The Union Agriculture Ministry has released the Draft Seeds Bill (2024) for public feedback, seeking comments till December 11.
Background
- India required 462 lakh quintals of seeds in 2023-24 and had a surplus supply.
- The seed industry has argued that the 1966 Act is outdated, as seed technology, trade practices, and private sector participation have grown significantly.
- While industry bodies welcomed modernisation, farmers’ groups fear the new Bill may reduce protections for cultivators.
Provisions of the Draft Bill
- Regulatory Framework: Establishes rules for import, production, processing, and distribution of quality seeds. Farmers retain the right to save, sow, resow, exchange, and sell seeds—except when sold under a brand name.
- Clear Definitions: Distinguishes between farmer, dealer, distributor, and producer, clarifying roles in the seed value chain.
- Mandatory Registration: All seed processing units must register with State authorities. A Central Accreditation System may be created to simplify registration for companies operating in multiple States.
- National Register & Field Trials: Creates the post of Registrar to maintain a National Register of Seed Varieties. Field trials will assess Value for Cultivation and Use (VCU) before variety registration.
- Seed Testing & Enforcement: Sets up Central and State seed testing laboratories. Seed Inspectors may search, seize, and act under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
Penalties
- Offences categorized as minor, moderate, and major.
- Punishments include fines between ₹50,000 and ₹30 lakh and imprisonment up to three years.
Key Changes from the 2019 Draft
- Stronger and higher penalties.
- Clearer link with Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act, 2001.
- Stricter quality norms and more relaxed rules for seed imports.
Concerns of Farmers’ Groups
- Fear of corporate dominance and higher seed prices.
- Worry that the Bill could undermine seed sovereignty and traditional seed-saving practices.
- Farmers demand that the Bill fully safeguard rights under PPVFR Act (2001) and align with global biodiversity commitments.
- Concerns over centralised control, which may weaken local and farmer-centric seed regulations.
Conclusion
The Draft Seeds Bill aims to modernise India’s seed regulation system but raises concerns about farmer protection and corporate influence. A balanced approach is essential to ensure both seed quality and farmers’ rights remain secure.
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