DESC:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to the technical field of agrochemicals. In particular the present invention relates to an agricultural composition comprising metalaxyl-m; propineb; and a suitable film forming agent and formulations thereof, particularly wettable powder (WP) and water dispersible granule (WDG) formulations.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[003] Metalaxyl-M is the ISO common name for methyl N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-N-(methoxyacetyl)-D-alaninate (IUPAC).

[004] Metalaxyl-M is the biologically active R-enantiomer in the racemic compound metalaxyl. Metalaxyl-M is a systemic apoplastically transported fungicide, which is highly active against fungi, which controls a wide range of fungal diseases on a variety of crops.
[005] Propineb is a member of the class or dithiocarbamic acids. Propineb is a protectant foliar-applied fungicide with long residual activity and belongs to the dithiocarbamate group of compounds. It is used as a protective treatment on several crops for the control of various fungi.

[006] Propineb is a dithiocarbamate compound and it is a non-specific, multi-site fungicide. Propineb is used to control downy mildew, black rots, red fire disease and grey mould on vines; scab and brown rot on apples and pears. Propineb is effective in crops that are sensitive to zinc deficiency for rice, grapes, fruit trees and vegetables.
[007] Propineb alone does not have any systemic activity, so it cannot protect the plant from being infected by fungi. Moreover, it is also prone to washout before absorption by the plant if there is rain after spraying.
[008] Though metalaxyl-m and propineb are known fungicides, their long-term individual use results into developing immunity thereby reducing their effectiveness. Eventually to achieve desired effectiveness, very high doses and frequent application are required which can cause toxicity to the healthy flora and fauna in their vicinity and is unfavourable for environment sustainable development. Hence, to address such issues, formulations comprising multiple active ingredients are attempted. However, non-compatibility of active ingredients, difficulty in selecting specific agrochemically non-active components compatible with such active ingredients poses severe challenges in formulating compositions comprising multiple active ingredients and providing a suitable formulation.
[009] Rainfall shortly following fungicide application can lead to significant wash-off, reducing the fungicide's persistence and efficacy. Factors like the time and amount of rainfall, fungicide formulation and surface properties can affect rainfastness.
[0010] There is thus an unmet need in the art for an agrochemical composition that leads to greater effectiveness by way of disease control and at the same time has significant stability. There is also a requirement to address unexpected climatic conditions such as rainfall which results in washing away of the agrochemicals. Therefore, there is also a need for improved rainfastness in agrochemicals such that they remain on the surface of the plants/leaves even at the time of unexpected climatic events such as rainfall, drizzling etc.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] In an aspect, the present invention provides for an agrochemical composition comprising metalaxyl-m; propineb; and a film forming agent. The agrochemical composition comprises 0.1% to 15.0% by weight of metalaxyl-m; 1.0% to 70.0% by weight of propineb; and 0.1% to 10% by weight of a film forming agent. The film forming agent is siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend. The composition comprises one or more excipients.
[0012] In another aspect the present invention further provides an agrochemical composition wherein the composition can be a wettable powder (WP) formulation or a water dispersible granule (WG) formulation. In an aspect, the present invention provides a wettable powder (WP) formulation, wherein the formulation comprises 2.5% to 7.5% by weight of metalaxyl-m; 42% to 60.0% by weight of propineb; and 3.5% to 7.2% by weight of film forming agent. In an aspect, the present invention provides a water dispersible granule (WDG) formulation, wherein the formulation comprises 2.5% to 5.0 % by weight of metalaxyl-m; 40% to 52.5% by weight of propineb; and 4.0% to 5.0% by weight of film forming agent.
[0013] In yet another aspect the present invention provides for a process for preparing an agrochemical composition, wherein the composition is a wettable powder (WP) formulation. The process comprises mixing metalaxyl-m and along with one or more excipients, followed by adding propineb and film forming agent to prepare premix; passing the premix through an airjet mill to obtain a milled material; transferring the milled material to a post-mixing vessel and mixing to obtain homogenous wettable powder.
[0014] In yet another aspect the present invention provides for a process for preparing an agrochemical composition, wherein the composition is a water dispersible granule (WDG) formulation. The process comprises mixing metalaxyl-m and along with one or more excipients, followed by adding propineb and film forming agent and continuing to mix to prepare premix; passing the above premix through an airjet mill to obtain a milled material; transferring the milled material to a post-mixing vessel and mixing to obtain homogenous powder; adding the homogeneous powder to demineralised water and granulating to prepare a uniform dough; and extruding the uniform dough through an extruder to obtain extruded granules and drying the extruded granules in a dryer to obtain the water dispersible granule.
[0015] In an aspect the present invention provides for a method for controlling fungi on plants comprising applying to the surface of the plant, an effective amount of agrochemical composition comprising metalaxyl-M, propineb and a film forming agent.
[0016] In another aspect the present invention provides for the use of an agrochemical composition for controlling fungal disease on plants wherein the agrochemical composition comprises metalaxyl-m; propineb; and a film forming agent.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the invention. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the invention. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
[0018] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
[0019] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[0020] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
[0021] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0022] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as, “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense that is as “including, but not limited to.”
[0023] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[0024] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability.
[0025] The description that follows, and the embodiments described therein, is provided by way of illustration of an example, or examples, of particular embodiments of the principles and aspects of the present invention. These examples are provided for the purposes of explanation, and not of limitation, of those principles and of the disclosure.
[0026] It should also be appreciated that the present invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including as a system, a method or a device. In this specification, these implementations, or any other form that the invention may take, may be referred to as processes. In general, the order of the steps of the disclosed processes may be altered within the scope of the invention.
[0027] The headings and abstract of the invention provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.
[0028] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0029] The term, “water dispersible granule” (WDG) as used herein refers to solid, non-dusty granular formulation which disperses or dissolves quickly when added to water to give a fine particle suspension then sprayed.
[0030] The term, “wettable powder” (WP)” as used herein refers to formulation of fungicide where the active ingredient has been grinded into powder form to be mixed well with water and then sprayed.
[0031] The term, “excipient” as used herein refers to any agriculturally acceptable inactive substance or any acceptable inactive substance or mixture or adjuvant added to a formulation of a fungicidal active ingredient. Examples of the excipient include, but not limited to wetting agent(s), dispersing agent(s), stabilizing agent(s), binder(s), antifoaming agent(s), pH modifying agent(s), inert carrier(s), surfactant(s), antifreeze agent(s), clay(s), solvent(s), water, salt(s), polymer(s), emulsifying agent(s), suspension and density balancing agent(s), anti-crystalline agent (s), rheology modifier(s) or thickening agents, spreading agent (s), anti-caking agent(s), antioxidant (s), biocide(s) or preservative(s), capsule forming agent (s), quenching agent (s), super spreader(s), etc.
[0032] The term, “weed” as used herein refers to unwanted plant harmful to plant of interest.
