Analyzing the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025: Key Changes and Impacts

Overview of the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025

The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has recently unveiled the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025, which aims to modernize and reform India's seed regulatory framework. This initiative comes in response to the evolving agricultural landscape and the necessity for updated regulations.

Current Seed Landscape in India

In the financial year 2023–24, India experienced a seed surplus of approximately 10%, with an estimated availability of 508.60 lakh quintals against a requirement of 462.31 lakh quintals. The seed industry has long been advocating for amendments to the Seeds Act, 1966, citing that the current law doesn't adequately reflect the significant technological and commercial advancements made over the last sixty years.

Key Provisions of the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025

• Replacement of Earlier Laws: The Bill proposes to replace the Seeds Act, 1966 and the Seeds (Control) Order, 1983, to better align with modern agricultural practices.
• Comprehensive Regulatory Framework: It establishes a framework for the import, production, and supply of seeds, while ensuring farmers' rights to save, use, and exchange seeds.
• Defined Institutional Roles: The Bill clarifies roles for farmers, seed producers, and distributors, proposing a Central Seed Committee and State Seed Committees for standard setting.
• Mandatory Registration: All seed processing units must register with state governments as per the new provisions.
• National Register and Enforcement Powers: It aims to create a National Register of Seed Varieties and enhance the powers of seed inspectors.

Changes Compared to the 2019 Draft

The 2025 Bill introduces stricter penalties for violations and links farmers' rights with the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act, 2001. It also enforces stronger quality norms and adopts a more liberal stance on seed imports.

Criticism of the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025

Despite its intentions, the Draft Seeds Bill has faced criticism:

• Rising Cost Concerns: Organizations like the All India Kisan Sabha worry that corporate-dominated pricing could raise cultivation costs, disadvantaging small farmers.
• Conflict with Existing Legal Safeguards: Critics argue certain provisions might conflict with the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act, 2001 and international commitments.
• Risks of Centralisation: There are fears that a centralized regulatory framework could weaken farmers' protections and harm biodiversity.

Way Forward

The Draft Seeds Bill, 2025 is a crucial step in reforming India's seed legislation. However, it is essential to address concerns regarding farmers' rights, regulatory clarity, and the protection of biodiversity. Balancing innovation with equity and ensuring transparency in seed governance will be vital for the future of agriculture in India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main aim of the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025?
Answer: The Draft Seeds Bill, 2025 aims to modernize India's seed regulatory framework, ensuring it aligns with current agricultural practices and technological advancements.

Q2. What are the key features of the Bill?
Answer: Key features include a comprehensive regulatory framework, mandatory registration of seed processing units, and the establishment of a National Register of Seed Varieties.

Q3. How does the Draft Bill affect farmers' rights?
Answer: The Bill safeguards farmers' rights to save, use, and exchange seeds while linking these rights to existing protection laws.

Q4. What criticisms have been raised regarding the Draft Bill?
Answer: Critics have raised concerns about potential increased costs for farmers, conflicts with existing laws, and risks of centralizing control over seeds.

Q5. What is the significance of a National Register of Seed Varieties?
Answer: A National Register of Seed Varieties will help standardize seed quality, improve traceability, and enhance regulatory oversight in the seed sector.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025 aim to replace?
A) Seeds Act, 1966
B) Agricultural Policy, 2020
C) Fertilizer Control Order, 1985
D) Crop Insurance Act, 2016
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: Which committee is proposed under the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025?
A) National Seed Committee
B) Central Seed Committee
C) Agricultural Standards Committee
D) Seed Quality Committee
Correct Answer: B