Context:

On November 13, 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare released the draft Seeds Bill, 2025, inviting public comments until December 11. The Bill aims to overhaul India’s seed regulation framework by replacing the Seeds Act, 1966 and introducing stricter penalties- up to ₹30 lakh in fines and three years’ imprisonment-to curb the sale of substandard and unregistered seeds.

Background:

• India’s existing seed law (1966) does not mandate compulsory registration of seed varieties.
• Previous attempts to pass new seed legislation in 2004 and 2019 did not materialize.
• Concerns over spurious seeds, crop failures, and farmer losses have highlighted the need for a modern, enforceable regulatory regime.

Key Provisions of the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025:

1. Mandatory Registration of Seed Varieties

• • Section 13 mandates that no seed of any kind (except:
    • farmers’ varieties, and
    • varieties produced exclusively for export)
      can be sold for sowing without compulsory registration.
  • Registration will be based on data regarding performance, germination, field trials, and quality.
  • Varieties already notified under the Seeds Act, 1966 will be deemed registered.

2. Categorisation of Offences

The Bill classifies offences into three categories:

• • Trivial
  • Minor
  • Major

Major offences include:

• • Supplying spurious seeds
  • Selling seeds of non-registered varieties
  • Conducting seed business (dealer, distributor, producer, processor, nursery) without registration

3. Penal Provisions

For major violations:

• • Fine up to ₹30 lakh
  • Imprisonment up to 3 years

These stricter penalties are aimed at deterring malpractices that jeopardise crop outcomes and farmer livelihoods.

4. Regulation of Seed Quality and Imports

The Bill seeks to:

• • Regulate quality standards for all seeds sold domestically
  • Ensure quality control of imported seeds
  • Enable a more transparent seed supply chain

The objective is to ensure farmers have reliable access to high-quality seeds suitable for diverse agro-climatic conditions.

Significance:

• • • Farmer Protection: Prevents financial losses due to seed failure and adulteration.
    • Modernization of Seed Sector: Updates a nearly 60-year-old law to address current challenges such as hybrid seeds, private R&D, and technological claims.
    • Accountability: Mandates registration and traceability, holding seed companies responsible for quality.
    • Market Discipline: Strong deterrence against spurious seed traders, improving credibility of seed markets.

Concerns & Challenges:

• • • Small seed producers may face higher compliance burdens.
    • Registration and certification processes must be speedy to avoid delays in bringing new varieties to market.
    • Effective enforcement will require strengthened labs, inspectors, and coordination with state agencies.

Conclusion:

The Seeds Bill, 2025 represents a significant reform aimed at ensuring seed quality, protecting farmers, and promoting transparency in the seed sector. With stringent penalties and mandatory registration, the proposed legislation seeks to modernise India’s agricultural input governance. Its success, however, will depend on balanced implementation, adequate infrastructure, and stakeholder cooperation.