International Seeds Day: History, Importance & More

Naquiya Nadeem

12 months ago

Read here the importance, history and significance of International Seeds Day and other related details.

#InternationalSeedsDay #HealthySeeds #InternationalDay

International Seeds Day 2023

International Seeds Day is celebrated on April 26 every year. This day is dedicated to advocating for patent-free seeds, organic food and farmers’ rights. This day also creates awareness about sustainable farming and challenges Order 81.

International Seeds Day is observed on April 26th every year to raise awareness about the importance of seeds in our lives and the need to preserve seed diversity. It is a day to celebrate the wonder of seeds, which are the foundation of our food systems and the basis of all life on Earth.

The day serves as a reminder of the vital role that seeds play in our lives, and the need to protect and conserve them. Seed conservation is critical in maintaining biodiversity, as well as for food security and the sustainability of our agricultural systems.

History of International Seeds Day

What is Order 81?

International Seeds Day was first observed in 2019 and has since gained global recognition. It is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and communities to come together to raise awareness, share knowledge, and take action toward the conservation and protection of seeds. The ‘Order 81’ was signed by Paul Bremer, the administrator of the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) in Iraq which brought about several changes to Iraq’s agricultural practices. This is why April 26 was selected to commemorate International Seeds Day.

International Seeds Day Significance

The ISD serves as a day to educate people about genetically modified foods and their hazardous effects on human health. This day also highlights the agribusiness of major US and European companies and their monopoly over agriculture in Africa and Asia with emphasis on India, Iraq and Afghanistan. It highlights the negative impact of large agribusinesses on agricultural land (and the environment at large) to satisfy the capitalistic needs of mass production and consumption at the cheapest cost. The day encourages us to stand in solidarity with farmers in countries devastated by war like Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

Also see: National Panchayati Raj Day: Date, Theme, Significance & More

Importance of International Seeds Day

As we know, the seed is the primary and focal input for sustainable agriculture. In this case, the effect of other inputs depends upon the quality of the seed used.
Therefore, the health and quality of seeds should be preciously preserved against private ownership and the use of any technology that goes against sustainable agriculture.
This creates the need to promote a food production system that not only promotes the use of the best quality seeds but also promotes the health of the soil, the ecosystem, animals and of course, human beings.
To strengthen the production, packaging, marketing and consumption of local and organically grown foods and food products for large-scale popular consumption.
Further, ensuring this method does not appeal to the fringe minority only but becomes a mainstream alternative to food production.
To promote organic agriculture and to stand with the organic farmers who strive hard to provide poison-free, patent-free seeds for large-scale organic farming.
To create a suitable environment all across the globe to promote innovation in the seed sector by promoting this movement.
Raising awareness: By observing International Seeds Day, we can raise awareness about the vital role of seeds in our lives and the need to conserve them. Many people are unaware of the importance of seeds and the threats they face, and this day provides an opportunity to educate and inform them.
Promoting biodiversity: Seed diversity is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and the sustainability of our agricultural systems. By conserving and protecting seeds, we can ensure that we have a wide range of crops to choose from, and we can reduce the risk of crop failures due to pests or diseases.
Supporting local farmers: Small-scale farmers and seed savers are often the custodians of seed diversity. By supporting local farmers and seed-saving initiatives, we can help to preserve traditional knowledge and promote sustainable agriculture.
Advocating for policy change: International Seeds Day can be used as an opportunity to advocate for policies that promote seed conservation and protection. This could include policies that support small-scale farmers, encourage the use of traditional seed varieties, and protect seed diversity.

Overall, International Seeds Day is an important day for raising awareness about the vital role of seeds in our lives and the need to conserve them for the benefit of current and future generations.

Celebrating International Seeds Day can involve a range of activities such as planting seeds, hosting educational events, participating in seed swaps, supporting local farmers, and advocating for seed conservation policies.

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