Biofertilizers and Bioagents in Indian Agriculture: Scientific Mechanisms, Quality Standards and Legal Regulatory Framework

This article provides a comprehensive scientific and legal overview of biofertilizers and bioagents in Indian agriculture. It explains microbial mechanisms such as nitrogen fixation, Nif–Nod gene functions, nodule formation, nutrient cycling, and organic matter decomposition. The paper outlines classification, growth characteristics, mass multiplication, and quality testing of microbial inputs. It further examines India’s legal framework governing biofertilizers and bioagents, including the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985; Insecticides Act, 1968; Essential Commodities Act, 1955; and state-level regulations. The study highlights the role of institutional bodies like CIB&RC and NCOF in ensuring quality, safety, and certification.