
Monocil Monocrotophos 36% Sl
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Monocil (Monocrotophos 36% SL): Technical Analysis & Regulatory Status
An in-depth look at the "Red Label" broad-spectrum insecticide, its mode of action, and the 2023-2025 Prohibition Order in India.
Monocil is the trade name for Monocrotophos 36% SL, historically manufactured by Insecticides (India) Ltd. It is a powerful organophosphate insecticide known for controlling sucking, biting, and chewing pests in Cotton and Paddy.
⚠️ IMPORTANT REGULATORY UPDATE: As of October 2024, the sale, manufacture, and use of Monocrotophos 36% SL are strictly prohibited in India under the Insecticides (Prohibition) Order, 2023 due to high toxicity and environmental risks.
Chemical Formula: $C_7H_{14}NO_5P$
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits (Historical)
- ⏱️Rapid "Knockdown" Effect: Induces paralysis in pests within hours of contact or ingestion, stopping crop damage immediately.
- ?️Dual Action Protection: Works through both Systemic (internal absorption) and Contact action for comprehensive control.
- ⏳Long-Lasting Systemic Control: The chemical enters the plant's vascular system (xylem/phloem), protecting new growth from sap-sucking insects.
- ?️High Solubility (SL Formulation): As a Soluble Liquid, it mixes instantly with water and absorbs rapidly into plant leaves, reducing wash-off risks.
- ?Broad Spectrum Efficiency: Effective against complex pest categories including Aphids, Jassids, Bollworms, and Stem Borers.
Technical Specifications
[Image of Monocrotophos chemical structure]| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Monocil (and others like Phoskill, Monostar) |
| Technical Name | Monocrotophos 36% SL |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 1B (Organophosphates) |
| Chemical Group | Organophosphate (Ester of Phosphoric Acid) |
| Formulation | Soluble Liquid (SL) - 360g a.i./Liter |
| Toxicity Label | ? Red Label (Extremely Toxic / Poison) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Monocrotophos works by attacking the insect's nervous system. It acts as a potent inhibitor of the enzyme Acetylcholinesterase (AChE).
- Uptake: The chemical enters the pest through direct contact or by feeding on treated plant sap (systemic action).
- Inhibition: It binds irreversibly to the AChE enzyme, preventing it from breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
- Paralysis: Acetylcholine accumulates in the synapses, causing continuous nerve firing. This leads to tremors, paralysis, and rapid death of the insect.
Note: This mechanism is also toxic to humans and birds, which led to its global phase-out.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Aphids, Jassids, Thrips, Whitefly, Bollworm |
| Paddy (Rice) | Brown Plant Hopper (BPH), Yellow Stem Borer, Leaf Roller |
| Sugarcane & Maize | Mealybug, Scale Insects, Stem Borer, Pod Borer |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" for accurate results. Note: Illegal use is punishable by law.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (ml / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (ml / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | 200 – 450 ml | 200 L | 1.5 – 2.25 ml | 21-30 Days |
| Paddy | 400 – 500 ml | 200 L | 2.0 – 2.5 ml | 21-30 Days |
| Pulses/Maize | 350 – 500 ml | 200 L | 1.7 – 2.5 ml | 21-30 Days |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting to reduce residue risks.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Do NOT spray during crop flowering stages. It is highly toxic to Honeybees and will kill pollinators, reducing yield.
- Mixing: Do NOT mix with alkaline pesticides like Bordeaux mixture or Lime Sulphur. The chemical degrades instantly in high pH.
- Coverage: Use high water volume (500L/ha) for thorough coverage to ensure systemic uptake by leaves.
- Safety: Always wear full PPE (gloves, mask, goggles, boots). Avoid inhalation of spray mist. Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Monocil (Monocrotophos) currently legal in India?
No. As of October 2024, the sale and use of Monocrotophos 36% SL is banned under the Insecticides (Prohibition) Order, 2023. Possession and sale are punishable offenses.
2. What is the antidote for Monocrotophos poisoning?
The specific antidote is Atropine Sulphate (to control secretions) and 2-PAM (Pralidoxime) (to reactivate enzymes). Immediate medical attention is required.
3. Can I use Monocrotophos on Vegetables?
Absolutely Not. Use on vegetables was banned in 2005 due to toxic residues found in food. It poses severe health risks to consumers.
4. Why was this product banned?
It was banned due to its high toxicity to humans (Red Label), birds, and aquatic life, and the availability of safer, greener alternatives.
5. What are the legal alternatives to Monocil?
Farmers should switch to safer alternatives like Imidacloprid, Acetamiprid, or Spinetoram, and use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) methods.
Safety & Disclaimer
WARNING: POISON. Always read and follow the instructions on the official product label. The information provided here is for technical reference only. This product is currently banned in India. Use of prohibited insecticides attracts legal action under the Insecticides Act, 1968.