[0033] The term, “effective amount”, as used herein refers to the quantity of active agent, applied in an amount which will provide the required effect of fungicidal action. The particular amount is dependent upon many factors including, for example, type of formulations, fungal pathogen sought to be controlled, the crop to be protected and environmental conditions.
[0034] The term, “control” or “controlling”, as used herein refers to preventing, reducing, killing, inhibiting the growth of, inhibiting the reproduction of, and/or eliminating at least one fungal pathogen affecting the crop of interest.
[0035] The term, “rainfastness”, as used herein refers to not washed off by the rain. It is ability of fungicide to withstand against rainfall either absorbed by plant tissue or by adequately dried. So, if a product states that it will be rainfast after two hours this means that in normal conditions the spray will not be washed off by a shower of rain, or in the case of plant applied systemic products the actives have been absorbed by the plants.
[0036] The term, “film forming agent” as used herein refers to an agent which helps retain the active ingredient on the plant surface or absorb into the plant tissue and it remains effective even after a spell of rainfall.
[0037] The first active ingredient is metalaxyl-m which is highly active against fungi, and controls a wide range of fungal diseases on a variety of crops.
[0038] The second active ingredient is propineb known as fungicide with long residual activity and as a protective treatment on several crops for the control of various fungi.
[0039] The film forming agent helps retain the active ingredient on the plant surface or absorb into the plant tissue and it remains effective even after a spell of rainfall, thereby, exerting better bio-efficacy.
[0040] The present invention relates to an agrochemical composition comprising metalaxyl-m, propineb and a film forming agent such as siloxane polyalkyleneoxide co-polymer blend that improves the effectiveness of the fungicidal activity of the actives. The present invention also provides for stable formulations of the disclosed agrochemical composition having with high efficacy in disease control. The disclosed agrochemical composition provides for unexpected improvement in rain fastness of the active ingredients propineb and metalaxyl -M. This leads to a significant improvement in disease control by the actives even during unexpected climatic conditions. The present invention particularly provides for stable solid agrochemical formulations such as water dispersible granule (WDG) formulation or a wettable powder (WP).
[0041] The present invention also relates to various challenges in getting the maximum efficacy of the agrochemicals sprayed on crops. It is pertinent to note that the effectiveness of agrochemicals is affected by various factors one of them being rainfall. Rainfall shortly following agrochemicals application can lead to significant wash-off, reducing its persistence and efficacy. Factors like time and amount of rainfall, fungicide formulation and surface properties can also affect rainfastness of an agrochemical composition. The disclosed composition unexpectedly shows improved rainfastness, and efficacy. The agrochemical composition as disclosed also shows improved effectiveness in disease control and thus provides a viable solution for major diseases such as tomato: early blight, late blight, septoria, grape vine: downy mildew & anthracnose, and promoting the broad spectrum of activity. The present invention particularly discloses inventive agrochemical compositions that treat fungal diseases in plants.
[0042] In an embodiment, the present invention provides an agrochemical composition comprising metalaxyl-m; propineb; and a film forming agent. In an aspect, the film forming agent is siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend.
[0043] In one embodiment, the present invention provides an agrochemical composition comprising 0.1% to 15.0% by weight of metalaxyl-m; 1.0% to 70.0% by weight of propineb; and 0.1% to 10% by weight of a film forming agent.
[0044] In an embodiment, the present invention provides an agrochemical composition comprising metalaxyl-m, propineb and a film forming agent in a ratio of 0.1 to 15 : 1 to 70 : 0.1 to 10. In an aspect, the film forming agent can be siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend.
[0045] In another embodiment, the present invention provides an agrochemical composition, wherein the composition can be formulated in a number of ways for suitable application. Examples of suitable formulations include water-dispersible granule (WDG), a water-soluble granule (SG), a wettable powder (WP), a water-dispersible powder (WDP), a water-soluble powder (SP), a granule (GR), an encapsulated granule (CG), a fine granule (FG), a macrogranule (GG), a microgranule (MG), a suspension concentrate (SC), a water-soluble concentrate (SL), an emulsifiable concentrate (EC), an emulsion (EW), a micro-emulsion (ME), a flowable suspension (FS), a suspoemulsion (SE), ZC formulation (ZC), soil applied granules (SAG), dustable powder (DP), a gel, a water-dispersible tablet (WT), a dispersible concentrate (DC), an oil-dispersion (OD) or a microencapsulated suspension (CS).
[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an agrochemical composition, wherein the composition can be a wettable powder (WP) formulation or a water dispersible granule (WDG) formulation.
[0047] In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder (WP) formulation comprising about 0.1% to about 15.0% by weight of metalaxyl-m; about 1.0% to about 70.0% by weight of propineb; and about 0.1% to about 10.0% by weight of a film forming agent. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder (WP) formulation comprising about 2.5% to about 7.5% by weight of metalaxyl-m; about 42% to about 60% by weight of propineb; and about 3.5% to about 7.2% by weight of a film forming agent. In an embodiment, the present invention provides a wettable powder formulation comprising metalaxyl-m, propineb and a film forming agent in a ratio in a range of 2.5 to 7.5 : 42 to 60 : 3.5 to 7.2. In an aspect the film forming agent can be siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend.
[0048] In an embodiment, the present invention provides a process for preparing an agrochemical composition, wherein the composition is a wettable powder (WP) formulation, wherein said process comprises the steps of:
i. mixing metalaxyl-m and along with one or more excipients, followed by adding propineb and film forming agent to prepare premix;
ii. passing the premix through an airjet mill to obtain a milled material; and
iii. transferring the milled material to a post-mixing vessel and mixing to obtain homogenous wettable powder.
[0049] The mixing of metalaxyl-m with excipients and that of propineb with film forming agent in step (i) are done for a period of 20-40 minutes, or preferably 30 minutes. The milled material obtained in step (ii) has a particle size in the order of 10-30 microns. In an embodiment, the particle size of the milled material is 15 microns.
[0050] In an embodiment, the wettable powder (WP) formulation can comprise one or more excipients. In an embodiment, one or more excipients can be selected from wetting agent, one or more dispersing agent, an antifoaming agent, inert carriers, pH modifiers or combinations thereof.
[0051] In an embodiment, the wetting agent can be selected from but not limited to sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, sodium alkyl sulfate, linear alkyl sulfonate, dialkyl sulfosuccinate sodium lauryl sulphate, or mixtures thereof. The wetting agent can be present in a range of about 0.1% to about 10% by weight, preferably 0.5% to 0.8% by weight.
[0052] In an embodiment, one or more dispersing agent can be selected from a first dispersing agent, a second dispersing agent or a combination thereof.
[0053] In an embodiment, the first dispersing agent can be selected from sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate, sodium lignosulphonate, polyarylphenyl ether sulphate ammonium salt or mixtures thereof, preferably sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate, sodium alkyl benzene sulfonates, polystyrenated acrylated co- polymer, salts of polyacrylic acids, or mixtures thereof. The first dispersing agent can be present in a range of about 0.1% to about 20% by weight.
[0054] In an embodiment, the second dispersing agent can be selected from polymethyl methacrylate-polyethylene glycol graft copolymer, sodium salts of polyacrylic acids, sodium salt of styrene acrylic acid copolymers, random co-polymer of alcoxylated polyethylene glycol, or mixtures thereof; preferably sodium lignosulphonate. The second dispersing agent can be present in a range of about 0.1% to about 20% by weight, preferably 3.0% to 5.0% by weight.
[0055] In an embodiment, the antifoaming agent can be selected without limitation from polydimethyl siloxane, perfluroalkylphosphonic acids, or mixtures thereof. The antifoaming agent can be present in a range of about 0.01% to about 5% by weight.
