Hyderabad, May 31 (Reporter) In a decisive move to protect farmers and safeguard agricultural integrity, the Telangana Police, in coordination with the Agriculture Department and other agencies, have intensified efforts to curb the sale and distribution of spurious, sub-standard, and unapproved seeds across the state. Fake or spurious seeds, which are not produced as per standard seed production practices and lack proper field history and quality certification, pose a serious threat to farmers. These include seeds with low germination rates, poor physical purity, incorrect labelling, and even grains falsely sold as seeds. There are also reports of illegal sales of Herbicide Tolerant (HT) cotton seeds, specifically BG-III cotton, which is banned under the Environmental Protection Act, 1986, and has not been approved by the Government of India for cultivation. To tackle these issues, the Telangana government has formed Joint Task Forces at the district and unit levels, comprising officials from the Police Department, Agriculture Department, and Seed Corporations. These teams are mandated to identify and take strict action against those involved in the manufacturing, sale, and storage of such illegal seeds. Legal action is being taken under various laws, including the Seeds Act, 1966; the Seeds (Control) Order, 1983; the Environmental Protection Act, 1986; the Essential Commodities Act; and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Offenders face imprisonment of up to seven years or more for serious violations. In line with its zero-tolerance policy, the Telangana Police has also invoked the Preventive Detention (PD) Act against habitual spurious seed offenders. Authorities have begun seizing properties used for the manufacture, storage, and sale of such seeds under Section 152(1)(b) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), with appropriate approvals from the concerned revenue officials. This is being implemented as a deterrent to those engaged in these illegal practices. In recent weeks, major raids were conducted in the districts of Vikarabad and Jogulamba Gadwal, as well as in the police commissionerates of Rachakonda, Warangal, and Ramagundam. During these operations, large quantities of spurious seeds, along with illegally manufactured pesticides and insecticides, were seized. Police have confirmed that Preventive Detention proceedings will be initiated against the offenders. Officials have strongly urged farmers to purchase seeds only from authorised dealers and to avoid buying from unlicensed or fly-by-night operators. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, or insecticides to the nearest police station. The Telangana Police emphasised that they hold the highest respect for farmers, who are regarded as the "Anna Data," and reiterated their firm commitment to protecting their interests by ensuring that no one involved in the spurious seed trade will be spared, a statement from DGP office said on Saturday...////...