Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare) has published the Draft Insecticides (First Amendment) Rules, 2024. These draft rules were published on January 9, 2024.
These draft rules seek to extend the timeline for complying with the requirements of qualifications as per the Insecticides Act, 1971. As per this draft rules, all retailers or dealers possessing a valid licence without prescribed qualifications shall be allowed up to 30th June, 2024 to comply with the said qualifications.
As per the Insecticides Act, 1971 a person who applies for the grant of licence to sell, stock or exhibit for sale or distribute insecticides shall possess or employ a person possessing
A. a graduate degree in:
- Agricultural Sciences or
- Biochemistry or
- Biotechnology or
- Life Sciences or
- Science with Chemistry or Botany or Zoology from a recognised university or Institute;
B. One year diploma course in
- Agriculture or Horticulture or related subjects from any government recognised university or institute with course content on plant protection and pesticides management
This adjustment extends the timeline for compliance with the specified provisions, giving stakeholders in the insecticides industry additional time to align with the revised regulations. The amendment reflects a balance between industry needs and regulatory objectives, ensuring a smoother transition for affected parties.