Fake Cotton Seeds Still Being Sold in Adilabad Despite Warnings
In Adilabad, fake cotton seeds continue to surface even after repeated warnings and awareness campaigns by the district authorities.
District Agricultural Officer (DAO) Sridhar confirmed that a case has been registered against individuals caught selling counterfeit cotton seeds. Acting on a tip-off, officials raided the home of Jadan Gajanand in Islam Nagar village, located in Ichoda Mandal. During the search, they seized nine fake cotton seed packets.
When questioned, Gajanand admitted to selling these illegal seeds to Kandli Shivakumar and Kottapelli Ravinder, both from Kokas Mannur village. He also revealed that Adav Ravikanth, a resident of Mukhr (B) village in the same mandal, had brought counterfeit seeds from Maharashtra. With Gajanand’s help, Ravikanth was distributing them to local farmers. Ravikanth is currently on the run.
Authorities have now filed cases against Gajanand, Shivakumar, Ravinder, and Ravikanth for their involvement in this illegal trade.
Meanwhile, District Collector Rajarshi Shah assured that the government has released 1.5 million cotton seed packets for farmers across all mandals. These are available through authorized dealers. In addition, 55,000 metric tons of fertilizers are stocked and ready for use.
The Collector urged farmers to buy seeds and fertilizers only from licensed dealers. He stressed the importance of keeping the receipt and original seed packets safely until the end of the season.
He also warned farmers to avoid buying loose seeds, BG-3 seeds (which are banned), and mixed fertilizers. The use of glyphosate herbicide, which is also restricted, should be avoided.
Strict legal action will be taken against anyone found selling or distributing fake seeds or illegal fertilizers, Shah added.
Farmers are encouraged to stay alert, verify sources, and report any suspicious seed or fertilizer sales to the nearest agriculture office.
