Dr. G. V. Chalam Seed Testing Res. Lab
The Dr. G. V. Chalam Seed Testing Research Laboratory, established during 2009 in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, is a one-of-its-kind notified seed testing laboratory that not only conducts routine seed testing of samples, but also promotes research on all aspects of Seed Science and Technology. Fittingly named after the eminent scientist of the Green Revolution era, Padmashri Dr. G. V. Chalam, the laboratory is well-equipped with all the equipment/instruments required for seed testing. During the fourteen years of its existence, the laboratory has extended its facilities for doctoral and master’s research to over 200 students of various departments of the College of Agriculture, Bhubaneswar, including eight Ph.D. students and more than eighty M.Sc.(Ag) students of the Department of Seed Science and Technology. Moreover, the Experiential Learning Programme on ‘Seed Testing’ offered to B.Sc. (Hons) Ag students by the Department is possible only because of this well-equipped laboratory. Keeping in view the significant role of seed testing in a seed quality control programme, the laboratory was notified by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha (vide Notification No. PT2-DAFP-FERT-FERT-0051-2021-1428/A&FE, dt. 19.01.2023).
With a total floor space of 2,250 square feet, the laboratory has facilities for conducting routine seed testing, seed health testing and guard sample storage. The laboratory has proficiency in conducting tests that are essential for any notified seed testing laboratory, viz., determination of test weight, seed moisture testing, purity analysis, other distinguishable variety testing, testing for husk less seeds of paddy and sunflower, testing for objectionable weed seeds, seed germination testing, quick viability testing, seed vigour testing, genetic purity testing based on seed and seedling characters and seed health testing.
Seed Testing Fees
| Sl No | Type of sample | Seed Testing Fee (Rs/ sample) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Certification sample | 50.00 |
| 2 | Service sample – by Farmers | 30.00 |
| 3 | Service sample – by Institutions (including OUAT) | 80.00 |
| 4 | Service sample – by Private Seed Producers | 150.00 |