What are the main causes behind the proliferation of counterfeit seeds in India? Examine their impact on farm productivity and farmer incomes. Suggest regulatory and technological measures to tackle the issue.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country
Topic: Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country
Q5. What are the main causes behind the proliferation of counterfeit seeds in India? Examine their impact on farm productivity and farmer incomes. Suggest regulatory and technological measures to tackle the issue. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: Mint
Why the question The rising menace of counterfeit seeds has caused crop failures, farmer distress, and export risks, making it a pressing issue in India’s agricultural governance. Key Demand of the question The question requires identifying the causes behind proliferation of counterfeit seeds, examining their impact on productivity and farmer incomes, and suggesting regulatory as well as technological measures to tackle the problem. Structure of the Answer: Introduction Briefly highlight the role of quality seeds in farm productivity and the challenge posed by counterfeits. Body Causes of proliferation – weak regulation, farmer unawareness, profit motives, lack of traceability, etc. Impacts – lower yields, debt, loss of trust, export risks, and food security challenges. Measures – strengthen Seeds Act, digital traceability (Sathi, QR codes), seed labs, awareness, strict enforcement. Conclusion End with a forward-looking statement on securing farmer incomes and agricultural credibility through seed governance.
Why the question The rising menace of counterfeit seeds has caused crop failures, farmer distress, and export risks, making it a pressing issue in India’s agricultural governance.
Key Demand of the question The question requires identifying the causes behind proliferation of counterfeit seeds, examining their impact on productivity and farmer incomes, and suggesting regulatory as well as technological measures to tackle the problem.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly highlight the role of quality seeds in farm productivity and the challenge posed by counterfeits. Body
• Causes of proliferation – weak regulation, farmer unawareness, profit motives, lack of traceability, etc.
• Impacts – lower yields, debt, loss of trust, export risks, and food security challenges.
• Measures – strengthen Seeds Act, digital traceability (Sathi, QR codes), seed labs, awareness, strict enforcement.
Conclusion
End with a forward-looking statement on securing farmer incomes and agricultural credibility through seed governance.