Centre’s notifies 34 biostimulants to spur manufacturing

In an extraordinary gazette notification on May 26, the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare notified 34 biostimulants such as humic and fulvic acid formulations, seaweed extracts, protein hydrolysates, amino acid blends, vitamin complexes , among others, under the Fertiliser Control Order (FCO).

Key Highlights

• In 2021, the biostimulants were officially incorporated into the FCO, categorising them as distinct class of fertilisers.
• With 34 new biostimulants, the total number rises to over 45. This could spur manufacturing and exports of these formulations. In May 2024, India had registered 11 biostimulants.
• A biostimulant is a natural substance or microorganism that helps plants grow stronger. It improves the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients and makes them more resistant to stress, like drought or diseases.
• Unlike fertilizers or pesticides, biostimulants don’t provide nutrients directly but enhance the plant’s natural processes for better growth and health.
• Seaweed is one of the of biostimulants, which help increase crop yields, improve soil health and make plants stronger.
• The Government of India regulates the quality of seaweed used as biostimulants under the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985.

(Sources: BL & PIB)