Annual Report - 2017 by NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA

About National Seed Association of India

National Seed Association of India (NSAI), is the apex body representing the industry of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fifth largest seed economy, continued its leadership role by engaging with the national and state governments for pursuing its main agenda of working towards providing an enabling and favourable policy environment for the growth of the industry. The continued patronage of its members encouraged NSAI to work harder for ensuring an inclusive growth for all stakeholders. The enhanced effectiveness was visible in the various engagements with the policy makers, who not only appreciated the role of NSAI, but also respected the views / opinions expressed in various meetings. NSAI continues to be invited to nominate its representatives to various decision-making bodies, as well as, as resource persons / speakers at leading scientific meetings related to agriculture development. Indian Seed Congress, the flagship event of NSAI, is now a muchawaited event in the seed industry calendar, due to the rich scientific content of the Conference and the business generation in the B2B sessions. The visibility for NSAI has grown over the years and the request for our logo to be displayed at various agri- exhibitions and conferences is increasing.

Our Vision

The vision of NSAI is to create â&#x20AC;&#x153;A dynamic, innovative, internationally competitive, research based industry producing high performance, high quality seeds and planting materials which benefit farmers and significantly contribute to the sustainable growth of Indian Agricultureâ&#x20AC;?. The Association is also working towards the responsible use of biotechnology for modernizing Indian agriculture and enhancing the livelihood of Indian farmers. Increasing the general awareness about crop biotechnology amongst the many stakeholders, technology upgradation and engaging in a continuous dialogue with regulators for the establishment of a transparent, fair and equitable regulatory system, are some of the other activities of NSAI.

Our Mission

The mission of NSAI is to encourage investment in the state of the art R & D to bring to the Indian farmer superior genetics and technologies, which are high performance and adopted to a wide range of agro-climatic zones. It actively contributes to seed industry policy development, with the concerned government, to ensure that the policies and regulation create an enabling environment, including public acceptance, so that the industry is globally competitive.

Objective

• To create a policy environment for the seed industry • To create better interaction & provide business opportunities among our stakeholders • To hold meetings and interactions between the public & private sector to discuss common issues • To facilitate Public Private Partnership

What we do?

• Scientific Seminars & Interactive Meetings across the globe • Communication & Knowledge Dissemination through Seed Magazine, News mailers, Seed Handbook and other publications • Policy Advocacy by engaging with Government and scientific entities in enabling the favourable policy environment and furthering the stakeholder’s interest • Brain Storming Sessions/ Roundtables/Conferences & Seminars • Works towards globalizing the seed industry, harmonization of regulatory environment, promoting export of seed and investment in seed industry • Promoting international collaborations with stakeholders and industries • Knowledge and skill enhancement of Human resources through: ◼✓ Capacity building & training ◼✓ Internship ◼✓ Exposure to the industry visits & on job training ◼✓ Training & Capacity building of agri-entrepreneurship ◼✓ Training & Capacity building of Government Officials ◼✓ Study Tours • Collaborative trainings with various institutes, organizations & universities

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

OFFICE BEARERS

President M. Prabhakar Rao (Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd.)

Vice President M.G. Shembekar (Ankur Seeds Pvt. Ltd.)

General Secretary Treasurer ASN Reddy Pawan Kumar Kansal (Delta Agrigenetics Pvt. Ltd.) (Kohinoor Seeds Fields India Pvt. Ltd.)

GOVERNING COUNCIL MEMBERS

G.V. Bhaskar Rao (Kaveri Seed Co. Ltd.)

N.P. Patel (Western Agri Seeds Ltd.)

Pranjivan P Zaver (Farm Tech Biogiene Pvt. Ltd.)

Girdhar D. Patel (Narmada Sagar Agri Seeds Pvt. Ltd.

Janak Peshrana (Seeds India)

K. Niranjan Kumar (GARC Seeds Pvt. Ltd.)

Sameer Mulay (Ajeet Seeds Pvt. Ltd.)

K.S. Narayanaswamy (Karnataka Maize Development Association)

Vaibhav Kashikar (Dharti Agro Chemicals Pvt. Ltd.)

Sachin Bhalinge (Namdeo Umaji Agritech (I) Pvt. Ltd.)

Arun Kumar Agarwalla (West Bengal Hybrid Seeds & Biotech Pvt. Ltd.)

NSAI SECRETARIAT

Kalyan B. Goswami Executive Director

Nilendri Biswal Deputy Director Public Relation & Social Intervention

Under the Guidance of: Dr. Kalyan B Goswami Complied & Edited By: Mr. Priyank Samuel G Mrs. Nilendri Biswal Dr. Manisha Negi

Manisha Negi Asst Director Scientific Affairs

Yash Pal Saini Sr Manager - Admin & Accounts

Priyank Samuel G Asst. Manager Brand Alliance & Communication

Sher Singh Office Executive

Published By: National Seed Association of India 909, Surya Kiran Building, 19 Kasturba Gandhi Marg, New Delhi 110001. India. Tel: +91 11 4353 3241-43 | FAX: +91 11 4353 3248, Email: info@nsai.co.in | Website: www.nsai.co.in

Message from Desk of the President Dear Members,

Over the last one year with your continuous support and encouragement, NSAI has grown by leaps and bounds. NSAI in the past one year has emerged as a memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s voice in various forums be it public as well as private. We have left no stone unturned to ascertain that no issue of concern for the members has gone unheard. NSAI has emerged as the apex body representing the seed industry in the country. Our interaction with Government has earned us regular representations in various forums and meetings. This has helped us leverage our efforts in seeking positive environment for industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth. NSAI has now started coordination and collaboration with various Associations and Industry houses for greater convergence. Due to the enhanced credibility of NSAI, today NSAI is representing the seed industry in many decisionmaking bodies of the government and are significantly contributing for creation of a positive environment. Our Association was able to set right the regulatory system for approving new GM cotton hybrids through concerted efforts and with the support of the State Associations like Seedsmen Association, Hyderabad. It is heartening to note that the Ministry of Environment & Forests which administers the GEAC, Dept. of Biotechnology which administers the RCGM and the Ministry of Agriculture overseeing ICAR and DACFW have accepted the facts and the law positions represented by us to remove the approval of new Bt cotton hybrids from the GEAC to the Ministry of Agriculture. The PPVFR Authority has also removed the NOC requirement from a trait developer for registration of new Bt cotton hybrids and varieties. For the first time, the Ministry of Agriculture also approved new Bt cotton variety enabling the farmers to choose a variety or hybrid depending on his budget and need. The Association is particularly thankful to Seedsmen Association, Hyderabad who had filed writ petitions to get suitable directions to the PPVFR Authority and the GEAC. Our Association will now have to focus on approval of new GM traits for insect resistance and Herbicide resistance and creating multiple stacks by asserting the breeders rights as provided under the PPVFR Act so as to offer the farmers lasting solutions for insect tolerance particularly to overcome the buildup of resistance by the Pink Bollworm which has occurred already twice, once in 2009 and second time in 2015. By having multiple stacks, the problems can be prevented in the future. The wrong approval practices propagated and promoted by vested interests to monopolize the seed market have been largely removed with the efforts of our Associations but we need to be watchful so that such practices are not brought back through back door in the future which can prove dangerous not only to the Industry but also to the farmers. The Secretariat is constantly working for enhancing visibility of the association, while simultaneously making sustained efforts for brand building, strong source of information exchange and engagement in social initiatives like Seed Donation programs in various parts of India. This has been made possible due to the excellent support provided by NSAlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s members. The Indian Seed Congress has become a much-awaited event in the annual calendar of the national and international seed/ agriculture industry. The congress is becoming a forum for active interaction of both national and international delegates. Best Wishes, Shri M Prabhakar Rao

KEY CONTENTS

Agenda of AGM 2017............................................................................. 09 Agenda Notes of AGM 2017................................................................ 10 Minutes of Annual General Meeting 2016.................................. 15 Resolutions passed in Annual General Meeting 2016........ 23 Annual Report 2016-2017................................................................... 31 A. Management.................................................................................. 31 B. Membership................................................................................... 33 C. Communication........................................................................... 33 D. NSAI Meetings...............................................................................37 E. Events/ Conferences................................................................. 46 F. Industry Issues............................................................................ 57 G. NSAI in News.................................................................................. 63 H. Audit Report.................................................................................. 69 I. Resolutions 2017.......................................................................... 81

AGENDA AGENDA NOTES

AGENDA 11th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

8th SEPTEMBER, 2017, 10 AM- 6 PM VENUE: NATIONAL ACADEMY OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES, NASC COMPLEX, PUSA, NEW DELHI INAUGURAL SESSION 1. Welcome Address by President, NSAI 2. Key Note Address 3. Vote of Thanks by Vice President, NSAI ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 1. Welcome address by Executive Director 2. Procurement of Quorum 3. Confirmation of the Minutes of Last AGM (26th August 2016). 4. Presentation of General Secretary’s Report 5. Presentation of the Statement of Accounts & Auditor’s Report by Treasurer 6. Appointment of Auditor for FY 2017-18 7. Approval of Annual Budget for FY 2017-18 8. Approval of resolution that 1 contestant should be allowed to contest from 1 category. 9. Approval on resolution on ‘Criteria for eligibility to contest Elections i.e. 3 years’ experience as NSAI Member and 10 years’ experience in Seed industry’. 10. Approval of Predefined role of Election Committee 11. Address by the President NSAI NSAI ELECTIONS 2017 1. Announcement of the Election Process by Returning Officer 2. Address by Contesting Candidate 3. Voting 4. Announcement of results 5. Announcement and Welcome of Office Bearers and Newly Constituted Governing Council VOTE OF THANKS BY VICE PRESIDENT, NSAI

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

AGENDA NOTES 11th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

8th SEPTEMBER, 2017, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM VENUE: NASC COMPLEX, PUSA, NEW DELHI 1. Welcome Address from the Secretariat Dr. Kalyan Goswami, Executive Director, NSAI shall deliver the speech welcoming our valuable members and thanking Office Bearers & Governing Council members. 2. Pronouncement of Quorum As per rules and regulations governing the conduct of National Seed Association of India (NSAI), a minimum quorum of 10% of the Ordinary Members is mandatory to start the proceedings of Annual General Meeting of NSAI. We have as on date (31st August, 2017), 420 ordinary members of NSAI and hence we need minimum 42 Ordinary Members for requisite quorum for the conduct of A.G.M. 3. Confirmation of the minutes of 10th AGM (26th August, 2016) Minutes of 10th Annual General Meeting held on 26th August, 2016 would be taken up for confirmation and approval by General Body unanimously. 4. Presentation of General Secretary’s Report General Secretary, Shri. ASN Reddy shall present the Annual Report of NSAI for the year 2016-17, highlighting the various achievements of NSAI before the General Body. 5. Presentation of the Financial Statement of Accounts & Auditor’s Report by Treasurer Shri. Pawan Kumar Kansal, Treasurer, NSAI shall present the highlights of financial statement of accounts and Auditor’s Report before the General Body for its approval. 6. Appointment of the Auditor for 2017-18 Auditor for 2017-18 shall be finalized and approved by the General Body. 7.

Approval of Annual Budget for FY 2017-18 by the General Body. The General Body needs to discuss and approve Annual Budget for FY 2017-18

8. Approval of resolution that 1 contestant should be allowed to contest from 1 category. The General Body needs to discuss that ‘an individual cannot contest from more than one category’ (i.e. Ordinary, Associate and Association.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

9. Approval on resolution on ‘Criteria for eligibility to contest Elections i.e. 5 years’ experience as NSAI Member and 10 years’ experience in Seed industry’. The General body needs to discuss and approve ‘‘Eligibility criteria to contest in NSAI Governing Council Elections shall be 3 years’ minimum presence as NSAI Member (i.e. the contestant company shall be a member of NSAI for 3 years on continuous basis) and the member company shall have minimum 10 years’ experience in Seed industry’. 10. Approval of Predefined role of Election Committee The General Body needs to discuss and approve Roles and Responsibilities of Election Committee. 11. Address by the President of NSAI Mr. M. Prabhakar Rao, President, NSAI shall deliver the closing speech. 12.

NSAI Elections 2017 a. Announcement of the Election Process by Returning Officer b. Address by Contesting Candidate c. Voting d. Announcement of results

13. Announcement and Welcome of Newly Constituted Governing Council 14. Vote of Thanks Mr. M.G. Shembekar, Vice President NSAI shall extend Vote of Thanks to the Members for their constant support and time.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

MINUTESâ&#x20AC;&#x152; OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2016

Minutes of Annual General Meeting 2016 26th August, 2016

The Tenth Annual General Meeting of the National Seed Association of India (NSAI) was convened on Friday August 26, 2016 at NASC Complex, Pusa Campus, New Delhi. The AGM was chaired by NSAI President, Mr. M Prabhakar Rao. The AGM was attended by participants from states like Punjab, Maharashtra, Haryana, Delhi, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telengana, West Bengal, Karnataka and Uttarakhand. The total number of participants in the AGM were 45, representing 33 member companies from ordinary category, 2 from Association category and 2 from Associate category.

The Agenda of the AGM 2016: 1. Welcome Address by ED NSAI 2. Pronouncement of Quorum 3. Confirmation of the minutes of 9th AGM (14th September, 2015) 4. Presentation of General Secretaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Report 5. Presentation of the Financial Statement &amp; Auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Report by Treasurer 6. Approval of the NSAI Budget for FY 2016-17 7. Appointment of the Auditor for 2016-17 8. Release of NSAI Seed Directory 9. Address by the President of NSAI 10. Any other matter with the permission of the Chair 11. Vote of Thanks

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

The AGM began with a warm welcome by Executive Director, Dr. Kalyan Goswami. He thanked all the members for providing continued support to the Association for carrying out various activities. Based on the quorum present, he declared the Tenth AGM of NSAI open. The meeting was presided over by President, NSAI Shri M Prabhakar Rao. At the beginning of the meeting the President remarked that 10th AGM has drawn member’s presence from across India i.e. from the states of Punjab, Maharashtra, Haryana, Delhi, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Telengana, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Uttarakhand.

