{
  "id": 17845955,
  "title": "Govt consults seed, fertiliser firms on easing regulatory hurdles",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/02/govt-consults-seed-fertiliser-firms-on-easing-regulatory-hurdles",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-11-02T19:27:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Economic Times - Economy",
    "slug": "the-economic-times-economy",
    "url": "https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/agriculture/govt-consults-seed-fertiliser-firms-on-easing-regulatory-hurdles/articleshow/135473241.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Indian government is currently engaging with key players in the agriculture sector, including seed manufacturers, fertiliser producers, and exporters, to streamline regulatory processes and boost ease of doing business. Officials from Niti Aayog recently convened meetings with representatives of the seed industry to address outdated regulatory frameworks governing seeds and fertilisers, as well as explore new international markets through trade agreements and initiatives to expand India's agricultural exports.\n\nState governments have disparate procedures and requirements for testing and trials, causing delays in introducing new products and limiting farmers' access to cutting-edge technologies, according to a senior seed industry representative. Earlier, discussions were held with fertiliser industry representatives to gather suggestions on policy and procedural changes that could simplify business operations, decrease compliance burdens, and enhance competitiveness.\n\nA crucial aspect of these consultations is the need to modernize the regulatory framework for the sector. The Seeds Act of 1966, which currently governs the seed industry, is perceived as outdated and inadequate to accommodate technological advancements and the emergence of novel seed varieties. Fertiliser companies have also voiced concerns over delays in regulatory approvals for innovative products, which can hinder the timely introduction of new technologies in the market and restrict farmers' access to these advancements. Industry stakeholders are anticipated to highlight issues pertaining to approvals, licensing requirements, regulatory clearances, quality-control norms, and other operational obstacles.\n\nFor seed companies, the age of the existing law and the delays in approving new seed varieties are significant concerns. Fertiliser manufacturers are expected to advocate for expedited clearances for new products, while exporters may push for more streamlined procedures and predictable trade policies. The government is also investigating new international markets through trade agreements and other initiatives to diversify and expand agricultural exports.",
  "summary": "The Indian government is engaging with agricultural companies to address regulatory challenges that affect the sector. Consultations focus on updating the Seeds Act, 1966, to align with modern agricultural technology. Industry representatives have pointed out delays in approvals and licensing processes that hinder market access.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}