(a) whether there is a proposal with the Government for seed certification by Organization for Economic Co-operation Development (OECD);
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the manner in which the said seed certification is likely to improve the quality of seeds in the country?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFARE
‡ãðŠãäÓã ??? ????? ?????? ½ãâ¨ããÊã¾ã ½ãñâ À㕾㠽ãâ¨ããè ( SHRI PARSHOTTAM RUPALA)
(a) & (b): Yes, Madam. India has joined Organization for Economic Co-operation Development (OECD) seed schemes in October, 2008. OECD Seed Certification schemes provide an international framework for the certification of Seeds for International trade. India participates in five seed schemes i.e. Cereals, Maize & Sorghum, Crucifers & other oil or fiber species, Grasses & legumes and vegetables. The scheme is implemented by ten Designated Authorities viz., State Seed Certification Agencies of Assam, Bihar, Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Joint Secretary (Seeds) is the National Designated Authority.
(c): OECD Seed Certification Scheme is a global framework and the objective is to encourage the use of quality guaranteed seeds, facilitate the import and export of seeds by the removal of technical trade barriers through internationally recognized labels in the participating countries.
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