The Seeds Bill, 2011: Some Reflections

The main reason for the continued low use of quality seed has been inadequate access. Though the private sector has taken a lead in harnessing technological innovation in some segments, it has concentrated on particular types of seed. It has also occasionally supplied spurious and low quality seeds and charged exorbitant prices. There is, thus, a strong need to promote competition, strengthen the role of the public sector and encourage investment in seed production. The provisions of the new seeds bill and its early enactment are critical for moving agriculture to a new growth trajectory.