Union Minister Assures Telangana CM of Fertilizer Supply Amidst Concerns Over Excess Urea Consumption
Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers held a meeting with a delegation led by Telangana Chief Minister to address the crucial issue of fertilizer availability in the state. During the discussion, the Union Minister assured the Telangana Chief Minister of full support to meet the genuine demand of the state’s farmers and instructed officials from the Department of Fertilizers to ensure supplies as per requirement.
Agriculture Ministry Adds New Biostimulant Specifications In Fertilizer Control Order
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has issued an order further amending the Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985, to include specifications for several new biostimulant products. The Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Fourth Amendment Order, 2025, which came into force on the date of its publication in the Official Gazette (May 26th, 2025), introduces new entries in Schedule VI, Part A, which outlines the “Specifications of Biostimulants”.
India Maintains Zero Under-Recovery for PDS Kerosene
The Government of India has maintained the retail selling price of Public Distribution System (PDS) Kerosene at a zero under-recovery level across the country, effective from March 1, 2020.
Government Delays Implementation of Quality Control Orders for Ethylene Dichloride, Vinyl Chloride Monomer, and Polycarbonate
The Central Government has announced a delay in the implementation of quality control orders (QCOs) for Ethylene Dichloride, Vinyl Chloride Monomer, and Polycarbonate. The new enforcement date for these orders is now set for September 12, 2025.
Domestic Fertilizer Production & Green Alternatives
Potassium Derived from Molasses (PDM), a byproduct of the sugar industry with a minimum potash content of 14.5%, is being promoted as an alternative to imported Muriate of Potash (MOP).
Government Boosts Chemical Safety with Training Program for Major Accident Hazard Units
As part of India’s “Viksit Bharat@2047” initiative, the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals recently conducted a two-day training program focused on “Chemical and Petrochemical Industrial Safety,” specifically targeting Major Accident Hazard (MAH) units. The program took place at CIPET: IPT-Bhubaneswar on January 10-11, 2025.
Extended Validity for Ammonium Nitrate Licenses
These proposed changes aim to streamline regulations for entities dealing with ammonium nitrate. The draft amendments are open for public comment until February 12, 2025. Individuals can submit feedback to the DPIIT via mail or email.
Government Proposes Amendments to Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has published a draft notification proposing amendments to the Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012. These amendments aim to streamline the licensing process and reduce regulatory burden for certain categories of businesses. The draft proposes significantly reduced fees for obtaining licenses and approvals related to ammonium nitrate for businesses categorized as MSEs, Micro & Small Startups, and Women Entrepreneurs.
Government Launches Training Program to Enhance Chemical and Petrochemical Safety
The training program is designed to enhance safety and security measures in Major Accident Hazard (MAH) units across India. The program covered a wide range of topics, including accident and risk management, loss prevention, environmental protection, fire and explosion safety, and emergency response.
New Quality Control Orders for Chemical Intermediates
The Central Government has issued three new quality control orders for chemical intermediates: H Acid, K Acid, and Vinyl Sulphone. These products must bear the Standard Mark issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), certifying their compliance with quality standards.
Implementation Of Ethylene Dichloride (Quality Control) Order, 2021 Postponed
The Ethylene Dichloride (Quality Control) Order, 2021 provides that Ethylene Dichloride shall conform to the Ethylene Dichloride – Specification in IS 869 :2020. The effective date of the Ethylene Dichloride (Quality Control) Order, 2021, has been extended to March 12, 2025.
Central Government Authorizes Direct Sales of Fermented Organic Manure
The Central Government has authorized 21 manufacturers to sell fermented organic manure and liquid fermented organic manure in bulk directly to farmers. The authorization, granted under the Fertilizer (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985, allows these manufacturers to sell their products in bulk directly to farmers for a period of three years.
