Hybrid Seed Generation System Management to Ensure the Seed Quality in Pearl Millet

In pearl millet, a number of hybrids with higher yield, variable maturity, tolerance to various diseases, and insect pests were developed and released for general cultivation across India. Increase in area under cultivation with superior genetic and productive hybrids eventually necessitated the production of large quantities of seed with high-quality standards. Quality seed production is the prerequisite to ensure the true to type of any hybrid in order to realize its genetic potential at farmer’s field. Pearl millet hybrid seed production requires a high level of competence to ensure the seed quality in terms of genetic purity, seed germination, vigor, and health. Both public and private sectors made significant progress during last 30 years in seed production and distribution of pearl millet; however, the major market share of private sector is higher due to their excellence and expertise in marketing hybrid cultivars. High-quality seed can be obtained only from a genetically pure crop that depends upon the genetic constitution of nucleus and breeder seed followed by foundation and certified seed. Therefore, effective implementation of seed generation system with scientific methods of seed crop management only can ensure the hybrid seed quality of pearl millet.