The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has issued an important amendment to the Fertilizers (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985. The amendment, which came into effect on March 19, seeks to address key provisions relating to biostimulants, a growing category in agriculture and allied sectors. The change is intended to provide more flexibility to manufacturers and importers of biostimulants while ensuring appropriate regulatory oversight.

Provisional Registration for Biostimulants

The most significant change in the amendment relates to biostimulants. The amendment introduces a provision that allows manufacturers and importers to continue producing, selling and storing biostimulants for a period of three months, even if standards for such products have not yet been set. However, this exemption is conditional on the applicant submitting an application for provisional registration. The move is expected to provide more time for the formulation of appropriate standards for biostimulants, which are increasingly being used in crop production to improve yield and plant health.

Extension of Timeline for Compliance

The amendment also extends a key time frame. In Form G-3 of the Fertilizers (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985, the previous deadline of February 22, 2025, for compliance with certain provisions has now been changed to June 16, 2025. This extension provides additional time for stakeholders in agriculture and allied sectors to meet regulatory requirements and ensure smooth compliance with the order.

Impact on the Fertilizer Industry

The fertilizer industry, which is a key part of the agriculture and allied sectors, will benefit from these amendments. By allowing the continued sale and distribution of biostimulants while standards are being developed, the government aims to prevent market disruptions. This approach balances the need for regulatory control with the industry's demand for flexibility, which is essential in the rapidly evolving field of agricultural inputs.

Government's Assurance to Farmers

Through these amendments, the government reiterates its commitment to supporting farmers and the agriculture sector as a whole. By addressing issues related to biostimulants and providing additional time for compliance, the ministry aims to ensure that the agricultural industry can thrive while adhering to necessary regulations. These measures are part of ongoing efforts to streamline agricultural policies, making it easier for farmers and businesses to operate in a stable and predictable regulatory environment.

The Fertilizers (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Second Amendment Order, 2025, is a step forward in improving agricultural policies. The focus on biostimulants and the extension of timelines demonstrate the government's proactive approach in nurturing agriculture and its allied sectors while ensuring that the necessary regulations are in place to protect both the growth of the industry and the welfare of consumers.