Online portal to combat sale & purchase of uncertified paddy seeds in Punjab soon

In a major step to curb the sale of uncertified seeds in Punjab, the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department has been directed to develop an online portal within a month to track and trace paddy seeds.

The portal will require registered seed producers to log details of every paddy seed transaction, including purchases, sales, and quantities, ensuring a transparent and accountable seed supply chain.

During a high-level meeting with sheller owners and officials from the Agriculture and Food & Civil Supplies departments, it was emphasized that strict monitoring of the seed supply chain is crucial.

“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to safeguarding the interests of our farmers and ensuring the quality of Punjab's agricultural produce,” said the Agriculture Minister. Officials were instructed to ensure that PAU-recommended quality paddy seeds are readily available to farmers.

It was reiterated that no one will be allowed to exploit farmers by selling substandard and uncertified paddy seeds, which lead to lower yields and financial losses. Uncertified seeds often lack genetic vigor and disease resistance, resulting in stunted growth, reduced grain production, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases. These issues also create challenges for the sheller industry in milling paddy into rice, impacting overall production and market value.

The introduction of the online portal is expected to enhance transparency and accountability in the seed supply chain, contributing to a more sustainable and productive agricultural sector. Eliminating uncertified seeds will help improve crop yields, boost agricultural productivity, and enhance consumer confidence in Punjab’s rice quality.

PAU-Recommended Paddy Seed Varieties

Farmers are encouraged to purchase paddy seed varieties recommended by PAU, Ludhiana, and obtain proper receipts and bills for seeds and other agricultural inputs. PAU has recommended 11 varieties of paddy, including PR 131, PR 130, PR 129, PR 128, HKR 47, PR 127, PR 126, PR 122, PR 121, PR 114, and PR 113.

Officials present at the meeting included the Director of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Special Secretary of Agriculture, and the Director of Agriculture.