After postponing introduction of Seed Bill 2010 in the last few sessions, the Government will introduce the controversial Bill in Parliament on Wednesday. Mr Sharad Pawar, Minister for Agriculture, has convened a meeting of MPs this afternoon ahead of the introduction of the Bill.

The Bill seeks to introduce radical changes in various issues related to seed activity. Farmers unions and non-governmental organisations have been opposing the Bill, saying that it would take away powers from States in controlling seed prices.

Several States, led by Andhra Pradesh, have made several representations asking the Government to let States retain power to control seed prices and impose fine and punishment on seed companies in case of crop losses due to poor quality of seeds.