Farmers to Receive Protection under Proposed Seed and Pesticide Act: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

31 December 2025, Maharashtra

A farmers’ interaction programme was organised today at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Babhaleshwar, where Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, interacted with farmers and agricultural officials to discuss key issues related to farming and farmers’ welfare.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister announced that the Central Government is in the process of introducing a new Seed and Pesticide Act aimed at safeguarding farmers from exploitation. He stated that the proposed legislation will include stringent provisions for compensation to affected farmers, along with strict penalties for companies found supplying substandard or spurious seeds and pesticides. Emphasising that farmers’ interests remain the government’s top priority, Shri Chouhan said there would be no compromise on the quality of agricultural inputs.

The Minister assured farmers of the timely availability of fertilisers, seeds, and other essential inputs during the cropping season to ensure smooth agricultural operations. He also highlighted several government initiatives focused on enhancing farmers’ income and strengthening the agricultural sector.

Highlighting the importance of natural farming, Shri Chouhan noted that it helps reduce the cost of cultivation, improves soil health, and ensures the production of safe and nutritious food. He further stated that sustained efforts are being made to provide farmers with better and remunerative prices for their produce, thereby ensuring long-term economic stability.

The Union Minister also underlined the need to continuously update agricultural education and curricula in line with rapidly evolving technologies and modern farming practices. He stressed that research institutions, agricultural universities, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras must play a pivotal role in transferring advanced technologies and innovations to farmers at the grassroots level.

The programme was attended by Maharashtra Water Resources Minister Shri Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Guardian Minister of Ahilyanagar, former minister Shri Annasaheb Mhaske Patil, Vice-Chancellor of Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dr. Vilas Kharche, District Collector Dr. Pankaj Ashiya, senior officials of the Agriculture Department, scientists, extension personnel, and a large number of farmers from the region.

Farmers participating in the programme welcomed the government’s initiatives and actively engaged in discussions, sharing their experiences, challenges, and suggestions for strengthening agricultural development.

(Source: ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Pune)