The Union Government has proposed a comprehensive overhaul of India’s seed regulation framework through the Seed Act 2026, a move aimed at strengthening farmer protection, ensuring seed quality, and bringing transparency across the seed supply chain.
Briefing the media, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan described the proposed law as a “historic step” that will modernise an outdated system and prevent farmers from being misled by fake or substandard seeds.
Complete traceability through QR codes
A key feature of the Seed Act 2026 is the introduction of a nationwide seed traceability system. Every seed packet will carry a QR code, enabling farmers to access detailed information about the seed’s origin, producer, distributor, and seller.
“Farmers will now know the complete story of every seed,” Chouhan said, adding that the system would make it possible to quickly identify and act against those responsible if poor-quality seeds enter the market.
According to the minister, the digital trail will ensure accountability at every stage of the supply chain and significantly reduce the circulation of counterfeit or inferior seeds.
Mandatory registration of seed companies
Under the proposed law, registration of seed companies will be compulsory. Only authorised and registered companies will be permitted to sell seeds, effectively eliminating fake or unverified players from the market.
Details of registered companies will be made publicly available, helping farmers make informed choices and purchase seeds from credible sources.
No curbs on traditional seed practices
Addressing concerns from farmer groups, the Union Minister clarified that the new law will not restrict traditional seed practices. Farmers will continue to save, use, and exchange seeds at the local level without interference.
“The traditional system of seed exchange in villages will remain exactly as it is,” Chouhan said, emphasising that the law targets commercial malpractice, not age-old farmer practices.
Steep penalties for substandard seeds
One of the most significant changes under the Seed Act 2026 is the sharp increase in penalties. While earlier provisions capped fines at Rs 500, the proposed law allows for penalties of up to Rs 30 lakh. In cases of deliberate wrongdoing, offenders may also face imprisonment of up to three years.
“There will be zero tolerance for cheating farmers,” the minister said, underlining that honest companies have nothing to fear, but those selling fake seeds will face strict punishment.
Strengthening public institutions and domestic players
The Seed Act 2026 envisions a three-tier system involving public institutions, domestic private companies, and a robust evaluation mechanism for imported seeds. Public sector bodies such as Indian Council of Agricultural Research, agricultural universities, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) will continue to play a central role in seed development and dissemination.
Foreign seeds will be allowed only after rigorous testing and evaluation, ensuring they are suitable for Indian agro-climatic conditions.
Farmer awareness and grievance redressal
To address gaps in awareness, the government plans extensive outreach through initiatives like the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan. All 731 KVKs across the country will be involved in educating farmers on seed quality, selection, and grievance redressal mechanisms.
Scientists, officials, and progressive farmers will be mobilised to reach villages and ensure that farmers understand their rights under the new law.
Modernising a decades-old law
Chouhan noted that the existing Seed Act dates back to 1966, a time when digital systems and modern traceability tools did not exist. “We are now bringing a law suited to today’s technology, based on data, accountability, and transparency,” he said.
He also reassured states that their constitutional powers would remain intact. Agriculture being a state subject, the Centre’s role will be primarily coordinative, with implementation carried out in partnership with state governments.
Towards trust and productivity
Summing up the intent behind the Seed Act 2026, the Union Minister said the government’s goal is simple: ensuring the right seed reaches every farmer.
“Good companies will be encouraged, and those who do wrong will face strict action,” he said, adding that the new law is designed to rebuild trust in the seed market and boost agricultural productivity across India.
If enacted, the Seed Act 2026 could mark a decisive shift towards farmer-centric regulation, combining technology, enforcement, and awareness to safeguard one of agriculture’s most critical inputs.
About the Author
