New Delhi, Jan 16 (NationPress) Union Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan introduced the new Seed Act 2026 proposals on Friday, which mandate the registration of seed companies and impose penalties reaching up to Rs 30 lakh for the sale of inferior seeds.

The minister emphasized that this proposed legislation represents a significant advancement toward safeguarding farmers, enhancing seed quality, and ensuring transparency throughout the industry.

Each seed packet will feature a QR code that farmers can scan to obtain comprehensive details regarding its origin. This initiative aims to thwart the distribution of fake or low-quality seeds and facilitate prompt action against offenders if such products infiltrate the market.

Chouhan stated that a national seed traceability system will be established. "We aim to develop a framework that enables the identification of where seeds are produced, the dealer who supplied them, and the seller involved," he noted.

Moreover, every seed company must register, clarifying which entities hold authorization to operate. "Information about registered companies will be made accessible, preventing unauthorized sellers from distributing seeds," he added. This measure is designed to eradicate fraudulent companies from the market, ensuring that farmers obtain seeds from reliable sources.

According to the Agriculture Minister, once the traceability system is in place, counterfeit or low-quality seeds will be promptly identified. "Inferior seeds will not infiltrate the system, and should they do so, they will be detected. Suppliers of such seeds will face penalties," he stated. This approach aims to eliminate the misleading practices employed by companies and dealers that deceive farmers.

Chouhan indicated a strict stance against negligence in seed quality. "Previously, the penalty was capped at Rs 500. Now, we propose a fine of up to Rs 30 lakh, and if someone intentionally commits an infraction, there will also be provisions for punishment," he explained.

The Seed Act encompasses provisions at three levels: public sector institutions (Indian Council of Agricultural Research, agricultural universities, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras), domestic companies producing high-quality seeds, and a thorough evaluation mechanism for imported seeds.

"Seeds brought in from abroad will only be approved after rigorous testing and assessment. Our public institutions and domestic private sector will be fortified to ensure that farmers receive high-quality seeds," he stated.

The minister also alleviated fears that the new legislation would restrict the use of traditional seeds by farmers.

"Farmers are still allowed to plant their own seeds and share them with others. The traditional seed exchange system at the local level will persist without any issues," he assured. He highlighted practices in rural areas where farmers exchange seeds during planting and return them later with an added quantity, asserting that such customs will remain intact.