The Maharashtra Department of Agriculture has directed insecticide inspectors across the state to initiate enforcement action against the sale of illegal mosquito agarbattis marketed under the brand names “Comfort” and “Sleep Well.” Authorities have ordered raids, seizures, and prosecution of violators under the Insecticides Act, 1968, and the Insecticides Rules, 1971, while cautioning retailers and distributors that stocking or selling unregistered insecticide products is punishable under law.
The action follows earlier laboratory investigations in Andhra Pradesh and Mumbai that confirmed the presence of illegal and unapproved insecticides in the two products. Within 15 days of the Mumbai raid and ban on “Comfort,” the Director of Agriculture issued a fresh statewide circular mandating strict enforcement and reporting of all actions to the Commissionerate of Agriculture.
The Home Insect Control Association (HICA) welcomed the move. Its Honorary Secretary Jayant Deshpande said the enforcement would protect consumers from spurious mosquito repellents and urged buyers to purchase only products carrying a valid CIBRC registration number. Retailers and distributors in Guwahati said the crackdown could prompt stricter compliance checks across the country, encouraging traders to stock only properly registered mosquito repellent products. Market participants noted that increased regulatory vigilance is likely to strengthen consumer trust and drive demand for certified household insecticide brands in the northeastern region.
