Draft Seeds Bill Overview

The Union Agriculture Ministry released the draft Seeds Bill on November 12, inviting public comments until December 11. The Bill aims to update the Seeds Act of 1966 and the Seeds (Control) Order of 1983 to align with technological advancements and changes in trade and commerce.

Key Features of the Bill

• Promotes ease of doing business and reduces compliance burdens while maintaining penalties for violations.
• Defines roles for farmers, dealers, distributors, and producers in seed-related activities.
• Establishes Central and State seed committees to recommend and advise on seed standards and registrations.
• Mandatory registration of seed processing units with State governments.
• Creation of Central and State seed testing laboratories for seed analysis.
• Includes provisions for seed inspectors with powers to search or seize under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.

Punishments and Offences

• Punishments range from fines of ₹50,000 to ₹30 lakh and imprisonment up to three years for violations.
• Significant changes from earlier drafts, where penalties were lower and offences were under consumer protection laws.

Farmers' Rights and Quality Norms

• Links to the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Act.
• Stricter quality norms for seeds.
• Liberal approach to seed imports.

Criticism and Concerns

• The Samyukt Kisan Morcha opposes "anti-farmer" amendments.
• The All India Kisan Sabha warns of increased cultivation costs due to corporate influence.
• Criticism of a centralized and corporatized regulatory system that may weaken farmer rights and biodiversity conservation.