NEW DELHI, 18 June 2025: The Union government will soon introduce stricter laws on seeds and pesticides to ensure farmers have access to quality inputs, while also working on a solution to the growing menace of stray animals, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced on Wednesday.
Addressing a press conference at the conclusion of the fortnight-long Vikshit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, Chouhan said that substandard seeds and pesticides, declining soybean yields, and wild animals damaging crops were among the key issues raised by over 13.4 crore farmers across 1.43 lakh villages.
“Farmers need quality inputs and protection. We will amend the Seed Act to increase penalties, bring uncertified seeds under regulation, and improve traceability,” said Agriculture Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi. The proposed amendments are expected to be tabled in Parliament by the winter session.
The Centre also aims to reduce dependence on outdated agricultural practices and increase field visits by scientists. Chouhan said that Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) scientists will be required to visit farms three days a week, and he himself will meet farmers on the ground twice a week.
As part of the Digital Farming Mission, the government will launch a mobile app to provide real-time weather updates, helping farmers make informed decisions.
On the issue of stray and wild animals, which continue to cause extensive damage to crops, Chouhan noted that farmers have recommended deploying artificial intelligence-based crop monitoring and deterrent systems. The government is already supporting states in building animal-safe fencing under a targeted assistance scheme.
Meanwhile, in an apparent response to Punjab’s recent ban on hybrid paddy seeds, the Centre clarified that it opposes any move by states to regulate seeds already approved by national agencies. “Farmers should be free to choose what they sow,” said a senior official, adding that the matter is currently sub judice and should not be debated in detail.
“This campaign has reaffirmed our commitment to build a prosperous, tech-enabled, and resilient agriculture ecosystem that aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a developed India by 2047,” Chouhan concluded.