[0056] In an embodiment, the inert carriers can be selected from precipitated silica, starch, china clay / kaolin or mixture thereof but not limited to kaolin or china clay, alumina, talc, chalk, quartz, attapulgite, montmorillonite; or crushed and fractionated natural minerals, such as calcite, marble, pumice, precipitated silica, sepiolite, bentonite, river sand, zeolites, starch, sand, talc, quartz and dolomite and diatomaceous earth; or synthetic ground minerals selected from but 15 not limiting to highly dispersed silicic acid, aluminium oxide, corn starch, silicates, and calcium phosphates and calcium hydrogen phosphates, synthetic granules of inorganic and organic ground materials or mixtures thereof. The inert carriers can be present in a range of about 1.0% to about 70% by weight, preferably 12% to 18% by weight, more preferably 15% by weight.
[0057] In an embodiment, the present invention provides a water dispersible granule (WDG) comprising about 0.1% to about 15.0% by weight of metalaxyl-m; about 1.0% to about 70.0% by weight of propineb; and about 0.1% to about 10.0% by weight of a film forming agent. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a water dispersible granule (WDG) comprising about 2.5% to about 5.0% by weight of metalaxyl-m; about 40% to about 52.5% by weight of propineb; and about 4.0% to about 5.0% by weight of a film forming agent. In an embodiment, the present invention provides a water dispersible granule (WDG) formulation comprising metalaxyl-m, propineb and a film forming agent in a ratio of 2.5 to 5 : 40 to 52.5 : 4 to 5. In an aspect the film forming agent can be siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend.
[0058] In an embodiment, the present invention provides a process for preparing an agrochemical composition, wherein the composition is a water dispersible granule (WDG) formulation, wherein said process comprises the steps of:
i. mixing metalaxyl-m and along with one or more excipients, followed by adding propineb and film forming agent and continuing to mix to prepare premix;
ii. passing the above premix through an airjet mill to obtain a milled material;
iii. transferring the milled material to a post-mixing vessel and mixing to obtain homogenous powder;
iv. adding the homogeneous powder to demineralised water and granulating to prepare a uniform dough; and
v. extruding the uniform dough through an extruder to obtain extruded granules and drying the extruded granules in a dryer to obtain the water dispersible granule.
[0059] In an embodiment, the mixing of metalaxyl-m with excipients and that of propineb with film forming agent in step (i) are done for a period of 20-40 minutes, or preferably 30 minutes. The milled material obtained in step (ii) has a particle size in the order of 10-30 microns. In an embodiment, the particle size of the milled material is 15 microns.
[0060] In an embodiment, the water dispersible granule (WDG) formulation can comprise one or more excipients. In an embodiment, one or more excipients can be selected from wetting agent, one or more dispersing agent, an antifoaming agent, inert carriers, pH modifiers, or combinations thereof.
[0061] The wetting agent can be selected from but not limited to sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, sodium salt of sulfonated alkyl carboxylate, dioctyl sulfosuccinate sodium salt, polyoxyalkylated ethyl phenols, polyoxyethoxylated fatty alcohols, polyoxyethoxylated fatty amines, alkane sulfonates, alpha olefin sulfonates, alkylbenzene sulfonates, salts of polycarboxylic acids, salts of esters of sulfosuccinic acid, octyl phenol ether sulphate, anionic phosphate esters, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, disodium hexadecyl sulphate, diisodecyl sodium sulfosuccinate, alkyl naphthalene sulfonates, alkyl benzene sulfonates, alkyl polyglycol ether sulfonates, alkyl ether phosphates, C12 -C15 ethoxylated alcohols, alcohol ethoxylate (AtloxTM 4894 also known as polyoxyethylene alkyl ether or nonionic proprietary surfactant blend), alkyl ether sulfates and alkyl sulfosuccinic monoesters or mixtures thereof. The wetting agent can be present in a range of about 0.1% to about 10% by weight.
[0062] One or more dispersing agent can be selected from a first dispersing agent, a second dispersing agent, a third dispersing agent or combinations thereof.
[0063] The first dispersing agent can be selected from sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate, lignosulphonates, phenyl naphthalene sulphonates, ethoxylated alkyl phenols, polyalkoxylated butyl ether ethopropoxylated polyarylphenol phosphate amine salt, ethoxylated fatty acids, alkoxylated linear alcohols, polyaromatic sulfonates, sodium alkyl aryl sulfonates, maleic anhydride copolymers, phosphate esters, condensation products of aryl/alkyl sulphonic acids and formaldehyde, sodium lignosulfonate, addition products of ethylene oxide and fatty acid esters, sulfonates of condensed naphthalene, lignin derivatives, naphthalene formaldehyde condensates, polycarboxylates, sodium alkyl benzene sulfonates, or mixtures thereof. The first dispersing agent can be present in range of about 0.1% to about 20% by weight, preferably 2.5% to 5% by weight.
[0064] The second dispersing agent can be selected from sodium salt of styrene acrylic acid copolymer, but not limited to alkyl naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate, sodium lignosulfonate, styrene (meth)acrylic copolymer sodium salt, isopropyl naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate, polyesters, polyamides, poly-carbonates, acrylic polymers and copolymers, styrene copolymers, butadiene copolymers, polyolefins copolymers, sodium alkyl aryl sulfonates, maleic anhydride copolymers, condensation products of aryl/alkyl sulphonic acids and formaldehyde, addition products of ethylene oxide and fatty acid esters, sodium alkyl benzene sulfonates, polystyrenated acrylated co- polymer, salts of polyacrylic acids, or mixtures thereof. The second dispersing agent can be present in range of about 0.1% to about 20% by weight, preferably 12.0% to 16.0% by weight.
[0065] The third dispersing agent can be selected from polyarylphenyl ether sulphate ammonium salt, or mixtures thereof. The third dispersing agent can be present in range of about 0.1% to about 20% by weight, preferably 1.0% to 2.0% by weight.
[0066] The antifoaming agent can be selected without limitation from polydimethyl siloxane, or mixtures thereof, preferably polydimethyl siloxane. The antifoaming agent can be present in a range of about 0.01% to about 5% by weight.
[0067] The inert carrier can be selected from but not limited to precipitated silica as kaolin alumina, talc, chalk, quartz, attapulgite, montmorillonite, and diatomaceous earth, or synthetic ground minerals, such as highly dispersed silicic acid, aluminium oxide, silicates, and calcium phosphates and calcium hydrogen phosphates, crushed and fractionated natural minerals, such as calcite, marble, pumice, sepiolite, bentonite, river sand, zeolites, sand and dolomite, or synthetic granules of inorganic and organic ground materials, urea, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, superphosphate, diatomite, white carbon, precipitated calcium carbonate, sawdust, and starch, ammonium sulphate, precipitated silica, china clay or mixture thereof. The inert carriers can be present in an amount of from about 1.0 to 70% by weight of the formulation.
[0068] In an aspect the present invention provides for a method for controlling fungi on plants comprising applying to the surface of the plant, an effective amount of agrochemical composition comprising metalaxyl-M, propineb and a film forming agent. In another aspect the present invention provides for the use of an agrochemical composition for controlling fungal disease on plants wherein the agrochemical composition comprises metalaxyl-m; propineb; and a film forming agent.
[0069] In an embodiment, the present invention provides a stable agrochemical formulation of the composition comprising a combination of metalaxyl-m and propineb with a film forming agent wherein the composition can control fungi pathogen on plants like targeting sheath blight, blast of rice, powdery mildew, downey mildew of grapes, powdery mildew, anthracnose of chilli, early and late blight of tomato.
[0070] The formulations can be applied at the target site in a suitable manner for example by foliar spray.
[0071] In an embodiment, the agrochemical formulation comprising a combination of metalaxyl-m, propineb and a suitable film forming agent, are useful for providing better rainfastness property, controlling, preventing or destroying, and suppressing fungal diseases improving the bioefficay and providing a solution for major funal diseases on plants such as tomato: early blight, late blight, septoria, grape vine: downy mildew & anthracnose, promoting the broad spectrum of activity.
[0072] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.
[0073] The present invention is further explained in the form of following examples. However, it is to be understood that the foregoing examples are merely illustrative and are not to be taken as limitations upon the scope of the invention. Various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

