At the National Rabi Campaign 2025 agricultural conference held in Delhi, Telangana’s Agriculture Minister, Tummala Nageswara Rao, asked the central government to review the existing Seed Act. He emphasized the need for laws that support the state’s seed sector, tackle counterfeit seeds, and provide export incentives to growers in Telangana.
What the Minister Said
- Rao urged that the Seed Act be amended to include stricter legal measures against those selling fake or counterfeit seeds.
- He argued that Telangana should receive national recognition for its contribution to the country’s seed supplies and fair export incentives.
Why Telangana Is Making This Call
- The state claims to be the “Seed Bowl of India,” supplying nearly 60% of the seeds required by the country and exporting seeds to over 20 countries.
- The Agriculture Minister pointed out Telangana’s growing success in oil palm cultivation. The crop currently covers about 1.5 lakh hectares in the state, with plans to expand it to 8 lakh hectares.
Other Agricultural Demands
Besides changes to the Seed Act, the minister made additional requests at the conference:
- Timely and sufficient supply of fertilizers during the Rabi season.
- Removal of the 25% purchase limit on fertilizers for all crops.
- Inclusion of sorghum and maize under the government’s price support scheme.
Crops and Recognition
- Numerous crops like rice, cotton, maize, pigeon pea, soybean, groundnut, chilli, turmeric, and millets are widely cultivated in Telangana.
- Some local varieties have already gained Geographic Indicator (GI) recognition e.g., Tandur pigeon pea and Chapata chilli. These recognitions help local varieties get value and protection.
Implications & What’s Next
- A reviewed Seed Act with stringent penalties could help reduce losses farmers face from fake and substandard seeds.
- Export incentives may help Telangana seed companies compete better in international markets.
- Including more crops under price support and removing fertilizer caps can ease input costs for farmers.
- The review is likely to require consultation with seed companies, regulators, and farmers to ensure balanced regulations.
