Indian government revises Fertilizer Control Order to enhance quality monitoring

In a significant move to improve the quality assurance framework for fertilizers, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare issued amendments to the Fertilizer (Inorganic, Organic, or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985, under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. The changes, notified on December 13, 2024, aim to streamline sampling, analysis, and dispute resolution processes in fertilizer quality monitoring.

The amendment emphasizes the protocol for sampling and testing fertilizers. Fertilizer Inspectors are now required to collect three samples during inspections. One sample will be handed over to the manufacturer, dealer, importer, or marketer, as applicable, while the second will be sent to designated laboratories through Central Coding Centres for analysis. The third sample will remain in the custody of the designated authority.

In cases where a sample is reported as non-standard, the concerned party has 15 days to apply for re-testing. The sample will undergo a secondary analysis at one of the National Test House (NTH) laboratories located in Ghaziabad, Chennai, Jaipur, Kolkata, or Mumbai. If discrepancies persist between the first and second analyses, the sample will be sent to the Central Fertilizer Quality Control and Training Institute, Faridabad, for a third and final analysis.

The amendment mandates faster sample analysis and reporting. Referee laboratories must complete their analysis within 15 days and communicate results within three working days. The revised order ensures that farmers and stakeholders benefit from timely resolution of disputes related to fertilizer quality.

These amendments also align with the government’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency and reliability in fertilizer supply chains, ultimately safeguarding farmers’ interests and ensuring access to high-quality agricultural inputs.