Introduction
The Union government announced on 25 February 2026 that a new Seeds Bill would be tabled in the second part of the Budget Session of Parliament (2025-26). The proposed legislation aims to replace the Seeds Act, 1966 — a law that has governed seed quality, certification, and sale in India for nearly six decades.
Why Reform the Seeds Act, 1966?
The Seeds Act, 1966 was enacted to regulate the quality of seeds sold commercially. However, critics argue it: (1) is outdated and does not cover newer seed technologies including GM/biotech seeds; (2) provides inadequate protection for farmers who buy substandard seeds; (3) does not address seed sovereignty and the rights of farmers to save, use, and exchange seeds; (4) lacks provisions for breeders’ rights vs. farmers’ rights balance; and (5) creates ambiguity around liability when seeds fail.
Key Provisions Expected in the New Bill
The new Seeds Bill is expected to: (1) establish a National Seeds Board for centralised regulation; (2) introduce a registration system for all seeds; (3) clarify farmers’ rights to save, use, exchange, and sell farm-saved seeds; (4) introduce strict liability clauses for seed companies in case of crop failure; (5) address the legal status of genetically modified seeds and Bt crops.
The GM Seeds Debate
India currently permits only one GM crop — Bt Cotton — for commercial cultivation. The government has been exploring Bt Brinjal and GM Mustard. The Supreme Court is currently hearing petitions on GM Mustard. India’s PPV&FR Act, 2001 protects traditional farmer varieties.
📝 Practice Quiz — 5 MCQs
Answers with detailed explanations
📝 Practice Quiz — 5 MCQs
Answers with detailed explanations
