Delhi High Court Eases Rules for Biostimulant Companies, Ensures Supply for Farmers
21 August 2025, New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has given significant relief to biostimulant manufacturers and importers, allowing them to continue business operations while their approval applications are being processed under the Fertilizer Control Order (FCO), 1985. The order was passed on August 18, 2025, in response to a petition filed by the Biological Agri Solutions Industry Association of India (BASAI) along with several companies.
Relief for Approved and Pending Biostimulant Applications
The court ruled that manufacturers and importers whose products are already included under Schedule VI of the FCO must submit the required documents to state authorities within three weeks. Authorities are expected to decide on these applications within six weeks. Until then, companies can continue manufacturing, selling, and importing their products.
For companies whose applications are still under review, or where authorities have raised queries, the court said that they may also continue operations until a final decision is taken, provided that any deficiencies are corrected within four weeks.
Restrictions on Rejected Biostimulant Applications
The court made it clear that companies whose applications have already been rejected will not be allowed to manufacture, sell, or import biostimulants until their products are officially approved under Schedule VI.
Clarification on New Testing Rules
Another important clarification came regarding the government’s June 9, 2025 notification introducing new testing methods for biostimulants. The court stated that these new methods (NABL) will apply only prospectively, not retrospectively, ensuring that previously filed applications are not affected.
Limited Scope of Relief
The relief provided by the court applies only to members of the petitioner association and the companies and institutions specifically named in the case.
Industry representatives have welcomed the order, saying it prevents disruption in the availability of biostimulants to farmers during a crucial cropping period. The court also directed the government to ensure quick resolution of pending cases, so that the regulatory process remains transparent and fair.
Click here to read this news in Hindi
Also Read: Soybean Crops Damaged Due to Fake Herbicide Chlorimuron-ethyl; FIR Registered in Madhya Pradesh
