Government Proposes Amendments to Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has published a draft notification proposing amendments to the Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012. These amendments aim to streamline the licensing process and reduce regulatory burden for certain categories of businesses. The draft proposes significantly reduced fees for obtaining licenses and approvals related to ammonium nitrate for businesses categorized as MSEs, Micro & Small Startups, and Women Entrepreneurs.

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.

Gypsum based Building Materials (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2024

Manufacturers and importers who have obtained certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) or have applied for certification before the commencement of the amendment order will be allowed to sell or display their existing stock of gypsum-based building materials for up to six months. These manufacturers and importers must submit a declaration to the Central Government, certified by a Chartered Accountant, confirming their intention to sell the existing stock within the specified timeframe.

New Quality Control Orders for Chemical Intermediates

The Central Government has issued three new quality control orders for chemical intermediates: H Acid, K Acid, and Vinyl Sulphone. These products must bear the Standard Mark issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), certifying their compliance with quality standards.