Following the release of the draft notification and the start of a 30-day public consultation process, Agroblast reported in July 2026 on the Government of India’s proposal to outlaw the production, import, transportation, distribution, sale, and use of paraquat dichloride. The suggested action has now been completed by the government. In accordance with the Insecticides Act of 1968, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, issued S.O. 5234(E), dated September 22, 2026. The Order became operative on September 28, 2026, when it was published in the Indian Gazette.
The Central Government has issued the final Order that forbids the registration of paraquat dichloride after taking into account the suggestions and objections raised during the public consultation, the Expert Committee’s recommendations, and the Registration Committee’s consultation.
Key Provisions of the Final Order
- As of the date the Order was published in the Official Gazette, paraquat dichloride registration is forbidden.
- Current registration certificates issued in accordance with Section 9 of the Insecticides Act of 1968 are void as of the publication date.
- The Paraquat Dichloride registration certificates will be recalled by the Registration Committee.
- The Insecticides Act of 1968 may lead to regulatory action if the registration certificate is not returned.
- State governments will implement the Order in their respective jurisdictions by taking the necessary steps.
Industry Impact
The regulatory process started by the draft notification discussed in our July 2026 update is completed by the final Order. Companies engaged in the production, importation, distribution, or sale of paraquat dichloride should assess how the Order will affect their current registrations, product portfolios, inventory, and ongoing business operations, including any State-level implementation requirements, now that the prohibition is in effect and existing registrations have been cancelled.








