Srinagar, Mar 7: Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, has taken note of an article published in a daily on March 5, 2026, titled “Orchardists in Kashmir flag counterfeit pesticides as fruit season begins.”
The department has refuted the claim that the distribution of substandard pesticides remains unchecked in markets. The department said it remains committed to safeguarding the interests of farmers and orchardists, and the report appears to present a generalized view that does not fully reflect the regulatory framework and enforcement mechanisms already in place.
The department said it operates strictly under the provisions of the Insecticides Act, 1968 and the rules framed thereunder, which regulate the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of pesticides. Under this legal framework, pesticides can be sold only through licensed dealers and are subject to regular monitoring and inspection.
The J&K Government has maintained strict vigilance to curb the menace of counterfeit or substandard pesticides. The Agriculture Department has an enforcement wing that conducts inspections of pesticide outlets, collects samples for quality testing, and takes action.
It said during 2025-26, the enforcement wing carried out 3,456 inspections of pesticide outlets and 2,741 samples were drawn for quality analysis. Based on violations detected, 39 prosecutions were launched against erring dealers in addition to other legal actions as provided under law.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by the Agriculture Production Department (APD) for the monitoring and regulation of fertilizers are being strictly followed to ensure transparency, accountability, and quality control in the supply chain of agricultural inputs.
It said it issues timely advisories to farmers on recommended pesticides, proper dosages, and safe pest management practices. Farmers are instructed to procure Agro-Chemicals only from authorized dealers, insist on proper bills and properly labelled products, and report any suspected counterfeit or substandard products to the department for action.
