Chemical Profile and Systemic Action
Roundup is formulated with Glyphosate (isopropylamine salt) 41% SL. It acts as a broad-spectrum non-selective systemic herbicide that enters plant vascular systems through foliage and translocates rapidly via the phloem to actively growing roots and rhizomes.
The active molecule inhibits 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS), an essential enzyme in the shikimic acid pathway responsible for synthesizing aromatic amino acids (phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan). This leads to total plant chlorosis and desiccation within 7-14 days.
- Active ingredient: Glyphosate (IPA salt) 41 percent w/w SL
- Herbicide classification: WSSA Group 9 / HRAC Group G (EPSPS inhibitor)
- Translocation: Symplastic movement via phloem to underground rhizomes and root tips
- Selectivity: Non-selective (affects virtually all green plant tissue upon contact)
Statutory Central Government Regulations in India
Under Gazette Notification S.O. 4912(E) issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the use of Glyphosate and its derivatives in India is strictly restricted to designated registered areas including tea plantations and non-crop industrial zones.
The regulation mandates that application must be conducted under supervision by licensed Pest Control Operators (PCOs) or authorized personnel. Farmers must review official label notifications and comply with regional agricultural department advisories.
- Statutory restriction: Restricted for use in tea plantations and non-cropped industrial areas
- Supervisory mandate: Application must involve certified and licensed pest control operators
- Target weeds: Deep-rooted perennial grasses like *Cynodon dactylon*, *Cyperus rotundus*, and broadleaf weeds
- Environmental caution: Strictly prohibited near standing water bodies and open aquatic systems
Commercial Pack Sizes and Price Determinants
Commercial pricing for Roundup 41% SL varies across pack sizes (500 ml, 1 liter, 5 liter, and 20 liter containers), state-level logistics, and input distributor margins.
Farmers should verify genuine product seals, batch codes, manufacturing dates, and standard maximum retail prices (MRP) on container labels, securing formal tax invoices from authorized dealers.
- Standard packaging: 500 ml, 1 liter, and 5 liter HDPE sealed containers
- Pricing determinants: Pack volume, distributor freight, and state GST levies
- Label authentication: Inspect Bayer holographic security strips and intact cap seals
- Handling safety: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, apron, boots, and face protection
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What crops are officially approved for Glyphosate in India?
Under Central Government gazette regulations, Glyphosate is registered strictly for tea plantations and non-cropped land areas, managed under prescribed safety guidelines.
Why does Roundup take 7 to 14 days to show visible weed control?
Because Glyphosate is a systemic metabolic inhibitor, it must translocate internally to growing points and underground rhizomes before cell death and foliage yellowing become visible.
Can Roundup be sprayed in an active standing vegetable or cereal field?
No, Roundup is non-selective and will damage or kill any green crop plants if spray drift contacts their stems or foliage.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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