“State Ensures Timely Seed Distribution Amid Expanded Kharif Area”

Mumbai: This year, the Kharif area has increased by one lakh and ten thousand hectares, and careful planning is being done regarding the supply of seeds and fertilizers. The current total seed demand is 18 lakh quintals, and considering the increased area, the state government has sanctioned 24 lakh quintals of seeds. Of these, 13 lakh quintals have been distributed, and another 6 lakh quintals are in the process of distribution. Agriculture Minister Dhananjay Munde informed that plans are in place to ensure the remaining seeds are also distributed on time.

A review meeting was held in the Ministry regarding the availability of fertilizers and seeds in connection with pre-Kharif season preparations. At that time, Minister Munde was speaking. Present at the meeting were Principal Secretary of Agriculture Department Smt. A. Kundan, Commissioner of Agriculture Raosaheb Bhagde, Director of Quality Control Department Vikas Patil, Managing Director of Seed Corporation Shri. Gondawale, Shri. Kalantri of Mahabeez, Head of Seed Department of Agricultural Universities, and officials of Maharashtra Agricultural Industry Development Corporation, both in person and through teleconferencing.

On this occasion, Mr. Munde said that the state government has proposed agricultural laws to prevent the loss of farmers by stopping the misuse of fertilizers and agricultural inputs. These laws are pending consideration by the Legislature. Minister Munde also directed the creation of a task force to ensure that all types of seeds are available to farmers at reasonable prices, along with an abundant stock of fertilizers and its proper distribution.

In the meantime, measures have been suggested regarding the requisition and stocking of seeds from specific companies in the state. Through the National Food Security Mission, Cotton-Soybean Scheme, and other schemes, as well as Mahabeez, essential seeds for the Kharif season have been made available in abundance, ensuring no shortages. The department is to crack down on the sale of agricultural inputs at high prices, artificial scarcity, and the sale of bogus seeds. Mr. Munde also stated that if it is noticed that the department has not taken action in any place despite complaints from farmers, action will be taken against the concerned officials.

On this occasion, Mrs. Kundan, Principal Secretary of Agriculture Department, presented a review of the availability of fertilizers and seeds in connection with pre-Kharif season preparations.