Mode of Action & Active Ingredient
Glyphosate acts by inhibiting the 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate (EPSP) synthase enzyme in the shikimate pathway (HRAC Group 9). This pathway is essential for synthesizing aromatic amino acids in green plant tissues.
Because glyphosate is fully systemic, it is absorbed through green foliage and translocated throughout the plant down to rhizomes and deep root systems, preventing weed regrowth.
- Active Ingredient: Glyphosate 41% w/w SL (Soluble Liquid)
- HRAC Classification: Group 9 (EPSP synthase inhibitor)
- Spectrum: Non-selective broad-spectrum control of grasses, sedges, and broadleaf weeds
- Formulation Type: Water-soluble liquid designed for directed foliar spray
Regulatory Compliance & Approved Application in India
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare strictly regulates glyphosate distribution. In accordance with statutory gazette notifications, application is permitted only through Pest Control Operators (PCOs) and restricted to tea crops and non-cropped land.
Direct contact with standing field crops must be prevented using drift-reduction nozzles and protective spray hoods, as unintended spray drift causes severe necrosis or plant mortality.
- Approved Crops: Tea plantations and non-cropped industrial or bund areas per official CIBRC label
- Spray Technique: Directed spray with flat-fan or flood-jet nozzles operated under low pressure
- Rainfastness: Requires 4 to 6 rain-free hours following application for complete foliar absorption
- Protective Gear: Protective coveralls, nitrile gloves, face shields, and chemical safety boots
Pricing Dynamics & Packaging Verification
Commercial herbicide pack sizes (including 500 ml, 1 litre, and 5 litre containers) are subject to regional dealer networks and local retail tax variations. Farmers should always procure tamper-evident sealed bottles from licensed agro-dealers with valid GST tax invoices.
Inspect the container for the CIBRC registration number, manufacturing date, and statutory hazard warning triangle before opening.
- Package Sizes: Typically distributed in 500 ml, 1 L, 5 L, and 20 L sealed HDPE bottles
- Verification: Check batch number, manufacturing date, and valid QR authentication code where available
- Authentication: Purchase only from authorized input retailers to avoid spurious formulations
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage (PPQS) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
Is Glyphosate 41% SL selective or non-selective?
It is entirely non-selective, meaning it affects any green vegetation it contacts. It must be applied with protective hoods or on non-crop bunds to avoid damaging valuable crops.
What are the legal restrictions on glyphosate usage in India?
Under Central Government notifications, glyphosate usage is restricted to tea plantations and non-cropped areas, with application administered by certified operators.
How long after spraying Roundup does it show visible symptoms?
Yellowing and gradual wilting of treated weeds generally appear within 4 to 7 days, with complete weed root death occurring over 10 to 14 days depending on ambient temperatures.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
More Crop Protection & Pesticides guides
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