Do I need a licence to sell insecticides in India?
Yes. Anyone stocking or selling insecticides for sale in India must hold a licence under the Insecticides Act, 1968, and the Insecticides Rules, 1971. For a distributor or retailer this is the Form VI licence to sell, stock or exhibit for sale, granted by the state agriculture or licensing authority. Household products like cockroach gel and mosquito repellent fall under this framework.
What is Form VI and how is it different from CIB&RC registration?
These are two separate stages of the same law:
- CIB&RC registration — the Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee registers each product formulation before it can be manufactured or sold. This is the manufacturer's responsibility, not yours.
- Form VI licence — your licence, as the seller, to trade the registered product in your area. It lists the specific insecticides you are permitted to sell.
In short, the company registers the product; you licence yourself to sell it.
What does the Form VI application need?
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Application form | Form VII to obtain the Form VI licence |
| Fee | Around ₹1,500 per licence, plus a small renewal fee |
| Premises proof | Godown or shop ownership or rent agreement |
| Principal certificate | Letter from the manufacturer authorising you to sell |
| Trained person | For agricultural insecticides, a graduate in agriculture or science on staff |
How long is the licence valid?
A Form VI licence is generally valid for two years and must be renewed before it lapses. Renewal applied for after expiry attracts a late fee, and selling on a lapsed licence can invite prosecution. Keep a diary reminder 60 days ahead of the expiry date.
What are the common compliance mistakes?
- Storing insecticides beside food items in the same godown.
- Selling a product not listed on your licence schedule.
- Missing the two-year renewal window.
- Not keeping the principal's authorisation letter on file for inspection.
Ask your company for its CIB&RC registration numbers and a signed principal certificate at appointment — Dutch & Habro provides both for its Goodbye range as part of the onboarding pack.