Daily Current Affairs for UPSC : 3 Oct 2025/What Are Biostimulants?

In News? The Government of India has approved eleven biostimulants despite religious and dietary objections. The list contains animal protein based growth stimulants used in growing paddy, tomato, potato, cucumber, and chili.

What Are Biostimulants?
• Biostimulants are substances or microorganisms applied to plants to improve nutrient uptake, growth, and stress tolerance—without being classified as nutrients or pesticides.

Types:
• Humic Substances: Derived from leonardite or peat; they help to improve soil structure and promote the growth of roots.
• Seaweed Extracts: Rich in alginates and cytokinins; they enhance plant vigor, and their resistance to environmental stress.
• Microbial Inoculants: Bacteria (e.g., Rhizobium) or fungi (e.g., Mycorrhiza); aid in nitrogen fixation and availability of phosphorus.
• Amino Acids and Peptides: Promote protein synthesis and photosynthesis under stress.
• Chitosan and Other Biopolymers: Induce defense against pathogens.

Functions:
• Improve governed nutrient use effieiciency.
• Increase crop yield and quality.
• Provide tolerance to abiotic stresses, such as drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures.
• Stimulate the profusion of root systems and soil microbial activity.
Application:
Used in agriculture and horticulture, including floriculture, as a foliar spray, soil drench application, or seed treatment.
Regulatory Status: These products are not fully regulated worldwide; the regulation of biostimulants varies by country. In the European Union, biostimulants are regulated through Regulation (EU) 2019/1009,while in India, recent concerns led to a ban on certain animal-derived biostimulants (e.g., from chicken feathers, pig tissue) due to religious and dietary issues, as noted on October 2, 2025.
Benefits:
• Sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers.
• Supports organic farming practices.
• Reduces environmental impact by minimizing chemical runoff.
Challenges:
• Lack of standardized testing and labeling.
• Potential contamination risks with animal-derived products.
• Limited awareness among farmers.
These notes reflect the current understanding as of October 3, 2025, based on available information.