SRINAGAR: The Agriculture Department on Saturday seized 235 kilograms of a pesticide suspected of violating regulatory standards during a surprise inspection of pesticide dealers in Shopian as part of its ongoing drive against substandard and unauthorised agricultural inputs.
The inspection, led by Director Agriculture Kashmir, involved a detailed examination of pesticide stocks and records maintained by dealers to verify compliance with the provisions of the Insecticides Act and the rules framed thereunder.
During the drive, officials seized 235 kg of the pesticide marketed as “Super M-45” on suspicion of non-compliance with prescribed standards and regulatory requirements. The seizure was carried out in the presence of the Executive Magistrate, Shopian, following the prescribed legal procedure.
The department said the inspection was aimed at safeguarding the interests of farmers and ensuring that only quality plant protection chemicals are available for agricultural use.
Director Agriculture Kashmir said the department would continue to maintain strict vigilance over the sale and distribution of agricultural inputs and warned dealers against selling spurious, misbranded or unregistered pesticides.
He said strict action would be taken against violators under the relevant provisions of law.
The department also advised farmers to purchase pesticides only from authorised dealers, insist on proper bills and invoices, and use plant protection chemicals strictly in accordance with recommendations issued by the Agriculture Department.
Officials said similar inspection drives would continue across Kashmir to ensure the availability of genuine and quality agricultural inputs for the farming community.
