined, selected, and produced certified breeder seeds, leading to the variety’s official release by the state and notification by the central government.
The Odisha State Seeds Corporation (OSSC) alongside private firms has distributed over 87,000 quintals of certified seeds between 2018 and 2023, underscoring its commercial success.
The Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPV&FRA) plays a crucial role by:
Registering with PPV&FRA offers legal recognition for farmers’ contributions, ensuring they benefit from the commercial use of their varieties. This leads to financial compensation for their role in the agricultural ecosystem.
PPV&FRA gathers comprehensive seed data, stores them in climate-controlled gene banks, and performs DUS testing (distinctness, uniformity, and stability) to ensure preservation.
Recognizing traditional varieties like Keonjhar Kalachampa underlines:
By registering and commercially using traditional varieties, farmers can achieve economic recognition and compensation, playing a pivotal role in biodiversity conservation.
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