In the heart of India’s agricultural landscape, a silent revolution is brewing, one that could significantly impact the livestock and energy sectors. The humble oat, long known for its nutritional prowess, is stepping into the spotlight as a key player in sustainable fodder production. Recent research, led by Subhash Chand from the ICAR–Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute in Jhansi, delves into the trends and future projections of fodder oats (Avena sativa L.) for quality seed production, offering insights that could reshape the agricultural and energy sectors.
For decades, oats have been a staple in Indian agriculture, cultivated across nearly 0.25 million hectares in the northern, northwestern, and central regions, with recent expansions into the eastern region. The crop’s versatility as food, feed, and fodder has made it a favorite among farmers. However, the focus on fodder oats has intensified in recent years, driven by the need for sustainable and cost-effective livestock feed.
The study, published in the journal ‘Frontiers in Plant Science’ (Frontiers in Plant Sciences), analyzed breeder seed (BS) production data over 24 years, from 1998-1999 to 2021-2022, collected from the AICRP on Forage Crops and Utilization. The findings reveal a narrow genetic base at the varietal level, with a few old and popular varieties like Kent, OS-6, and OS-7 dominating the seed chain. This genetic homogeneity could pose risks to the crop’s resilience and productivity in the face of changing climatic conditions and pests.
“To ensure sustainable livestock production, it is crucial to encourage the cultivation of new varieties and replace older ones,” Chand emphasizes. “Adequate breeder seed production is vital to ensure a regular supply of quality seeds.”
The research highlights the increasing demand and awareness of new varieties, with a moderate varietal replacement rate observed for recently developed varieties. Institutions like the Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI) in Jhansi, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana, and Anand Agricultural University (AAU) in Anand have been at the forefront of BS production, contributing significantly to the seed chain.
Looking ahead, the study estimates certified seed production for 2023-2024 based on available BS, suggesting that the seed chain could cover 0.19 million hectares of fodder oats in 2024-2025. The ARIMA model predicts that BS production and the number of varieties in the seed chain could reach 734.2 quintals and 28, respectively, by 2026-2027.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For the livestock sector, a steady supply of quality fodder oat seeds could lead to improved livestock health and productivity, reducing the reliance on imported feed and enhancing food security. For the energy sector, the increased cultivation of fodder oats could open up new avenues for bioenergy production, contributing to India’s renewable energy goals.
The study also discusses breeding approaches and improved management practices for enhanced seed production, proposing a roadmap to meet the demand for quality fodder oat seeds in India. As the country strives towards sustainable agriculture and energy security, the humble oat could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the agricultural and energy sectors.