The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare on August 16th 2024, issued significant changes to the Insecticides Rules, 1971. These amendments, known as the Insecticides (Fourth Amendment) Rules, 2024, are set to modernize and streamline the regulation of insecticides, particularly those used for household purposes.
Key Changes in the Draft Rules
- Streamlined Licensing Process
One of the most notable changes is the simplification of the licensing process:
- Removal of Renewal Requirement: The term “or renewal of existing license” will be removed from Rule 10, sub-rule (1B). This adjustment aims to reduce paperwork and speed up the licensing process.
- Reduced Processing Time: The time frame for certain procedures will be cut from ninety days to thirty days. This change is expected to expedite approvals and reduce delays for businesses seeking to sell or distribute insecticides.
2. Focus on Household Insecticides
The amendments introduce specific provisions for household insecticides:
- No Endorsement Needed: Under Rule 10, sub-rule (4), a new proviso will state that no endorsement is needed for licenses related to insecticides commonly used in households, like those for controlling cockroaches, mosquitoes, houseflies, and bed bugs.
- Principal Certificate Exemption: Rule 10, sub-rule (4A) will also exempt these household insecticides from certain principal certificate requirements, making the process less cumbersome for these widely-used products.
3. Modernizing Information Transparency
The new rules bring a tech-savvy approach to product information:
- QR Code Requirement: Rule 18, sub-rule (1) will mandate the inclusion of QR codes on the retail packaging of household insecticides. Scanning the QR code will direct consumers to the manufacturer’s website, where they can access comprehensive product details. This move is designed to enhance transparency and ensure that consumers have easy access to essential information.
4. New Application Form
To better manage applications, the First Schedule will now include:
- FORM II: This new form will be specifically for licenses related to household insecticides aimed at controlling pests like cockroaches, mosquitoes, houseflies, and bed bugs. This will streamline the application process for these products.
What Does This Mean for You?
These proposed changes are set to make the regulation of household insecticides more efficient and user-friendly. For businesses, the simplified licensing process and reduced paperwork could lead to quicker approvals and lower administrative costs. For consumers, the enhanced transparency through QR codes means you can easily access detailed product information, helping you make informed choices about the insecticides you use at home.
Public Participation:
Objections and Suggestions:
Stakeholders and interested parties have a 30-day period to submit objections or suggestions regarding the draft rules. This is an opportunity for affected individuals or organizations to voice concerns or offer feedback.
Submission Details:
Objections and suggestions in respect to the said draft rule may be forwarded to the Additional Secretary (Plant Protection), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi-110 001
Email: fa.kidwai@nic.in
These proposed amendments appear aimed at making the regulation of household insecticides more efficient and consumer-friendly while reducing administrative overhead.
