Active ingredient and chemical mode of action
Understanding the chemical characteristics of glyphosate helps explain its weed control mechanism.
Mode of action details:
- Active ingredient belongs to the organophosphorus / glycine chemical class.
- Acts by inhibiting 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate (EPSP) synthase, an enzyme critical for aromatic amino acid synthesis in plants.
- Systemic action: Foliar absorption allows translocation through the plant's vascular system down into root crowns and rhizomes.
- Non-selective: Does not differentiate between crops and weeds; it will damage or destroy any green plant tissue it contacts.
Statutory restrictions and approved uses in India
The Government of India has issued statutory guidelines governing glyphosate distribution and usage.
Regulatory mandates include:
- Approved strictly for weed control in tea plantations and non-cropped industrial areas as specified on the registered product label.
- Application is restricted to licensed Pest Control Operators (PCOs) as notified under central gazette regulations.
- Must never be sprayed directly over standing agricultural food crops unless registered label approvals exist.
- State agriculture departments monitor retail distribution to prevent unauthorized field applications.
Protective equipment, drift management and safe handling
Applicators must wear full personal protective equipment (PPE) including chemical-resistant nitrile gloves, eye goggles, particulate face masks, and rubber gumboots. Spraying should be performed during calm morning weather using flood-jet nozzles equipped with protective drift shields to prevent spray droplets from reaching nearby crops or water reservoirs.
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 ingredient in Roundup?
The active ingredient is glyphosate, a broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide.
Is glyphosate approved for all agricultural crops in India?
No, central regulations restrict glyphosate applications primarily to tea plantations and non-cropped industrial areas through authorized pest control operators.
What safety precautions must be followed when handling glyphosate?
Always use recommended PPE, adhere strictly to registered label instructions, use drift shields, and keep away from open water sources.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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