Man Arrested with 100 kg of Banned Cotton Seeds Near Shamirpet

A 58-year-old man, identified as Dasari Srinivasa Rao from Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, was arrested near Shamirpet, Hyderabad, for allegedly transporting and attempting to sell 100 kg of banned BT-3 cotton seeds. The arrest was conducted by the SOT Cantonment team in collaboration with Agriculture Department officials and Shamirpet police near Outer Ring Road exit number 7, following specific intelligence inputs. Authorities seized two bags, each containing 50 kg of the prohibited BG-III HP variety seeds. During interrogation, the accused admitted to procuring the seeds at a low cost from a supplier in Annamayya district, intending to sell them to local farmers and fertilizer shop owners for significant profit. Police noted that two accomplices remain at large and are being sought. The accused has a prior record involving a similar case in Vikarabad district last year. Officials highlighted the severe risks associated with these banned seeds, including potential crop failure, soil degradation, and financial losses for farmers. A formal case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Environment Protection Act, Seeds Act, and Seeds Control Order. Investigations are ongoing to dismantle the distribution network and locate the absconding suspects.