Punjab government has banned sale of hybrid paddy (non-Basmati) seeds ahead of the 2024–25 Kharif season, citing low milling quality and poor market returns for farmers.
Why Was the Ban Imposed?
Lower Milling Efficiency: Hybrid varieties have a lower Out Turn Ratio (OTR) — only 60–63%, whereas the Food Corporation of India (FCI) mandates minimum 67% OTR.
High Breakage: Higher percentage of broken rice during milling leads to reduced quality and returns.
Farmer Losses: Farmers receive lower prices due to broken rice and low acceptance by rice millers.
Millers’ Refusal: In 2024, rice millers refused to accept hybrid varieties, forcing the government to intervene.
Preventive Step: The ban was issued in advance to avoid a repeat of last year’s procurement issues.
Why Do Punjab Farmers Prefer Hybrid Rice Seeds?
Higher Yields: Hybrid varieties give 35–40 quintals per acre, around 5–6 quintals more than traditional seeds.
Shorter Crop Duration: Takes 125–130 days, allowing timely sowing of the next crop.
Higher Income: Farmers earn ₹13,000–₹14,000 more per acre.
Less Stubble: Hybrid crops produce less crop residue, helping with stubble-burning concerns.
Popular Hybrid Varieties in Punjab:
- Sava 127, Sava 134, Sava 7501, 27P22, VNR 203, etc.
- Offered by Savannah, VNR, Corteva, Bayer, etc.
Scientific View & Expert Opinion
Experts argue low OTR is not due to hybrid seeds, but:
- Poor harvesting timing
- Improper post-harvest handling
Ideal OTR requires:
- Harvesting at 22–23% moisture
- Drying to 16–17% before procurement
- Milling at 13–14% moisture
Legality of Ban Under Scrutiny
This ban may lead to legal conflict between Punjab & Centre over jurisdiction.
Contradicts Central Laws:
- Seed Act, 1966
- Seed Control Order, 1983
As per Sections 6 & 7 of Seed Act:
- Once notified by the Central Government, seeds are legally approved for sale.
- State governments cannot ban centrally notified varieties arbitrarily.
What Is Hybrid Rice?
Hybrid rice = Cross between two genetically distinct lines.
Traits:
- High yield
- Drought & disease resistance
- Shorter growth cycles
Benefits:
- 15–20% more yield
- Uses 30% less water
- Less stubble burning
- Therefore, Widely used globally for water efficiency and higher productivity.