Srinagar, June 29: In a significant move to safeguard fruit growers during the peak horticulture season, the Directorate of Horticulture Kashmir has ordered an immediate crackdown on five pesticide products found to be misbranded following laboratory analysis, directing officials across the Valley to halt their sale and initiate legal action.
In an official communication issued on June 29, vide order no:-DHK/PPS/2026-27/10859-71, the Directorate informed all Chief Horticulture Officers of Srinagar, Ganderbal, Budgam, Baramulla, Pulwama, Bandipora, Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian and Kupwara that analysis reports received from the Deputy Director, Law Enforcement, Lalmandi, Srinagar confirmed that five pesticide samples had failed to meet prescribed standards and were declared misbranded by the Agriculture Chemist, Lalmandi.
The products identified include Padkar (Pendimethalin 38.7% SC), Bendaco (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP), Starlet (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP), Combi X Super (Chlorpyrifos 50% + Cypermethrin 5% EC) and Intop (Thiophanate Methyl 70% WP).
The Directorate has instructed insecticide inspectors in all districts to issue “Stop Sale” orders for these products and take necessary action under the Insecticides Act, 1968 and the Insecticides Rules, 1971.
Officials have also been asked to intensify awareness campaigns among orchardists to prevent the use of the identified pesticides.