Key Proceedings • The minutes of the Ninth AGM held on 14th September, 2015 at New Delhi, was circulated earlier among the members and included in the annual report were put up for discussions and adoption. The minutes of the meeting was approved. • T he Annual Report 2015-2016 was presented by Shri A S N Reddy, General Secretary, NSAI. He highlighted on the various achievements of NSAI. He also applauded the high visibility of NSAI as a true representative of the Indian seed industry. • S hri A S N Reddy mentioned in his presentation about the key areas of progress for NSAI i.e. membership, improved communication instruments like Seed Times magazine, NSAI website, daily / weekly mailers, monthly newsletter etc. • GS informed the house that the total number of NSAI members as on 20th August 2016 is 374. NSAI continues to be patronized by the major seed sector players and interest for our membership is increasing day by day. From an aggregate of 374 members, as on 20th August 2016, 258 members have renewed (Ordinary 211; Associate: 37; Association: 9; and Public Sector: 01). 42 new members have also taken up NSAI membership.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

• With respect to communication GS informed the house that NSAI magazine The NSAI magazine ‘Seed Times’, is our main vehicle for communicating new knowledge and reports on NSAI and other events, etc. It continues to receive appreciation and accolades for its informative content and production quality. We continue with our practice of theme based content in every issue. During the period under report, we have published 02 issues of the magazine. The Seed Times (Vol. 7 No. 3) issue focused on ‘Innovations in Seed Industry’. While the next volume (Vol. 8 No. 1 & 2) focused on ‘Seed Export-India & World’. • GS also remarked that the NSAI monthly Newsletter ‘Seed News’, is an important medium for communicating industry news. He expressed his satisfaction that the newsletter is now a regular issue with emphasis on reaching out to members with new updates and activities of NSAI. It also covers various important notifications issued by the Government. The Industry Developments section covers new developments in the industry. • The GS stated that NSAI website has become an important source of information for the members. The ‘What’s New at NSAI’ section informs the members about the latest developments of the industry, workshops and conferences. The Website has a section on ‘Important Circulars and Representations’, under this section all-important notifications and circulars are uploaded for benefit of members. The section on ‘Important Notifications’ places important notifications of Government. We have also created a new section for Special Interest Group Vegetable. The ‘Latest News’ section informs members about the current updates of Indian Agriculture & Seed sector. • The GS informed the house that NSAI is also maintaining Twitter and Facebook Accounts for directly connecting with its members and information sharing as well. Communication with members has improved through daily and weekly mailers. NSAI has a dedicated email id i.e. info@nsai.co.in for communicating to members about latest industry developments. • Due discussion took place on the various NSAI Meetings/ Representations. The house was also informed about the numerous meetings, workshops and conferences conducted by NSAI. The various industry issues were also read out by GS before the house. • When the presentation of Annual Report was completed by GS, it was put up for approval before the house. The ‘Annual Report’ was adopted and the members present appreciated the growth of the Association. • This was followed by presentation of financial report by Shri Pawan Kumar Kansal, Treasurer. He highlighted the significant aspects of the annual statement of accounts and appreciated President, NSAI under whose leadership a lot has been achieved. He reassured members that good care has been taken to keep the finances in healthy shape. The NSAI Budget for FY 2016-17 was unanimously approved by the General body. The resolution for continuation of the services of the present auditor for one more year, was unanimously approved. • Following which the 4th NSAI Seed Directory was released by NSAI President Shri M Prabhakar Rao along with Shri Pramod Agarwal from Prasha Agri Consultants Pvt. Ltd. This was followed by Address of NSAI President.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

• Mr M Prabhakar Rao, President, began by thanking each member for extending unrelenting support to NSAI during the last year. The President briefly informed the members that NSAI has worked tirelessly to create consensus among all our members for ensuring the greater good of Indian Seed Industry and farmer welfare. • T he President expressed his satisfaction that NSAI has emerged as a member’s voice in various forum of significance. He informed the house that NSAI has left no stone unturned to ascertain that no issue of concern for the members has gone unheard. NSAI has consolidated its position as the apex body representing the seed industry in the country. • The President informed the house that NSAI is a key participant in various Government Meetings. And that NSAI has represented on behalf of the Indian Seed industry to various Government departments on issues such as GST, Rule based Income Tax on Seed, GST, Bt cotton seed Pricing, licensing of GM traits, IPR etc. • The President mentioned that due to the consolidated efforts of Indian Seed Industry and various stakeholders, today Indian Seed Industry stands for quality seeds which places great importance on welfare of farmers and their families. Over the years, as this young industry continues its growth story it would have a better understanding of key emerging issues such as IPR in India etc. • The President also stressed that regulators are specialized bodies in their respective field and while framing regulations they should bear in mind the welfare of end user. In our case the farmers. Hence a well-balanced regulation can propel the growth of industry as well as farmers. • The President further informed the house that NSAI has supported the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmer’s Welfare in the issue of Cotton Seed Price (Control) Order as monopoly in trait licensing contrary to IPR laws of India has weakened seed industry. The Order has made seed prices and trait value uniform across country relieving industry of burden to run around so many states every year. NSAI is working to address the issue of requirement of NOC for Commercialisation of new Bt cotton hybrids. Regarding the same NSAI has represented to GEAC and other concerned departments that release of GM traits should be on event basis while variety release shall be as per provisions based on seeds act and seed control order 1983. NSAI has also made good progress with Protection of Plant Varieties’ & Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPV&FRA) and NBA. • The President also informed the house that NSAI has uploaded all important representations, notifications and government orders on NSAI website. He encouraged all members to develop the habit of regularly visiting the website. • The President expressed hope that member’s excellent support for the work being done continues to grow and NSAI continues to work with more passion and energy for all its members.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Any other Point with Permission of Chair: Inputs from Shri Raman Uppal, Crystal Crop Science • Shri Uppal stated that the issue of Jute Seed Export is of prime importance for all members associated with the trade. He stated that NSAI should work closely with Seedsmen Association, Hyderabad. NSAI should get in touch with Jute Seed Export Authority based at Guntur for addressing the issue of Jute Seed Exporters. • He further suggested that every month EXIM committee meeting takes place. One member should attend the meeting from NSAI. • Shri Uppal also suggested that whenever NSAI is organizing its Governing Council meetings across various states in India, the State Seed Associations should be invited so that they can separately share the progress being made by them along with sharing of issues if any.

Inputs from Dr P P Zaveri, Farmtech Biogene Pvt. Ltd. • Dr P P Zaveri raised the recurrence of revalidation issue every year. He stated that a permanent solution needs to looked into. • Dr P P Zaveri stated that the work done by NSAI with respect to Licensing guidelines is appreciable. • Dr Zaveri further stated that certain associations like CII, PHD Chambers and ASSOCHAM are stating that the provisions in the draft licensing guidelines for Genetically Modified (GM) technology are being retrograde in nature and such provisions would discourage innovation and investment in research & development(R&D). They have submitted negative comments to DAC. Dr Zaveri stated that NSAI should get in touch with these associations and write a protest letter stating the facts and presenting the true picture.

Inputs from Shri Bijendra Tyagi, KRBL Ltd. • Shri B Tyagi raised the issue about the day by day deteriorating quality of breeder seed specifically in case of Rice Seed. • Shri B Tyagi also raised the issue of subsidy being given to Government Agency but private seed not being entitled for the same. On the issues raised by Shri Raman Uppal, Crystal Crop Science and Dr P P Zaveri, Farmtech Biogene Pvt. Ltd. the President advised ED to take up the matter. With regard to points raised by Shri Bijendra Tyagi, KRBL Ltd., the President stated that they need to provide data with regard to deteriorating quality of breeder seed so that the same can be taken up with concerned departments. With regard to subsidy he stated that NSAI was in favour of Direct cash benefit to the farmers. The ED assured the house that all the issue raised would be thoroughly looked into matter would be taken up with concerned authorities. The AGM ended with vote of thanks being delivered by Vice President, NSAI Shri M G Shembekar. He expressed his satisfaction about the way NSAI was working for the members. He thanked all participants for making the 10th AGM a success story. National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Glimpses of AGM 2016

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

RESOLUTIONS PASSED IN ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2016

Resolutions Passed in Annual General Meeting 2016

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Resolutions Passed in Annual General Meeting 2016

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Resolutions Passed in Annual General Meeting 2016

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Resolutions Passed in Annual General Meeting 2016

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Resolutions Passed in Annual General Meeting 2016

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

ANNUAL REPORT 2016-2017

Annual Report

September 2016- August 2017 National Seed Association of India has continued to enjoy the strong support of its members and government both at state and national level, in representing the cause of Indian Seed Industry and partnering national agenda for agricultural growth. Over the year NSAI and its members have strongly believed that for Indian Agriculture to progress; the farmers of the country must progress. The Industry participation in the NSAI events, meetings and Issue based Workshops has been very encouraging. The increased convergence of efforts can be witnessed through active and regular engagement with policy makers for consultations on important issues of prime importance. This has indeed established the leadership role of NSAI as true representative of Indian Seed Industry. NSAI is now a regular participant to seminars of National and International repute, as both speakers and delegates.

A. Management The Governing Council met on five occasions during the period since last Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 29th November, 2016 (Kolkata), 15th February 2017 (Kolkata), 15th April 2017 (Pune), 17th June 2017 (Delhi) and 11th August 2017 (Teleconference). During these meetings, the GC reviewed the progress of various activities and initiatives, and planned future programs. For the overall benefit of Seed Industry many Key Initiatives were implemented.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Governing Council Meeting S. No.

Venue Date

Mr. M. Prabhakar Rao Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd.

Mr. M. G. Shembekar Ankur Seeds Pvt. Ltd.

Mr. A.S.N. Reddy Seedsmen Association

Mr. Pawan Kumar Kansal Kohinoor Seed Fields India Pvt. Ltd.

Mr. G.V.Bhaskar Rao Kaveri Seed Co. Ltd.

Mr. N.P. Patel Western Agri Seeds Ltd.

Dr. P.P. Zaveri Farm Tech Biogene Pvt. Ltd.

Mr. Girdha D. Patel Narmada Sagar Agri Seeds Pvt. Ltd.

Mr. Janak Peshrana Seeds India

Mr. K. Niranjan Kumar GARC Seeds Private Limited

Mr. Sameer Mulay Ajeet Seeds Ltd.

Mr. K.S. Narayanaswamy Karnataka Maize Development Association

Mr. Vaibhav Ravi Kashikar Dharti Agro Chemicals Pvt. Ltd.

Mr. Sachin M. Bhalinge Namdeo Umaji Agritech (I) Pvt. Ltd.

Mr. Arun Kumar Agarwalla West Bengal Hybrid Seeds & Bio-Tech Pvt. Ltd.

53rd

54th

55th

56th

57th

Kolkata

Pune

New Delhi

Teleconference

29th Nov. 2016

15th Feb. 2017

15th April 2017

17th June 2017

11th Aug. 2017

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

B. Membership NSAI continues to be patronized by the major seed sector players and requests for our membership is increasing. From an aggregate of 483 members, as on 31st August 2017, 337 have renewed (Ordinary 295; Associate: 32; Association: 09; and Public Sector: 01). 98 were new members spread across the 2 categories of Ordinary and Associate.

C. Communication I. Seed Times The NSAI magazine ‘Seed Times’, is our main vehicle for communicating new knowledge and reports on NSAI and other events, etc. It continues to receive appreciation and accolades for its informative content and production quality. We continue with our practice of theme based content in every issue. During the period under report, we have published 02 issues of the magazine. The Seed Times (Vol 9 No. 3 & 4) issue focused on ‘Vegetable Seed Industry - India and World’. While the next volume (Vol 10 No. 1) focused on ‘Role of Biotechnology in Crop Improvement’.

Seed Times Volume 9 No. 3 & 4, Vegetable Seed Industry - India and World

Seed Times Vol 10 No. 1, Role of Biotechnology in Crop Improvement

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

II. NSAI Newsletter- Seed News NSAI monthly Newsletter ‘Seed News’, is an important medium for communicating industry news. The newsletter is now a regular issue with emphasis on reaching out to members with new updates and activities of NSAI. It also covers various important notifications issued by Government.

Issue : September 2016

The Na�onal Seed Associa�on of India

NSAI Attended Meeting on Seed Production/Certification of the Basmati Rice

OFFICE BEARERS M. Prabhakar Rao President M. G. Shembekar Vice President A.S.N Reddy General Secretary Pawan Kumar Kansal Treasurer

GOVERNING COUNCIL G.V. Bhaskar Rao N.P. Patel Pranjivan P Zaveri Girdhar D. Patel Janak Peshrana K. Niranjan Kumar Sameer Mulay

NSAI attended a meeting organised by MoA&FW on Seed Production/Certification of the Basmati Rice under the chairmanship of JS(Seeds) on 14th September, 2016 at New Delhi. Earlier it was brought to the notice of the Seed Division by the All India Rice Exporters Association that some seed companies are taking off-season seed production of Basmati Rice varieties in areas which are outside the areas under the Geographical Indications for cultivation of Basmati Rice. Seeds so produced would not be in consonance with the Geographical Indications for Basmati Rice, which would have extremely serious implications for Basmati rice exports. Basmati rice is cultivated only in the areas included under its Geographical Indications (GI). There are seven States which are covered under GI viz. Western Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Jammu Division, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi.

Issue : October 2016

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G.V. Bhaskar Rao N.P. Patel

G.V. Bhaskar Rao N.P. Patel Pranjivan P Zaveri Girdhar D. Patel Janak Peshrana K. Niranjan Kumar Sameer Mulay

NSAI SECRETARIAT

Kalyan B Goswami Executive Director

Yashpal Saini Sr. Manager - Admin & Accounts Priyank Samuel G Asst. Manager - Brand Alliance & Communication

NSAI was represented by Dr Kalyan Goswami & Dr Manisha Negi. Shri B K Tyagi, KRBL India Pvt Ltd.(NSAI's member) also attended the meeting.

Sher Singh Office Assistant

Issue : January 2016

Manisha Negi Asst. Director - Scientific Affairs

The Na�onal Seed Associa�on of India

M. G. Shembekar Vice President A.S.N Reddy General Secretary Pawan Kumar Kansal Treasurer

GOVERNING COUNCIL G.V. Bhaskar Rao N.P. Patel Pranjivan P Zaveri Girdhar D. Patel

Sher Singh Office Assistant

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Issue : March 2017

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BT COTTON SEED PRICES UNCHANGED

OFFICE BEARERS

December,2016

Issue : April 2017

The Na�onal Seed Associa�on of India

Pre-requisite Conditions to apply for commercial release of Bt Cotton Hybrids

OFFICE BEARERS

A.S.N Reddy General Secretary Pawan Kumar Kansal Treasurer

GOVERNING COUNCIL

G.V. Bhaskar Rao N.P. Patel Pranjivan P Zaveri Girdhar D. Patel

Janak Peshrana K. Niranjan Kumar Sameer Mulay K.S. Narayanaswamy Vaibhav Kashikar Sachin Bhalinge

Nilendri Biswal Dy Director - PR & Social Intervention Manisha Negi Asst. Director - Scientific Affairs Yashpal Saini Sr. Manager - Admin & Accounts

Priyank Samuel G Asst. Manager - Brand Alliance & Communication

Sher Singh Office Assistant

January, 2017

he 7 edition of Indian Seed Congress 2017 was inaugurated on 13 February 2017. The event was organised in Kolkata, on 13 – 14 February 2017. The event was inaugurated by Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Hon'ble Union Agriculture Minister, India, Shri Abdur Razzak Molla, Hon'ble Minister of Food Processing Industries & Horticulture, Government of West Bengal & Shri Somnath Poudyal, Hon'ble Minister for Food Security and Agriculture Development, Government of Sikkim as the Guests of honour. This year the theme of the congress was 'Seeds for Joy'. A total of 608 Delegates, including 96 Overseas Delegates from 17 Countries took part in the Congress.

he welcome address was given by Mr M Prabhakar Rao, President, National Seed Association of India. Shri Rao reaffirmed the Seed Industry's commitment to providing quality seeds to farmers. He also stressed upon the role of the Seed Industry which is making huge efforts and investing continuously to provide superior seeds to meet the diverse requirements of the farmers across the country in more than 100 crops. The research investments made by the Industry are leading to development of superior products which enhances the profitability of all the farmers and makes the consumer get constant supply of the main Agriculture commodities including cereals, pulses, oil seeds, fruits and vegetables. Besides demand for feed and industry raw material requirements are also fully met by Indian agriculture with support of seed sector.

