Agriculture Department Will Be Strengthened to Ensure Quality Seeds and Fertilizers for Farmers: CM Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai : To ensure that farmers receive high-quality seeds, fertilizers, and other agricultural inputs, the state government will further strengthen the Agriculture Department’s mechanisms, said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in the Maharashtra Legislative Council. He also mentioned that necessary amendments will be made to empower the Agriculture Department with greater inspection authority.

CM Fadnavis was responding to a discussion regarding the reduction in powers of the Zilla Parishad’s Agriculture Department. The matter was raised by Legislative Council member Sadabhau Khot as a point of public interest. Member Eknath Khadse also participated in the discussion.

No License Issued for Unauthorized HTBT Cotton Seed Sales – Minister of State Dr. Pankaj Bhoyar

Responding to questions about the seizure of unauthorized HTBT (Herbicide Tolerant Bt) cotton seeds, Minister of State Dr. Pankaj Bhoyar clarified that while genetically modified (GM) seeds have received approval, HTBT cotton seeds have not been licensed for sale in India.

He stated that during the current sowing season, large-scale stockpiling of unauthorized HTBT seeds was reported. Based on this information, the Agriculture Commissioner issued a directive on March 7, 2025, instructing all district administrations to seize any such seeds being stored or sold.

Dr. Bhoyar confirmed that unauthorized HTBT seeds have been seized, and criminal cases have been filed against the seed producers responsible for the illegal distribution.