EXAMPLES
[0074] The present invention is further explained in the form of following examples. However, it is to be understood that the following examples are merely illustrative and are not to be taken as limitations upon the scope of the invention.

EXAMPLE I –
Agrochemical Composition of the present invention - Metalaxyl-M, Propineb and a film forming agent
[0075] The following Table 1 shows the composition in accordance with exemplary embodiments.
Table 1 - Composition of the Present Invention
Sr. No Ingredients Amount in % (range)
1 metalaxyl-m 0.1 – 15.0
2 propineb 1.0 – 70.0
3 film forming agent
(siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend)
0.1 - 10
4 anionic wetting agent
(sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, sodium alkyl sulfate, linear alkyl sulfonate, dialkyl sulfosucsinate) 0.1 – 10.0
5 anionic dispersing agent
(sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate, sodium lignosulphonate, polyarylphenyl ether sulphate ammonium salt) 0.1 – 20.0
6 polymeric dispersing agent
(polymethyl methacrylate-polyethylene glycol graft copolymer, sodium salts of polyacrylic acids,
sodium salt of styrene acrylic acid copolymers, random co-polymer of alkoxylated polyethylene glycol) 0.1 – 20.0
7 polydimethyl siloxane 0.01 – 5.0
8 inert carrier
(precipitated silica, china clay) 1.0 – 70.0

