Shivraj Chouhan orders legal action on complaints of crop loss due to substandard seeds in MP

New Delhi/Khargone, April 17 (IANS) Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, on Friday directed strict legal action and immediate compensation after complaints of crop loss due to substandard seeds in Madhya Pradesh.

The minister met a group of young farmers from Dhar and Khargone districts at his official residence in New Delhi on Friday.

The farmers informed him about severe losses in their bitter gourd crop. They said poor-quality seeds and saplings were responsible for the damage.

Chouhan took immediate note of the complaint and ordered officials to ensure compensation without delay. He also directed strict action against those responsible for the alleged supply of substandard seeds.

“Farmers’ hard work and trust cannot be allowed to be destroyed. Strict legal action will be taken against those who cheat farmers,” Chouhan said in statement.

Following his directions, an FIR has been registered at Manawar Police Station in Dhar district. The case has been filed against Nunhems India Private Limited. Officials said FIR No. 266 has been lodged, according to a Press note from Chouhan’s office on Friday.

The case has been registered under relevant Sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Essential Commodities Act, and the Seeds Act. Police said an investigation has started.

Farmers said they had purchased bitter gourd seeds and saplings in November 2025. The purchase was made through local nurseries and agricultural service centres.

After sowing, the crop failed to grow properly. The fruits remained small. They turned yellow and dropped early. Farmers reported heavy financial losses.

A complaint was filed on February 17, 2026. A preliminary enquiry by agricultural experts found prima facie evidence of substandard seeds being supplied as certified products. The saplings were also found to be defective.

Chouhan said the government will not tolerate negligence in agricultural inputs and added that farmers’ interests were a top priority.

He also directed officials to examine the ‘Rubasta’ variety of bitter gourd seeds linked to the case. He asked for strict monitoring of seed quality and supply systems.

Officials said assessment of crop losses has begun. Police are also investigating the role of the company and its distribution network.

–IANS

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