Paper: GS – III, Subject: Science & Technology, Topic: Bio Technology, Issue: Biostimulants.
Context:
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has urged all state Chief Ministers to immediately halt the “forced tagging” of nano-fertilisers or biostimulants with conventional fertilisers.
Key Takeaways:
What are Biostimulants?
Biostimulants are substances or microorganisms that, when applied to plants, stimulate natural processes to enhance nutrient uptake, growth, yield, nutrition efficiency, crop quality, and tolerance to stress.
- They are distinct from fertilizers, which provide nutrients directly to plants, and pesticides, which control pests and diseases.
- Biostimulants work by improving the plant’s own physiological processes. These substances can be derived from plant-derived waste materials, seaweed extracts, or other natural sources.
Key characteristics of biostimulants:
- Stimulate physiological processes in plants.
- Enhance nutrient uptake and utilization.
- Improve growth, yield, and crop quality.
- Increase tolerance to environmental stresses.
- Do not include pesticides or plant growth regulators regulated under the Insecticide Act, 1968.

Recent Government Actions on Biostimulants:

Conclusion:
- The biostimulant market in India is undergoing significant changes as the government tightens its regulatory oversight.
- While biostimulants hold promise for enhancing crop productivity and sustainability, it is crucial to ensure that these products are effective and safe for farmers to use.
- The government’s actions aim to strike a balance between promoting innovation in the agricultural sector and protecting the interests of farmers.
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