EXAMPLE II - Wettable Powder (WP) comprising Metalaxyl-M, Propineb and a film forming agent
1. Composition of WP formulation
[0076] The following Table 2 shows a WP formulation i.e. composition comprising metalaxyl-m + propineb + film forming agent i.e. siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend in accordance with exemplary embodiments.
Table 2 - Wettable Powder (WP) comprising Metalaxyl-M, Propineb and siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend
Sr. No Ingredient Example 1 Example 2 Example 3
1 metalaxyl-m 5.0 2.5 7.5
2 propineb 52.5 60 42
3 siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend 5.0 7.2 3.5
4 sodium alkyl sulfate 0.5 0.8 0.5
5 sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate 3.0 3.0 3.0
6 sodium lignosulphonate 3.0 5.0 4.5
7 polydimethyl siloxane 0.5 0.5 0.5
8 precipitated silica 15 18 12
9 china clay Q. S to 100 Q. S to 100 Q. S to 100

2. Process for preparing the WP formulation:
[0077] As per a specific exemplary embodiment, the WP formulation was prepared with the composition as per Table 2.
Step-1: Precipitated silica was taken in a ribbon blender or sigma mixer or plough shear mixer. Metalaxyl-M was added to this and was mixed well for 30 min.
Step 2: In the same ribbon blender or sigma mixer or plough shear mixer other ingredients such as china clay, sodium alkyl sulfate, sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate, sodium lignosulphonate and polydimethyl siloxane was added and continued to mix. Propineb was added into the mixture. Finally, siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend was added and was continued to mix for another 30 min to prepare premix.
Step 3: The above premix was passed through an airjet mill for particle size reduction to achieve PSD, d(90) = 15µ max.
Step 4: The air jetted milled material was mixed in a ribbon blender or sigma mixer or plough shear mixer for 2 hours to get homogeneous WP formulation.

3. Accelerated Storage test (Stability Study) of WP formulation
[0078] According to the FAO/WHO manual, the “accelerated storage test” is considered as an indicative of product stability. That is accelerated storage test data provides an indication that the product is stable for at least two years at ambient temperature. Further, the FAO/WHO manual indicates storage at 54°C for 14 days as the default test conditions.
[0079] The “initial sample” is the sample at the room temperature which is before subjecting to the accelerated storage tests at 54°C for 2 weeks.
[0080] The “accelerated storage sample” is the sample after subjecting to the accelerated storage test.
[0081] The initial samples of the WP formulation of the above formulation were subjected to the accelerated storage test to find out the product stability.
[0082] Table 3 below shows the physical and chemical properties of the WP formulation i.e. Example 1 of Table 2 before (initial) and after the accelerated storage test (AHS).
Table 3: Physical and chemical properties of the WP formulation before (initial) and after the accelerated storage test (AHS)
Sr. No. Test Product Specifications Ambient Temp
0th Day 14 days AHS at 54° C
1 Description Light brown color powder, free from extraneous matter Complies Complies
2 Active ingredient content (% w/w) metalaxyl-m 4.75 - 5.5 5.0 4.95
propineb 49.87-55.12 52.5 51.17
3 Suspensibility (%m/m), min metalaxyl-m 70 95.34 93.54
propineb 70 95.02 94.75
4 Wettability, Sec, max 120 14 12
5 Wet sieve through 75µ test sieve, (passing % m/m), min 98.0 99.98 99.90
6 Persistent foam (after 1 min) mL, max 60 48 48
7 pH of 1% aqueous dispersion 5.0 – 8.0 6.96 7.27
Min. = Minimum; Max. = Maximum

