In addition to the functions entrusted to the certification agency by the Act, the Agency shall-
(a) certify seeds of any notified kinds or varieties;
(b) outline the procedure for submission of applications and for growing, harvesting, processing, storage and labellilng of seeds intended for certification till the end to ensure that seed lots finally approved for certification are true to variety and meet prescribed standards for certification under the Act or these rules;
(c) maintain a list of recognised breeders of seeds;
(d) verify, upon receipt of an application for certification that the variety is eligible for certification, that the seed source used for planting was authenticated and the record of purchase is in accordance with these rules and the fees have been paid;
(e) take sample and inspect seed lots produced under the procedure laid down by the certification agency and have such samples tested to ensure that the seed conforms to the prescribed standards of certification;
(f) inspect seed processing plants to see that the admixtures of other kinds and varieties are not introduced;
(g) ensure that action at all stages, e.g. field inspection, seed processing plant inspection, analysis of samples taken and issue of certificates (including tags, marks, labels and seals) is taken expeditiously;
(h) carry out educational programmes designed to promote the use of certified seed including a publication listing certified seed growers and sources of certified seed;
(i) grant certificates (including tags labels, seals etc.) in accordance with the provisions of the Act and these rules;
(j) maintain such records as may be necessary to verify that seed plants for the production of certified seed were eligible for such planting under these rules;
(k) inspect fields to ensure that the minimum standards for isolation, roguing (where applicable) use of male sterility (where applicable) and similar factors are maintained at all times, as well as ensure that seedborne diseases are not present in the field to a greater extent than those provided in the standards for certification.
PART V – Marking or Labelling