AIM Requests Government Approval for MSMEs to Access Pooled Data for Bio-Stimulant Registration

The Agro Inputs Manufacturers Association of India (AIM) has urged the government to permit all MSMEs to utilise its compiled data for bio-stimulant registration. This request follows a 2019 notification that included bio-stimulants under the Fertiliser Control Order (FCO) 1985. AIM argues that accessing this data is crucial for small manufacturers to sustain their business operations.

In 2010, AIM was established in Pune and now boasts around 300 members. The association has gathered data on eight significant bio-stimulants. This information could facilitate the inclusion of bio-stimulants under Schedule VI, as per the recent notification. AIM has already proposed to government authorities to accept this pooled data, enabling small and medium enterprises to maintain their business viability.

The cost of creating data for each product is approximately Rs 30 lakh, a sum that is prohibitive for many MSMEs. AIM believes that using pooled data would allow its members to continue their operations without incurring such high expenses. "The government should allow MSMEs to submit pooled data, collected by the association, for registration process," it said in a statement.

AIM President Rajkumar Dhurgude expressed support for the new bio-stimulant notification. He stated, "We welcome the new bio-stimulant notification bringing bio-stimulants under the purview of FCO 1985. This step will give bio-stimulants a 'registered agri input' status and will benefit genuine manufacturers to carry out their business with pride and authenticity."

AIM's Secretary, Sameer Pathare, emphasised the importance of accepting pooled data due to the high costs associated with individual data creation. He noted that this approach would relieve financial pressure on small and medium manufacturers, ensuring their business prospects remain intact.

Deputy Secretary Vaibhav Kashikar encouraged looking beyond current regulations and challenges in bio-stimulant administration. "We should look beyond present bio-stimulant regulations and their administrative challenges. Let's prepare ourselves to accept the challenges and treat this as an opportunity to take our business and industry to the next level," he said.

The use of pooled data not only saves time and resources but also conserves national wealth by avoiding repetitive efforts. AIM's initiative aims to streamline processes for its members, ensuring they can operate efficiently within the regulatory framework.