Biostimulants are substances or microorganisms used to enhance plant growth, nutrient use, and stress tolerance. India controls the quality and sale of biostimulants under the Fertilizer (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985. The 2021 FCO amendment lists eight categories of biostimulants, and the Central Biostimulant Committee advises the government.
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Picture Courtesy: INDIAN EXPRESS
The Union Agriculture Minister wrote to Chief Ministers of all states to immediately stop the “forced tagging” of nano-fertilisers or biostimulants along with conventional fertilisers.
They are special substances or microorganisms that are applied to plants, seeds, or the soil, to make plants grow better, use nutrients more efficiently, and handle stress more effectively.
It works by improving a plant's natural processes, helping it to unlock its full potential.
How do biostimulants work differently from fertilizers and pesticides?
Biostimulants |
Fertilizers |
Pesticides |
|
Primary Role |
Enhance plant processes, improve stress tolerance |
Provide essential nutrients for plant growth |
Control pests, weeds, or diseases |
Mechanism |
Stimulate natural plant functions, improve nutrient uptake, strengthen defenses |
Directly supply nutrients the plant absorbs |
Kill, repel, or control harmful organisms |
Composition |
Plant extracts, microbes, humic acids, amino acids |
Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, micronutrients |
Chemical compounds designed to be toxic to target organisms |
Benefit |
Healthier, more resilient plants; better resource use |
Stronger, faster growth; higher yields if nutrients are limiting |
Protect crops from damage caused by pests or diseases |
Environmental Impact |
Generally environmentally friendly, reduce chemical use |
Can lead to runoff and pollution if overused |
Can have negative environmental impacts and harm non-target species |
How does India control the quality and sale of biostimulants?
The Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Order, 1985, regulates the manufacturing and sale of biostimulants, it defines it as:
2021 FCO amendment for biostimulants
May 2025 Notification
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare registered 34 new biostimulants under the FCO. This increases the total number of registered biostimulants in India to over 45. India registered its first 11 biostimulants in May 2024.
Major Categories Include:
According to the Market research firm Fortune Business, “The India biostimulants market size was valued at USD 355.53 million in 2024, projected to grow from USD 410.78 million in 2025 to USD 1,135.96 million by 2032.”
Strengthen Farmer Education through Media (like Radio, DD KISAN), workshops, demonstrations, and accessible information.
Ensure Strict Quality Control & Transparency in Sales to ensure that only certified and effective products reach the market.
Promote Research & Development (R&D) for Effective Indigenous Biostimulants, which better suited for Indian soil types, crops, and climate conditions.
Must Read Articles:
Centre Registers 34 Biostimulants
Source: INDIAN EXPRESS
PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Consider the following statements in the context of biostimulants: 1. They provide essential nutrients to plants, similar to fertilizers. 2. They enhance a plant's natural processes rather than directly controlling pests. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: B Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: Fertilizers directly supply essential nutrients to plants, promoting growth and correcting deficiencies in the soil. However, Biostimulants do not directly provide nutrients, they stimulate a plant's natural abilities to absorb nutrients, manage stress, and grow more efficiently. Statement 2 is correct: Biostimulants work by stimulating natural processes within plants, which include improving nutrient absorption, enhancing stress tolerance, and increasing overall yield. They improve a plant's response to environmental stressors like drought and heat, and they boost germination, root growth, and nutrient uptake. |
Biostimulants stimulate internal plant processes for better growth and stress tolerance, while fertilizers directly supply nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.
They enhance plants' natural ability to withstand abiotic stresses like drought, extreme temperatures (heat/cold), and salinity, which are worsening due to climate change.
They include botanical extracts (like seaweed), humic and fulvic acids, microbial cultures, amino acids, vitamins, and certain biochemicals.
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