1966: Seeds Act passed, combines the US self-labelling system (for private seed sellers) and the European system of testing and certification (for public sector research establishment seeds). Has no way to regulate the private sector

1968: Seeds Rules notified

1972: Seeds (Amendment) Act, 1972. Central Seed Certification Board created to coordinate seed certification agencies. Specified the standards of germination and purity, made mandatory on labelled containers

1981: Seeds (Amendment) recommends all certifications conform to specifications of the Central Seed Committee

1983: Seeds (Control) Order brings seeds under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. Regulates sellers, exporters and/or importers through licensing

1988: New Policy on Seeds Development makes it easier to import germplasm for research and allows imports of oilseeds and seeds of coarse grains for trials

2002: National Seeds Policy. Emphasises quality seed availability and increased international trade. Private sector investment encouraged. Endorses transgenic and proprietary varieties. Farmers' right to save, exchange and sell farm-saved seeds protected.