Fertilizers are crucial for increasing soil fertility and increasing agricultural productivity. They play an essential role in providing nutrients to plants, ensuring healthy growth and high yields. With the increasing demand for efficient farming practices, the Government of India has already made several amendments to regulate the use of fertilizers. The Fertilizers (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) (Third) Amendment Order, 2025, is a regulation that amends the Fertilizers (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985. This order focuses on improving standards and procedures related to the use of organic fertilizers in agriculture, particularly those derived from fermented organic materials. Its purpose is to ensure that fertilizers used in agriculture are safe, effective and free of harmful substances.

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What is Fertilizers (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) Control Third Amendment Order, 2025?

The fertilizers (inorganic, organic or mixed) control third amendment order, 2025, is a legal framework issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare. It amends the fertilizers (inorganic, organic or mixed) (control) order, 1985 to regulate and regulate the use of fertilisers, especially organic fertilizers. The primary purpose of this amendment is to provide updated standards for organic fertilizers such as fermented organic fertilizers and liquid fermented organic fertilizers. The amendment also outlines procedures to ensure these fertilizers meet quality standards, which will enhance their effectiveness and safety. This order empowers the government to ensure that fertilizers used in agriculture are properly controlled, meet quality standards, and do not harm the environment or public health. The fertilizer control order has been crucial in ensuring that fertilizers meet specific quality criteria, which helps promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Also Read: How to Setup Manufacturing of Fertilizers in India

Key Features of Fertilizers Control Amendment Order, 2025

The fertilizers control order, 2025, introduces some important provisions to improve the use of organic fertilizers. The main features of the amendment are given below:

1. Fermented organic compost: The amendment introduces new guidelines for “fermented organic compost,” including specific requirements for its physical and chemical properties. The manufacturer should clearly state on the bag that fermented organic compost should be added 15-20 days before sowing and enriched with nutrients, as indicated on the label. These qualities include:

2. Liquid fermented organic fertilizers: Like fermented organic fertilizers, liquid fermented organic fertilizers also fall under regulation. Manufacturers should clearly state on containers that liquid fermented organic fertilizer should be applied 15-20 days before sowing. In addition, they should enrich and label the compost with nutrients. The properties are:

3. Mandatory labeling requirements: The amendment mandates that manufacturers of both fermented organic manure and liquid fermented organic manure clearly indicate on the packaging that the product should be added 15-20 days prior to sowing. This ensures proper application and helps farmers use the fertilizer at the right time for maximum benefit.
4. Nutrient enrichment: The amendments also encourage manufacturers to enrich both fermented organic compost and liquid fermented organic compost with additional nutrients. Enriched nutrients must be clearly labeled on the product to inform consumers about the nutritional value and benefits of compost.
5. Sampling procedures for organic carbon enhancers: The amendment sets out a detailed procedure for sampling organic carbon enhancers (organic fertilizers) for inspectors. These samples are critical for quality control and ensure that the fertilizer adheres to established standards. The sample collection procedure conformed to the protocol outlined in the fertilizer control order.
6. Methods of analysis: The amendment specifies methods for analyzing fermented organic manure and liquid fermented organic manure. The analysis includes several tests, such as pH estimation, moisture estimation, conductivity measurement, organic carbon analysis, and heavy metal content analysis. These tests are designed to ensure that the fertilizer meets the required quality standards.

Importance of Fertilizer Control Amendment Order, 2025

The Fertilizers (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) (3rd) Amendment Order, 2025, is significant for several reasons:

• Improving fertilizer quality: The amendment by implementing stringent quality standards for fermented organic fertilizers and liquid fermented organic fertilizers ensures that only safe and effective fertilizers are used in agriculture. This improves the overall quality of the produce and prevents the use of inferior or harmful fertilizers.
• Environmental safety: The amendment limits the presence of harmful heavy metals in manure, which can otherwise contaminate soil and water. Amendments help protect the environment and prevent soil degradation by setting maximum permissible levels for substances such as arsenic, cadmium, and mercury.
• Promoting sustainable agriculture: The amendments support sustainable agricultural practices by regulating the use of organic fertilizers. Encouraging the production of organic fertilizer ensures an eco-friendly approach that enhances soil health over time. The amendment promotes the of fertilizer plant setups that produce organic alternatives, ensuring farmers have access to high-quality fertilizers that maximize benefits without compromising land health.
• Consumer trust: Clear labeling requirements ensure that consumers (farmers) are well informed about fertilizer quality and use. This transparency builds trust in products and helps farmers make informed decisions about which fertilizers to use for their crops.
• Health and safety: Testing manure for pathogens and heavy metals is critical to ensuring the safety of both the environment and human health. By prohibiting the use of contaminated fertilizer, the amendments help protect public health and ensure that the food produced is free of harmful substances.

Conclusion

The Fertilizers (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) (3rd) Amendment Order, 2025, represents an important step towards ensuring the safe and effective use of fertilizers in Indian agriculture. By implementing stringent quality standards, clear labeling requirements, and robust testing protocols, the amendments aim to improve fertilizer quality, promote sustainable farming practices, and protect the environment. The regulations also ensure farmers can use fertilizers with confidence, knowing they meet safety and effectiveness standards. This amendment not only addresses the needs of modern agriculture but also plays an important role in ensuring food security and environmental protection in India.