[0083] The results in Table 3 shows that the appearance of the sample kept at ambient temperature before and after the accelerated storage test (at 54°C for 14 days) remained the same that is ‘Light brown color powder, free from extraneous matter’.
[0084] Further, the content of metalaxyl-m and propineb found to be 5.0% w/w, and 52.5% w/w, respectively before subjecting the ambient sample to the accelerated storage test. After subjecting the ambient sample to the accelerated storage test the content of metalaxyl-m and propineb was found to be the almost same, that is 4.95% w/w, and 51.17% w/w, respectively. It indicates that the content of metalaxyl-m and propineb falls within the product specification range and hence the content of the active ingredients i.e. metalaxyl-m and propineb in the WP formulation is stable.
[0085] The pH of the ambient sample of the WP formulation (1% aqueous dispersion) before subjecting it to the accelerated storage test was found to be 6.96. However, even after subjecting the ambient sample to the accelerated storage test the pH was found to be almost same, that is 7.27. It indicates that the WP formulation was adhering to the pH range of preferably 5.0 – 8.0 which indicates that the formulation is stable.
[0086] Tests such as persistent foam and wettability and wet sieve passing test were conducted for the ambient sample of the WP formulation, before and after accelerated storage test. The results indicated that persistent foam test showed low persistent foam of 48 mL indicating the less froth formation and wettability test showed product complies specifications and product is stable.
[0087] The wet sieve passing test showed passing of 99.98% w/w and 99.90% w/w of particles of the formulation through the 75µ wet sieve indicating the product complies specifications and product is stable.
[0088] Thus, in all the tests, values of the tests remained almost same before and after accelerated storage test which indicates that the formulation is stable.
[0089] In view of the above test results, WP formulation of the present invention prepared in accordance with the above examples are extrapolated to be stable for 2 years.
[0090] The advantages of the WP formulation of the present invention include stable formulation, storage stability, having particles size ranging from d(90) = 15µmax, environmental friendly due to the usage of vegetable oil and nullifying phyto-toxicity. The use of co-formulant wetting agent, dispersing agent, rheology modifier helps in achieving and maintaining low psd (d90 = 15µmax), nullifies sedimentation and caking, phase separation, flocculation.

EXAMPLE III - Water Dispersible Granule (WDG) formulation comprising metalaxyl-m, propineb and film forming agent
1. Composition of Water Dispersible Granule (WDG) formulation
[0091] The following below Table 4 shows a water dispersible granule (WDG) formulation i.e. composition comprising metalaxyl-m + propineb + siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend in accordance with exemplary embodiments.

Table 4: Water Dispersible Granule Formulation (WDG)
Sr. No Ingredients
Example 4
Example 5
1 metalaxyl-m 5.0 2.5
2 propineb 52.5 40.0
3 siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend 5 4.0
4 sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate 1.0 1.0
5 sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate 5.0 2.5
6 sodium salt of styrene acrylic acid copolymer 16 12
7 polyarylphenyl ether sulphate, ammonium salt 2.0 1.0
8 polydimethyl siloxane 0.5 0.5
9 precipitated silica Q.S to 100% Q.S to 100%

2. Process of Preparation of WDG formulation.
[0092] As per a specific exemplary embodiment as per Table 4, the WDG formulation was prepared following the below method:
Step 1: Precipitated silica in a ribbon blender or sigma mixer or plough shear mixer. To this metalaxyl-m was added and mixed well for 30 min.
Step 2: In the same ribbon blender or sigma mixer or plough shear mixer other ingredients such as sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, sodium salt of alkyl naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate, sodium salt of styrene acrylic acid copolymer, polyarylphenyl ether sulphate ammonium salt and polydimethyl siloxane was added and continued to mix. Propineb was added into the mixture. Finally, siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend was added and continued to mix for another 30 min to prepare premix.
Step 3: The above premix was passed through an airjet mill for particle size reduction to achieve PSD, d(90) = 15? max.
Step 4: The air jetted milled material was mixed in a ribbon blender or sigma mixer or plough shear mixer for 2 hours to get homogeneous powder.
Step 5: The post-mixed powder was taken in a dough maker like sigma mixer or plough shear mixer and demineralise water was added to this to form a extrudable dough.
Step 6: The above prepared dough was granulated through an axial extruder like -basket extruder, twin extruder, cone extruder.
Step 7: The extruded granules was then dried in a fluidized bed dryer (FBD).
Step 8: The granules were sieved through a vibrating sieve shaker to remove oversized and fine granules to obtain WDG formulation.

