In a decisive move to protect farmers from the detrimental effects of counterfeit agricultural products, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has directed stringent actions against traders dealing in fake seeds and fertilizers. During a high-level review meeting at the Secretariat on Friday, the Chief Minister emphasized the urgency of safeguarding the upcoming Vanakalam (monsoon) crop season from the threats posed by spurious agricultural inputs.
CM Reddy instructed district collectors and police officials across the state to remain vigilant and to initiate cases under the Preventive Detention (PD) Act against individuals involved in the sale of counterfeit seeds and fertilizers. He mandated the formation of joint task forces comprising the Agriculture and Police Departments to conduct coordinated raids, particularly focusing on state borders to intercept the transportation of fake agricultural products.
“Officials have detailed information about the offenders, including their locations, storage sites, and transport routes. No one should be spared,” CM Reddy asserted, highlighting the government’s commitment to taking strict legal action against those cheating farmers.
To further support farmers, the Chief Minister advised them to purchase only sealed seed packets accompanied by valid receipts and to retain these receipts until the end of the cropping season. He reassured the farming community that there is an adequate supply of quality seeds and fertilizers available in all districts, negating the need for concern over shortages.
In anticipation of early monsoon rains, as predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department, CM Reddy urged farmers to stay informed about weather forecasts to ensure timely sowing of crops. He also directed the Agriculture Department to launch extensive awareness campaigns to educate farmers about the risks associated with counterfeit agricultural products and to inform them about the measures being taken to prevent such malpractices.
This proactive approach by the Telangana government aims to fortify the agricultural sector against fraudulent activities, ensuring that farmers receive genuine inputs essential for a successful and productive monsoon cropping season.
