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.
Draft Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Amendment Regulations, 2024
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Regulations, 2011, specifically focusing on pesticide residues. The term “insecticide” has been aligned with the definition provided in the Insecticides Act, 1968. The use of pesticides or insecticides directly on food articles is generally restricted. However, fumigants registered under the Insecticides Act are exempt from this restriction.
Government Includes New Substances in Schedule of Insecticides Act, 1968
The Central Government, after consultation with the Central Insecticides Board, has introduced 11 new substances into list of insecticides under the Insecticides Act, 1968. Their inclusion aims to regulate and monitor their usage for pest control purposes while ensuring the safety and well-being of the environment and public health.
Insecticides (First Amendment) Rules, 2024
This amendment has extended the deadline for compliance with the new packaging and labeling requirements that were notified in the Insecticides (Second Amendment) Rules, 2023. The deadline for compliance of these new norms has been fixed as December 23, 2023.
Draft Insecticides (First Amendment) Rules, 2024
These draft rules seek to extend the timeline for complying with the requirements of qualifications as per the Insecticides Act, 1971. As per this draft rules, all retailers or dealers possessing a valid licence without prescribed qualifications shall be allowed up to 30th June, 2024 to comply with the said qualifications.
Proposed Digitization of Processes under Insecticides Rules for Enhanced Regulation
The proposed eighth amendment addresses the licensing process for pest control operations involving Glyphosate and its derivatives. The proposed ninth amendment covers various aspects of licensing, record-keeping, and reporting. Some key highlights include the introduction of digital forms for license applications, maintenance of records, and reporting procedures.
Updates in Conditions to Obtain Pest Control Operations Licences
The Central Government has updated its provisions on the grant of licence for pest control operations in the country. It has also stipulated for specialized training relating to the use of glyphosate and its derivates in pest control operations.
Approved List of Organisations Exempted from Insecticide Registration
The government grants this exemption from registration to educational, scientific or research organisations performing experiments with insecticides.
