Pesticide Management Bill, 2020 becomes a topic of discussion; the Businessman is worried after learning about the bill.,
The Pesticide Management Bill, 2020 is a significant legislative proposal introduced by the Government of India to regulate the manufacture, distribution, use, and control of pesticides in agriculture more effectively and safely. It aims to replace the outdated Insecticides Act, 1968, which needed updates to address contemporary agricultural and environmental challenges.
● Background of the Bill
Pesticides are essential for enhancing agricultural productivity in India, but their misuse has led to environmental degradation, harm to human health, and loss of biodiversity. The Insecticides Act, 1968 had several shortcomings, including:
● Lack of stringent standards for pesticide quality and safety.
● Inadequate measures to prevent the sale of fake or substandard pesticides.
● Insufficient awareness and training for farmers on safe pesticide use.
● Need to promote organic farming and environmental protection.
To address these issues, the government introduced the Pesticide Management Bill, 2020 in the Rajya Sabha, which was referred to a Standing Committee for further deliberation.
● Key Provisions of the Bill
The main objectives and provisions of the Pesticide Management Bill, 2020 are as follows:
● Pesticide Quality and Safety:
The bill sets strict standards for the manufacture, testing, distribution, and sale of pesticides.
● All pesticides must be approved by the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee.
● Strict penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for the sale of fake or substandard pesticides.
● Farmer Safety and Training:
● Emphasis on providing farmers with awareness and training on the safe use of pesticides.
● Provisions for clear instructions and warnings on pesticide packaging.
● Organic Farming and Environmental Protection:
● Promotion of organic pesticides and eco-friendly alternatives.
● New standards to reduce the adverse impact of pesticides on biodiversity and the environment.
● Export and Import Regulation:
● Strict rules to regulate the import and export of pesticides.
● Ensuring pesticide quality aligns with international standards.
● Compensation for Farmers:
● Provisions for compensating farmers who suffer losses due to substandard or fake pesticides.
● Establishment of a special fund for this purpose.
● Digital Transparency:
● Information on pesticide registration, distribution, and usage to be made available on a digital platform.
● This will provide transparent information to farmers and consumers.
● Objectives of the Bill
● Farmer Protection:
Ensuring farmers have access to high-quality and effective pesticides.
● Health and Environmental Safety:
Preventing harm to human health and the environment due to improper pesticide use.
● Innovation in Agriculture:
Promoting sustainable farming by encouraging organic and safe alternatives.
● Compliance with International Standards:
Strengthening India’s position in the global market.
● Debate and OppositionSince its introduction, various stakeholders, including farmer organizations, environmentalists, and industry groups, have expressed diverse views on the bill.
● Key concerns include:
● Farmers’ Concerns:
Some farmer organizations fear that strict regulations may affect pesticide availability and pricing.
● Industry Concerns:
Pesticide manufacturers have raised concerns about the stringent registration process and penalties.
● Environmentalists’ Support:
Environmental groups have welcomed provisions promoting organic farming and environmental protection.
● Current Status and Way ForwardAs of 2025, the bill has not yet been passed into law. After its introduction in 2020, it was referred to a Standing Committee, which sought suggestions and feedback.
Further amendments are likely based on parliamentary discussions and stakeholder inputs.