Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import
into India) (Fourth Amendment) Order, 2023
It has inserted a new plant species in its list of plants/plant materials permitted to be imported with additional declarations and special conditions. It has introduced Shorea robusta (sal) which falls under the category of seeds/ kernels.
BIS notifies revised standards in Agriculture and Other Products
The notification pertaining to agriculture have introduced 5 standards. All of these standards have been established on 15th June, 2023. The BIS has also established 3 other standards on 12th June, 2023.
Central Govt. extends timeline for Aadhaar Enrollment of Beneficiaries of Subsidised Food Grains
As per this notification eligible beneficiaries who do not possess Aadhaar Number or are not yet enrolled for Aadhaar but are desirous of availing subsidies, shall make an application for Aadhaar enrollment by 30th September, 2023.
BIS Introduces Standard for Agri By-Product Utensils
The BIS states that IS 18267: 2023 covers various aspects, including raw materials, manufacturing techniques, performance, and hygiene requirements for the production of biodegradable utensils. The standard specifically recommends the use of agricultural by-products, such as leaves and sheaths, as preferred materials for making plates, cups, bowls, and more.
Roundtable with Foreign Missions held to Foster International Participation in World Food India 2023
The purpose of the meeting was to engage in dialogue regarding overseas participation in the upcoming second edition of ‘World Food India 2023’ (WFI). WFI is scheduled to take place from 3rd to 5th November, 2023 at New Delhi. The event aims to showcase the Indian Food Processing Sector and attract collaborations and investments from global stakeholders.
The Live-stock and Live-stock Products (Importation and Exportation) Bills, 2023
The Ministry has invited comments or suggestions on this bill from all stakeholders or importers or exporters. These shall be sent to the department only by email at gagan.garg@nic.in with copy to gn.singh13@nic.in. The comments or suggestions if any shall be forwarded by 17th June, 2023.
Andhra Pradesh Milk Procurement (Protection of Farmers) and Enforcement of Safety of Milk Standards Act, 2023
The object of the act is to regulate the transactions at the milk procurement centres, enforce safety standards for the produce and protect interests of dairy farmers and the consumers. The government decided to enforce an Act to bring all the rules under one umbrella to ensure effective enforcement of law and delegate power to seize milk analysers in case of violations.
DGFT further revises policy condition for export of Basmati and Non-Basmati Rice to member states of the European Union
Certificate of Inspection by Export Inspection Council/ Export Inspection Agency shall be mandatory for export of basmati and non-basmati rice to UK, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Export of basmati and non-basmati rice to remaining European countries will not require Certificate of Inspection by Export Inspection Council/ Export Inspection Agency from 29th May, 2023 till 29th November, 2023.
Department of fertilizers takes multi-pronged measures to stop diversion and black marketing of fertilizers in the country
FFS has conducted over 370 surprise inspections, filed 30 FIRs for diversion, 70000 bags seized of suspected urea etc. 112 mixture manufactures have been de-authorized due to several discrepancies and lapses in documentation. 11 persons have been jailed for diversion and black marketing of urea in the last one year.
FSSAI Operationalizes MRL of Pesticides
Based on representation received, FSSAI has issued revised Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) for pesticides widely used for crop protection in Tea plantations.