Arun Kumar Agarwalla

NSAI SECRETARIAT

Kalyan B Goswami Executive Director

Nilendri Biswal Dy Director - PR & Social Intervention

Manisha Negi Asst. Director - Scientific Affairs

Yashpal Saini Sr. Manager - Admin & Accounts

Priyank Samuel G Asst. Manager - Brand Alliance & Communication

Sher Singh Office Assistant

February, 2017

March, 2017

The National Seed Association of India

Issue: June 2017

Issue: July 2017

Commercial Release of Bt Cotton Hybrids for the Year 2017 MoEF&CC has transferred the responsibility of Commercial approval of Bt Cotton Hybrid to Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers welfare. From this year onwards ICAR will give the approval for commercial release of the Bt cotton Hybrids / varieties having transgenic events in place of Event Based Approval Mechanism (EBAM) Committee of GEAC, MoEF &CC, New Delhi. In this regard, a standing committee is constituted for the year 2017 under the Chairmanship of Deputy Director General (Crop Science), Dr J S Sandhu for identification and recommendation of superior Bt cotton hybrids for commercial cultivation. Formulation of guidelines for the commercial release of Bt Cotton Hybrid is under the process of ICAR. For this year, ICAR has released the pre-requisite conditions to apply for commercial release of Bt Cotton Hybrids. Bt Cotton Guidelines for consideration of the proposal for commercial release. 1. Document related to R&D approval from competent body (DSIR) 2. Affidavit of ownership of Bt cotton hybrid/variety (format enclosed) 3. Confirmation of gene/events from accredited lab 4. Level of protein expression in field trials 5. Certificate of expression of Bt gene (s) and Bio-efficacy data in field trials conditions 6. Source of germplasm/pedigree details and biotech traits to be provided 7. Data of Bt cotton hybrid(s)/variety (ies) on tolerance to CLCuV for North zone and tolerance to all bollworms including Pink bollworm in Central and Southern Zones. 8. Details of essential morphological characteristics (essential DUS traits) for seed certification purpose. 9. Performance trials report including agronomic parameters, yield with CD & CV, pest & disease reaction for the proposed Bt cotton hybrid/variety, fibre quality attributes, spinning potential (supported by ICAR-CIRCOT data) etc. for one year for 2016-17 Kharif season and after that two years for both rainfed and irrigated situations as evidenced by AICRP on Cotton trials from the respective zones i.e. North, Central and South zones. 10. Declaration of absence of terminator technology (GURT) by the applicant. 11. Provide the relevant details on the email Id:- qccsc-agri@gov.in enclosing details of parentage/ pedigree, detailed description of hybrid / variety and its parental lines, characteristics for seed certification, package of practices, good quality coloured photographs.

April, 2017

The Na�onal Seed Associa�on of India

NSAI Observes 10th Foundation Day

M. Prabhakar Rao President

OFFICE BEARERS

M. G. Shembekar Vice President

M. Prabhakar Rao President

A.S.N Reddy General Secretary

M. G. Shembekar Vice President A. S. N Reddy General Secretary

Pawan Kumar Kansal Treasurer

GOVERNING COUNCIL G.V. Bhaskar Rao N.P. Patel Pranjivan P Zaveri Girdhar D. Patel Janak Peshrana K. Niranjan Kumar Sameer Mulay K.S. Narayanaswamy Vaibhav Kashikar Sachin Bhalinge Arun Kumar Agarwalla

GOVERNING COUNCIL G. V. Bhaskar Rao N. P. Patel Pranjivan P Zaveri Girdhar D. Patel Janak Peshrana K. Niranjan Kumar Sameer Mulay K. S. Narayanaswamy Vaibhav Kashikar Sachin Bhalinge

Sher Singh Office Assistant

The Na�onal Seed Associa�on of India

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M. G. Shembekar Vice President

Yashpal Saini Sr. Manager - Admin & Accounts

Priyank Samuel G Asst. Manager - Brand Alliance & Communication

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Pawan Kumar Kansal Treasurer

Manisha Negi Asst. Director - Scientific Affairs

Yashpal Saini Sr. Manager - Admin & Accounts

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A.S.N Reddy General Secretary

Nilendri Biswal Dy Director - PR & Social Intervention

Manisha Negi Asst. Director - Scientific Affairs

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M. G. Shembekar Vice President

NSAI SECRETARIAT

Nilendri Biswal Dy Director - PR & Social Intervention

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Pawan Kumar Kansal Treasurer

Kalyan B Goswami Executive Director

NSAI SECRETARIAT

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A.S.N Reddy General Secretary

NSAI SECRETARIAT

Kalyan B Goswami Executive Director

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M. G. Shembekar Vice President

Kalyan B Goswami Executive Director

OFFICE BEARERS

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November, 2016

National Seed Association of India Organised 7th Edition of Indian Seed Congress 2017 13 – 14 February 2017, Kolkata, West Bengal, India

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M. Prabhakar Rao President

Arun Kumar Agarwalla

GST is expected to be implemented from April 1, 2017. Under GST, there would be only one tax from the manufacturer to the consumer, leading to transparency of taxes paid to the final consumer. Further there will be relief in overall tax burden as under the GST regime, the entire supply chain will be efficient leading to gains and prevention of leakages thus reduce the overall tax burden on most commodities. It is also expected to result in greater tax compliance, boosting government revenues.

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M. Prabhakar Rao President

Janak Peshrana K. Niranjan Kumar Sameer Mulay K.S. Narayanaswamy Vaibhav Kashikar Sachin Bhalinge

Issue : May 2017

Yashpal Saini Sr. Manager - Admin & Accounts

Sher Singh Office Assistant

Issue : February 2017

This was followed by an Interactive discussion by Mr. Sumit Dutt Majumder, Ex‐ Chairman, Central Board of Excise and Customs, & GST Expert and Mr. Atul Gupta, Partner, Deloitte, on the much awaited Goods and Services Tax (GST) which is considered to be the biggest indirect tax structure reform in India.

Manisha Negi Asst. Director - Scientific Affairs

Priyank Samuel G Asst. Manager - Brand Alliance & Communication

M. Prabhakar Rao President

During the meeting wide consultations were held between senior industry representatives from various sectors such as cements, agriculture, pharmaceuticals etc. The meeting had a discussion on Industry Performance based on the ASCON Survey Report (July‐ September 2016).

Nilendri Biswal Dy Director - PR & Social Intervention

Priyank Samuel G Asst. Manager - Brand Alliance & Communication

OFFICE BEARERS

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, has issued a Gazette notification specifying the seed quality standard for Bt cotton Seeds. This is with reference to the meeting held under the chairmanship of Shri R.K.Singh, Joint Secretary (seeds) on 24th February, 2016, to finalize the seed quality standards (genetic Purity etc.) for Bt cotton seeds under Refugia in a Bag Concept (RIB). In the meeting, it was decided that there will be two types of seed packing, one with 120g non Bt Cotton seeds pack within 450g Bt cotton Seeds pack (pack in a pack(PIP)) and another 475g pack with 5% (23.75g) non Bt. Cotton hybrid seeds mixed with the 95% (451.25g) Bt cotton seeds. In Case of RIB, the gene purity will be mentioned as minimum 90% and maximum 95 %, while there will be no change in the seed quality standards in case of earlier system (450g Bt cotton seeds + 120g non Bt cotton hybrids) where the gene purity will continue to be 90 %. After continuous follow up of NSAI, Department of Agriculture & Cooperation has issued a Gazette Notification, specifying the standards as per the discussion held in meeting for both Refugia in Bag(RIB) and pack in Pack (PIP) concept.

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Kalyan B Goswami Executive Director

Hon'ble Prime Minister was accompanied by a high level business delegation which had been put together by FICCI's counterpart in Singapore, the Singapore Business Federation (SBF). The above meeting was a part of the same. NSAI was represented by Mrs. Nilendri Biswal and Mr. Priyank Samuel.

Yashpal Saini Sr. Manager - Admin & Accounts

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NSAI SECRETARIAT

October,2016

RIB Notification

OFFICE BEARERS

Earlier Hon'ble Prime Minster of Singapore H E Mr. Lee Hsien Loong visited India to re‐vitalise and further strengthen the trade and economic relations between the two countries.

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NSAI attended ASCON meeting organized by CII. ASCON is a forum which brings together National level Associations from across sectors on a common platform. The meeting was Chaired by Ms Shobhana Kamineni, President Designate, CII. Also present were Dr. Bidisha Ganguly, Chief Economist, CII , Mr. Sumit Dutt Majumder, Ex‐ Chairman, Central Board of Excise and Customs, & GST Expert and Mr. Atul Gupta, Partner, Deloitte.

K.S. Narayanaswamy Vaibhav Kashikar Sachin Bhalinge Arun Kumar Agarwalla

NSAI Participated in “India‐Singapore: Way Forward " meeting th organized by FICCI on 5 October 2016. A Business Delegation from Singapore attended the meeting. The meeting was convened to evaluate hands‐on business opportunities between the two countries.

Nilendri Biswal Dy Director - PR & Social Intervention

September, 2016

M. Prabhakar Rao President

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Pawan Kumar Kansal Treasurer

Pranjivan P Zaveri Girdhar D. Patel Janak Peshrana

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GOVERNING COUNCIL

Kalyan B Goswami Executive Director

Hence it was necessary that the seed production programme of Basmati Rice is not allowed in areas which are outside the area prescribed under its Geographical Indications. It was suggested that it would be appropriate if all breeder seed packets of Basmati varieties are stamped with a label indicating the names of the Districts/States as per GI area for Basmati rice in which the seeds could be multiplied/cultivated. Similar instructions would also be prescribed in case of foundation and certified / quality seeds of Basmati rice.

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M. G. Shembekar Vice President

NSAI SECRETARIAT

Manisha Negi Asst. Director - Scientific Affairs

The Na�onal Seed Associa�on of India

NSAI Attended Third Meeting of The Associations' Performance Council 2016‐17

A.S.N Reddy General Secretary

Vaibhav Kashikar Sachin Bhalinge Arun Kumar Agarwalla

Nilendri Biswal Dy Director - PR & Social Intervention

Issue : November 2016 OFFICE BEARERS M. Prabhakar Rao President

M. G. Shembekar Vice President

K. Niranjan Kumar Sameer Mulay K.S. Narayanaswamy

K.S. Narayanaswamy Vaibhav Kashikar Sachin Bhalinge Arun Kumar Agarwalla

The Na�onal Seed Associa�on of India

NSAI Participated in “India‐Singapore: Way Forward Meeting”

OFFICE BEARERS M. Prabhakar Rao President

NSAI Participated in the Exposition Held by African Development Bank (AFDB), Africa in Gandhinagar

OFFICE BEARERS

National Seed Association of India and its members participated in an Exposition on “Opportunities and Technologies for Collaboration” organised by Ministry of Finance, Government of India, with the support of FICCI from 22nd to 26th May 2017 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The objective of the event was to showcase the strength of Indian companies in High 5 priority sectors identified by African Development Bank (AFDB), Africa – Agriculture, Energy, ICT & Infrastructure, Innovation & Technology and Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals.

A. S. N Reddy General Secretary

Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi marked his presence in the inaugural session. Shri Arun Jaitley, Finance Minister is India’s Governor to AFDB and presided over these meetings as the Chair. Among other dignitaries were Senegal: H.E. President Macky SALL, Benin Republic: H.E. President Patrice TALON, Republic of Cote D’Ivoire: H.E. Vice President Daniel Kablan DUNCAN, Union of Comoros: H.E Vice President D. A. S. HASSANI, In addition to the above, the former President of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani MAHAMA also attended the event. NSAI participated in the Exposition by setting up a stall in the Agriculture sector. The Gujarat State Seed Association actively participated with NSAI in the Exposition event.

Arun Kumar Agarwalla

National Seed Association of India (NSAI), celebrated its 10th Foundation day on 8th May, 2017. NSAI was established in 2007, which was a joint venture of four associations namely Seed Association of India, Association of Seed Industry, All India Crop Bio-Technology Association and Indian Seed Industry Association. Over the years NSAI has grown as an Association with steady increase in membership. On the occasion, Dr Kalyan Goswami thanked the members for their continued support. It was only due to the members' constant support and encouragement NSAI has grown leaps and bounds. He expressed satisfaction over the fact that today the Association has been recognised as the apex body of Seed Industry by all prominent Ministries of Government of India. Adding that NSAI would never forget its duty towards farmers and seed producers of the country.

M. Prabhakar Rao President M. G. Shembekar Vice President

Issuance of labeling format for Bt. Cotton Seeds under Refugia in a Bag Concept and Refugia in Separate Pack - Reg.

Pawan Kumar Kansal Treasurer

GOVERNING COUNCIL G. V. Bhaskar Rao N. P. Patel Pranjivan P Zaveri Girdhar D. Patel Janak Peshrana K. Niranjan Kumar Sameer Mulay K. S. Narayanaswamy Vaibhav Kashikar Sachin Bhalinge Arun Kumar Agarwalla

NSAI SECRETARIAT

Kalyan B Goswami Executive Director

Nilendri Biswal Dy Director - PR & Social Intervention

Manisha Negi Asst. Director - Scientific Affairs

Yashpal Saini Sr. Manager - Admin & Accounts

Priyank Samuel G Asst. Manager - Brand Alliance & Communication

Sher Singh Office Assistant

(For downloading the form please clink on http://nsai.co.in/circular_detail.php?id=707)

May, 2017

June, 2017

July, 2017

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

August, 2017

III. NSAI Website The NSAI website has become an important source of information for the members. The ‘What’s New at NSAI’ section informs the members about the latest developments of the industry, workshops and conferences. The Website has a section on ‘Important Circulars and Representations’, under this section each department is subcategorized with important representations and circulars which are submitted to different Ministries or departments. The section on ‘Important Notifications’ places important notifications of Government. We have also created a new section for Social Sustainability Practices, The ‘Latest News’ section informs members about the current updates of Indian Agriculture & Seed sector.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

IV. NSAI Social Networking NSAI is also maintaining Twitter and Facebook Accounts for directly connecting with its members and information sharing as well.

