Small farmers across dryland India face unpredictable rains, poor soils and rising input costs. CCD cooperatives are helping them revive an ancient practice saving local seeds, to grow crops that are naturally resilient and cost-effective.

Local Seeds, Local Strength
CCD farmers in Anantapur and other regions know their land best. Local varieties of millets, pulses and oilseeds tolerate heat, drought and pests better than hybrid seeds that need more water and chemicals. By selecting and saving these seeds from their own fields, farmers cut costs and build crops suited to their specific climate.

Cooperative Seed Systems in Action
CCD integrates seed saving into its cooperative model. Farmer groups identify healthy plants during harvest, collect seeds from the best performers, and multiply them on demonstration plots. Training covers drying, cleaning, testing germination and safe storage using traditional methods like clay pots and ash treatment. This ensures high-quality seed stays within the cooperative for all members.

Community Seed Banks for Shared Access
Several CCD clusters now run simple community seed banks. Members deposit surplus seeds and borrow what they need for the next season. In Anantapur, women-led groups manage these banks, preserving native millets and groundnuts used in Farmveda products. This system ensures seed availability even during poor monsoons, reducing reliance on expensive market seeds.

Higher Yields, Lower Risks
Farmers using saved local seeds report more stable yields and better grain quality. These varieties often need fewer inputs, preserving soil health while providing reliable food, fodder and income. For CCD cooperatives, consistent supplies strengthen their processing units and market linkages.

Farmers as Seed Custodians
Seed saving restores farmers’ confidence and knowledge. Instead of being passive buyers, CCD members become custodians of their agricultural heritage, sharing techniques across villages. Women and youth play key roles, turning traditional wisdom into organised, scalable systems.

By choosing CCD-supported brands like Farmveda, you support farmers who save local seeds, grow stronger crops and build resilient rural economies one seed at a time.