The Union Government has released the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025, aiming to modernise India’s seed regulation framework. It seeks to replace the Seeds Act, 1966 and the Seeds (Control) Order, 1983, aligning the sector with present agricultural needs, global standards, and emerging private sector participation.
Objectives of the Draft Bill
- Improve seed quality: Ensures only tested and certified seeds are sold in the market.
- Enhance farmers’ access to high-quality planting material at fair prices.
- Liberalise seed imports to enable farmers to benefit from high-performing global varieties.
- Protect farmer interests by regulating rates and ensuring accountability of seed companies.
Major Provisions of the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025
- Mandatory registration: Every seed dealer must secure a registration certificate from the State Government before selling, importing, or exporting seeds.
- Minimum quality standards: Seeds must meet standards for germination, genetic purity, physical purity, traits, and seed health as per the Indian Minimum Seed Certification Standards.
- Decriminalisation of minor offences: Reduces compliance burden and supports the government’s “Ease of Doing Business” agenda.
- Penal provisions remain for serious violations affecting farmers.
- Liberalised import regime to allow access to better-quality global seed varieties.
Concerns Raised by Farmer Organisations
- The Bill may tilt in favour of seed companies, increasing private sector dominance.
- Possibility of higher seed prices due to reduced state control.
- Farmers fear reduced autonomy over traditional and farm-saved seeds.
Conclusion
The Draft Seeds Bill, 2025 attempts to create a more efficient, quality-driven seed market. While it strengthens standards and modernises regulations, balancing farmer protections, affordability, and private sector participation will be essential for its successful implementation.
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