The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare) has issued new amendment order on March 27, 2027, to update in the Part A ,Schedule VIII, with respect to Organic Carbon Enhancer from Compressed Bio Gas plants.
The Government of India has announced the Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) (Third) Amendment Order, 2025, further amending the Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985. This update is crucial for the agricultural sector as it introduces enhanced specifications for certain fertilisers, particularly Fermented Organic Manure and Liquid Fermented Organic Manure. Here’s an overview of what these amendments mean and how they impact the fertiliser industry.
Key Changes in the New Amendment
- Introduction of New Specifications for Fermented Organic Manure
- The amendment now includes detailed quality criteria for Fermented Organic Manure. These include moisture content (30-70%), a minimum of 12-14% organic carbon, pH between 6.0–8.4, and electrical conductivity capped at 4.0.
- The levels of heavy metals like Arsenic, Cadmium, Chromium, Copper, and Mercury are also regulated, ensuring safer use for the environment and crops.
- Manufacturers must clearly state on the product packaging that Fermented Organic Manure should be applied 15-20 days before sowing.
- Enrichment of the product with additional nutrients is allowed, but must be clearly labeled.
- Liquid Fermented Organic Manure Specifications
- Liquid Fermented Organic Manure is now subject to similar stringent standards. These include a moisture content range of 90-97%, a minimum organic carbon content of 1.5%, and a pH between 6.0–8.4.
- The maximum electrical conductivity is limited to 4.0, and the product must be free of pathogens.
- As with solid manure, the amendment sets limits on the presence of heavy metals and stipulates that manufacturers must indicate on containers that the liquid manure should be applied 15-20 days before sowing.
- Manufacturers are also encouraged to enrich the product with additional nutrients, which must be labeled accordingly.
- Updated Sampling and Testing Procedures
- The amendment specifies the procedure for drawing samples of organic carbon enhancers to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
- Detailed methods for analysis of parameters such as pH, moisture content, conductivity, organic carbon, and heavy metals have been provided. These standards will ensure consistency and reliability in testing.
Why Are These Changes Important?
The changes to the Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985 aim to improve the overall quality of fertilisers available in the market. By introducing specific guidelines for Fermented Organic Manure and Liquid Fermented Organic Manure, the government is ensuring that farmers have access to high-quality, safe, and effective products. This is particularly important for reducing contamination by harmful heavy metals and improving the nutritional content of the manure.
What Does This Mean for Farmers and Manufacturers?
For farmers, the new amendments offer a higher level of assurance that the fertilisers they use meet safety and quality standards. This will help in improving crop yield and protecting soil health. It also ensures that the fertilisers are safer for the environment and will contribute to more sustainable farming practices.
For manufacturers, the updated specifications mean that they must adhere to stricter quality control measures. This may require adjustments in production processes, but it also provides an opportunity to improve product standards and gain consumer trust. They will also need to clearly label their products to comply with the new requirements.
The new amendments to the Fertiliser (Control) Order reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring the safe and effective use of fertilisers in agriculture. By regulating the quality of Fermented Organic Manure and Liquid Fermented Organic Manure, the amendments will not only improve the overall safety of fertilisers but also contribute to the sustainability of agricultural practices in India.
For manufacturers and farmers, staying updated on these regulations is crucial to ensuring compliance and benefiting from safer, more efficient fertiliser products.