Seed Research & Development: Developing High-Performing, Climate-Resilient Hybrids

Research & Development

Our Research & Development programme focuses on innovation in genetics, breeding and seed technology to develop high-performing, market-oriented and climate-resilient seed products. Our activities encompass germplasm collection, characterization and evaluation, parental line development, inbred advancement, hybrid development and trait-based selection in most of the vegetable crops. Breeding materials are systematically evaluated for yield, quality, earliness, adaptability, disease and pest resistance, abiotic stress tolerance and other commercially important traits. We also undertake molecular characterization, marker-assisted approaches and crop physiology studies to accelerate the development of superior genetic materials.

Our R&D activities extend across seed production, seed quality, seed health and technology development. We optimize hybrid seed production protocols, including parental synchronization, pollination, crop management and seed yield improvement. Comprehensive seed quality research includes germination, vigour, viability, genetic purity, seed health, storability and seed deterioration studies. We also develop and validate seed treatment, priming, dormancy-breaking and seed quality enhancement technologies, along with laboratory and field protocols and SOPs to ensure consistent seed performance and quality.

Product performance is evaluated through preliminary, advanced, multi-location, adaptive, on-farm and farmer demonstration trials across diverse agro-climatic environments. Trial data are systematically analysed to assess genotype × environment interactions, stability, adaptability, yield and market potential, enabling informed advancement of promising hybrids and varieties. By integrating conventional breeding, molecular tools, seed technology, plant health, field research and data-driven decision-making, our R&D programme supports the development of reliable, innovative and farmer-focused seed solutions from research to commercial product development.

Image
Image
Image

Breeding Stations and Expertise

Markerlab for precision breeding

Established in 2017, our state-of-the-art molecular laboratory has built a strong reputation for excellence and deep expertise in agricultural research and commercial testing services. We offer a comprehensive range of custom solutions in genomics, molecular biology, and biotechnology specifically designed to support crop improvement. Our primary mission is to deliver high-quality, reliable results tailored to each client's unique requirements, helping advance agricultural efficiency and crop performance.

Our core capabilities center around advanced genetic purity testing for crop varieties, hybrids, and parental lines, utilizing a diverse suite of molecular markers such as RAPD, SSRs, and SNPs. Beyond genetic similarity testing, we provide essential quality assurance services, including standard germination tests, seed health evaluations, and specialized testing (using Real-time PCR) to detect seed-borne pathogens. Through this combination of cutting-edge technology and agricultural expertise, we ensure our clients receive the precise data necessary to secure seed quality and integrity.

Gel Documentation Unit

Gel Documentation Unit

Gel documentation unit is used for the visualization, capturing, documenting and analysis of the gel image after separation of Nucleic acids (DNA/RNA) and proteins through gel electrophoresis method.

Following gel electrophoresis, the gel is placed inside a trans illuminator platform equipped with a UV light source. When switched on, the UV light excites the ethidium bromide bound to the DNA, causing the bands to fluoresce. An integrated camera captures the gel image, which is then transmitted to a connected computer and saved for downstream analysis.

Gel Electrophoresis Unit

Gel Electrophoresis Unit

Gel Electrophoresis Unit is very much used in our lab to separate charged macromolecules—such as DNA, RNA, and proteins—based on their size and electrical charge.

It consists of two main equipment’s, electrophoresis tank is filled with buffer and it is connected to the power bank By applying an electric current across a porous matrix (gel) which is loaded with the macro-molecules(DNA/RNA/Proteins) migrate toward opposing electrodes, filtering through the matrix at speeds inversely proportional to their molecular weight.

Vortex Mixer

Vortex Mixer

Enables rapid and homogeneous mixing of experimental samples, liquid reagents, and assay extracts to support consistent laboratory results.

Laboratory Workstation

Laboratory Workstation

Features precision micropipettes, analytical instruments, and clean preparation surfaces for careful handling of seed DNA extracts and reagents.

Reagents and Solution Preparation

Reagents & Solution Preparation

Supports accurate preparation of molecular buffers, primers, and laboratory chemicals required for reliable genomic purity assays.

Polymerase Chain Reaction Machine

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Our molecular biology laboratory specializes in comprehensive plant genetic analysis utilizing diverse molecular marker technologies, including RAPD, SSRs, and SNPs. We leverage advanced Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) workflows to support critical research and development (R&D) initiatives. Our core capabilities include high-throughput genotyping, hybrid genetic purity testing, and DNA profiling. Additionally, our R&D team utilizes these molecular tools for advanced trait verification and the targeted screening of disease-resistant crop varieties.

A Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Machine and it is also referred to as a Thermal Cycler is an indispensable laboratory instrument used to amplify specific segments of DNA or RNA. By rapidly and precisely cycling through distinct temperature phases, the machine replicates a targeted genetic sequence millions to billions of times. This automated process provides the high concentration of nucleic acids required for downstream molecular applications, ranging from agricultural genetic purity testing to medical diagnostics.

Team Development and Program Expansion

The breeding team at ORBI SEEDS now consists of many young breeders, each dedicated to different crops. With the foundational work on most crops complete, the team has shifted its attention to specialized breeding programs and product development. There has been significant progress in peppers and tomatoes, and, over the past year, there has been steady advancement within the cucumber program. This work targets both Indian (Asiatic and Pickling) and Middle Eastern (Beith Alpha, Pickling) markets, as well as programs for bitter gourd, eggplant, and okra.

01. Tomato and Pepper Breeding Programs

ORBI SEEDS has focused considerable effort on breeding tomatoes and hot peppers for Asian and Middle Eastern markets. Over the past five to six years, the company has conducted extensive breeding programs, continually advancing seed material to develop hybrids for these regions as rapidly as possible. Tomato hybrids that were developed in 2018 have already reached markets in India, Asia, and Africa. Current breeding efforts are now supporting expansion into Europe and the United States. Several hybrids of tomatoes, hot peppers, and sweet peppers have been well received in Middle Eastern and African markets.

02. Sweet Corn Breeding Program

03. Melon and Watermelon Programs

04. Okra Breeding Program

05. Cucumber Breeding Program

06. Gourds Breeding Program

07. Eggplant Breeding Program

to-top