The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW), on August 31, 2026, issued the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) (Ninth Amendment) Order, 2026 under the Destructive Insects and Pests Act, 1914. The amendment modifies Schedule VI of the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order, 2003 and comes into force from the date of publication in the Official Gazette.
The amendment adds specific import conditions for fresh Capsicum annuum (Chilli) for consumption originating from Uzbekistan. The phytosanitary certificate accompanying such consignments must declare that the material is free from Aculops lycopersici (Tomato russet mite) and Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV).
Additionally, imported chilli consignments from Uzbekistan must be free from plant debris and soil. The amendment is therefore relevant to importers and businesses dealing in fresh chilli/plant products from Uzbekistan and imposes additional phytosanitary and plant-quarantine compliance requirements at the time of import.
[S.O. 4930(E)]
