It is necessary to improve the seed quality of farm saved seeds for enhancing crop productivity as farmers often use these for subsequent crops.

These were the comments made by the permanent secretary for Agriculture, Jitendra Singh at the launch of the Climate Change Resilient Crop Varieties Booklet in Suva yesterday.

He said there was a need to replenish diversity in agricultural systems.

“This would encourage farming communities to build up community seed banks and the book launched would be of great help,” Mr Singh said.

“The booklet contains information which will facilitate the revival and distribution of traditional and stress-tolerant crops and varieties.

“This can help cope with climate variability such as, community seed banks for drought tolerant root crop varieties, saline resistant rice varieties by research.”

Mr Singh added enhancing resilience of the farming communities was one of the aims of the ministry.

“Climate resilient crop varieties are one of the most important resources,” he said.

“Improved and tolerant varieties along with the proper management practices can enhance the coping ability through risk reduction in vulnerable environments.”

Director, Secretariat of the Pacific Community and German Society for International Co-operation Wulf Killmann said they were delighted to have sponsored in the development of the national rural land use policy.

He said the partnership would continue with the introduction of sustainable use of agriculture.

“We have heard of the effects of climate change, and it is essential that climate smart agriculture technologies and approached are identified and transferred to our local communities,” he said.

“The development of the booklet, is one of the approaches which will enhance the knowledge of communities and farmers to identify the best suited crops to plant which will survive harsh conditions.

“This is a step towards smart agriculture.”

A total of 1500 copies of this booklet has been printed and will be distributed to staff of Ministry of Agriculture, farmers and the rural population of Fiji.

EDITED BY: FARZANA NISHA

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