Shivraj Singh Chouhan Flags Use of Substandard Seeds and Pesticides, Calls for Immediate Reform

27 June 2025, Indore: Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has raised serious concerns about the increasing complaints from farmers regarding the use of substandard seeds and pesticides, calling for urgent attention and corrective measures to ensure quality and trust in agricultural inputs.

Addressing a press conference in Indore, Chouhan stated that during the nationwide Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, farmers from various regions expressed deep dissatisfaction over poor-quality seeds and unregulated pesticides affecting their productivity and incomes. “This is a critical issue. We cannot allow farmers to suffer because of inferior inputs,” he said, adding that the government is already moving towards systemic reforms in consultation with stakeholders, including farmers and agricultural scientists.

A detailed workshop was held following the campaign, where it was decided that comprehensive discussions will take place with farmers, agri-universities, and industry players to formulate solutions. Chouhan emphasized the need for strict quality control mechanisms and timely availability of certified seeds.

Highlighting the broader agricultural vision under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the minister said India’s agricultural policy is now moving beyond traditional models. “Research will no longer be confined to scientists sitting in Delhi. It will be driven by farmers’ needs, with scientists stepping into the fields to align their efforts with real challenges,” he asserted.

The press conference, which largely focused on strategies to boost soybean productivity, also underscored the importance of per-hectare yield improvement. Chouhan pointed to genome editing, improved seed varieties, mechanization to address labour shortages, and early disease identification as key priorities.

He also stressed the importance of promoting soymeal exports and value-added soy products like tofu and soy milk, citing that soybean remains a major source of protein for the country.

The minister acknowledged the efforts of progressive farmers who have achieved yields of 20 quintals per acre, saying such success stories will be studied and scaled. He also revealed that similar consultations for crop-specific improvements are scheduled in Coimbatore (cotton), Meerut (sugarcane), and Kanpur (pulses).

“We must adopt the mantra: One Nation – One Agriculture – One Team. Only with collective efforts can we ensure the development of a robust, modern, and prosperous agricultural sector,” Chouhan concluded.

Also Read: Five Indians Recognized in 2025 Top Agri-Food Pioneers List by World Food Prize Foundation

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