Following further to amend the notification of the Government India, Insecticides Act 1968

## Policy Analysis Report: Amendment to Notification S.O. 79E Regarding Insecticides Act **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes an amendment to the Government of India's notification S.O. 79E, dated February 3, 1997, concerning the Insecticides Act, 1968. This specific amendment, published on December 17, 2021, modifies the chairmanship of a relevant body by replacing the previously designated individual with Dr. S.K. Malhotra, Assistant Director General, for a limited period. The key finding is that this is a temporary appointment, highlighting a potentially interim shift in leadership related to the Act's administration. **2. Introduction:** This report provides an overview and analysis of a recent amendment to a pre-existing notification (S.O. 79E) related to the Insecticides Act, 1968, based solely on the information provided in the official gazette text. The aim is to inform stakeholders about the nature and implications of this specific change. **3. Policy Overview:** * **Original Policy:** This amendment pertains to the notification S.O. 79E, dated February 3, 1997, which was initially published concerning the Insecticides Act, 1968. * **Core Objective(s):** Based on the amendment context, the original policy likely establishes committees or positions related to the implementation and regulation of the Insecticides Act, specifically dealing with agriculture and farmers' welfare. The core objective inferred is the effective oversight and decision-making concerning insecticides. **4. Background and Rationale:** This amendment appears to address a need to temporarily change the chairmanship of a body associated with the Insecticides Act. The reason for this specific amendment is not explicitly stated, but the temporary nature of the appointment ("for a period of six months or until further orders, whichever is earlier") suggests a possible interim arrangement due to unforeseen circumstances like a vacancy, reassignment, or pending permanent appointment. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This amendment focuses solely on altering the designated Chairman. * **Specific Part Changed:** The amendment substitutes serial number 1 and its corresponding entry in the original notification (S.O. 79E). This suggests serial number 1 defined the position of chairman. * **New Rule/Provision:** The new provision appoints Dr. S.K. Malhotra, Assistant Director General, Principal Scientist, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi, as Chairman. The appointment is for a fixed term of six months or until further notice, whichever comes first. * **Difference/Effect of Change:** The change replaces the previous Chairman (whose name is not specified in the amendment text) with Dr. Malhotra on a temporary basis. This suggests a potential shift in leadership style or priorities, at least for the duration of the appointment. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary audience and stakeholders directly affected by this amendment include: * Dr. S.K. Malhotra, the newly appointed Chairman. * Members of the committee or body that Dr. Malhotra will chair. * The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, specifically the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. * Organizations and individuals regulated by the Insecticides Act, who may experience changes in the administration or decision-making processes under the new temporary leadership. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare within the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is the responsible agency. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is also indirectly involved through the appointment of Dr. Malhotra. * **Timelines/Procedures:** The amendment specifies a six-month term for the new Chairman, effective from the date of publication (December 17, 2021) or until further orders are issued. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcome of this amendment is to ensure the continued operation and effective administration of the Insecticides Act during a period of transition or uncertainty in the chairmanship. The impact of the change will depend on Dr. Malhotra's leadership and priorities during his term. It is expected that this appointment will cause minimal disruption while the Department finds a suitable permanent replacement. **9. Conclusion:** This amendment to notification S.O. 79E represents a temporary adjustment in the leadership of a body related to the implementation of the Insecticides Act, 1968. The appointment of Dr. S.K. Malhotra as Chairman for a limited term suggests an interim measure to maintain continuity and effectiveness in the administration of the Act. While the specific reasons for the change are not detailed, its temporary nature indicates a transitional phase. The implications for regulated industries are likely minimal, but it is important to remain aware of potential shifts in emphasis under the new leadership.

Key Entities Referenced