V. Daily & Weekly Mailers NSAI communicates with its members through daily and weekly mailers. We have a dedicated email id i.e. info@nsai.co.in for communicating to members about latest industry developments.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

D. NSAI Meetings NSAI Attended Meeting on Seed Production/Certification of the Basmati Rice NSAI attended a meeting organised by MoA&FW on Seed Production/Certification of the Basmati Rice under the chairmanship of JS(Seeds) on 14th September, 2016 at New Delhi. Earlier it was brought to the notice of the Seed Division by the All India Rice Exporters Association that some seed companies are taking off-season seed production of Basmati Rice varieties in areas which are outside the areas under the Geographical Indications for cultivation of Basmati Rice. Seeds so produced would not be in consonance with the Geographical Indications for Basmati Rice, which would have extremely serious implications for Basmati rice exports. Basmati rice is cultivated only in the areas included under its Geographical Indications (GI). There are seven States which are covered under GI viz. Western Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Jammu Division, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi. Hence it was necessary that the seed production programme of Basmati Rice is not allowed in areas which are outside the area prescribed under its Geographical Indications. It was suggested that it would be appropriate if all breeder seed packets of Basmati varieties are stamped with a label indicating the names of the Districts/States as per GI area for Basmati rice in which the seeds could be multiplied/cultivated. Similar instructions would also be prescribed in case of foundation and certified / quality seeds of Basmati rice.

NSAI participated in “Regional Consultations Network of Policy Think Tanks (BNPTT)” NSAI participated in a meeting conducted by Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) on “Regional Consultaons of the BIMSTEC Network of Policy Think Tanks (BNPTT)” on 27th September 2016 at India International Centre, New Delhi. India hosted 8th BRICS Summit on 15-16 October 2016 at Goa. Coinciding with this, RIS jointly with the BIMSTEC Secretariat, had organised a Regional Consultation of the BIMSTEC Network of Policy Think Tanks (BNPTT). The prominent think-tanks from the BIMSTEC network deliberated on issues related to Trade, Investment and Regional Value Chain, Connectivity and People to People Contact; and BIMSTEC, BRICS and Global Governance. The prominent panellists for the meeting were Prof. Sachin Chaturvedi, Director General, RIS, New Delhi, Amb. Sudhir Devare, chairman RIS Research Advisory Council, Mr. Sumith Nakandala, Secretary General, BIMSTEC, Mr Seshadri Chari, Member, RIS Governing Council, Mr. Alok A. Dimri, Joint Secretary (MER), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India and Ms. Preeti Saran, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. NSAI was represented by Mrs. Nilendri Biswal and Dr. Manisha Negi.

NSAI Participated in “India-Singapore: Way Forward Meeting” NSAI participated in “India-Singapore: Way Forward “ meeting organized by FICCI on 5th October 2016. A Business Delegation from Singapore attended the meeting. The meeting was convened to evaluate hands-on business opportunities between the two countries. Earlier Hon’ble Prime Minster of Singapore H E Mr. Lee Hsien Loong visited India to re-vitalise and further strengthen the trade and economic relations between the two countries. Hon’ble Prime Minister was accompanied by a high level business delegation which had been put together by FICCI’s counterpart in Singapore, the Singapore Business Federation (SBF). The above meeting was a part of the same. NSAI was represented by Mrs. Nilendri Biswal and Mr. Priyank Samuel.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NSAI - APSA conducted meeting on “The India Hybrid Study Tour” NSAI supported Asia & Pacific Seed Association (APSA) in a study tour. The tour was meant for exposure study on Hybrid Rice (development / adoption) in India. The above study tour took place from 25th September to 5th October 2016. A group of 22 APSA members along with Mr. Vaibhav Kashikar, EC Member, APSA & Governing Council Member, NSAI, Ms. Heidi Gallant, Executive Director, APSA and Dr. N. K. Dadlani, Director of Technical Affairs, APSA visited Delhi, Raipur and Hyderabad to know more about the hybrid rice technology in India.

Seedsmen Association (Hyderabad) Visited Delhi NSAI and Seedsmen Association, Hyderabad organized a series of joint meeting regarding issue of NOC in Bt Cotton and IPR Issue on GM traits. A group of delegates from Seedsmen Association, Hyderabad visited Delhi on 6 October and 7 October 2016 for discussion with several Govt. officials on this issue. On 6 October 2016, the delegation met with Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture, Shri Parsottambhai Rupala, Hon’ble Minister of State for Agriculture, Shri R.K. Singh, JS(Seeds), MoA&FW, Gyanesh Bharthi, JS MoEF&CC, Shri D S Mishra, Deputy Commissioner (QC), MoA&FW. On 7 October 2016, the delegation met with Dr R. R. Hanchinal, Chairperson PPV&FRA and Dr. Sanjeev Saxena, ADG (IPR), ICAR. The delegation was led by Shri ASN Reddy, President, Seedsmen Association, Hyderabad, along with Sri K Niranjan Kumar, Secretary, Seedsmen Association, Hyderabad.

NSAI Participated in “Access to Seed Course” organized by ISID (Institute for studies in Industrial Development) NSAI participated in the Access to Seed programme, organized by Institute for studies in Industrial Development from October, 24-28. The programme successfully attracted participation from Seed Industry, researchers, seed savers and farmer groups, civil society activists and students of intellectual property from law schools. Dr Kalyan Goswami, ED, NSAI delivered a speech on “Policy Challenges for Seed Access”, in the program.

National Seed Association of India Took Up Demonetisation Impact of Farmers With the Government of India deciding that INR 500 & INR 1000 ceasing to be legal tender there was bound to be impact on farmers. Soon NSAI received representations from various State Level Associations i.e. Gujarat State Seed Producers Association, Seed Association of MP, Seedsmen Association of Bengal, Tamil Nadu Seed Association and Seed Industry Association of Maharashtra regarding the problems faced by famers on ground. NSAI was quick to spring into action. We wrote to Hon’ble Union Agriculture Minister enumerating various problems being faced by farmers. The most glaring fact was the timing of demonetisation and rabi crop sowing season. Farmers need liquid cash for buying seeds, fertilizer and other inputs. NSAI appealed to Government of India for allowing farmers to continue using the old notes. NSAI is greatly thankful to Government of India especially Union Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Minister Shri Radha Mohan Singh for swift action in the regard. In order to further support farmers for the current Rabi crop, the Government has decided to allow farmers to purchase seeds with the old high denomination bank notes of Rs.500 from the Centres, Units or Outlets belonging to the Central or State Governments, Public Sector Undertakings, National or State Seeds Corporations, Central or State Agricultural Universities and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), on production of proof of identity.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NSAI Attended Third Meeting of The Associations’ Performance Council 2016-17

NSAI attended ASCON meeting organized by CII on November, 2016. ASCON is a forum which brings together National level Associations from across sectors on a common platform. The meeting was Chaired by Ms Shobhana Kamineni, President Designate, CII. Also present were Dr. Bidisha Ganguly, Chief Economist, CII , Mr. Sumit Dutt Majumder, Ex-Chairman, Central Board of Excise and Customs, & GST Expert and Mr. Atul Gupta, Partner, Deloitte. During the meeting wide consultations were held between seniorindustry representatives from various sectors such as cements, agriculture, pharmaceuticals etc. The meeting had a discussion on Industry Performance based on the ASCON Survey Report (July-September 2016). This was followed by an Interactive discussion by Mr. Sumit Dutt Majumder, Ex-Chairman, Central Board of Excise and Customs, & GST Expert and Mr. Atul Gupta, Partner, Deloitte, on the much awaited Goods and Services Tax (GST) which is considered to be the biggest indirect tax structure reform in India. GST is expected to be implemented from April 1, 2017. Under GST, there would be only one tax from the manufacturer to the consumer, leading to transparency of taxes paid to the final consumer. Further there will be relief in overall tax burden as under the GST regime, the entire supply chain will be efficient leading to gains and prevention of leakages thus reduce the overall tax burden on most commodities. It is also expected to result in greater tax compliance, boosting government revenues.

NSAI attended Brainstorming Meeting on Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) - Striking the Right Balance International Agrobiodiversity Congress (IAC 2016) was held on November 6-9, 2016. The key focus was to take up ABS centric issues and concerns in the technical program of the 4-day congress. The National Steering Committee of IAC 2016 and Anand and Anand, a knowledge partner to IAC 2016, had jointly organized a pre-IAC event on October 22, 2016, aimed at bringing on board focused issues related to agrobiodiversity access and benefit sharing as may emerge from considered views of stakeholders. The aim was to contemplate a road map for accelerating the process of ABS for facilitated exchange and better regulated flow of germplasm both within and outside the national boundaries.

NSAI Members Come forward to Light Up Farmer’s Life on the Auspicious occasion of Diwali National Seed Association of India’s members got together to support farmers of Bihar by donating Seeds on the auspicious occasion of Diwali. Maize and Wheat Seeds were donated to farmers. Members who came forward for seed donation were Delta Agri Genetics Pvt Ltd., UPL/Advanta Ltd. and Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd. The Seed donation took place in the month of November 2016. NSAI thanks all its members. National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NSAI Meeting with Chinese Delegation A delegation of 6 members from Grain Administration of Anhui Province, visited NSAI on 16 December 2016. The purpose of visit was to learn from the experiences of Indian Agriculture /Seed Industry, also to understand the measures in providing food for the families below the poverty line in India, and improve the poverty program precisely in Anhui Province. Dr Kalyan Goswami, ED, NSAI interacted with the delegation and explained to them about Indian Agriculture and Indian Seed Industry.

NSAI attended ‘Plant Genome Saviour Awards to the Conservers of Plant Diversity’ Shri Radha Mohan Singh, the Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India conferred the Plant Genome Saviour Awards/ Rewards / Recognitions to the farmers/ farming communities on 21 December 2016 in an award function organized by Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Authority at B.P. Pal Auditorium, IARI-ICAR, New Delhi. Dr. R.R. Hanchinal, Chairperson, PPV&FRA in his welcome address informed that the Authority has received about 12771 applications for registration out of which 6827 belongs to Farmers. The Authority has issued about 2441 IPR certificates out of which 892 have been issued to Farmers varieties. The occasion was also graced by Shri S.K. Pattanaik, Secretary, DoAC&FW; Dr. T.Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE and DG, ICAR; Dr. Ashok Dalwai, Additional Secretary, DoAC&FW; Shri R.K.Singh, Jt. Secretary (Seeds), DoAC&FW. Shri N.A.Wagay, Member of Parliament; Shri A.R.Rather, Hon’ble Member of Legislative Assembly of J&K; Vice Chancellors; Deputy Director Generals of ICAR, ADGs, Director, Representative of Embassies, and many other esteemed guests, farmers and Authority Members also graced the occasion. Hon’ble Agriculture Minister graced the event and distributed awards to various farmers.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NSAI Members Contributed Generously For Helping Uttar Pradesh Farmers National Seed Association of India appealed its members for helping farmers of Uttar Pradesh. NSAI Members came forward to contribute generously for the cause by donating Vegetable seeds such as Raddish, Brinjal, Chilli, Ridge Gourd ,Spinach , Okra , Black-eyed Pea, Bitter Gourd, Bottle Gourd, Pumpkin, Cucumber, Long Melon and Tomato. The donation took place in the month of January 2017. The Members who came forward for the cause were Dayal Seeds Private Ltd, Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd, Known You Seed (India) Pvt Ltd., Univeg Seed Technologies Pvt ltd, Nobel Seeds Pvt Ltd and J K Agri Genetics. NSAI thanks its members.

NSAI Attended Meeting on Consultations with Stakeholders in the Context of Doubling Farmers Income by 2022 Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare organized a series of meeting with stakeholders to discuss all the relevant issues relating to the doubling farmers Income by 2022 on 14 March, 2017. The Meeting was Chaired by Dr. Ashok Dalawai, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare accompanied by Mr. R K Singh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Dr. Kalyan Goswami, Executive Director, NSAI presented the trending issues faced by the Seed Industries in India.

NSAI Participated In 16th Board Meeting of Agriculture Skill Council of India Recently Agriculture Skill Council of India organised its 16 Board meeting in Gurugram, Haryana. NSAI was represented by the Executive Director, Dr Kalyan Goswami in the st meeting on 21 March, 2017. The meeting focussed on various new collaborations and initiatives by ASCI in the skill sector. The endeavour of ASCI is to work towards building capacity in the Agriculture Industry and bridge the gap between laboratories and farms. ASCI envisions to touch/ upgrade skills of Cultivators, Agricultural Labours and Direct and Indirect labour engaged in Organised and Unorganized Agriculture and Allied industry. NSAI would be working closely as a catalyst with ASCI in near future for bringing the various Government Schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana. National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NSAI Attends a Conference on “India - Poland Bilateral Cooperation in Agriculture & Allied Sectors” FICCI had organized a Conference on Bilateral Cooperation between “India and Poland in Agriculture & Allied Sectors” on 8th March 2017 at NASC Complex, New Delhi. The objective of the conference is to develop bilateral cooperation in the area of Farm Mechanization, Plant Protection, Crops, Seeds, Horticulture, and Animal Husbandry between India & Poland. Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has nominated Dr R K Trivedi Consultant (Seeds), DoA&C and Dr Kalyan B Goswami, Executive Director, NSAI to represent the Seed Division. Dr R. K. Trivedi, has deliberated a session on Government policy and program for export and import of seeds and a deliberation on Seed Industry Perspective for promoting the International Seed Business especially between India & Poland is given by Dr Kalyan Goswami. Industry Perspective for promoting the International Seed Business especially between India & Poland is given by Dr Kalyan Goswami.

NSAI Attends National Round Table on Untapped Potential of North Eastern Region NSAI participated in a round table conference on untapped potential of North Eastern region organised by Indian Council of Food and Agriculture on 15th March 2017. The event was chaired by Mr Naveen Verma, Secretary, DONER. There were in-depth deliberations on best possible ways and means to improvise, innovate, synergize and optimize the all-encompassing developmental push on the north-eastern region.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NSAI Organises Round Table Meeting to Understand Issues & Challenges of Punjab, Haryana, Jammu Kashmir And Himanchal Pradesh Seed Companies A Meeting was organised by National Seed Association of India on 11 April, 2017 in Chandigarh with the objective to understand issues of seed Industry in North. Seed Companies from Punjab, Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and local seed association from Punjab participated in the meeting. Participants raised their issues regarding the need of Additional Seed Licence in Punjab, Sale Permission in states, need of notification of Varieties in states, Breeder Seed Indent and clarification of Truthful labelling. Around 22 seed companies participated in the meeting.