3. Accelerated Storage test (Stability Study) of WDG formulation
[0093] According to the FAO/WHO manual, the “accelerated storage test” is considered as an indicative of product stability. That is accelerated storage test data provides an indication that the product is stable for at least two years at ambient temperature. Further, the FAO/WHO manual indicates storage at 54°C for 14 days as the default test conditions.
[0094] The “initial sample” is the sample at the room temperature which is before subjecting to the accelerated storage tests at 54°C for 2 weeks.
[0095] The “accelerated storage sample” is the sample after subjecting to the accelerated storage test.
[0096] The initial samples of the WDG formulation were subjected to the accelerated storage test to find out the product stability.
[0097] Table 5 below shows the physical and chemical properties of the WDG formulation i.e. Example 4 of Table 4 comprising metalaxyl-m + propineb + siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend before (initial) and after the accelerated storage test (AHS).
Table 5: Physical and chemical properties of the WDG formulation before (initial) and after the accelerated storage test (AHS)
Sr. No. Test Product Specifications Ambient Temp
0th Day 14 days AHS at 54° C
1 Description Light brown color granules, free from extraneous matter Complies Complies
2 Active ingredient content (% w/w) metalaxyl-m 4.75 - 5.5 5.00 4.94
propineb 49.87-55.12 52.5 51.58
3 Suspensibility (%m/m), min metalaxyl-m 70 82 80
propineb 70 78 75
4 Wettability, Sec, max 120 10 10
5 Wet sieve through 75µ test sieve, (passing % m/m), min 98.0 99.50 99.12
6 Persistent foam (after 1 min) mL, max 60 40 38
7 pH of 1% aqueous dispersion 5.0 – 8.0 6.96 6.82
8 Degree of dispersion (%m/m), min 70 74 72
9 Attrition resistance (%m/m), min 98 99.58 99.21
Min. = Minimum; Max. = Maximum
[0098] The results in Table 4 shows that the appearance of the sample kept at ambient temperature of the WDG formulation before and after the accelerated storage test (at 54°C for 14 days) remained the same that is ‘Light brown coloured granules, free from extraneous matter’.
[0099] Further, the content of metalaxyl-m and propineb was found to be 5% w/w, and 52.5% w/w, respectively before subjecting the sample kept at ambient temperature to the accelerated storage test. after subjecting the ambient sample to the accelerated storage test the content of metalaxyl-m and propineb was found to be the almost same, that is 4.94% w/w, and 51.58% w/w, respectively. It indicates that the content of metalaxyl-m and propineb falls within the product specification range and hence the content of the active ingredients in the WDG formulation are stable.
[00100] The pH of the sample kept at ambient temperature of the WDG formulation (1% aqueous dispersion) before subjecting it to the accelerated storage test was found to be 6.96. However, even after subjecting the ambient sample to the accelerated storage test the pH was found to be almost same, that is 6.82. It indicates that the SE formulation was adhering to the pH range of preferably 6.0 – 8.0 which indicates that the formulation is stable.
[00101] Tests such as persistent foam and wettability and wet sieve passing test were conducted for the ambient sample of the WDG formulation, before and after accelerated storage test. The results indicated that persistent foam test showed low persistent foam of 38 mL indicating the less froth formation and wettability test showed product complies specifications and product is stable.
[00102] The wet sieve passing test showed passing of 99.50% w/w and 99.12% w/w of particles of the formulation through the 75µ wet sieve indicating the product complies specifications and product is stable.
[00103] Thus, in all the tests, values of the tests remained almost same before and after accelerated storage test which indicates that the formulation is stable.
[00104] In view of the above test results, WDG formulation of the present invention prepared in accordance with the above examples are extrapolated to be stable for 2 years.

Methodology for the Tests
[00105] Suspensibility - The suspensibilty test was conducted for the sample before and after accelerated storage test. Where suspensibility min (%m/m) is 70 as per the regulatory guidelines where the product shows 93.54 at 14 AHS day at 54 degree Celsius which is equivalent to shelf life of 2 year, and the product passes the suspensibility test.
[00106] Wettability - Wettability is defined as the tendency of one fluid to spread on or adhere to a solid surface in the presence of other immiscible fluids. The Wettability test showed that the time taken to wet the granules is only 14 and 12 seconds at ambient 0 day, and 14 days AHS at 54 degree Celsius so the indicating the faster dispersion and disintegration of the granules upon water dilution. Hence passes the test as it should not cross maximum of 120 seconds. For Wettability test, the maximum is 120 to pass the test, the product shows less than 120, ambient 0 day, and 14 days AHS at 54 degree Celsius so the product passes the Wettability test.
[00107] Wet sieve - The sample of the formulation was diluted in water and was tested for its particle size by wet sieve passing test by using 75µ wet sieve. The wet sieve passing test showed passing of 99.98%w/w at ambient 0 Day and 99.90%w/w of particles after 14 days AHS at 54° C of the formulation through the 75µ wet sieve indicating the low particle size of the formulation.
[00108] Persistent Foam - Tests such as persistent foam was conducted for the ambient sample formulation, before and after accelerated heat study. The results indicated that persistent foam test showed low persistent foam of 48 ml at Ambient 0 Day and 48 ml after 14 days AHS at 54° C indicating the less froth formation.
[00109] pH - The pH of the ambient sample of the formulation before subjecting it to the 14 days AHS at 54° C was found to be 6.96. Subjecting the ambient sample to the 14 days AHS at 54° C was found to be 7.27. It indicates that the formulation was adhering to the pH range of 5.0-8.0 which indicates that the formulation is stable. Thus, in all the tests, values of the tests remained almost same in the parameter which is set by the regulatory, to pass the stability which indicates that the formulation is stable.
EXAMPLE IV - Field Experiments
Field experiments were conducted to study the efficacy of the inventive composition with regard to disease control in tomato [variety -Aryaman (clause)] at Doaddabellapura, Karnataka, 2023-24 at the time of monsoon showers.
[00110] Methodology: The experiments were laid down in randomized block designs using 7 treatment combinations.
[00111] In trial 1, the disease intensity was low, hence the treatment combinations was applied only once. In Trial 2, it was observed that the disease intensity was high, hence the treatment combinations was applied twice.
The Per cent Disease index (PDI) was calculated before application and after 7 days of application.
PDI = [(S (Disease Score * Number of Plants/Leaves in that Score)] / [(Total Number of Plants/Leaves) * (Maximum Disease Score)] * 10 where,
Disease Score: numerical assessment of disease severity, typically using a scale (like 0-5 or 0-9) where higher scores indicate more severe disease.
Number of Plants: 10 plants per treatment
Leaves in that Score: 5 leaves per plant
Total Number of Plants: The total number of plants or leaves assessed in the sample.
Maximum Disease Score: the highest possible disease score on the scale used for assessment as reflected in untreated check
[00112] Table 6 shows Trial-1 comparative efficacy data of Metalaxyl M 5% + Propineb 52.5% + Siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend 5% WP against late blight of tomato, Doaddabellapura, Karnataka, 2023-24.
[00113] Experimental details for Trial 1 (Table 6)
Crop: Tomato & variety Aryaman (Clause).
Replication: 3
Spray day: 33 days after planting at the time of disease occurrence during drizzling
Observations: Before spray (during drizzling) and 7 days after 1st spray. (Only once)
Table 6 - Trial-1 comparative efficacy data of Metalaxyl M 5% + Propineb 52.5% + Siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend 5% WP against late blight of tomato, Doaddabellapura, Karnataka, 2023-24
Tr. No Treatment Details Dose/Ha
(ml or gm) Per cent Disease Index (PDI) (%) Per cent Disease Control over Untreated check(%)
Before spray (during drizzling) 7 days after 1st spray
1 metalaxyl m 5% + propineb 52.5% + siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend 5% WP 2000 gm 2.4 0.8 (5.13) 96.35 (78.96)
2 metalaxyl m 5% WP + propineb 70% WP (Tank mix) 2000 gm+ 1500 gm 2.4 3.2 (10.22) 85.21 (67.59)
3 metalaxyl m 5% WP 2000 gm 2 6.0 (14.17) 72.75 (58.51)
4 propineb 70%WP 1500 gm 1.6 5.6 (13.65 74.67 (59.78)
5 amisulbrom 20% SC 500 ml 2 6.8 (15.1) 68.9 (56.12)
6 metalaxyl 8%+ mancozeb 64%WP 2500 gm 2.4 4.4 (12.09) 79.84 (63.35)
7 Untreated check --- 2 22 (27.95) 0 (0)
CD (P=0.05) NS 2.89 6.79
S. Em± NS 0.95 2.23

