ICAR’s Biodegradable Smart Seed Coating Helps Crops Grow Better Without Plastic-Based Treatments

Seed treatment is an important step before sowing, but many conventional seed coatings rely on synthetic polymers that can leave microplastic residues in the soil. Scientists are now looking for eco-friendly alternatives that protect seeds while supporting healthy crop growth.

The ICAR–Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research (IIOR), Hyderabad, has developed a biopolymer-based smart seed coating technology that uses biodegradable materials to deliver beneficial microbes, nutrients and plant growth-promoting compounds directly around the seed. The technology is designed to improve germination, strengthen seedlings and help crops withstand early-stage stress without depending on plastic-based coatings.

The smart coating forms a thin biodegradable layer around each seed.

This layer acts as a carrier for beneficial microorganisms, micronutrients, bio-stimulants and crop protection agents. As the seed germinates, these materials are released into the soil, creating a healthy environment for root development and early plant growth.

Strong Results in Field Trials

According to ICAR, multi-location trials on crops including soybean, maize, groundnut, chickpea, cotton, mustard and pigeon pea recorded yield improvements ranging from 12% to 37% over untreated seeds.

Farmer demonstrations in Telangana also showed nearly 30% higher yields in soybean and groundnut. Researchers say the technology improves seedling establishment, particularly under rainfed conditions where young plants often face moisture stress.

Unlike many synthetic seed coatings, the new formulation is biodegradable.

Recent scientific studies also show that organic seed coatings can enrich beneficial soil microbes, improve root growth and enhance soil enzyme activity while avoiding the microplastic pollution associated with conventional polymer coatings.

India cultivates millions of hectares under rainfed farming, where poor germination and weak crop establishment often reduce yields.

Biodegradable seed coatings could help farmers improve crop performance without increasing fertiliser use. The technology has potential for cereals, pulses, oilseeds and vegetables and could be promoted through ICAR institutes, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), state agriculture departments and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).

Because the coating is applied before sowing, farmers do not need to change their existing cultivation practices, making adoption easier.

A Greener Future for Seed Treatment

Sustainable farming begins with healthy seeds. By replacing synthetic coatings with biodegradable materials and beneficial microbes, researchers are making seed treatment more environmentally friendly while improving crop productivity.

As the technology reaches more farmers, smart bio-based seed coatings could become an important tool for building resilient and sustainable agriculture in India.