What is a seed minikit and how do I get one from the agriculture department?

A seed minikit is a small pack of certified seed of an improved or newer variety that the government distributes, often free or heavily subsidised, so farmers can try the variety on a small piece of land before adopting it widely. It usually comes with a recommended practice slip and sometimes a little bio fertiliser or treatment. Under missions like NFSM, minikits for pulses and oilseeds are a common way to spread better varieties. The pack size is modest, enough for a small demonstration plot rather than your whole field, which is the point: you test it, see the result, then save or buy seed of that variety next year. To get one, ask your block or district agriculture office or your KVK as the season approaches, because the kits are limited and given out on a first come or selection basis. Register early, keep your land record and Aadhaar handy, and confirm which crops and varieties are being distributed this season, since it changes each year.