Centre issues draft notification to ban paraquat herbicide
The Union Government has released a draft notification proposing a nationwide ban on paraquat dichloride, a herbicide widely regarded as highly toxic.
If implemented, the order will prohibit the import, manufacture, sale, transport, distribution and use of paraquat under the Insecticides Act, 1968.
The chemical has already been banned in more than 70 countries because of health and environmental concerns. Experts have long advocated restrictions in India due to its association with severe poisoning cases.
The proposal remains in the draft stage, allowing stakeholders 30 days from July 13, 2026, to submit objections and suggestions before the notification is finalised.
The move is also expected to trigger broader discussions on the regulation of other pesticides that continue to be used despite restrictions in several countries.
