Science must govern the policy reversal on protein hydrolysate based biostimulants

The recognition of protein hydrolysate-based biostimulants under the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985, was a landmark reform that advanced science-led agricultural innovation in India. These biostimulants, derived from plant, microbial, or animal sources, enhance nutrient use efficiency, crop quality, and stress tolerance. However, the recent regulatory decision to ban protein hydrolysates of animal origin, without scientific justification, represents a setback to evidence-based policymaking. This commentary critically examines the inconsistency of such a policy reversal, particularly when other animal-based inputs such as bone meal remain approved under the same regulatory framework. It argues about the need to maintain internal coherence within agricultural policy and uphold science as the guiding principle in regulatory decision-making. Ensuring that governance remains informed by empirical evidence rather than sentiment is essential for sustaining India’s progress toward resilient and sustainable agriculture.