Three companies banned in Gadchiroli after complaints of substandard seeds, 65 FIRs filed across Maha Maharashtra’s government has banned five paddy varieties from three companies following complaints from farmers in Gadchiroli about substandard seeds. The decision was announced during a state assembly session, with agriculture minister Dattatray Bharne confirming the action in a written reply. In addition, the government registered 65 police cases across the state for unlicensed input sales. MLA Dr. Milind Narote raised questions in the assembly about whether substandard seeds had caused significant crop losses in Gadchiroli and whether action had been taken against the responsible companies. Bharne responded by stating that 78 complaints were received in the region, primarily concerning paddy crops maturing earlier than expected and the mixing of different varieties. A taluka-level grievance redressal committee confirmed production losses linked to these complaints. The three companies whose five paddy varieties were flagged had their sales banned across Maharashtra. Goods worth Rs 2.34 crore—equivalent to 14.03 metric tonnes of inputs sold without a licence—were seized statewide. The government also suspended 372 seed dealer licences and cancelled 520 others. Sales orders were issued against 868 dealers and companies. The minister highlighted that 65 police cases were filed across the state for violations involving companies, dealers, and individuals. The ban follows allegations that substandard seeds led to premature crop maturity and reduced yields, affecting farmers’ livelihoods. The government’s actions aim to address unlicensed sales of agricultural inputs, which have been a recurring issue in the state.#maharashtra #gadchiroli #dattatray_bharne #milind_narote #seed_dealers
