Indian Government Amends Fertiliser Control Order, Omits Animal Source Protein Hydrolysates and Biostimulant Mixtures

03 October 2025, New Delhi: The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has amended the Fertiliser Control Order 1985 by removing several entries relating to biostimulant mixtures and animal source protein hydrolysates. The amendment, issued under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, is called the Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Tenth Amendment Order, 2025 and came into force immediately with its publication in the Official Gazette on September 29.

Likely Rationale Behind the Amendment

Although the notification does not explain the reasons, industry experts say the government appears to be moving towards stricter quality control and standardisation in the biostimulant sector. Animal-derived inputs have often faced questions regarding traceability and contamination, particularly in relation to international food safety requirements.

The change is also being seen as a move to encourage the adoption of plant-based protein hydrolysates and microbial alternatives, which are increasingly favoured in sustainable farming systems worldwide. Trade experts point out that delisting animal-derived formulations could also help reduce non-tariff barriers for Indian agricultural exports in countries with tighter restrictions on such inputs.

Industry Impact

The removal of these categories is expected to have an immediate impact on fertiliser and biostimulant manufacturers whose product portfolios rely heavily on animal source hydrolysates. Companies are now required to reformulate their offerings and may need to shift towards plant-based alternatives to comply with the revised order.

Biostimulant Mixtures Removed

The following entries under the category of “Mixed formulation of Biostimulants” have been omitted:

1. Mixture of Protein Hydrolysate and Seaweed Extract (Liquid)
2. Mixture of Protein Hydrolysate and Antioxidant (Liquid)
3. Mixture of Protein Hydrolysate, Seaweed Extract and Humic Acid (Liquid)

Animal Source Protein Hydrolysates Omitted

Under the sub-heading “Protein Hydrolysates and Amino Acids,” the following animal source entries in liquid form are no longer recognised under the Fertiliser Control Order:

1. Protein Hydrolysate 62.1% (Animal Source) (Liquid)
2. Protein Hydrolysates 36.04% (Animal Source) (Liquid)
3. Protein Hydrolysate 62.5% (Animal Source) (Liquid)
4. Protein Hydrolysate 46.9% (Animal Source) (Liquid)
5. Protein Hydrolysate 29.34% (Animal Source) (Liquid)
6. Protein Hydrolysate 12% (Animal Source) (Liquid)
7. Protein Hydrolysate 68.33% (Animal Source) (Liquid)
8. Protein Hydrolysate 54% (Animal Source) (Liquid)
9. Protein Hydrolysate 15% (Animal Source) (Liquid)
10. Protein Hydrolysate 27.5% (Animal Source) (Liquid)
11. Protein Hydrolysate 62.5% (Animal Source) (Liquid) [duplicate entry]

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