National
National Organizations Supporting Germplasm Conservation and Their Link with GTCSB
The GT Community Seed Bank (GTCSB) is a community-driven initiative to conserve indigenous seeds and protect agricultural biodiversity in Bangladesh. Our efforts are strengthened by the contributions of many national organizations—both public and private—that conduct research, conserve germplasm, and empower farming communities.
Below is a brief overview of these organizations and their connection with GTCSB.
🌱 Public Research & Academic Institutions
BARI (Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute)
BARI plays a leading role in developing crop varieties other than rice, including vegetables, fruits, pulses, and oilseeds. GTCSB benefits from BARI’s research by promoting local varieties alongside improved ones, ensuring resilience and food diversity.
BRRI (Bangladesh Rice Research Institute)
As the main institution for rice research, BRRI develops high-yielding, stress-tolerant rice varieties. GTCSB complements BRRI’s efforts by preserving indigenous rice germplasm, helping farmers maintain both modern and traditional options.
BWMRI (Bangladesh Wheat and Maize Research Institute)
BWMRI focuses on wheat and maize improvement, ensuring food security. GTCSB works to safeguard native varieties of cereals and encourages diversification in local food systems.
BAU (Bangladesh Agricultural University)
BAU contributes to agricultural research, education, and training. Its scientific findings support GTCSB’s approach to community-based conservation and knowledge sharing.
SAU (Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University)
SAU provides education and research in crop and seed sciences. GTCSB aligns with its mission by turning research into practice at the grassroots level.
GAU (Gono Agricultural University)
GAU emphasizes sustainable farming and agroecology. GTCSB resonates with GAU’s values by conserving community-based seeds and promoting eco-friendly practices.
HSTU (Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University)
HSTU engages in agricultural and technological innovation. GTCSB works in parallel by applying innovative seed-saving techniques in rural communities.
PSTU (Patuakhali Science and Technology University)
PSTU has strong programs in coastal and environmental agriculture. GTCSB collaborates with similar goals by conserving crop diversity adapted to coastal and climate-stressed regions.
SRDI (Soil Resource Development Institute)
SRDI monitors soil resources and fertility management. GTCSB integrates this knowledge by encouraging farmers to select seeds suitable for local soil conditions.
🌿 Private and Development Organizations
BRAC
BRAC supports agriculture through seed distribution, extension services, and research. GTCSB complements this by focusing on indigenous seeds that sustain biodiversity.
UBINIG (Policy Research for Development Alternative)
UBINIG advocates for biodiversity-based farming and community seed banks. GTCSB shares this vision, working at the community level to strengthen local seed sovereignty.
PROSHIKA
PROSHIKA promotes rural development, including sustainable agriculture. GTCSB builds on this mission by directly empowering farmers through seed conservation.
BARCIK (Bangladesh Resource Centre for Indigenous Knowledge)
BARCIK works with farmers to preserve traditional knowledge and practices. GTCSB serves as a living platform for this knowledge, linking seeds with cultural heritage.
Caritas Bangladesh
Caritas supports rural livelihoods and disaster resilience. GTCSB contributes by maintaining diverse crop seeds that help communities adapt to climate challenges.
🌾 GTCSB’s National Role
Together, these national organizations and GTCSB form a collaborative network—where institutions generate research, development organizations promote sustainability, and community seed banks ensure that conservation is practiced on the ground.
Through this partnership, Bangladesh can safeguard its rich agricultural biodiversity, enhance food sovereignty, and build a resilient farming future.
