Delhi High Court Relaxes Biostimulant Rules, Farmers to Benefit

Key Highlights

• Delhi HC allows biostimulant companies to continue operations.

• Pending and approved applications get relief under FCO rules.

• Rejected applications remain barred until approval.

• New NABL testing applies only to future applications.

• Farmers to get timely supply and fair prices.

The Delhi High Court has recently given major relief to biostimulant companies by allowing them to continue their operations under certain conditions. This decision, passed on 18 August 2025, ensures that farmers will not face any shortage of biostimulants, which play an important role in improving crop growth and productivity.

Also Read: Centre Cuts Wheat Stock Limits for Traders, Retailers to Curb Hoarding: Government Revises Wheat Stock Norms Ahead of Festive Season

Relief to Biostimulant Companies

The order came after a petition by BASAI (Indian Organic Agriculture Solutions Industry Association) and other companies. The court said that manufacturers and importers can continue their business as long as their applications are being processed under the Fertilizer Control Order (FCO) 1985.

This decision has brought huge relief to companies engaged in manufacturing and importing biostimulants across India.

Relief for Approved and Pending Applications

As per the court order:

• Manufacturers and importers whose products are already included in Schedule VI of the FCO must submit the necessary documents to the State Administrative Officer within three weeks.

• The authorities must decide on these applications within six weeks.

• Till then, companies are allowed to manufacture, sell, and import their products.

Even companies whose applications are still under review or where authorities have raised queries can continue their work. However, they will need to fix any shortcomings in their documents within four weeks.

No Relief for Rejected Applications

The court clarified that companies whose applications have already been rejected will not be allowed to manufacture, sell, or import biostimulants unless their products are officially approved under Schedule VI.

Court’s Stand on New Testing Rules

Earlier on 9 June 2025, the government had issued a rule that biostimulants must be tested using new NABL-accredited methods. But the High Court clarified on 18 August 2025 that these new methods will only apply to upcoming applications. Old applications and documents already submitted will not be affected.

Importantly, this relief will apply only to the companies and institutions that were part of this case, i.e., BASAI members and directly registered companies. Other companies will not get the benefit.

Benefits for Farmers

This court order is not only helpful for companies but also for farmers across India. Here’s how:

• The supply of biostimulants will continue without interruption, ensuring timely availability for farmers.

• Prices of biostimulants will remain stable and affordable, avoiding any price hike.

• Continuous availability will help improve crop quality and productivity, resulting in better profits for farmers.

This decision by the Delhi High Court ensures continuity of biostimulant supply, stable pricing, and direct benefits for farmers, while also giving relief to the industry.

Also Read: Root Rot Disease Spreading in Sugarcane: Farmers Must Act Immediately

CMV360 Says

The Delhi High Court’s decision on biostimulant rules brings relief to companies and farmers alike. While manufacturers get time to complete regulatory processes, farmers benefit from continued supply, stable prices, and better crop productivity. By allowing operations under FCO guidelines, the order ensures growth in agriculture while preventing shortages and maintaining farmers’ access to essential biostimulant products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can farmers use biostimulants?
Yes, farmers can use biostimulants on soil, seeds, leaves, and even with irrigation water.

Q2. In which crops are biostimulants used the most in India?
Biostimulants are widely used in vegetable and horticultural crops, as they provide quick and effective results.

Q3. Who will follow the new Biostimulant Testing Lab Rules 2025?
The new NABL testing rules will apply only to upcoming applications. Old applications will not be affected.

Q4. Will this order benefit or harm farmers?
This order will benefit farmers because biostimulants will remain easily available at the right price, improving crop health and yield.

Q5. What is the difference between fertilizer and biostimulant?

• Fertilizers: Provide direct nutrition to plants.

• Biostimulants: Improve plant vigour, stress tolerance, and nutrient efficiency.