Meeting/Mock Drill of EXIM Portal for online submission of proposals for Export / Import of Seed and Planting material A meeting was organised by the Department of Agriculture under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner (Quality Control) with the NIC officials regarding EXIM Portal for online submission of proposals for Export / Import of Seed and Planting material on 13 April, 2017. NIC officials demonstrated the EXIM Portal in the meeting and resolved the problem faced by members. It was suggested by DoA to companies involved in Export – Import to register on the EXIM Portal. For registering into the Exim Portal, Companies have to login on the Exim Portal ( http://seedexim.gov.in/ ) by filling the required information. The registration of companies will be approved by Deputy Commissioner (QC) in two steps. First Submition of the Company details & creation of account on EXIM portal. Second uploading the documents required for export import. After getting approval in two stages, companies can apply online for export and import permission. Ministry of Agriculture has advised to Seed Companies, to fill their real time data in the EXIM software, which would be approved by DAC. Companies can write their problems / bottlenecks if any to the mail id ‘helpdesk-seed@gov.in.’

NSAI- SIAM organized Joint Meeting to Discuss Maharashtra Seed Industry Issues Recently a joint meeting was organised by NSAI and SIAM on 15 April 2017. The meeting was attended by Senior Seedsmen of Indian Seed Industry. A Senior delegation of NSAI and SIAM members met Mr. Vikas Deshmukh, Counsler of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of Maharashtra for discussing state level issues.

NSAI participated in meeting on Basmati Rice Seed Production and sensitization of Seed Certification Agencies Personnel of Basmati GI Area A meeting was convened on 4th May, 2017, under the Chairmanship of Joint Secretary (Seeds), Shri R. K. Singh on “Basmati Rice Seed Production and sensitization of Seed Certification Agencies Personnel of Basmati GI Area”. Representatives from APEDA, IARI, State Certification agencies of GI Area, representatives from the universities in GI area and NSAI were present in the meeting. Basmati rice is cultivated only in the areas included under its Geographical Indications (GI). There are seven States which are covered under GI viz. Western Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Jammu Division, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi. It was advised by chairman of the meeting that no Breeder seed indent will be taken from the outside GI area in future to maintain the seed quality of Basmati Rice. It was also instructed by JS (Seeds) to NSAI to not to forward any Breeder Seed indent of Seed Companies producing Basmati seeds outside the GI area and to inform the members to take care of the same. National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Joint Meeting of National Seed Association of India and International Seed Federation National Seed Association of India had invited Mr Michael Keller, Secretary General, International Seed Federation for a joint meeting. The meeting was organised on 17th June 2017. The objective of the meeting was to understand the possibilities for enhanced engagements between NSAI & ISF, discuss on Intellectual Property Rights, possibilities of a permanent board position from India Etc. and emerging trends in Seed Sector – ISF View. President NSAI, welcomed Mr Michael Keller to the meeting. Mr Keller made a brief presentation on the various activities of ISF which covered issues such as What is ISF, Role of ISF, ISF Vision and Mission, ISF Strategic Objectives 2016-2020, etc. Mr Michael Keller also presented before the house various initiatives being undertaken by ISF for promoting Seed Trade across world.

MoAC & FW Reconstituted Central Seed Certification Board The Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, MoA&FW in the month of January, 2017, had reconstituted the technical committee of Central Seed Certification Board (CSCB) under section 8 (B) of the Seeds Act, 1966. There are twenty-one members in the technical committee of CSCB and it will be chaired by the Agriculture cum Horticulture Commissioner. Dr Kalyan Goswami, Executive Director, NSAI has been nominated as a seed Industry representative in the technical committee of Central Seed Certification Board (CSCB).

National Seed Association of India Attended Stakeholder Consultation on ‘Understanding the Dynamics of Informal Cross-Border Trade in Agricultural Products in Eastern South Asia’ National Seed Association of India attended Stakeholder Consultation on ‘Understanding the Dynamics of Informal Cross-border Trade in Agricultural Products in Eastern South Asia’ on Friday, 4th August 2017, at India International Centre, New Delhi. Dr Kalyan B Goswami, Executive Director NSAI participated in panel discussion on Key findings. The panel was chaired by Shri Sisira JAyasuriya, Director, Centre for Development at Economics and Sustainability and Professor of Economics, Monash University, Australia. The objective of the project was “To present key findings of the diagnostic study on informal cross-border trade in agricultural inputs across the borders of India-Bangladesh and India-Nepal, and its impact on livelihoods of local farmers” and “To propose policy reforms on informal cross-border trade in agricultural inputs in the Eastern South Asia region”.

NSAI Held Meeting with Nigerian Delegation National Seed Association of India held meeting with visiting Nigerian Delegation on 8th August 2017. The delegates informed the house that Nigeria is a developing country there is ample scope for Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. Dr Kalyan B Goswami informed the delegation about India’s Agriculture policy. He further informed the house about various activities undertaken by National Seed Association of India, he also emphasized on seed related legislations in India. The Nigerian delegation wanted to explore the possibility of partnership with Indian Seed companies to sign MoU with Indian companies.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NSAI Participated in the Exposition Held by African Development Bank (AFDB), Africa in Gandhinagar National Seed Association of India and its members participated in an Exposition on “Opportunities and Technologies for Collaboration” organised by Ministry of Finance, Government of India, with the support of FICCI from 22nd to 26th May 2017 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The objective of the event was to showcase the strength of Indian companies in High 5 priority sectors identified by African Development Bank (AFDB), Africa – Agriculture, Energy, ICT & Infrastructure, Innovation & Technology and Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals. Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi marked his presence in the inaugural session. Shri Arun Jaitley, Finance Minister is India’s Governor to AFDB and presided over these meetings as the Chair. Among other dignitaries were Senegal: H.E. President Macky SALL, Benin Republic: H.E. President Patrice TALON, Republic of Cote D’Ivoire: H.E. Vice President Daniel Kablan DUNCAN, Union of Comoros: H.E Vice President D. A. S. HASSANI, In addition to the above, the former President of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani MAHAMA also attended the event. NSAI participated in the Exposition by setting up a stall in the Agriculture sector. The Gujarat State Seed Association actively participated with NSAI in the Exposition event.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

E. Events/ Conferences Indian Seed Congress: 2017, Kolkata The seventh edition of the Indian Seed Congress (ISC) was organized at Kolkata, on 13–14th February 2017. It saw active participation from industry leaders (seed & allied), policy makers, developmental agencies, scientific community and various other organizations. This year the theme of Indian Seed Congress was ‘Seeds for Joy’. On 12th February 2017, CEO conclave was organised. Over the years, CEO conclave has been viewed by industry leaders as a platform for strengthening industry voice and exchange of new ideas for renewed vigour among industry leaders. The CEO Conclave was attended by 65 Business leaders. The conclave saw address by eminent personalities like Prof. Prabhu Pingali, Mr Vaibhav Kashikar, Dr Manish Patel, Dr K V Subbarao, Mr Bhupen Dubey, Shri Gaur Gopal Das ji and Prof. Parimal Merchant. ISC was formally thrown open for all participating delegates on 13th February 2017. The event was inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture Shri Radha Mohan Singh along with Shri Abdur Razzak Molla, Hon’ble Minister of Food Processing Industries & Horticulture, Government of West Bengal & Shri Somnath Poudyal, Hon’ble Minister for Food Security and Agriculture Development, Government of Sikkim as the Guests of honour. The welcome address was given by Mr M Prabhakar Rao, President, National Seed Association of India. Shri Rao reaffirmed the Seed Industry’s commitment to providing quality seeds to farmers. He also stressed upon the role of the Seed Industry which is making huge efforts and investing continuously to provide superior seeds to meet the diverse requirements of the farmers across the country in more than 100 crops. The research investments made by the Industry are leading to development of superior products which enhances the profitability of all the farmers and makes the consumer get constant supply of the main Agriculture commodities including cereals, pulses, oil seeds, fruits and vegetables. Besides demand for feed and industry raw material requirements are also fully met by Indian agriculture with support of seed sector.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Shri Sanjeev Chopra, Addl. Chief Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Government of West Bengal stated that they are keen to work together with the central government in the field of irrigation and creation of seed hub in western districts of West Bengal i.e. Purulia, Bankura and Birbhum etc. He stated west Bengal holds great promise in the field of agriculture. Speaking on the occasion Shri Somnath Poudyal, Honâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ble Minister for Food Security and Agriculture Development, Government of Sikkim stressed on the need for a general agreement on the requirement for organic breeding; major increase in the genetic diversity of the breeding materials; need to breed for performance in mixtures and populations; rethink on breeding methodologies including exploitation of gene banks, population breeding and farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; participation; and last but not the least, consistent support to Sikkim as the First Fully Organic Farming State of the country that can bring together the interested individuals and national groups to provide the stimulus for research and funding of these activities in organic sector. The minister stressed on good quality seeds free of inorganic assimilation and in quantities easily available upon asking in a short notice should be our main aim. Unless healthy seeds of proven quality and of organic origin are made available in sufficient quantities, any programme on organic advancement is likely to face a setback. Seed

therefore becomes a matter of major concern to the farmers and planners alike. He also shared that Sikkim is the first Organic Farming State in the country. It is a well-known fact that production of organic seeds is fundamental to sustaining the organic movement in the country. Interacting with the major players of the industry through this forum is an experience that will help accelerate the growth of this industry which is still at its infancy in Sikkim. He hoped the seed industry would meet this requirement. National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

This was followed by address of Shri Abdur Razzak Molla, Hon’ble Minister of Food Processing Industries & Horticulture, Government of West Bengal. Hon’ble minister shared his vision of setting up Seed Hub in West Bengal. He called up on all stakeholders to work together to meet this challenge. In this regard, he stated that the government would provide extensive support for betterment of farmers. This was followed by address of Hon’ble Union Agriculture Minister Shri Radha Mohan Singh. The Hon’ble Union Minister said that the government is committed to work to achieve the objective of doubling farmer’s income. Addressing the august gathering Shri Radha Mohan Singh appreciated the presence of participants from different countries. He reiterated his Government’s commitment to farming community. Hon’ble minister informed the house that due to relentless efforts of his Government the quality of Seeds has improved. The Government has focussed more on export of seeds to other countries. Hon’ble minister stressed on the importance of Technological advancement. He further spoke on various initiatives of the Government which have helped farmers to great extent like soil testing, skill development. He informed the gathering that in the last 2 years the government has given 14 crore soil health cards to the farmers. The Government has allotted 40,000 crores to irrigation projects alone for betterment of farming community. The minister further stressed on the importance of digitalization in agriculture. He further stated that every drop of water has to utilized to maximum and reaffirmed his commitment to the goal of “per drop more crop”. He called upon all to work together for betterment of farmers and stop their exploitation at all cost. On the occasion ISC Souvenir was released by Hon’ble Union Minister for Agriculture Shri Radha Mohan Singh. To promote the B 2 B Activity in the region, the National Organising Committee this time focused more on Trading Table Activity, we are pleased to inform you that around 50 Companies across the globe have booked their table slots to promote their business activity among the large number participants.

Indian Seed Congress-Technical Sessions In the Indian Seed Congress 2017, six technical sessions were conducted on 13th and 14th February, 2017. A total of 39 eminent speakers from both government and private sector participated in the technical session. The technical session was focussed on “Doubling Farmers Income by 2022”. To achieve this, target the broad heads of discussion on 13th February were Crop Improvement Research Scenario in Indian Agriculture and Application of Emerging Technologies for Sustainable Agriculture. Under which there was a warm discussion on CRISPR System mediated genome editing, GM Mustard, nanotechnology, Next Generation Sequencing Technology for DNA Fingerprinting, GM Crop Regulation in India and Contribution of CGIAR Institutes to the Indian seed sector.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

On 14th February, three technical sessions were conducted on the broad heads viz., Regulations Governing Indian Seed Industry, Mechanizing Cotton Harvest and New Trends in Vegetable Industry. There was a healthy discussion on WTO & IPR implications in seed industry, PPV&FRA way forward, Challenges in BDA and Implication of GST in Seed Industry under the broad head Regulations Governing Indian Seed Industry and a profitable deliberation on Breeding for biotic & abiotic stresses, taste, nutrition & quality in vegetables, Quarantine and sanitary requirements for vegetable seed export and latest breeding technology in Tomato Okra. Keeping in mind the current shift towards cashless economy, a Panel discussion on Cashless Transaction in Agriculture was also organised. Following the technical session, the event was graced with the presence of Dr Pradeep K Majumdar, Agricultural Advisor to Honâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ble Chief Minister, Government of West Bengal, Shri Khorlo Bhutia, Secretary (Agriculture) Sikkim and Ms Nandini Chakraborty, Secretary (Horticulture) West Bengal in the Valedictory session on 14th February. The technical Sessions were concluded on 14th February evening with vote of thanks to all speakers and participants. Mementos were presented to technical sessions chair and speakers.

