Symposium-Sessions
Seed Stories Symposium

Day 1

Fri, 23.08.2024
4:00 PM - 20:00 IST IMDR Auditorium

The Seed Stories Symposium opens with an impressive lineup of speakers dedicated to indigenous seed conservation. The symposium begins with a keynote address by Sanjay Patil, a prominent figure in this field, who has spent the past 18 years with BAIF working at the grassroots level to identify and connect with the unsung heroes of seed conservation.

Following Sanjay Patil, the symposium will feature key speakers such as Smt. Mamtabai Bhangre from Akole. Renowned for her innovative conservation and cultivation techniques, particularly in wild vegetables, she brings extensive expertise in organic farming and the use of vermi briquettes. Her deep knowledge of indigenous crops and traditional recipes is a testament to her commitment to preserving local agricultural heritage.

Shri. Mavanji Pawar, hailing from the remote tribal block of Jawhar, has over a decade of experience as a Field Programme Officer at BAIF. He specializes in seed selection and varietal improvement of rice, millets, and pulses, making significant contributions to the preservation of these essential crops.
Another highlight is Shri. Balu Ghode from Akole, a conservator and producer of millet diversity. He has established a community seed bank with support from ASK Foundation and Bioversity International, and his extensive knowledge of wild edible plants and indigenous crops in the Kalsubai region is invaluable.

The Symposium will also include sessions by Madhukar Bhoye (Tribal Cultural Songs), Sitaram Bujad (Warli Artist), Tarpha artists from Jawhar, and contributions from Mrs. Hirabai Khade, Mrs. Dhondabai Khade (Tribal Songs, Food Culture & Festivals), Yogesh Nawale, Mrs. Ranjana Bhika Bhramne, and Mr. Bhika Munga Bharmne from Nandurbar.

Join us for an enriching day dedicated to celebrating and preserving the legacy of indigenous seeds and cultural heritage.