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.
West Bengal Bans Harmful Pesticides in Tea Production
The Governor of West Bengal has issued directives to enforce the central government’s Insecticides (Prohibition) Order, 2023, effectively banning the use of certain harmful pesticides and insecticides in tea production within the state.
Standard Operating Procedure For Petrol Depots
The Indian government has released a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for petrol depots, outlining stringent compliance measures for their establishment and operation. The new SOP, issued by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), mandates a series of environmental and safety protocols to be implemented by petrol depots, addressing concerns related to pollution, leakage, and overall operational safety.
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).
Classification of Industries Based On Pollution Potential
This revised classification will be used for various purposes, including consent management, inspection frequency, siting criteria, cluster development, pollution control plans, environmental compensation, and promoting progressive environmental management.
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.
Draft Insecticides (Fifth Amendment) Rules, 2024
The draft rules propose a fee of Rs. 200 per sample of bio-pesticides where the active ingredient is known. The fee for testing/ analyzing bio-pesticide samples submitted by farmers to ascertain quality would be specified in a revised Second Schedule. The Central Government may also consider exempting specific state governments from these fees for a reasonable period due to genuine difficulties.
