The Union government has invited public feedback on a draft Bill aimed at comprehensively regulating the use of pesticides in India, with a strong emphasis on safety, environmental protection, and the promotion of sustainable alternatives. The proposed legislation seeks to modernise India’s regulatory framework for pesticides by addressing growing concerns around health risks, ecological damage, and the long-term sustainability of agricultural practices.

According to the draft Bill, the primary objective is to minimise risks to human beings, animals, and non-target living organisms, while also safeguarding the environment. The government has emphasised that pesticides should not only be effective against pests but also demonstrably safe when used as directed. This marks a shift from earlier regulatory approaches that focused largely on productivity, with less explicit attention to ecological and public health consequences.

A key feature of the proposed law is its encouragement of pesticides that are “biological and based on traditional knowledge.” These include bio-pesticides derived from natural sources such as plants, microbes, and minerals, as well as formulations rooted in indigenous agricultural practices. The move aligns with broader national goals of promoting sustainable farming, reducing chemical dependency, and supporting environmentally friendly technologies in agriculture.

The draft Bill also aims to strengthen oversight mechanisms related to the registration, manufacture, sale, and usage of pesticides. It proposes clearer standards for evaluating safety and effectiveness, along with stricter compliance requirements for manufacturers and distributors. By tightening regulatory controls, the government hopes to prevent the misuse of hazardous chemicals and curb the circulation of banned or substandard products in the market.

Another important aspect is the Bill’s focus on accountability and transparency. It outlines provisions for better monitoring of pesticide impact and enforcement of penalties in cases of violations. Experts believe this could improve farmer awareness, reduce accidental exposure, and ensure that only approved and appropriately labelled products reach end users.

The invitation for public feedback reflects the government’s intent to adopt a consultative approach. Farmers, scientists, industry stakeholders, environmental groups, and members of the public have been encouraged to review the draft and submit their suggestions. Such consultations are seen as critical in balancing agricultural productivity with health and environmental priorities, especially in a country where millions depend on farming for their livelihood.

The draft legislation comes at a time when concerns over pesticide residues in food, soil degradation, declining biodiversity, and health impacts on farm workers are gaining prominence. By promoting safer alternatives and reinforcing regulatory safeguards, the Bill aims to align India’s agricultural practices with global sustainability standards.

Once finalised, the proposed law could play a significant role in reshaping how pesticides are developed, approved, and used across the country. Its success, however, will depend on effective implementation, farmer education, and continued innovation in safe and sustainable pest management solutions.