The Indian government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, has announced a significant amendment to the Fertilizer (Inorganic, Organic, or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985. India Amends Fertilizer Control Order, known as the Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic, or Mixed) (Control) Fourth Amendment Order, 2025, is expected to transform the quality and uniformity of biostimulants offered to Indian farmers.

This amendment, enacted under the powers conferred by Section 3 of the Essential Commodities Act of 1955, takes effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette. It introduces updated specifications and tolerance limits for a wide range of biostimulant categories under Schedule VI of the principal 1985 Order.

The revised “Specifications of Biostimulants” (Part A) and “Tolerance Limit” (Part B) now include clearer composition.

These updated guidelines of cover Humic and Fulvic Acid and their derivatives, Seaweed Extract, Botanical Extract, Mixed formulations of Biostimulants, Protein hydrolysates and Amino Acids, Vinasse residue, Bacterial biomass hydrolysate, Cell free microbial products, Lipase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Live Microorganisms, and Bio-chemicals.

This complete modification ensures that farmers have consistent, high-quality biostimulants that fulfill performance, compliance, and sustainability requirements. By establishing defined guidelines for these different products, the government promotes the expansion of the biostimulant sector while also encouraging ecologically responsible farming practices.

The Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic, or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985, was first issued on September 25, 1985, and has been revised on a regular basis to meet changing agricultural demands. The most recent update was announced on May 27, 2025, demonstrating the government’s ongoing attempts to improve fertilizer rules for the agriculture industry.