KHAMMAM: Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has directed police officials to take stringent legal action against those involved in the sale of fake seeds, stressing that such fraud not only causes financial losses to farmers but also undermines their hard work.
At a review meeting with officials in Khammam, Vikramarka emphasised the need for inter-state coordination and urged police to work with the Andhra Pradesh government to ensure repeat offenders are permanently barred from selling seeds.
In response to the growing threat of counterfeit seeds, the state government has formed special task force teams comprising agricultural officers and police personnel. These teams are actively monitoring seed sellers and retail outlets across various districts, including Khammam, Nalgonda, Yadadri Bhongir, Suryapet, Nagarkurnool, Rangareddy, Adilabad, Nizamabad and Karimnagar. So far, 700 kg of fake seeds have been seized, and several arrests made.
The government has also banned Herbicide Tolerant (HT) cotton seeds due to their environmental impact, such as soil nutrient depletion and lower yields. Despite this, some traders continue to mislead farmers by promoting these seeds as beneficial for reducing weed growth.
Vikramarka advised farmers to purchase seeds only from licensed dealers.
Deputy CM urges focus on welfare delivery
Khammam: Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka on Thursday stressed the need for meticulous planning for effective implementation of all welfare schemes that are aimed at ensuring the wellbeing of the people.
The deputy CM made these remarks during a review meeting held at the Khammam District Collectorate. Referring to the paddy procurement process, he said that the government had purchased a record quantity of paddy in the Khammam district and also made payments to farmers. He described the `5 lakh housing scheme for the poor as unparalleled in the country.