Plant Quarantine regulatory measures are operative through the ‘Destructive Insects & Pests Act (DIP), 1914 (Act 2 of 1914) in the country. The purpose and intent of this Act is to prevent the introduction of any insect pest, fungus, bacteria, virus or other pest, which is or may be destructive to crops. The import of agricultural commodities is presently regulated through the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order, 2003. Further, the significance of Plant Quarantine has increased in view of Globalization and liberalization in International trade of plants and plant material in the wake of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement under World Trade Organization (WTO). The Phytosanitary certification for Agricultural commodities being exported, also undertaken as per International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC),1951.
The export inspections involve sampling and detailed laboratory tests in case of seeds and planting material for propagation. Whereas, visual examination with microscope, magnoscope, hand lens and washing tests, etc are carried out for plant materials meant for consumption. The export inspections are conducted regularly at exporter’s premises in Karnataka, Airport premises and at the Plant Quarantine Office at Hebbal and Airport unit as the case may be to facilitate the exports of agricultural commodities meant for consumption and propagation.
Bengaluru being one of the fastest growing cities in Asia and conceding the long-standing demand of exporters and importers, Government of India opened the Plant Quarantine Station, Bengaluru with effect from 10th June 2005.
Following Plant Quarantine Stations are working under the jurisdiction of this office:
- Plant Quarantine Station, Mangaluru, Karnataka
- Plant Quarantine Station, Karvar, Karnataka
- Plant Quarantine Station, Hyderabad, Telangana
- Plant Quarantine Station, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
- Plant Quarantine Station, Cochin, Kerala
- Plant Quarantine Station, Calicut, Kerala
- Plant Quarantine Station, Kannur, Kerala
