Will Strict Action Be Taken Against Sellers of Bogus Seeds and Fertilizers?
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Synopsis
In Maharashtra, Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate emphasizes the government's commitment to safeguarding farmers from fraudulent agricultural practices. Strict measures will be enforced against those selling bogus seeds and fertilizers. This includes revoking licenses and filing criminal charges.
Key Takeaways
- Stringent measures against bogus seed sellers.
- Quality assurance for farmers through inspections.
- Revocation of licenses for fraudulent practices.
- Special protection for leased land in Vidarbha.
- Seizure of stocks valued at Rs 12.34 lakhs.
Mumbai, July 18 (NationPress) In the Maharashtra assembly, Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate declared that the government will firmly address the issue of sellers who jeopardize the livelihoods of our essential farmers. He affirmed that stringent measures would be enforced against those involved in the distribution of fraudulent seeds, pesticides, and fertilizers.
Responding to Kashinath Date's query about the irregularities in cotton seed sales in Pachegaon (tehsil Nevasa, District Ahilyanagar), Minister Kokate emphasized the government's commitment to protecting farmers.
In the ongoing inspection campaign targeting bogus agricultural products, licenses of those found guilty will be revoked, and criminal charges will be pursued in accordance with the law.
During an investigation of M/s Trimurti Agro Center in Pachegaon, it was discovered that seeds were being sold at an unreasonably high price, leading to the permanent cancellation of their seed sales and cotton sales licenses.
“To guarantee that farmers receive quality seeds, 15 flying squads have been deployed across Ahilyanagar district. To date, the Agriculture Department has initiated 2 cases under the Seeds Act and 3 cases under the Fertilizer Control Act, seizing stocks valued at Rs 12.34 lakhs. Moreover, 35 input sales licenses that breached regulations have been suspended or canceled,” he stated.
In a related update, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule informed the assembly that a special protection scheme exists for leased land designated for residential use in the Amravati and Nagpur divisions of Vidarbha. A decision is forthcoming to extend this scheme for an additional year. Minister Bawankule elaborated that as per a government decision made on March 16, 2024, the special protection scheme applies to lands leased for residential purposes through auctions and other means.
“There is a provision to impose a surcharge of two percent based on the current market value of the annual rate statement for such unclaimed lands. This protection scheme was originally operational until July 31, 2025. The Cabinet will decide on extending this scheme for another year, allowing it to remain in effect until July 30, 2026,” he added.
Point of View
It is crucial to uphold the integrity of agricultural practices, as they are foundational to food security. The government's proactive stance on combating fraudulent activities in the agricultural sector showcases a commitment to safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers and ensuring the quality of agricultural inputs.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions will be taken against sellers of bogus seeds?
Sellers found guilty of distributing bogus seeds, pesticides, and fertilizers will face license revocation and criminal charges.
How is the government ensuring quality seeds for farmers?
The government has deployed 15 flying squads to monitor and inspect seed sales, ensuring farmers receive quality products.
What has been seized during the inspections?
Stocks worth Rs 12.34 lakhs have been seized, along with the suspension of 35 input sales licenses for violations.
What is the special protection scheme mentioned?
The scheme offers protection for leased land designated for residential purposes in Amravati and Nagpur, with plans for extension.
What is the timeframe for the protection scheme?
The protection scheme was initially operational until July 31, 2025, and proposals are being made to extend it until July 30, 2026.
