Gadwal: A significant change is on the horizon for farmers in Telangana. M. Kodanda Reddy, Chairman of the Telangana State Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Commission, announced a new Seed Law to enhance farmers’ rights and control seed companies. This law, expected within 15 to 20 days, aims to provide legal protection and strict regulations for seed companies.
The announcement came during a meeting held at the IDOC Conference Hall in the Collectorate, chaired by District Collector B.M. Santhosh. The meeting focused on the challenges farmers face with cotton seed cultivation. Farmers, representatives, seed organizers, and company officials shared their experiences.
Kodanda Reddy praised the district’s cotton crop, which competes in international markets like China. He highlighted the state’s efforts to support agriculture through various schemes and policies. The meeting was convened in Gadwal following reports of cotton seed failures causing farmers’ debts and suicides.
The new Seed Law will ensure accountability for seed companies while protecting farmers’ rights. Kodanda Reddy highlighted the government’s previous success with the Bhubharati Act to resolve land ownership issues. The Seed Law aims to provide similar benefits for farmers.
Women in agriculture will also receive attention, ensuring justice for female farmers. Kodanda Reddy noted past success in addressing maize farmers’ issues in Mulugu district and emphasized direct farmer-company interactions to improve seed quality and accountability.
He stressed that licensed moneylenders must follow RBI regulations and operate transparently to prevent farmer exploitation. The government stands firm in supporting farmers, who are seen as the nation’s backbone.
Committee member K.V. Narasimha Reddy noted that farmers’ mistrust in seed organizers causes losses for both parties. The new law aims to provide a lasting solution. Sunil Kumar emphasized reviving the 2005 Contract Farming Law, urging companies to manage risks. He highlighted the need for farmers to understand their land rights, given agriculture’s critical role in the economy.
District Collector B.M. Santhosh assured that the government is addressing farmer issues with new policies. With about 40,000 farmers growing cotton seeds over 30,000 acres, seed cultivation is vital for the district’s economy. The government plans to incorporate farmers’ suggestions into policy-making.
Santhosh confirmed that a detailed approach will resolve seed-related issues. The administration will gather data from companies and prepare clear procedures for money lending and agreements, focusing on farmers’ welfare.
Earlier, the Commission Chairman visited farms in Putanpalli village to understand farmers’ challenges firsthand.
The meeting included District Additional Collector Lakshminarayana, RDO Alivelu, Commission members Ramulu Naik, Sunil Kumar, Ram Reddy Gopal Reddy, Gadugu Gangadhar, K.V. Narasimha Reddy, Marikanti Bhavani, former Alampur MLA Sampath Kumar, District Agriculture Officer Sakriya Naik, and other officials, along with seed organizers, company representatives, farmers, and public representatives.