Entertainment Program & Post Congress Tour The event was followed by cultural evening, during the event Welcome Lunch and Gala Dinner were also organised.The Sponsors of the event were felicitated for their support to the event. The sponsors for the event were Platinum Sponsor Category -ANSEME SpA, Bharat Nursery Pvt. Ltd., Pan Seeds Pvt. Ltd., Gold Sponsor Category-Bankim Prosad Ghosh Seeds Pvt. Ltd., Ceres Beeja Research Pvt. Ltd., Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd., Silver Sponsor CategoryAjeet Seeds Ltd., Ankur Seeds Ltd., GSP Crop Science Pvt. Ltd., Bronze Sponsor CategoryAmbika Trading Co., ECL Agrotech Limited, GMS Agritech Pvt. Ltd., Gubba Cold Storage, Ramnagar Seed Farm Pvt. Ltd., Gala Dinner Category-Debgiri Agro Products Pvt. Ltd., Lunch Sponsor Category-Swarna Seeds, Western Agri Seeds Ltd. and Hi-tea Sponsor CategoryDada Bhai Seed Farm. A day long post congress tour was organised to all key places of historical importance of West Bengal.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Glimpses of Indian Seed Congress 2017

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NSAI Concluded Stakeholders meet on “IPR Issues on GM Traits and Seeds” (Hyderabad, Gandhi Nagar & New Delhi) National Seed Association of India(NSAI) organised a series of meetings on “IPR Issues on GM Traits and Seeds with Reference to Government Notification on Licensing guidelines and Trait value fixation”. The final IPR meeting was conducted at New Delhi on 26th August, 2016. Prior to this two separate workshops on the subject were conducted on 23rd July, 2016 & 8th August, 2016 at Hyderabad, and Gandhinagar respectively. The stakeholders meet was organized to discuss the issues on Intellectual Property Rights on GM traits and Seeds with reference to the Draft notification of Government of India on licensing Guidelines. The New Delhi meeting was organised at NASC complex by NSAI. The Hyderabad meeting was organised by NSAI with the support of Seedsmen Association (Hyderabad) on 23rd July, 2016 at Hyderabad. While the Gandhinagar IPR meet was organised by NSAI with support of Gujarat State Seed Producers Association(GSSPA) th on 8 August 2016. The meetings were attended by reputed Scientists, Academicians and Industry representatives. At the Delhi meeting, the theme presentation was done by Dr Kalyan Goswami, ED, NSAI. This was followed by presentation of Mr Essenese Obhan, MD, Obhan & Associates on the topic IPR in Agriculture. This was followed by lectures of Dr J. S. Chauhan, ADG (Seed), and Dr R. R. Hanchinal, Chairperson, PPV&FRA. Similarly, at the Hyderabad and Gandhinagar meeting the presentation was done by Mr. ASN Reddy, General Secretary, NSAI. Mr. Prabhakar Rao, President, NSAI spoke about the guidelines, pertinent acts, rules, its implications to seed industry and the country, New Seed Policy, 2002, PPV & FR Act, 2001, Patent Act, 1970, benefit sharing, NOC and NSAI position on IPR. This was followed by panel discussion in which experts presented their point of view. In the New Delhi meeting, the panel discussion was chaired by Mr M Prabhakar Rao, President NSAI, the sessions were studded with experts like Dr T. Haque, Ex-Chairman, CACP, Shri Paresh Verma, Head of ABLE AG Management Committee, Shri A. S. N. Reddy, General Secretary, NSAI, Dr C. D. Mayee, Former Chairman, ASRB, Prof Dinesh Abrol, Professor, ISID, Dr Krishan Bir Chaudhary, President, Bharat Krishak Samaj, Shri Rajvir Rathi, Bayer Bio Science Pvt. Ltd., Dr Ashwani Mahajan, Swadeshi Jagran Manch. Dr S Mauria, LEX ADG, ICAR also presented his views before the house. In the Gandhinagar meeting, the panel discussion was Chaired by Mr. Prabhakar Rao; Co-chaired by Dr. Kalyan Goswami, ED, NSAI; with eminent participation of Dr. C J Dangariya, VC, Navsari Agriculture University (NAU), Dr. A R Pathak, VC of Junagadh Agriculture University (JAU), N P Patel, Dr. DB Desai, Mr. J B Upadhyay, Dy. Director, Department of Agriculture, Gandhinagar (Director Agriculture Dr. BR Shah could not make it due to Assembly Meeting); Mr. ASN Reddy, Mr. Niranjan Kumar of GARC Seeds. Dr Kalyan Goswami, ED, NSAI delivered the vote of thanks on the occasion. Post the panel discussions the house was thrown open for discussion among members who deeply deliberated on the topic.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NSAI Participated in Krishi Unnati Mela 2017 Krishi Unnati Mela, an annual event, was organised in the premise of Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi to share information about new techniques in agriculture and animal husbandry and important central government schemes and programs. The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Radha Mohan Singh on 15 March 2017 inaugurated the Krishi Unnati Mela 2017 in New Delhi.

Highlights of Krishi Unnati Mela 2017 • For the Krishi Unnati Mela 2017, thousand invitations are being sent to ICAR Institutes, SAUs, KVKs, ATARIs, Public Sector Undertakings, NGOs, private organisations and farmers. • During the mela, technical sessions on various themes are planned to educate farmers on various agricultural technologies and government schemes for agricultural development. • Besides, a women empowerment Workshop will be organised to sensitise farm women on latest agricultural technologies and their rights. The event provides an information platform to the farmers and they should take advantage of this opportunity to become partners in the development of themselves and their country. The overall objective of the fair is the development, empowerment, and progress of the farmers.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NSAI Observes 10th Foundation Day

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Seed Industries Gift to Farmers- Hybrid Seed Prices Slashed By 10% Giving some relief to farmers burdened with high production costs, the seed industry today decided to cut retail prices of hybrid seeds, excluding cotton, by 10 per cent from June 19 through the ensuing 201718 kharif season. The decision in this regard was taken at a meeting called by Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh to reduce voluntarily the seed prices. “We appealed to the seed industry to bring down the prices of hybrid seeds in the interest of farmers. They have agreed to do so,” Singh told after the meeting. Later, he tweeted, “I appreciate the seed industry for making collective decision in favour of farmers by reducing hybrid seeds MRP by 10%.” The Hon’ble minister shared that there is a distress among farmers due to low profitability in agriculture. The Industry after consultations had agreed to make arrangements for sale of hybrid seeds (except cotton, which are already regulated) at prices 10% below MRP as printed on the seed packets from 19th June 2017. Retail prices of hybrid seeds range between Rs 300 to Rs 500 per kg. Hybrids seeds are sold in crops like corn, rice, bajra, mustard and vegetables.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

National Seed Association of India Members – Bharat Nursery Pvt Ltd. & Nuziveedu Seeds Limited Join Hands to Fight Malnutrition in Mayurbhanj District of Odisha Leading Seed Producers of India and NSAI members Nuziveedu Seeds Limited and Bharat Nursery Pvt Ltd have joined hands to help more than 2000 families of tribal areas of Odisha of Mayurbhanj district to fight malnutrition. In the past Non-Governmental Organisation ‘Nydhee’ had requested NSAI members to support them with Vegetable Kit Bag for Kitchen Garden, Fodder & horticulture development for tribal families of Santal. The was sought as one of the project components of Mayurbhanj Socio-Economic Development Project (MSED) funded by Heifer International in North parts of Odisha. NSAI greatly appreciates the efforts of its two members who have come forward to fight malnutrition and ensure good health for Tribals of Odisha. The Seed donation has been initiated on 14th August 2017.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

F. Industry Issues 1. Issue of NOC for Bt Cotton Hybrid Approval and Registration:

Monsanto monopolized Bt cotton seed business in India through monopolistic bilateral contracts through misrepresentations on IPR on seeds and plants with several seed companies. As per the bilateral contracts, the sub licensee seed company can use the transgenic variety cotton seeds, developed using their patented gene and process provided by Monsanto for developing their own new cotton varieties with the Bt trait. On sale of every pack of seed of such proprietary cotton varieties of the licensee, a trait value was to be paid to Monsanto. Monsanto decided to levy a trait value of Rs. 1250/- per 450g pack of seeds which was otherwise costing around Rs. 400/- to the farmers. Due to this, the seed prices went up by 4 times. There was a hue and cry from the farming community as Monsanto and its licensee seed companies were selling cotton seeds at such high prices, particularly due to charging of excessive trait value which is unilaterally fixed by Monsanto and was added to seed price by seed companies. The matter was referred to the erstwhile Hon’ble MRTP Commission in the year 2006 by the Govt. of Andhra Pradesh which was subsequently supported by other States like Maharashtra, Gujarat and several farmer associations also. The MRTP Commission ruled that the agreements are anti-competitive. Based on this ruling, the State Governments of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra etc., started regulating the MSP of Bt cotton seeds including trait value. As a result MSP of seed was not same across country. However, as there was demand from the farmer associations as well as the seed industry associations about monopolistic practices of Monsanto the Govt. of India decided to centrally regulate the Bt cotton seed prices by promulgating a Central law ‘Cotton Seeds Price (Control) Order, 2015’ (CSPCO) which was effective from December, 2015. The Govt. of India also referred the issue of monopoly to the Hon’ble Competition Commission of India (CCI) on 27.11.2015. From the year 2016 onwards, the Bt cotton seed prices and the trait value are being regulated by the Dept. of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India under provisions of CSPCO. Monsanto challenged the provisions of trait value fixation, licensing guidelines and formats of such licensing agreements of the CSPCO through WP 12069 of 2015 dated 22.12.2015 before the Hon’ble Delhi High Court. No interim orders were issued till now. Subsequently Monsanto also challenged the price orders for the year 2016 issued under the CSPCO through interim applications. Based on the reference made by the Govt. of India, the Hon’ble CCI ruled that there is a prima facie violations of Sections 3 & 4 of the Act and ordered an investigation on 10.02.2016. MMBL challenged the investigation order through WP 1776 of 2016 dated 27.02.2016. The Director General (Investigation), CCI started the investigation and summoned the officials of the Monsanto. Instead of cooperating with the investigation, Monsanto have chosen to file another WP No. 7578 of 2016 dated 26.08.2016. No interim orders were issued in both the above WPs as well. In all the above writ petitions and before the Competition Commission of India, Monsanto represented that it enjoys the patent on Bt cotton seeds and by virtue of applicability of the Patent Act, the monopoly is natural and Government cannot take any action except under the provisions of the Patent Act. In all the 3 WPs, besides other legal points, the Govt. of India took a position that the Indian Patent Act does not provide any rights on seeds and plant varieties including for the transgenic plant varieties. Therefore their patents doesn’t provide them any monopoly on seeds or plant varieties as being claimed by them. The IPR for seeds, plants including transgenic plants is provided only under PPVFR Act as clarified in the New Seed Policy as well as in the patent office manual published by the Indian Patent Office in 2005. PPVFR Act is a complete code balancing the interest of the breeders, the farmers and the contributors to the genetic diversity of a crop including transgenic trait developers. Though there is a provision to claim benefit share from all the breeders who developed and commercialized new cotton varieties which are registered in the PPVFR Act, Monsanto had chosen to charge a trait value through bilateral contracts so as to decide the trait value excessively without the regulation by the PPVFR Authority which had to follow statutory provision of consulting stake holders including farmers. National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

The patent no. 214436 granted to Monsanto is only for gene in isolation (not in a plant) and for the method of transformation. Another patent no. 232681 is granted for testing method of identifying the event. In both these patents, as per the information available from the Patent Office, Monsanto made claims on seeds, plant tissues and plants which were rejected by the Officer, as such claims were not allowable under Section 3(j). However, despite accepting to remove all such claims in the year 2008, Monsanto continued to wrongly represent that they enjoy patent rights on Bt cotton seeds to create a monopoly citing nonexistent patent rights. If their claims are there on seeds and plants the patents granted will become revocable as they will fall foul with 3 (j) of patent Act. Based on this evidence and as per the provision of the Patent Act, it is very clear that Monsanto is deliberately misleading the Courts as well as various Govt. departments about the applicability of Patent Act to the subject of seeds only to get away with their unregulated, unilateral and excessive trait value collection from the farmer through the sub licensee seed company. It is pertinent to note that for a trait which they offered to Govt. for Rs 18 Crores, they have collected more than Rs. 6000 – 7000 Crores. Meanwhile, Monsanto filed a patent infringement suit CS 132 of 2016 before Hon’ble Delhi HC, against 3 Indian seed companies which were involved in the business of developing new transgenic cotton varieties through conventional breeding from the source transgenic variety provided by Monsanto. An interim order was passed by the Single Judge Bench of Hon’ble Delhi High Court on 28.03.2017 which has ruled that the activities of developing new varieties through plant breeding, producing their seeds and marketing them amounts to infringement of the patent no. 214436 of Monsanto. The seed companies made an appeal no. 86 of 2017 before the Division Bench of Hon’ble Delhi High Court stating that the observations made in the order are contradicting the provisions of Patent Act and the PPVFR Act and to set aside this order. If in case, the Division Bench rejects the appeal, there is a risk of several MNC Companies having transgenic plant varieties monopolizing the crops like Rice, Wheat, Maize, Soybean, Bengal gram, Groundnut etc., thereby defeating the very purpose of the safeguards incorporated in the IPR laws of India to ensure seed and food security for the nation and protect the rights of the farmers and breeders. The regulatory actions of cci and DACFW may get curbed creating irreparable losses to farmers and breeders. Actions taken by Govt. to protect farmers’ interest like reference to CCI and CSPCO may have a setback in pending litigations before Delhi HC. Therefore, it is submitted by the Govt. of India that the point of law with reference to non-applicability of the Patent Act to the subject matter of seeds and plant varieties and applicability of only PPVFR Act to the subject may have to be ruled by the Hon’ble Court, so that there is no chance of a misrepresentation and monopoly in the area of seeds harming the welfare of the farmers and threatening the national food security not only in case of Bt cotton seeds but also in any other transgenic crop.

a) Need of NOC by GEAC from technology provider for commercialization of Bt Cotton Hybrids In the USA and other countries, the transgenic traits are approved for biosafety once for all, after it is assessed and clears the prescribed bio safety evaluation procedures. But in India, for commercialization of new Bt cotton Hybrids the Seed Companies were bound to submit No Objection certificate (NOC) from technology provider to GEAC. Requirement of “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) by GEAC for approval of new Bt cotton hybrids is leading to monopoly of cotton seed market by technology provider by insisting seed companies to sign license agreements with one sided clauses which is ultimately leading to monopolizing cotton seed market and harming the interest of the cotton growing farmers. NSAI has requested GEAC for not to insist for NOC from technology provider for approval of new hybrids by GEAC. NSAI has done several meetings with Ministry of Environment Forest & Climate Change for not to insist for NOC. As a result of continuous follow up of NSAI, MoEF&CC has shifted the process of Hybrid approval from the purview of GEAC to ICAR under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. ICAR has developed the guidelines for commercialization of Bt cotton hybrid under the All India Coordinated Project Trials and not placed a condition for NOC stipulation from technology provider.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

b) Need of NOC from technology provider for Registration of Bt Cotton Hybrids under PPV&FRA Similarly, the PPV&FR Authority also had been asking for NOC from the technology provider when a seed company is applying for registration of a new variety under the PPVFR Act. Such a stipulation is not backed by any provision in the PPVFR Act. If the stipulation was not there, under Section 30 of the PPVFR Act, the seed companies would have had access to the registered Bt cotton hybrid for development of new hybrids and payment of trait fee would be done as per the clause 26 of Benefit sharing of PPV & FRA. NSAI has requested PPV&FR Authority for not to insist for NOC from technology provider for registration of Bt Cotton Hybrids under PPV&FRA and has done several meetings with the Authority. PPVFR Authority has taken the legal opinion on the matter from Shri Tushar Mehta, Additional Solicitor General of India. The Ld. Addl Solicitor General of India has given his considered and valuable opinion that there are no provisions in support for insistence of NOC and it may cause significant loss of revenue to the National Gene Fund. In the recent meeting of PPVFR Authority, it was decided by the members after taking into consideration the valuable opinion of Ld. Additional Solicitor General of India and examining the relevant provisions of the Act that the requirement of submission of a No Objection Certificate from the concerned Technology Provider as a part of the application will be dispensed with for registration of the Bt cotton plant varieties. This decision shall come into force with immediate effect and it applies to all pending applications for registration also. However, the applicant has to submit a declaration under section 18(1) (h) of the Act, which is already incorporated in Form 1 and Form 2, under the title “Declarations”, specified under Regulation 10 of the PPV&FR Regulations, 2006.”

