Bengaluru, Karnataka, India | 11th August 2025: In a landmark move for sustainable agriculture and farmer empowerment, The Art of Living’s Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Trust (AOL-SSIAST) has signed two transformative Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) and Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL).
The agreements, signed in the presence of Shri Ashish Bhutani, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India, signal a major push to revive India’s traditional farming practices using modern strategies and nationwide cooperative networks.
These partnerships aim to create end-to-end agricultural value chains—from indigenous seed preservation to organic produce marketing—connecting grassroots farmers directly with national and international markets.
MoU 1: AOL-SSIAST × BBSSL – Preserving Indigenous Seeds for Food Security and Biodiversity
The AOL-SSIAST–BBSSL collaboration focuses on reviving native seed varieties critical to food sovereignty, climate resilience, and sustainable farming systems.
Key initiatives include:
- Establishing community-based seed banks and appointing local seed keepers
- Conducting joint seed research and farmer training programs
- Hosting seed festivals and nationwide awareness campaigns
- Using blockchain technology for seed authenticity and traceability
- Supporting the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)
By restoring native seed wealth, the initiative safeguards India’s agricultural heritage while boosting farmers’ long-term resilience.
MoU 2: AOL-SSIAST × NCOL – Scaling Organic Farming from Soil to Shelf
The second agreement focuses on strengthening the organic farming value chain, from cultivation to consumer delivery.
Core action points include:
- Providing procurement and marketing support via NCOL’s cooperative network
- Facilitating organic certification under PGS and NPOP systems
- Mobilizing and training organic farmers nationwide
- Offering logistics and post-harvest infrastructure
- Expanding the organic cooperative movement
With AOL-SSIAST’s reach across climate-sensitive farming regions and NCOL’s nationwide distribution channels, this partnership will make organic produce more accessible, traceable, and scalable both domestically and globally.
Leaders’ Vision for a Sustainable Agricultural Future
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Shri Ashish Bhutani, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, stated:
“These collaborations reflect the strength of cooperatives and grassroots innovation. By combining traditional knowledge with modern systems, we are building a sustainable and inclusive agricultural model for India.”
Shri Prasana Prabhu, Chairman of AOL-SSIAST, added:
“Natural farming begins with natural seeds. When we restore our native seed wealth, we restore health to our soil, strength to our farmers, and hope to future generations.”
A Call to Action: Partner in the Movement for Sustainable Farming
AOL-SSIAST is inviting corporates, philanthropic organizations, and community stakeholders to join this national mission for sustainable agriculture, organic farming, and indigenous seed revival.
By working together, India can ensure that every farmer becomes a steward of soil, health, and prosperity.
📌 Learn more and contribute: ssiast.artofliving.org/donate
