India Unveils Biostimulant Rules, Sets Global Benchmark

In a landmark move that signals India's growing commitment to sustainable agriculture and science-backed innovation, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has issued another crucial Gazette Notification (CG-DL-E-28052025-263422) dated 26th May 2025.

- RAMEESH KAILASAM & JHARNA KAMDAR

This notification updates Schedule VI of the Fertilizer Control Order (FCO), introducing for the first time a comprehensive regulatory framework for biostimulants in India, surpassing the European Union in terms of approval of biostimulants.

The development is being hailed as a significant milestone that brings clarity, credibility, and momentum to a sector that holds immense promise for the future of Indian farming.

Biostimulants are substances, including microorganisms, that, when applied to plants or soils, enhance natural processes to improve nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and crop quality. Their role in increasing agricultural productivity without harming the environment has made them a central pillar of sustainable and climate-resilient farming globally. Until now, however, India's biostimulant market operated without clear regulatory guidelines, resulting in market confusion, limited adoption, and the unchecked proliferation of unverified products.

The lack of precise definitions and enforceable quality standards had created an atmosphere of mistrust among farmers and uncertainty for manufacturers and innovators alike.

With this new development, the government has decisively addressed these challenges. The updated Schedule VI provides a detailed list of approved biostimulant categories, clearly outlining permissible ingredients, formulation requirements, and usage guidelines. It sets out benchmarks for product quality, safety, efficacy, and environmental compatibility, effectively distinguishing legitimate innovations from ineffective or potentially harmful products.

This brings welcome transparency to the market, reassuring farmers while encouraging companies to invest in high-quality research for product development.