Regular Update
ATM News Network: In a significant move to protect farmers from fraudulent practices, the Maharashtra government has taken decisive steps to tackle the issue of counterfeit seeds and fertilizers. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced soon the seeds and fertilizers will be under the Essential Commodities Act, making the supply of these agricultural inputs subject to stringent regulations.
He made a statement in this regard in the house during the Monsoon Assembly Session, in response to the growing concern over the sale of spurious products that have adversely affected farmers across the state. Fadnavis affirmed that anyone found supplying fake seeds will face non-bailable and cognizable offenses, ensuring strict consequences for those involved in this illegal trade.
Recent incidents of fake seed and fertilizer distribution in various parts of Maharashtra, including Jalgaon district, have caused substantial losses to thousands of farmers. Taking cognizance of the gravity of the situation, Minister Girish Mahajan raised the matter in the Cabinet, leading to the formation of a committee comprising Agriculture Minister Dhananjay Munde, Minister Girish Mahajan, Minister Gulabrao Patil, and Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil. This committee will formulate a robust law to combat the menace and take decisive action against the culprits.
Agriculture Minister Dhananjay Munde expressed concern over the cases of fake seeds and fertilizers reported in Jalgaon and other districts, acknowledging the significant damage caused to farmers. The government's proactive response aims to safeguard the interests of farmers and ensure their trust in the agricultural inputs they receive.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, addressing the Legislative Assembly, assured the opposition and farmers of the government's commitment to supporting them. Fadnavis emphasised that strict action will be taken against those involved in the sale of bogus seeds, emphasising the need to tighten laws in this regard.
To further strengthen the regulations and prevent the sale of counterfeit seeds, the state government is working on making the law stricter. Under the existing law, the accused can obtain bail for selling bogus seeds. However, the proposed amendment will bring the offense under the Essential Commodities Act, making it a non-bailable and cognizable offense.
The Maharashtra government's decisive actions, including the introduction of stricter laws and the inclusion of seeds and fertilizers under the Essential Commodities Act, aim to protect farmers' interests, promote agricultural sustainability, and ensure the availability of genuine agricultural inputs to support the state's agricultural sector.
