Insecticides – Government Allows QR Codes Instead of Paper Leaflets on Pest Control Products
Insecticides – Companies manufacturing household pest control products will no longer be required to include printed information leaflets inside their packaging, following a recent amendment issued by the Ministry of Agriculture. The revised rule allows manufacturers to replace physical inserts with a QR code printed on the product label, provided it gives consumers access to all legally required details.
Shift From Paper Inserts to Digital Access
Under the updated provisions, products designed to tackle common household pests such as cockroaches, mosquitoes, houseflies and bed bugs can now be sold without an enclosed leaflet. Instead, customers must be able to scan a QR code that directs them to comprehensive information about usage instructions, safety precautions and potential health risks.
Officials clarified that the digital format must contain every detail that was previously mandated in printed form under existing regulations. The ministry emphasized that consumer safety and transparency remain central to the new framework.
Amendment to Insecticides Rules, 1971
The change has been introduced through a modification to Rule 10(1A) of the Insecticides Rules, 1971. Alongside permitting QR-based information sharing, the amendment also extends the compliance deadline from June 30, 2024, to June 30, 2026.
According to government sources, this extension is intended to give manufacturers, licensing authorities and other stakeholders additional time to adapt their systems and processes to meet regulatory standards. Authorities believe the additional two years will support smoother implementation across the sector.
Industry Representation Prompted Clarification
The decision follows representations made by industry bodies in June last year, when companies sought clarity regarding the sale and labeling requirements of household insecticides. Manufacturers had requested flexibility in how mandatory information could be delivered to consumers, particularly as digital tools become more widespread.
After reviewing the concerns, the government proposed amendments under the title Insecticides (Amendment) Rules, 2025. The draft proposal was opened for public feedback beginning November 4, 2025, and remained available for comments for 30 days.
No Objections Received During Consultation
The Ministry of Agriculture stated that the notification did not attract any objections or suggestions within the stipulated consultation period. Individuals, organizations and industry stakeholders who were likely to be affected had been invited to submit written feedback to the Joint Secretary (Plant Protection).
Since no formal concerns were raised during the review window, the ministry proceeded with finalizing the amendment.
Focus on Compliance and Modernisation
Government officials have described the move as part of a broader effort to modernise regulatory processes while maintaining strict safety standards. By shifting mandatory product information to digital platforms, authorities aim to ensure that consumers continue to receive accurate and complete guidance without relying on printed inserts.
The amendment is also expected to reduce paper consumption and streamline packaging, potentially lowering logistical costs for manufacturers. Officials noted that digital access to information can make updates easier if safety instructions or regulatory requirements change in the future.
At the same time, regulators have stressed that companies must ensure QR codes are clearly visible and functional. Any failure to provide complete and accessible information could invite regulatory action under the existing legal framework.
With the extended deadline set for June 2026, licensing bodies and manufacturers are now expected to align their operations with the updated requirements. The government maintains that the revised approach balances consumer protection with technological advancement, while simplifying compliance procedures for the household insecticide industry.