State Govt Cracks Down on Illegal Mosquito-Repellent Agarbatti ‘Sleepwell’; Industry Body Welcomes Strong Action
State Agriculture Department has initiated strict action against illegal mosquito-repellent incense sticks, following major raids and seizures conducted on ‘Sleepwell’ mosquito repellent agarbattis. In a decisive move, authorities seized hazardous incense sticks worth ₹69.24 lakh, marking a significant step toward curbing the circulation of unsafe, unapproved repellents.
The Home Insect Control Association (HICA)—a non-profit industry body that promotes the safe use of household insecticides—has welcomed the action and urged the government to continue sustained enforcement. HICA has raised concerns about several such illegal agarbatti brands sold under misleading names including Sleepwell, Eyetex, Hunting Tiger, Subanithra, Comfort, and others.
The ‘Sleepwell’ mosquito repellent incense sticks are manufactured by Bengaluru-based Ashika Incense Inc. Acting on instructions from the State Agriculture Department, Agriculture Officers from the NTR District inspected Sai Hanuman Agencies in Gunadala, Vijayawada. Samples were sent to the National Institute of Plant Health Management (NIPHM), Hyderabad, for testing. Laboratory results confirmed the presence of Meperfluthrin, a chemical not approved by the Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) for use in mosquito repellents.
Commenting on the government’s latest action, Jayant Deshpande, Hon. Secretary, Home Insect Control Association (HICA), said, “A major concern is the rampant use of illegal mosquito repellent incense sticks that have entered homes across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. These unsafe products, sold under names like Sleepwell, contain chemicals such as Meperfluthrin, which are not approved by Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC). We appreciate the strong action taken by the Agriculture Department against these illegal players. Due to lack of awareness, people unknowingly purchase such products without understanding their harmful effects. HICA strongly urges citizens to stop using these illegal incense sticks and choose only government-approved mosquito repellents that carry a proper registration number starting with ‘CIR’ on the packaging. CIR number guarantees the authenticity and safety of the product.”
