Jan 16: The Union Government will introduce the Seed Act 2026 in the upcoming Budget Session of Parliament, aimed at strengthening the regulatory framework governing seeds and safeguarding the interests of farmers across the country. The announcement was made by Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan while briefing the media in New Delhi today.
The proposed legislation seeks to curb the sale of poor-quality, fake, and unauthorized seeds, which have long been a concern for farmers and agricultural experts. By ensuring strict enforcement against substandard agricultural inputs, the new law aims to protect farmers from financial losses and improve crop productivity.
According to the Minister, the Seed Act 2026 will focus on ensuring the availability of high-quality, certified seeds to farmers. These measures are expected to enhance trust in the seed supply chain while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. A special emphasis will be placed on encouraging the use of climate-resilient seed varieties, helping farmers adapt to changing weather patterns and increasing climate uncertainties.
One of the key features of the proposed law is the provision for full traceability of seeds. This will enable farmers to know the exact origin of the seeds they purchase, including details about the manufacturer and supplier. The traceability mechanism is intended to enhance transparency, accountability, and confidence in the agricultural input market.
The Minister said that stronger regulatory oversight under the new Act will improve compliance and deter malpractice in the seed sector. By empowering farmers with better information and access to quality inputs, the government aims to strengthen India’s agricultural ecosystem and support long-term food security.
The introduction of the Seed Act 2026 aligns with the government’s broader vision of farmer welfare, agricultural reforms, and climate-smart farming. Once enacted, the legislation is expected to play a crucial role in improving farm outcomes, boosting productivity, and ensuring fair practices in the seed industry.
