From low-GI to nutrient-rich, know good quality paddy seed varieties in Odisha and more

The quality of paddy seeds used in cultivation plays a decisive role in determining yield, nutrition, and income for farmers. Recognising this, agricultural experts and state agencies in Odisha are increasingly emphasising the promotion of certified, high-quality and bio-fortified paddy seed varieties that offer advantages beyond traditional yields.

At a recent national workshop on strengthening rice systems in Odisha, officials highlighted the need to familiarise farmers with improved paddy varieties that combine productivity with nutritional and market value. 

The discussion gained traction alongside the proposal of a ‘Seed on Wheels’ initiative, aimed at taking quality seeds directly to farmers and improving awareness about their benefits.

What Makes a Paddy Seed ‘High-Quality’?

High-quality paddy seeds are those that are certified, disease-resistant, nutritionally enhanced and suitable for diverse climatic conditions. Such seeds ensure better germination, uniform crop growth and improved resilience, reducing risks for farmers during the cropping cycle.

Experts noted that adopting these varieties can help farmers move away from low-performing seeds that often result in poor yields and unstable incomes.

Low-Glycemic Index Rice Varieties

Among the paddy varieties highlighted were DRR Dhan 167, DRR 63 and DRR 69, which are known for their low glycemic index (GI). Low-GI rice is increasingly valued as it helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it suitable for health-conscious consumers and people managing diabetes.

For farmers, cultivating low-GI rice opens opportunities to access premium and niche markets, as demand for healthier food options continues to rise.

Another variety discussed was CR Dhan 411, a bio-fortified paddy seed developed to offer enhanced nutritional benefits. Bio-fortified rice varieties are bred to contain higher levels of essential nutrients such as iron, zinc or protein, helping address nutritional deficiencies while maintaining good yield potential.

Agricultural scientists underlined that such seeds support both farm productivity and public nutrition goals, making them particularly relevant for a state like Odisha.

Using improved paddy varieties can help farmers achieve:

Better yield stability
Improved grain quality
Higher market acceptance
Potential price premiums
Reduced crop vulnerability

While several high-quality seed varieties are available, awareness at the grassroots level remains limited. To address this, the state has registered over 6,000 seed growers on the central Sathi portal to strengthen seed production and distribution networks, The New Indian Express reported.

The proposed mobile seed outreach model is expected to improve visibility of these varieties and ensure farmers understand which seed suits which purpose, whether for yield, nutrition or specialised markets.

More Than Just Higher Yield

Experts at the workshop, including representatives from ICAR and IRRI, emphasised that the future of paddy cultivation lies not just in producing more rice, but in producing better-quality rice. 

Improved seed choices can help farmers align with evolving consumer preferences, nutrition goals and sustainable farming practices.

ICAR-Central Rice Research Institute director GAK Kumar, ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research RM Sundaram and state agriculture officials reportedly said scaling healthier rice varieties is not merely a nutrition agenda but a strategic investment in farmer livelihoods, resilient food systems and informed consumer choice.