Organic Manure from CBG Plants Recognized as New Fertilizer Category; Govt Notifies FOM & LFOM Specifications

In a significant move, the central government has amended the Fertilizer (Control) Order of 1985 to recognize Organic Carbon Enhancers from Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plants as a new category of fertilizers. The government has also notified specifications for CBG-derived byproducts—Fermented Organic Manure (FOM) and Liquid Fermented Organic Manure (LFOM)—under the newly introduced Organic Carbon Enhancer category. These amendments mark a major milestone for the CBG sector, addressing a long-standing demand from producers. 

Derived from Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants, these byproducts are key to enhancing soil health, enriching organic carbon, and improving soil fertility. However, the disposal of these byproducts has been a significant challenge for CBG plants. Recent amendments to the Fertiliser (Control) Order aim to address these challenges. This move is expected to promote the greater use of organic manure, drive growth in the CBG sector, and support sustainable farming practices across India.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has amended the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985, as notified on March 27, 2025, to define specifications for Fermented Organic Manure (FOM) and Liquid Fermented Organic Manure (LFOM) under the newly introduced Schedule VIII Organic Carbon Enhancer category.

As per the revised order, every manufacturer shall categorically indicate on containers that Fermented Organic Manure/Liquid Fermented Organic Manure shall be applied 15-20 days prior to sowing. The manufacturer shall enrich Fermented Organic Manure/Liquid Fermented Organic Manure with nutrients by stating this on the label. The Inspector shall draw samples of organic Carbon Enhancer in accordance with the prescribed procedure.

Earlier, on February 17, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare issued a notification amending the Fertiliser (Control) Order of 1985 to introduce 'Organic Carbon Enhancers from CBG plants' as a new category of fertilizers. A new Schedule VIII was added, defining Organic Carbon Enhancers from CBG plants. 

Indian farmers have long faced challenges due to declining soil fertility. This amendment is expected to promote the greater use of organic manure, helping to restore carbon levels in soils that are largely deficient in organic carbon and essential macronutrients. However, the success of this initiative will depend on the pricing of CBG-derived organic manure. With legal obstacles now removed, many major companies may step forward to market their CBG-derived organic manure, potentially driving growth in the CBG sector.

The Indian Federation of Green Energy (IFGE), an industry body, has hailed this step as historic and welcomed the government’s decision. Organic manure from CBG plants is seen as vital for improving soil health, boosting organic carbon levels, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Y. B. Ramakrishna, Sr. Vice President of IFGE and Chairman of the IFGE CBG Producer Forum, stated, "Achieving this amendment in the FCO is a testament to the dedicated and strategic efforts of the IFGE CBG Producer Forum. Our relentless advocacy, continuous dialogue with policymakers, and well-researched recommendations have been instrumental in securing the formal recognition of CBG-derived byproducts under Schedule VIII.

"This breakthrough not only validates our commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture but also paves the way for the large-scale adoption of CBG technologies. It reflects IFGE CBGPF's success in bridging policy gaps and driving impactful reforms that will enhance soil health, support farmers and CBG producers, and contribute to India's clean energy ambitions," Ramakrishna added.

Ashish Kumar, Vice President of IFGE, Vice Chairman of the IFGE CBG Producer Forum, and MD of Verbio India, added, "The formal recognition of CBG-derived byproducts, FOM and LFOM, as Organic Carbon Enhancers is a significant leap forward. These byproducts not only propel India's clean energy transition but also provide a sustainable solution for restoring and enhancing soil health by improving its structure, fertility, and microbial diversity. This amendment will drive investments, encourage sustainable farming practices, and contribute to strengthening both India's energy security and environmental sustainability."