Kelly Kislaya | TNNRanchi: In a major push towards self-reliance in oilseed production, Jharkhand’s first flaxseed processing centre and seed hub warehouse is coming up at Birsa Agricultural University (BAU). The foundation stone for the facility was laid by BAU vice-chancellor S C Dubey on Tuesday.The project aims to significantly strengthen the storage, preservation, and distribution systems of linseed, commonly known as flaxseed or alsi, across the state.Highlighting the economic necessity of the initiative, Dubey said, “Both the country and Jharkhand rely heavily on imports to meet oilseed requirements. There is an urgent need to boost flaxseed production, productivity, and acreage. Ensuring the timely availability of quality seeds to farmers remains a top priority.”The project is being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 35 lakh, funded by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and the ICAR-Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research, Hyderabad. The facility is expected to be fully operational within four months.Naresh Prasad Yadav, in-charge of the flaxseed seed hub project, emphasised the rising commercial and health appeal of the crop. “Flaxseed is a vital oilseed that can boost farmers’ income while offering immense nutritional benefits, driving up market demand from health-conscious consumers. This centre will maintain seed quality, cut down storage losses, and ensure farmers get certified and quality seeds on time,” he said.Currently, Jharkhand cultivates flaxseed on roughly 35,000 hectares, generating an annual yield of 21,000 tonnes. The state’s average productivity stands at 610 kg per hectare.The processing hub is designed to serve as a critical resource for growers in Jharkhand and neighbouring regions, aligning with the broader oilseed development goals of ICAR and the central govt.
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