Kota: Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said Monday the govt is preparing tougher laws to curb the sale of adulterated and substandard seeds, fertilisers and pesticides, citing weak penalties under existing legislation.Addressing an event at Krishi Upaj Mandi Ground in Baran, where development projects for Baran and Jhalawar districts were inaugurated and foundation stones laid, Chouhan said the current 1966 law provided for fines of only ₹500 to ₹1,000, which did not deter malpractice.“We will enact new laws with the strictest punishments for those who indulge in dishonesty. We will not spare anyone. A new Seed Act and Pesticide Act are being brought to protect farmers’ rights, ensure they get quality seeds, and strictly punish companies and individuals engaging in malpractice,” Chouhan said.He said an agriculture roadmap for Baran, Jhalawar and Kota districts would be prepared in consultation with agricultural scientists and the Rajasthan government to improve irrigation and promote sustainable farming.Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma listed the development and welfare measures undertaken by his govt and referred to proposed schemes.Baran-Jhalawar MP Dushyant Singh, Baran minister in charge Otaram Dewasi, local MLAs, party workers and a large number of people were present.
