Quick answer
An import permit applies where a scheduled chemical is consumed in the applicant's own manufacturing for a non-pesticidal purpose; registration under Section 9 applies where the product is sold or used to control pests. Both are granted by the CIB&RC Registration Committee and checked by customs.
| Import permit | Registration (Section 9) | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Industrial, non-insecticidal use | Sale or use as a pesticide |
| Applicant | Manufacturer using the chemical itself | Pesticide manufacturer, formulator or importer |
| Application | Form IA (government fee ₹5,000) | Section 9(3B), 9(3) or 9(4) dossier |
| Evidence | Licences, capacity, consumption, affidavit, MSDS | Chemistry, efficacy, toxicology, residues, label |
| Decision time | Preferably 45 days (+15) | Varies widely by route and data |
| Validity | 1 year (3 years in specified cases) | As stated on the certificate |
| Can it be sold as a pesticide? | No | Yes, as registered |
A simple test
Ask what happens after the chemical arrives. Consumed in making something else? Import permit. Packed, labelled and sold to control pests? Registration.
Grey areas
Treated articles and formulations with small amounts of a scheduled substance deserve a check before ordering. Sometimes a CIB NOC is the right step.
Sources and official references
- Insecticides Act, 1968 and Insecticides Rules, 1971 (India Code)
- CIB&RC checklist for customs on import of pesticides (reported 23 February 2022)
- Insecticides (Third Amendment) Rules, 2026, notified by G.S.R. 597(E) dated 8 July 2026, with the CIB&RC public notice dated 6 August 2026 (Gazette of India)
Reviewed on by the regulatory team at Pransh Pesticides Advisory Private Limited, CIB&RC consultants since 2011. This page is general guidance; the notified Rules and CIB&RC notices prevail.