Government to Enforce Strong Law Against Substandard Agri-Inputs
In a major step to protect farmers and enhance agricultural productivity, the Union government plans to introduce strict legislation to prevent the sale of substandard seeds and pesticides. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan revealed the move, highlighting its importance in shielding farmers from financial losses due to fraudulent practices.
Crackdown on Counterfeit Seeds and Pesticides
During a press briefing in New Delhi, Chouhan stated, “Our priority is ensuring farmers receive high-quality seeds and pesticides. A strong law will penalize suppliers of spurious products that damage crops and livelihoods.” The decision follows increasing complaints from farmers about fake agricultural inputs causing widespread crop failures.
The proposed law will impose severe penalties, including heavy fines and jail time, on sellers and manufacturers of substandard seeds and pesticides. The government also intends to enhance quality control measures and improve supply chain monitoring.
Farmers Demand Tighter Regulations
Indian farmers have long struggled with counterfeit seeds and ineffective pesticides, leading to financial distress, especially in states like Maharashtra, Punjab, Haryana, and Andhra Pradesh. Many already face debt and climate challenges, making crop failures due to poor-quality inputs devastating.
Farmer protests demanding stricter regulations gained momentum after incidents like Punjab’s 2022 crackdown on fake pesticide suppliers. However, inconsistent enforcement due to the lack of a centralized law has been a persistent issue.
Key Provisions of the New Law
While details are still being finalized, sources suggest the law may include:
- Mandatory Quality Certification – Strict testing for seeds and pesticides before sale.
- Harsher Penalties – Increased fines and imprisonment for violators.
- Farmer Compensation – Mechanisms to ensure financial redress for affected farmers.
- Digital Tracking Systems – Technology to trace supply chains and curb counterfeit products.
Industry and Farmer Reactions
Farmer leaders like BKU’s Rakesh Tikait welcomed the move but stressed the need for strict enforcement: “Existing laws are weak. The government must act decisively against offenders.”
Meanwhile, industry bodies like the Crop Care Federation of India (CCFI) urged balanced regulations: “While we support quality control, policies must not harm genuine businesses.”
Global Standards and India’s Agricultural Growth
Countries like the USA and EU enforce strict agri-input regulations, ensuring quality and accountability. India’s move aligns with global best practices to boost farm productivity and food security.
With agriculture contributing 15% to India’s GDP and employing 50% of the workforce, eliminating fake agri-inputs is vital for economic stability and farmer welfare.
Next Steps
Chouhan confirmed the draft law will undergo consultations with states, farmers, and industry experts before being introduced in Parliament.
As India works toward doubling farmers’ incomes, this law could be pivotal—if backed by strong enforcement and awareness programs.
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