2. Issue of Refugia in Bag and issuance of labeling format under this concept: On the reports from major cotton growing states about damages of Bt Cotton Crop by pink bollworm NSAI has taken up the matter with Agriculture ministry. In consequence of an intensive follow up of NSAI, ministry of agriculture has conducted several meeting with eminent scientists and industry representatives and implemented the concept of RIB (Refugia in a Bag) and PIP (Pack in Pack). Under the concept of Refugia in a Bag, 23.7g of Isogenic Non Bt Cotton hybrid will be mixed as Refugia with 475g of Bt cotton Seeds. As the development of Isogenic non Bt cotton hybrid seeds would take time, so on the request of NSAI, ministry of agriculture has given time to seed industry up to 2019 for implementing the RIB concept. It was also decided that in Case of RIB, the gene purity will be mentioned as minimum 90% and maximum 95 %, while there will be no change in the seed quality standards in case of earlier system (450g Bt cotton seeds + 120g non Bt cotton hybrids) where the gene purity will continue to be 90 %. After continuous follow up of NSAI, Department of Agriculture & Cooperation has issued a Gazette Notification, specifying the standards as per the discussion held in meeting for both Refugia in Bag(RIB) and pack in Pack (PIP) concept. In continuation to that Maharashtra Agriculture Department has issued a notification to include some specific details on the Bt Cotton packets. On the request of members, NSAI has requested Ministry of Agriculture to issue a standard format of labelling of Bt Cotton Seed Packets as per the Seeds Act, 1966. On the request of NSAI and after a continuous follow up Ministry of Agriculture has issued an Office Memorandum, specifying the labelling format for packaging of Bt Cotton seeds under the concept of RIB and PIP.

3. Cotton leaf Curl Virus menace and Bt cotton Seed Sale permission NSAI had made representation for sale permission of Bt Cotton Hybrids with respect to the CLCuV tolerance in Punjab and Haryana on the request of NSAI members. After an extensive follow up and several meetings with ICAR and concerned state governments, NSAI has got sale permission for all the applied hybrids in Haryana. National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

4. OECD Seed Certification NSAI has been facilitating its member companies in educating them on OECD Registration process and representing their issues at Ministry for smooth and timely registration. NSAI has also following up for the enlisting of applied varieties under the OECD Scheme.

5. Issuance of Gazette notification for Minimum Seed Certification Standard of Rapeseed & Mustard NSAI had taken up the issue of genetic Purity standard of Mustard & Rapeseed. As per the notification dated, 23rd September, 2014, Department of Agriculture Cooperation has made amendment in Gazette Notification dated, 18th December, 1991 for genetic Purity of Mustard & Rapeseed from 95 to 85 per cent. The notification is valid till 30th September, 2016. In view of the above, NSAI has approached ICAR for further extension of the above notification with 85 percent genetic purity. With the constant effort of NSAI, Department of Agriculture Cooperation has issued Gazette Notification for mustard seed genetic purity with 85 percent.

6. Seed Certification (Revalidation) NSAI has requested to Ministry of agriculture & Farmers welfare for the amendment in the office memorandum dated 5.09.2014, issued by GOI stating that Revalidation of Seed should be done before the expiry of certification period of 9 months. In this respect MoA&FW via its office Memorandum dated 12th January, 2017 has issued a notification stating that if revalidation is requested after the expiry of previous validity period than the extension of revalidation will be for 3 months only. While if the revalidation is requested before the expiry of validity period, than the extension of validity period will be for 6 months. The above notification is not favourable in case of some crops like castor and pulses, so NSAI has requested ministry of agriculture for the extension of validity period of certified seeds till December, 2017 and got the extension via the office memorandum dated, 17th May, 2017.

7. Need of Additional Seed Licence for sale of seed in different states NSAI has taken up the issue of need of additional seed licence in Uttar Pradesh as earlier it was also resolved for the other states. With the continuous follow up with UP agriculture Department, UP Agriculture Department has given relief to the members for the above issue.

8. Ban of sale of Research variety in Bihar and Jharkhand Agriculture Department of Bihar and Jharkhand have issued a notification imposing ban on sale of research variety seeds in their respective States on 9.6.2017 and 15.6.2017 respectively. National seed Association of India has represented the issue to JS (Seed), Department of Agriculture & Cooperation and also done meeting with principle Secretary and Director Agriculture Bihar and Jharkhand. NSAI has represented to MoA that this prohibition on sale of Research Variety is contrary to the provisions of Seeds Act, 1966, Seed Rule, 1968 and Seed Control (Order), 1983. On the continuous effort of NSAI, JS (Seed), Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, MoA&FW has given recommendation to the Secretary, Bihar and Jharkhand to follow the Seeds Act, 1966, Seed Rule, 1968 and Seed Control (Order), 1983 to ensure the availability of quality seed among the farmers.

9. Impact of demonetisation on sale of Seed With the Government of India deciding that INR 500 & INR 1000 ceasing to be legal tender there was bound to be impact on farmers. Soon NSAI received representations from various State Level Associations i.e. Gujarat state Seed producers association, seed Association of MP, Seedsmen Association of Bengal and Tamilnadu Seed Association, Seed Industry Association of Maharashtra regarding the problems

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

faced by famers on ground. NSAI has written to Hon’ble Union Agriculture Minister enumerating various problems being faced by farmers. The most glaring fact was the timing of demonetisation and Rabi crop sowing season. Farmers need liquid cash for buying seeds, fertilizer and other inputs. NSAI appealed to Government of India for allowing farmers to continue using the old notes. In order to further support farmers for the current Rabi crop, the Government has decided to allow farmers to purchase seeds with the old high denomination bank notes of Rs.500 from the Centres, Units or Outlets belonging to the Central or State Governments, Public Sector Undertakings, National or State Seeds Corporations, Central or State Agricultural Universities and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), on production of proof of identity.

10. Extension in the Implementation of amendment of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules 2011 National Seed Association of India had represented to the Secretary, Consumer Affairs, Department of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of Consumers Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, with reference to Legal Metrology (Packed Commodities) (Amendment) Rules, 2015 – Reg. With this amendment, providing of email address of the person or the office along with name, address, telephone number on the package becomes mandatory. This amendment was said to be come into force w.e.f. 01-01-2016. With the constant effort of NSAI it was initially extended up to 30th June, 2016 and again up to 31st October, 2016. In the above context, on the request of some of companies, NSAI has again approached Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Good and Public Distribution to extend the notification. As a result of which they have again extended the dates of implementation up to 31st March, 2017.

11. Goods and Service Tax As Central Government and all states have been completely exempting seeds from the levy of any tax whatsoever during intra- and inter- state movement, the same practice should be continued under the GST regime. With regard to this NSAI had requested to Ministry of Agriculture and Finance to keep the seeds and planting materials in the Negative List under the proposed GST Act. In this context, NSAI has done several meetings in Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare for recommendation to Ministry of Finance for keeping seed under the negative list in GST. In continuation to that NSAI has also met and requested to member Secretary of Empowered committee of State Finance Ministers, Chairman GSTN to consider the appeal of Seed industry to keep seed under the negative list in the recent Model GST Law, 2016. On the result of continuous effort and follow up of NSAI, GST council has declared the Nil rate for all goods of seed quality for the chapter 9 and chapter 12 only. Due to the classification of all crops in different chapter, seeds of some important crops had come under the purview of GST under 5% tax regime. On the request of our members, National Seed Association of India has represented the matter to the Honourable Government of India (Ministry of finance and Ministry of Agriculture) vide its letter dated, 3rd July, 2017, 11th July, 2017 and 17th July, 2017. NSAI has done relentless follow up with the government and submitted required clarification along with the supportive in this regard to Ministry, to cover all goods of seeds of quality, seedlings, saplings, and planting material pertaining to other agricultural crops under the Nil category. On 28th June, 2017 Ministry of Finance had issued a Notification No. 02/2017 and exempted “all goods of seed quality” under Chapter 9 and Chapter 12 only. The said exemption list did not cover all goods of seeds of quality, seedlings, saplings, and planting material pertaining to other agricultural crops covered under the chapter 6, 7 and 10. On the continuous efforts of NSAI, Government of India has issued a corrigendum to Notification No. 02/2017 vide dated 27th July 2017 and exempted all goods of seed quality referred under

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Chapter 7 and Chapter 10 in addition to exemption given earlier under Chapter 9 and Chapter 12 vide referred notification. Accordingly, all seeds of quality mentioned under Chapter 7, Chapter 9, Chapter 10 and Chapter 12 are now exempted. Chapter 6 which covers planting material is already exempted vide referred notification.

12. Jute Seed Export Permission

Bangladesh is a larger importer of Jute Seed from India. NSAI has been facilitating member companies to take permission for Jute seed export. NSAI has supported to member companies to apply for permission and constantly followed up with ministry of Agriculture, which has been well considered by Ministry and permission is granted to all seed companies for applied quantity of jute seed export.

13. Rule bound Income Tax for the Seed Industry

As per the section 10(1) of Income Tax Act, 1961, income from cultivation and sale of seed was consistently accepted as tax exempt agricultural income by the income tax department since 1980 to 1999-2000. Since 1990-2000, despite the existence of same Income tax laws and rules, Income tax department has sought to tax the income from cultivation and sale of seeds. To clarify the conflicting position emerged on the taxation of income from cultivation and sale of seed, the DGIR commissioned a study in 2002. The study recommended that the seeds are produced by conducting agriculture and the income be either treated as tax exempt agricultural income (as was consistently done till 1999-2000), or within the scope of section 295 (2) (a)(i) of the Income Tax Act 1961, a rule should be made to tax the income from cultivation and sale of seeds on the lines of taxation of income of plantation companies i.e. tea, coffee and rubberâ&#x20AC;?. A report prepared by India Development Foundation (IDF) has concluded that the income should be bifurcated in the ratio of 90:10% as agricultural income: business income for the purpose of Taxation. In other words, only 10% of the income is to be subjected to tax. Based on these reports, NSAI has requested to Central Board of Direct Taxes for Rule bound taxation of income from cultivation and sale of seeds similar to taxation of plantation crops. NSAI has done several meetings with Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Agriculture to formulate Rule bound taxation of income from cultivation and sale of seed. As an outcome of rigorous follow up of NSAI, Director General Risk Assessment has requested Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare to call a meeting with stakeholders, so that the issue can be taken up further.

14. Issue of Custom duty on coriander seed

On the request of member vegetable seed companies of NSAI, NSAI has taken up the issue of classification of Spice seeds import (in reference to Coriander import as planting materials) with MoA. After several meeting and follow up with Ministry of Agriculture, a letter is issued by Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare with reference for Clarification of Seed of spices for sowing and planting and for leafy /green vegetables. This letter would help the vegetable seed companies in import of coriander seed.

15. Annual Fee to be paid under PPV&FRA for Registered Variety

As per the Gazette notification No.S.O.2182 (E) dated 26-08-2009 issued by Central Government, the annual fee to be paid under PPV&FR Act is contrary to section 35 of PPV & FR Act. NSAI had requested therein for the amendment of this notification to bring it in tune with sub-section (1) of section 35 of the PPV & FR Act and to refund the extra annual fee, paid by the registered breeder/ Seed Company. The PPV & FR Authority in its 22nd Meeting held on 17-04-2015 approved the amendment in Annual Fee notification at Agenda No. 10 Despite the approval of the amendment on the annual fee; Gazette notification is not yet issued. NSAI has requested to Ministry of Agriculture to issue the Gazette notification for the amendment and to refund the extra annual fee paid by the registered breeder /Seed Company.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

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National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

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National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

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National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

H. Audit Report A K GUPTA & ASSOCIATES (Chartered Accountants)

OFFICE: - B 1/ 154. LAJPAT NAGAR - I, NEW DELHI - 110024 Tel: 011-65650816,Mobile +91 9717143157 E-mail :- ashokgupta1949@yahoo.co.in

AUDITOR’S REPORT Auditor’s Report to the Members of NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA We have audited the attached Balance Sheet of NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA, as on 31st March 2017 and also Income & Expenditure Account for the year ended on that date annexed thereto. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Association’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in India. Those Standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our/my audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. Subject to notes to accounts in schedule to financial statements, We further report that: (i)

We have obtained all the information and explanations, which to best of our/my knowledge and belief were necessary for the purpose of our audit;

(ii)

In our opinion, proper books of account as required by law have been kept by the Association so far as appears from our examination of those books;

(iii)

The Balance Sheet and Income & Expenditure Account dealt with by this report are in agreement with the books of account;

(iv)

In our opinion, the Balance Sheet and Income & Expenditure Account dealt with by this report comply with the rules & regulations under which the said association has been formed;

(v)

In our opinion and to the best of our information and according to the explanations give to us/me, the said accounts read with notes thereon give the information required by rules and regulation as required, in the manner so required and give a true and fair view in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in India: a) in the case of Balance Sheet, State of affairs of the Association as at 31st March, 2017; and b) in the case of the Income & Expenditure Account, Excess of Income over Expenditure of the association for the year ended on that date. For A. K. Gupta & Associates (Chartered Accountants) Sd

Date: - 10th August 2017 Place: - New Delhi

(A K Gupta) Prop. Mem. No. 80014 FRN 000776N

==============================================================================================

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA Regd. Office :- 909, SURYA KIRAN BUILDING, KASTURBA GANDHI MARG, NEW DELHI-110001.

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31ST MARCH 2017 CURRENT YEAR (Rs.)

SCH.

PREVIOUS YEAR (Rs.)

SOURCES OF FUNDS FUND Corpus Fund

3,33,44,321

3,32,66,321

General Fund

6,71,23,200

5,89,64,423

10,04,67,521

9,22,30,744

TOTAL II

APPLICATION OF FUNDS Fixed Assets (a) Gross Block (Cost Less Accumulated Depreciation) (b) Less : Depreciation (c) Net Block

1,81,04,799

2,00,57,684

18,80,119

INVESTMENT

1,62,24,680

Investment

Current Assets, Loans and Advances

7,72,21,357

81,51,631 13,93,817 95,45,448

Less : Current Liabilities and Provisions

22,25,088 2,98,876 25,23,964

Net Current Assets

70,21,484

TOTAL

10,04,67,521

Significant Accounting Policies and Notes Forming Part of Accounts

As per our report of even date

A. K. GUPTA (Prop.) Mem . No. 80014 FRN 000776N Place: New Delhi Date :- 10/08/2017

7,29,47,385

50,16,307 8,47,360 58,63,667

(a) Current Liabilities (b) Provisions

1,79,73,169

(b) Cash & Bank Balances (c) Loans and Advances

For A. K. Gupta & Associates (Prop.)

20,84,515

For National Seed Association of India Sd (President)

(Treasurer)

(Executive Director)

Sd (General Secretary)

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

43,39,218 2,14,259 45,53,477

13,10,190 9,22,30,744

NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA

Regd. Office :- 909, SURYA KIRAN BUILDING, KASTURBA GANDHI MARG, NEW DELHI-110001. INCOME & EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2017 CURRENT YEAR (Rs.)

