Science Must Guide Policy on Protein Hydrolysate Biostimulants

Abstract

India’s commitment to sustainable agriculture has historically been anchored on the balance between tradition and science. Recent advances in plant biostimulants, the substances that enhance plant growth, nutrient use efficiency, and resilience to stress have offered promising tools for improving crop productivity under climate challenges. Among these, protein hydrolysate (PH) -based biostimulants have emerged as one of the most significant innovations, providing an environmentally acceptable alternative to regular fertilisers. However, a recent policy reversal removed animal-origin protein hydrolysates from the Fertiliser (Control) Order (FCO), 1985. This decision risked the years of scienceled agricultural reforms like the plant biostimulants, critical in boosting low productivity in the face of climate change. The decision, which was made public on 29 September 2025, through Gazette Notification S.O. 4441 (E) removed all the eleven approved formulations of protein hydrolysates of animal origin from Schedule VI, banning their use as biostimulants.