05 March 2025, Maharashtra: The Commissionerate of Agriculture, Maharashtra State, Pune, has issued a directive concerning the sale and production of biostimulant products. The directive, communicated through an official notification dated February 3, 2025, is addressed to all biostimulant manufacturers and refers the Central Government’s Standing Orders No. S.O.882 (E) and S.O.795 (E).
According to the notification, biostimulants were included under Schedule 6 of the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985, following the Central Government’s Standing Order No. S.O.882 (E), which came into effect on February 23, 2021. Subsequently, provisional certificates G-2 and G-3 certificates were issued to biostimulant producers and sellers. However, as per the latest directive referenced under S.O.795 (E), these certificates remain valid only until February 22, 2025.
In light of this, the Commissionerate has instructed that the production and sale of biostimulants should be halted immediately. Furthermore, all manufacturers and distributors must submit detailed information regarding their existing stock of biostimulants produced before February 22, 2025. This data will be forwarded to the Central Government to seek further guidance on the production and sale of the remaining stock. The stakeholders will be duly informed once the Central Government provides instructions on the matter.
The industry has expressed concerns over these developments, Mr. Vipin Saini, CEO of the Biological Agri Solutions Association of India (BASAI), told Krishak Jagat, “The Maharashtra circular clearly directs the halt of biostimulant sales, whereas the earlier Kashmir Division circular from February 27, 2025, allows inventory liquidation under FCO 1985 norms. BASAI has urged the Joint Secretary, Controller of Fertilizers to permit nationwide liquidation of biostimulants within their shelf-life. While an extension of provisionally registered biostimulants with G3 certificate is expected, it is likely to be for a shorter time frame. BASAI is actively engaging with industry associations to navigate this evolving situation.”
Jammu and Kashmir’s Preceding Directive on Biostimulants
Prior to Maharashtra’s action, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir had already implemented similar regulations. The Deputy Director of Law Enforcement, Kashmir, in a notification dated February 27, 2025, directed all Fertilizer Inspectors in the Kashmir division to enforce compliance with the amendments introduced by the Central Government’s Order S.O.3922 (E), dated September 12, 2024.
Under this directive, companies operating in Jammu and Kashmir are required to comply with FCO 1985 regulations concerning the import, stocking, distribution, and sale of biostimulants. Additionally, businesses are mandated to report their previous stock details, including party-wise distribution, to Law Enforcement Inspectors. Unlike Maharashtra, which has entirely halted sales pending further government instructions, Jammu and Kashmir has permitted the clearance of existing stock.
The Central Government’s standing orders are applicable across India, and it is anticipated that other states may follow Maharashtra’s and Jammu and Kashmir’s directives. This situation could significantly impact both farmers and biostimulant manufacturers, leading to potential disruptions in the supply chain. Given the nationwide implications, it would be timely for the Central Government to take necessary action to prevent disruption and uncertainty in the sector.
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