India Boosts Agricultural Support with Quality Seeds and Fertilizers
The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) is actively working to ensure that farmers across India have timely access to quality seeds and fertilizers. This initiative involves regular assessments of the requirements and availability of these essential agricultural inputs through Zonal Conferences held before each Kharif and Rabi season. This proactive approach aims to support farmers and enhance productivity, thereby reducing the overall cost of cultivation.
To make quality seeds available at affordable prices, the government is providing financial assistance for various seed-related activities. These include the distribution of high-quality seeds, the establishment of a National Seed Reserve, bolstering seed infrastructure, and offering training sessions for farmers. Under programs such as the National Food Security and Nutrition Mission (NFSNM), the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oilseeds, and the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), farmers receive demonstrations and free minikits of new High Yielding Varieties (HYVs) of pulses and Nutri-cereals, aiming to enhance agricultural productivity.
In a move to regulate the pricing of Bt. cotton hybrid seeds, the government has enacted the Cotton Seeds Price (Control) Order, 2015. This legislation, established under the Essential Commodities Act of 1955, sets maximum sale prices for Bt. cotton seeds each year, ensuring that farmers are shielded from excessive costs.
Ensuring Fertilizer Availability
Fertilizer requirements are computed based on several factors, including gross cropped area, the extent of irrigation, historical consumption patterns, and soil fertility. This information is communicated to the Department of Fertilizers to guarantee that farmers have seamless access to fertilizers before each cropping season. Additionally, to maintain affordability, the government regulates urea prices.
Through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in Fertilizers system, a 100% subsidy on fertilizers is given to companies according to actual sales to farmers. This streamlined process utilizes Aadhaar-authenticated Point of Sale (PoS) devices at retail outlets, helping to target subsidies effectively while preventing supply issues.
Strengthening Seed Quality Control
The government has implemented the Seeds Act of 1966 and its associated regulations to regulate seed quality and combat the sale of counterfeit seeds. These laws empower State Governments to appoint Seed Inspectors, who are authorized to inspect seed outlets, collect samples, and enforce actions such as license cancellation and stock seizures. To bolster transparency, the SATHI portal has been launched, allowing for comprehensive digital traceability of seeds throughout the supply chain.
To promote the use of organic and bio-fertilizers, the government has categorized Organic Fertilizers, Bio-Fertilizers, and Nano Fertilizers under the Fertilizer (Control) Order of 1985. Initiatives like the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) focus on supporting farmers in sustainable practices, particularly those in aspirational districts.
Supporting Traditional Varieties
In line with the National Food Security and Nutrition Mission (NFSNM), the government is also enhancing the production of traditional seed varieties. Key measures include offering 50% cost subsidies for seed distribution, financial incentives for seed production, and one-time assistance for community seed banks.
Moreover, the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPV&FR) Act of 2001 encourages farmers to cultivate indigenous varieties. This includes registering farmers’ unique varieties, offering them intellectual property protection, and issuing awards to recognize their contributions to agricultural biodiversity.
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