The Central Government has invoked its powers under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, to notify the maximum sale price of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt.) cotton seed packets for the financial year 2024-25. This notification was published on March 8, 2024.
This decision, made in accordance with the Cotton Seed Price (Control) Order, 2015, comes after careful consideration.
According to the notification, the maximum sale price of Bt. cotton seed packets for the entire country has been specified as follows:
- Bt. Cotton Hybrid
- BG-I: ₹635
- BG-II: ₹864
These prices are applicable to 475-gram RIB seed packets containing a minimum of 5 percent and a maximum of 10 percent non-Bt. cotton seed. The Government’s intervention in fixing the maximum sale price aims to ensure fair pricing and accessibility of Bt. cotton seeds, crucial inputs for the agricultural sector.
The decision comes amid efforts to support farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the nation. Bt. cotton hybrids play a pivotal role in enhancing crop yield and protecting against pest infestations, contributing significantly to India’s agricultural productivity.
