Ministry of Agriculture Introduces Stricter Bio-efficacy Trials and New Testing Methodologies
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has announced sweeping amendments to the Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985. The Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Fifth Amendment Order, 2025, seeks to ensure the quality, efficacy, and standardization of all fertilisers, including complex organic and mixed formulations.
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”.
Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) (Third) Amendment Order, 2025
This amendment to the Fertiliser (Control) Order, 1985, aims to regulate the quality and composition of fermented organic manure fertilizers, ensuring their effectiveness and safety for agricultural use. Manufacturers are required to clearly label bags and containers with instructions for application, emphasizing application 15-20 days prior to sowing.
Union Cabinet Approves Nutrient-Based Subsidy for Kharif Season 2025
The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal by the Department of Fertilizers to fix the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for the Kharif season 2025. The subsidy will be applicable from April 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025, covering Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers to ensure affordability for farmers across the country.
Government Cracks Down on Spurious Seeds, Fertilizers, and Pesticides
The Indian government is taking action to combat the sale of spurious seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, ensuring farmers have access to quality agricultural inputs. Existing legislation, including the Seeds Act, 1966, the Insecticide Act, 1964, and the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985, provides the framework for quality control and enforcement.
Government Promotes Nano Fertilizer Use Among Farmers
The Indian government is promoting the use of nano fertilizers among farmers through a variety of initiatives. These efforts aim to increase awareness, demonstrate the benefits of nano fertilizers, and facilitate their adoption.
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).
Union Cabinet Approves Extension of Special Package for Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) Subsidy
The Union Cabinet has approved the extension of a one-time special package for Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertilizer beyond the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS). The package, amounting to ₹3,500 per metric ton (MT), will remain in effect from January 1, 2025, until further notice.
Government Promotes Bio-Fertilizers for Sustainable Agriculture
Biofertilizers are promoted under Paramparagat Krishi Vikash Yojana (PKVY) and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) schemes. Under PKVY scheme, farmers are provided financial assistance of Rs 15000/ ha for 3 years through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for on-farm and off-farm organic inputs including bio-fertilizer. Under MOVCDNER, financial assistance @ Rs 32500/ ha for 3 years is provided to farmers for off farm /on –farm organic inputs including bio-fertilizer.
Government Approves Nutrient Based Subsidy Rates for Rabi Season 2024
The approved NBS rates for Rabi 2024 (October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025) will be implemented to ensure smooth availability of fertilizers to farmers. Fertilizer companies will receive the subsidy based on the approved rates.
