Relevance for UPSC (GS II – Governance; GS III – Agriculture)
Source: PPV&FRA consultations
1. Context
The Centre is reviewing the PPV&FR Act, 2001 through a committee led by R.S. Paroda to address technological changes and concerns of farmers and breeders.
2. The Act
- Provides intellectual property protection to plant breeders.
- Ensures farmers’ rights to save, use, sow, resow, exchange and sell seeds (except branded seeds).
- Mandates DUS testing (Distinctness, Uniformity, Stability) for registration.
- Established the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority.
- Designed as a farmer-centric alternative to UPOV, balancing innovation with seed sovereignty.
3. Key Proposed Changes & Concerns
Proposed Change | Concern |
| Redefinition of ‘variety’ (incl. genotype combinations) | May let companies claim rights over community varieties. |
| Broader ‘breeder’ definition | Risk of greater private control over seeds. |
| Stronger DUS testing norms | Allegations of inconsistent testing (e.g., Njavara case). |
| New abusive act clause | May criminalise traditional seed-sharing. |
| Accountability for non-performing seeds | Farmers demand clear compensation rules. |
| Registration of community seeds | Needed to prevent misappropriation. |
4. Way Ahead
- Protect community seed rights and document traditional varieties.
- Ensure transparent DUS testing and clear compensation mechanisms.
- Balance innovation incentives with farmers’ seed sovereignty.
- Strengthen awareness of farmers’ rights under the Act.
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