To help farmers protect their soybean crops from early-stage damage, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has released an important advisory recommending seed treatment before sowing. The guidance, issued by the National Soybean Research Institute, addresses the growing threat of soil-borne pests and diseases aggravated by unpredictable weather.
Soybean is a major oilseed crop cultivated in states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and parts of Karnataka and Telangana. In recent seasons, farmers have reported lower germination rates and crop losses during the early growth phase often due to untreated seeds falling prey to fungi and insects.
ICAR experts are advising farmers to treat seeds with fungicides such as carbendazim or thiram, combined with insecticides like imidacloprid or chlorpyrifos. Proper application is essential for ensuring even coverage and effectiveness.
Dr. R.K. Mathur, a senior scientist at the institute, stressed the importance of this step. “Seed treatment acts as a protective shield for young plants. It supports healthy germination and reduces the risk of diseases that can devastate fields within weeks of sowing,” he explained.
The advisory recommends:
- Thoroughly drying seeds before treatment
- Mixing the chemical with a binder like jaggery water or a sticker solution
- Allowing treated seeds to dry in shade for up to an hour
- Avoiding sowing in overly wet soil to prevent damage
Economically, seed treatment offers strong returns. ICAR estimates that every ₹1 spent on treatment can yield up to ₹7 in additional crop value, depending on field conditions.
To spread the word, the advisory is being shared through KrishiVigyanKendras, state agriculture departments, and digital platforms. Some states are also offering subsidized treatment kits to make it easier for farmers to adopt these practices.
Given the central role of soybean in the country’s oil and livestock feed industries, timely seed treatment is critical. Farmers are encouraged to consult their local KVKs for crop-specific advice to ensure a successful start to the season.
By
