Government Proposes Seeds Bill to Enhance Quality and Traceability with Higher Penalties

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced the proposed Seeds Bill, expected in the 2026 Budget Session, aiming to modernize seed regulation with a comprehensive traceability system and mandatory registration of seed companies. The legislation includes penalties up to Rs 30 lakh for selling substandard seeds and mandates QR codes on seed packets to verify origin. It seeks to protect farmers by curbing fake seeds while preserving traditional seed exchange practices and ensuring quality through rigorous testing of imported seeds.