Chemical composition and systemic EPSP synthase inhibition
Roundup contains Glyphosate formulated as an isopropylamine salt in a soluble liquid concentrate (HRAC Group 9).
Key biochemical properties:
- Active chemical: Glyphosate (isopropylamine salt) 41% SL (equivalent to 360 g/L glyphosate acid).
- EPSP synthase enzyme inhibition: Inhibits 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase in the shikimate pathway, blocking biosynthesis of essential aromatic amino acids.
- Basipetal phloem translocation: Translocates along with photoassimilates downward into roots, tubers, stolons, and rhizomes of perennial weeds.
- Complete vegetative breakdown: Treated weeds show chlorosis within 5 to 7 days, followed by complete vascular collapse and plant death within 2 to 3 weeks.
- Soil inactivation: Rapidly bound and degraded by soil microorganisms and clay complexes, preventing herbicidal uptake through crop roots.
Statutory crop approvals and application environments
Under Ministry of Agriculture and CIBRC notifications, the legal application of Glyphosate in India is restricted:
Permitted operational areas:
- Tea plantations: Directed post-emergence weed control between tea bushes using drift shields without contacting tea foliage.
- Non-crop agricultural zones: Clearing overgrown perennial vegetation along field bunds, farm paths, fence lines, and drainage channels.
- Target weed spectrum: Cynodon dactylon (Bermuda grass), Cyperus rotundus, Imperata cylindrica, Parthenium, and broadleaf brush.
- Prohibition on standing food crops: Use on standing food, cereal, and pulse crops is strictly prohibited under Indian law.
Safe handling protocols and regulatory compliance
Apply Roundup according to CIBRC-approved product label rates (typically 800 to 1200 ml per acre in 150 to 200 litres of clean water). Use specialized flood-jet nozzles at low operating pressure to prevent fine drift. Operators must wear full personal protective equipment including vapor masks, goggles, nitrile gloves, and protective clothing, and never spray near water bodies.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the active chemical in Roundup herbicide?
Roundup contains Glyphosate 41% SL (isopropylamine salt), a systemic non-selective herbicide.
Why does Roundup kill underground weed roots and rhizomes?
It translocates systemically through the plant phloem into roots and rhizomes, blocking essential aromatic amino acid synthesis.
Where is Glyphosate legally permitted for use in Indian agriculture?
Under official CIBRC notifications, Glyphosate is legally permitted only in tea plantations and non-cropped land.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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