India’s 2012 Rules Strictly Regulate Ammonium Nitrate Use

India maintains stringent controls over ammonium nitrate following its classification as a special category explosive. The regulatory framework, introduced in 2012, governs every stage of its manufacturing, storage, sale and transportation to curb misuse, particularly in light of its history of being adapted into powerful improvised explosives.

Legal Framework Under Explosives Act and IDR Act

Ammonium nitrate is regulated through the Ammonium Nitrate Rules 2012, framed under the Explosives Act 1884. The chemical is also partially governed by the Industries (Development and Regulation) Act 1951, under which industrial licences for its manufacture are issued. These rules recognise its dual-use nature and impose multi-layered permissions to ensure safe handling across sectors.

Licensing, Storage and Compliance Requirements

Licences for manufacturing ammonium nitrate are granted by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, while the Petroleum & Explosives Safety Organisation authorises its production, conversion, bagging, transport, import, export and possession. District magistrates issue licences for local warehouse storage. License-holders must maintain accurate records and submit monthly accounts of material received, used, destroyed or lost, ensuring strict traceability.

Misuse Risks and Explosive Potential

Though pure ammonium nitrate is stable and requires extreme temperatures or a detonator to explode, it becomes a powerful blasting agent when mixed with fuel. Ammonium nitrate fuel oil, widely used in mining, has also been exploited in terrorist attacks in India and abroad. Its controlled status stems from repeated instances of misuse, prompting tighter regulatory enforcement to prevent diversion into illegal activities.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Ammonium nitrate is regulated under the Ammonium Nitrate Rules 2012 framed under the Explosives Act 1884.
• It is classified as a special category explosive in India.
• PESO licenses its manufacturing, transport, import, export and possession.
• Monthly stock accounts are mandatory for all licence-holders.

Oversight by Multiple Authorities

Regulation spans several agencies to minimise loopholes. Industrial approvals, explosive safety checks and local storage licensing operate in coordination to ensure that permissible quantities remain controlled. The rules place clear accountability on manufacturers, dealers and warehouses, strengthening national security by limiting unauthorised access to a chemical frequently linked to high-impact attacks.