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Published: July 2, 2010 00:00 IST | Updated: July 2, 2010 04:25 IST BANGALORE, July 2, 2010 Farmers demand amendments to Seed Bill
The South Indian Coordination Committee on Farmers' Movements (SICCFM), comprising the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha (KRRS), Thamizhaga Vivasayigal Sangam (TVS) and Kerala Coconut Farmers' Association, has demanded amendments to the Seed Bill. The Bill will be discussed in the coming monsoon session of the Rajya Sabha.
Speaking to presspersons here on Thursday, KRRS president Kodihalli Chandashekahar said, “The State governments must have powers under the Act to regulate company seed prices, otherwise companies will raise prices, monopolise seeds market and exploit farmers. Because of this, the food security and sovereignty of the county will be under threat.” He said he would speak to Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa on Thursday and urge him to write to the Union Government.
Mr. Chandrashekar said that SICCFM wants this Bill to have stronger infringement clauses such as compensation to farmers as well as fines that are proportionate to value and volume of company sales.
Mr. Nallagounder of TVS said, “According to the Bill, farmers have to revoke the Consumer Protection Act for compensation. This is hardly possible for a poor farmer with no legal knowledge or resources.” He said that local committees should be appointed by the State Government, so that farmers can approach them easily to receive quick and reasonable compensation within 60 days.
Seed testing
Imported seeds must be tested and produced on Indian soil. Imported seeds should prove their environmental and health safety according to Indian standards as well as match up to claims of performance made by companies, said SICCFM member Ashelsha Khadse.
Convener of SICCFM S. Kannaiyan said members would meet various political parties, Rajya Sabha members and governments of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala to make their demands before the monsoon session of the Parliament commences. He said the Seed Bill should be passed only if it protects farmers' interests.
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