Shivraj Chouhan Directs Action, Compensation Over Crop Loss Complaints In MP

Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has directed strict legal action and immediate compensation following complaints of crop losses caused by alleged substandard seeds supplied to farmers in Madhya Pradesh. The directive comes after a group of farmers from Dhar and Khargone districts met the minister in New Delhi and raised concerns over widespread damage to their bitter gourd crops.

During the meeting at his official residence, the farmers informed Chouhan that poor-quality seeds and saplings had resulted in significant crop failure. They reported that the bitter gourd plants did not grow properly, with fruits remaining undersized, turning yellow prematurely, and dropping before maturity, leading to heavy financial losses.

Taking immediate cognisance of the complaints, the minister ordered officials to ensure compensation for affected farmers without delay and called for strict action against those responsible for supplying allegedly defective agricultural inputs. He emphasised that farmers’ trust and hard work could not be compromised and that those found guilty would face legal consequences.

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Following his directions, an FIR has been registered at Manawar Police Station in Dhar district against Nunhems India Private Limited. Officials confirmed that FIR No. 266 has been lodged under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Essential Commodities Act, and the Seeds Act, with an investigation now underway into the alleged supply of substandard seeds and saplings.

According to officials, the farmers had purchased bitter gourd seeds and saplings in November 2025 through local nurseries and agricultural service centres. A complaint was later filed in February 2026, prompting a preliminary inquiry by agricultural experts, which reportedly found prima facie evidence suggesting the seeds supplied were not of the certified quality claimed.

The government has also ordered a detailed assessment of crop losses and directed a review of the “Rubasta” variety of bitter gourd seeds linked to the case. Chouhan reiterated that the government would not tolerate negligence in agricultural inputs and stressed the need for stricter monitoring of seed quality and distribution systems to protect farmers from recurring losses.

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