Introduction to the Draft Pesticides Management Bill, 2025
The Agriculture Ministry released the draft Pesticides Management Bill, 2025, which aims to replace the Insecticides Act, 1968, and the Insecticides Rules, 1971. The focus is on enhancing penalties for violations and improving farmer services.
Key Features of the Bill
- Transparency and Traceability:
The bill emphasizes reform measures for transparency and traceability to improve services to farmers. - Use of Digital Methods:
Incorporates digital methods and technology to streamline processes. - Stricter Controls on Spurious Pesticides:
Introduces higher penalties for controlling spurious pesticides. - Mandatory Accreditation:
Testing laboratories must receive accreditation to ensure quality pesticides reach farmers. - Compounding of Offences:
Offences can be compounded with enhanced penalties, defined by State-level authorities.
Objectives of the Bill
- Balance ease of living for farmers with ease of doing business for industry stakeholders.
- Strengthen administrative control and management of pesticides across the country.
Public Consultation Process
The draft bill is open for public comments until February 4, 2026. Stakeholders can submit feedback via email in MS Word or PDF format.