SCH.

PREVIOUS YEAR (Rs.)

INCOME : Direct Income

2,67,70,400

1,62,02,900

Indirect Income

1,06,51,606

27,75,285

3,74,22,006

1,89,78,185

TOTAL

EXPENDITURE : Employees Remuneration & Benefits

71,05,244

64,19,242

Administrative & Other Expenses

1,89,34,932

88,48,846

Depreciation

18,80,119

20,84,515

95,01,711

16,25,582

3,74,22,006

1,89,78,185

EXCESS OF INCOME OVER EXPENDITURE CARRIED FORWARD TO GENERAL FUND TOTAL

Significant Account Policies and Notes to Accounts

As per our report of even date For A. K. Gupta & Associates (Prop.)

For National Seed Association of India

A. K. GUPTA (Prop.) Mem . No. 80014 FRN 000776N

(President)

(Treasurer)

(Executive Director)

Place: New Delhi Date :- 10/08/2017

Sd (General Secretary)

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA Regd. Office :- 909, SURYA KIRAN BUILDING, KASTURBA GANDHI MARG, NEW DELHI-110001. Schedules forming part of the Balance Sheet as at 31st March, 2017 CURRENT YEAR RUPEES

RUPEES

PREVIOUS YEAR RUPEES

RUPEES

SCHEDULE 1 CORPUS FUND Opening Balance Add :- Entrace Fees received During the year

3,32,66,321 78,000

3,32,25,321 41,000

3,33,44,321

3,32,66,321

SCHEDULE 2 GENERAL FUND Opening Balance Add : Additions during the year Add :- Surplus during the year

5,89,64,423 (13,42,934) 95,01,711

6,71,23,200 6,71,23,200

5,73,38,841 16,25,582

5,89,64,423 5,89,64,423

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

(a) (b)

SBI Dynamic Bond Fund UTI Bond Fund

PREVIOUS YEAR

RUPEES

2,39,48,606 5,32,72,751

7,72,21,357

2,26,84,247 5,02,63,138

7,29,47,385

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

Previous Year

60 10 15 15 15 10 15 15 15 15

% (2)

(1)

Computers Furniture & Fix. Mobile Phone Invertor Digital Camera Building Room Heaters LG Fridge Xerox Machine Airconditioner

Rate of Dep.

Block of Asset

97,242 1,31,630 82,176

1,79,73,169

1,99,27,008

34,388

(4) Amt Rs

48,500

(5) Amt Rs

Additions More than Less than 180 days 180 days

83,878 4,25,965 22,057 22,777 9,834 1,73,50,486 13,528 4,126 21,875 18,643

(3) Amt Rs

Opening Balance as on 01-04-2015

(6) Amt Rs

Deletions

2,00,57,684

1,81,04,799

1,18,266 4,25,965 22,057 22,777 9,834 1,73,50,486 13,528 4,126 21,875 1,15,885

(3)+(4)+(5)-(6) (7) Amt Rs

Total

20,69,965

18,80,119

70,960 42,597 3,309 3,417 1,475 17,35,049 2,029 619 3,281 17,383

Depreciation on Opening balance balance and additions made in first half as reduced by deletions [(3)+(4)-(6)] x (2) (8) Amt Rs

PARTILCULARS OF DEPRECIATION AS PER THE INCOME TAX ACT, 1961 FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2017

NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA Regd. Office :- 909, SURYA KIRAN BUILDING, KASTURBA GANDHI MARG, NEW DELHI-110001.

14,550

(5) x(2) x 50% (9) Amt Rs

Depreciation on the additions made in the second half

20,84,515

18,80,119

70,960 42,597 3,309 3,417 1,475 17,35,049 2,029 619 3,281 17,383

(8)+(9) (10) Amt Rs

Total Depreciation

Fixed Assets

1,79,73,169

1,62,24,680

47,306 3,83,368 18,748 19,360 8,359 1,56,15,437 11,499 3,507 18,594 98,502

(7)-(10) (11) Amt Rs

Written down Value as on 31-03-2016

SCHEDULE 3

SCHEDULE 4

PREVIOUS YEAR (Rs.)

Current Assets, Loans and Advances Cash and Bank Balances : - Balance With scheduled Banks

80,51,994

Cash in hand

99,637

Loans and Advances : Deposits Prepaid Expenses Advance Advance to Staff Sundry Debtors Tax Deducted at Source

54,230 71,724 10,000 55,000 4,10,000 7,92,863 TOTAL

50,07,105 81,51,631

9,202

50,16,307

54,230

13,93,817

1,00,000 10,140 6,82,990

95,45,448

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

8,47,360 58,63,667

NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA Regd. Office :- 909, SURYA KIRAN BUILDING, KASTURBA GANDHI MARG, NEW DELHI-110001.

Schedules forming part of the Balance Sheet as at 31st March, 2017 Current year (Rs.)

SCHEDULE 5

Previous year (Rs.)

Current Liabilities & Provisions Current Liabilities TDS Payable Incentive Payable S. Credtiors Provisions Provision for Contribution to Seed Asso. Payable to Staff Expenses Payable

4,36,085 17,89,003 22,25,088

42,39,164 43,39,218

2,48,876 50,000 2,98,876

36,437 53,449 1,24,373 2,14,259

1,00,054

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA

Regd. Office :- 909, SURYA KIRAN BUILDING, KASTURBA GANDHI MARG, NEW DELHI-110001. Schedule forming part of the Income & Expenditure Account for the year ended 31st March, 2017

Current Year (Rs.)

Previous year (Rs.)

SCHEDULE 6

Direct Income

Membership Fee Received Delegate Registration Fee Contribution for Magazines / Hand Book / Website Exhibition & Trading Table Seminar & Workshop Receipts Processing Fee Sponsorship Fee

1,12,52,000 63,67,000 6,31,400 6,00,000 4,20,000 75,00,000

1,45,28,500 4,36,400 6,78,000 4,90,000 70,000

2,67,70,400

1,62,02,900

3,03,014 42,73,972 1,60,810 59,13,810

3,08,197 24,09,856 57,232 -

1,06,51,606

27,75,285

SCHEDULE 7

Other Income

Interest on Deposits-Gross (Including Sweep - in A/c) Income From Investment Credit Balance Retunrn off Other Income Share of Income from ASC

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA

Regd. Office :- 909, SURYA KIRAN BUILDING, KASTURBA GANDHI MARG, NEW DELHI-110001. Schedule forming part of the Income & Expenditure Account for the year ended 31st March, 2017

SCHEDULE 8 Employees Remuneration & Benefits Current Year (Rs.) Salary Staff Welfare

Previous year (Rs.)

69,71,697 1,33,547

63,39,388 79,854

71,05,244

64,19,242

SCHEDULE 9 Administrative & Other Expenses Current Year (Rs.) Payament to Auditors Bank Charges Books & Perodicals Communication Conference Expenses Computer Maintenance Contribution to Seed Association Entertainment Event Management Charges Event Promotion Charges Festival Expenses Legal & Professional Charges Membership & Subscription Misc.Expenses Office Maintenece Printing & Stationery Property Tax Publications Expenses Rate & Tax Travelling Expenses Website Water & Electricity Balance written off

Previous year (Rs.)

30,000 7,621 1,11,765 3,16,700 1,19,39,063 38,655 7,85,500 1,25,098 3,45,000 40,250 1,99,948 9,62,425 20,80,174 2,56,638 91,384 62,097 6,49,553 7,21,854 60,232 1,10,975 -

30,000 23,494 89,185 3,52,408 18,20,498 50,602 34,389 1,98,236 8,72,300 21,11,820 24,772 1,64,309 2,28,827 61,946 4,48,021 3,681 6,61,502 41,058 1,31,798 15,00,000

1,89,34,932

88,48,846

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

NATIONAL SEED ASSOCIATION OF INDIA Regd. Office :- 909, SURYA KIRAN BUILDING, KASTURBA GANDHI MARG, NEW DELHI-110001.

==================================================================== SCHEDULE 10 :

Notes annexed thereto and forming part of the Balance Sheet as at 31 st March, 2017 and Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended on that date.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (1)

Basis of Accounting : The Accounts are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in India and on the principle of going concern. All incomes are accounted for on cash basis but expenses are accounted for on mixed basis i.e. some expenses are accounted for on mercantile basis while others are accounted for on cash basis. Accounts of various projects/seminars/conference have been taken into same books of accounts.

(2)

Fixed Assets and Depreciation : fixed assets have been purchased/acquired during the period. All the fixed assets have been stated at cost of acquisition less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided on written down value methods as per provisions of Income Tax Act, 1961 and rates prescribed under Income Tax Rules, 1961:

(3)

Revenue Recognition : Interest on time deposit is accounted for on accrual basis.

(4)

Investments Investments are shown at cost price.

(5)

Retirement Benefits: Provision for Gratuity has not been made, as the Association has no statutory liable to pay the same.

(6)

Taxes on Income/Deferred Tax Assets/Liabilities Current tax is not determined as the amount of tax payable in respect of income for the year does not arise as association is exempt under Income Tax Act. Association is registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 w.e.f. 08.05.2007.

(7)

Material Events Material events occurring after the Balance Sheet date are taken into cognizance.

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

II.

NOTES ON ACCOUNTS 1)

Auditor’s Remuneration : Statutory Audit fees Others

The NSAI organized the Asian Seed Congress in association with the Asia Pacific Seed Association, Thailand (APSC) through its specific purpose National Organizing Committee Asian Seed Congress 2015 (NOC-ASC-2015) vide its agreement dated 10.09.2015 with the Asia Pacific Seed Association. The accounts for the NOC-ASC-2015 have been audited by an independent auditor and their audit report has been considered by us. The surplus/deficit from Asian Seed Congress 2015 has been accounted for in this years accounts as per actual amount received. However, we have neither been provided with any further information to ascertain the actual share of NOC/ASC 2015 nor with a copy of audited statements of revenue generated by APSA to verified the appropriateness of the same.

Previous year’s figures are re-classified/re-grouped wherever necessary to make comparable with the current year’s figures.

In the opinion of the management and to the best of their knowledge and belief, current assets, loan and advances have a value on realization in the ordinary course at least equal to the amount at which they are stated in the Balance Sheet.

Security Deposits, etc. and other liabilities are subject to confirmation by other parties.

Rs. 25,000 Rs. 35,000 ------------Rs. 60,000 -------------

(Previous year 25,000) (Previous year 5,000) `

As per our report of even date For A. K. Gupta & Associates (Chartered Accountants) Sd

For and behalf of the Association Sd

(A K Gupta) Prop. Mem. No. 80014 FRN 000776N

(President)

(Treasurer)

Date: - 10th August 2017 Place :- New Delhi

(General Secretary)

Sd (Executive Director)

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

I. Resolutions 2017

RESOLUTION NO. NSAI/2017/1

The minutes of the meeting of the Annual General Meeting held on 26th August, 2016 in New Delhi is confirmed and approved by the General Body unanimously.

Proposed By:

Seconded By:

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

RESOLUTION NO. NSAI/2017/2

Resolved that the Annual Report for the year 2016-17 are accepted and approved by the General Body unanimously.

Proposed By:

Seconded By:

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

RESOLUTION NO. NSAI/2017/3

Resolved that the Statement of Accounts and Auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Report for the year 2016-17 has been accepted and approved by the General Body unanimously.

Proposed By:

Seconded By:

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

RESOLUTION NO. NSAI/2017/4

Resolved unanimously that the existing Auditors of NSAI M/s A K GUPTA & ASSOCIATES (Chartered Accountants), New Delhi be re-appointed for the year 2017-18 at a remuneration of Rs 25,000 per annum.

Proposed By:

Seconded By:

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

RESOLUTION NO. NSAI/2017/5

Resolved that the Annual Budget for the FY 2017-18 has been accepted and approved by the General Body unanimously.

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Seconded By:

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

RESOLUTION NO. NSAI/2017/6

Resolved that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;an individual representing a member (organisation) cannot contest from more than one category (i.e. Ordinary, Associate and Association). The same has been accepted and approved by the General Body unanimously. The Rules & Regulations of the National Seed Association of India is hereby amended and the same is included under point 10.4 Election and Its Mode, as new point 10.4.5.

Proposed By:

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National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

RESOLUTION NO. NSAI/2017/7

It is Resolved unanimously by the GC that the ‘Eligibility criteria to contest in NSAI Governing Council Elections shall be 3 years’ minimum presence as NSAI Member (i.e. the contestant company shall be a member of NSAI for 3 years on continuous basis) and the member company shall have minimum 10 years’ experience in Seed industry’. This rule would apply from next GC elections. This amendment is proposed to ensure entry of competent people into the GC. The Rules & Regulations of the National Seed Association of India is hereby amended and the same is included under point 10.4 Election and Its Mode, as new point 10.4.6.

Proposed By:

Seconded By:

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

RESOLUTION NO. NSAI/2017/8

Roles and Responsibilities of Election Committee The Election Committee would have the role of supervision, direction & control of elections for electing Governing Council members of NSAI. It would deal with the preparation of electoral list and organising elections for election of members into the Governing Council of NSAI. The key thrust of Election committee would be well-run elections, electoral registration and transparency operations and equal opportunity for all eligible members to contest in elections with high levels of compliance to integrity and fair-play. 1. Composition: The Election Commission consists of:

a) Chairman from among the current year NSAI Members b) 2 other members from among the current year NSAI Members c) The Committee shall be constituted by the Governing Council d) Upon successful organising of the Elections the Election committee would cease to operate

2. Functions of the Election Committee: The Election Committee performs following functions:

a) The supervise, direct & control the flow of elections. b) To act as guardian of Free & Fair Elections. c) To frame Model Code of Conduct. d) To finalize Election Notice, Election Schedule, Electoral List, Nomination Form, Proxy Voting Form. e) To declare Nomination List. f) To finalize Ballot Paper. g) To oversee the proceedings of the Elections-Casting of Votes, Counting of Votes h) To declare the Results of NSAI governing Council Elections

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017

3. Powers of the Election Committee: The Election Committee is vested with the following powers: a) To advice the disqualification of any contestant as per the election guidelines. b) Framing of Timelines and modification of Election Schedule in agreement with Rules and Regulation of NSAI c) Decision on inclusion of Members in Electoral List based on Guidelines approved by the GC earlier. d) Declaration of Electoral List e) Dispute mitigation during the Election Procedure f) To pass any order in respect of the conduct of the elections when there is no law or rule made under the R & R. Resolved that the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Roles and Responsibilities of Election Committeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; has been accepted and approved by the General Body unanimously. The Rules & Regulations of the National Seed Association of India is hereby amended and the Roles and Responsibilities of Election Committee is included under point 10.4 Election and Its Mode as new point 10.4.7.

Proposed By:

Seconded By:

National Seed Association of India (NSAI) Annual Report 2017