[00114] Table 7 shows Trial-2 comparative efficacy data of Metalaxyl M 5% + Propineb 52.5% + Siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend 5% WP against late blight of tomato, Doaddabellapura, Karnataka, 2023-24.
[00115] Experimental details for Trial 2 (Table 7)
Crop: Tomato variety Aryaman(Clause)
Spray Day: 32 days after planting at the time of disease occurrence during drizzling and 7 days after 1st spray was applied since the disease intensity was observed to be high and 5 days after 2nd spray was applied
Observations: 7 days after 1st spray and 5 days after 2nd spray treatment sprayed twice due to high disease intensity

Table 7 - Trial-2 comparative efficacy data of Metalaxyl M 5% + Propineb 52.5% + Siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend 5% WP against late blight of tomato, Doaddabellapura, Karnataka, 2023-24
Tr. No. Treatment Details Dosage (ml or gm) Percent Disease Index (PDI) (%) Per cent Disease Control (%) (5 days after 2nd spray)
Before spray (during drizzling) 7 days after 1st spray 5 days after 2nd spray
1 metalaxyl m 5% + propineb 52.5% + siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend 5% WP 2000 gm 2.40 2.8 (9.55) 6.0 (14.17) 90.86 (72.38)
2 metalaxyl m 5% WP + propineb 70% WP(tank mix) 2000 gm+ 1500 gm 2.4 5.2 (12.98) 10.8 (19.18) 83.54 (66.04)
3 metalaxyl m 5% WP 2000 gm 2.00 7.0 (15.88) 24.8 (29.86) 62.19 (52.04)
4 propineb 70% WP 1500 gm 1.60 7.6 (16.30) 19.6 (26.27) 70.11 (56.84)
5 metalaxyl m 3.3% + chlorothalonil 33.1% SC 1000 ml 1.60 6.8 (14.88) 13.6 (21.62) 79.28 (62.9)
6 metalaxyl 8%+ mancozeb 64% WP 2500 gm 2.40 7.4 (15.60) 13.2 (21.29) 79.88 (63.33)
7 untreated check 2.00 35.6 (44.30) 65.6 (54.07) 0 (0)
CD (P=0.05) NS 3.89 1.36 1.75
S. Em± NS 1.35 0.44 0.57

EXAMPLE V
Further experiments were conducted by application of the present invention on different foliar surfaces
Chemicals and Reagents
a. Samples (WP and WDG with and without film forming agent i.e. siloxane polyalyleneoxide copolymer blend)
b. DM Water
c. Rhodamine B dye
d. Banana leaf and Parafilm “M” ® paper
e. Micro pipette
f. Hand sprayer
[00116] Methodology - Rhodamine B dye solution was prepared by dissolving 1mg in 500 ml DM water. 2gm of sample was added in to this and stirred to obtain a homogenous suspension. Banana leaves and parafilm M® sheets were cut by 5cm x 5cm pieces in 3 replication each (R1, R2, R3). 200 µl of sample suspension was applied on 10 spots on the leaf and parafilm M. The sample droplet was allowed to dry for 20 minutes. 30 ml water was sprayed using hand sprayer to check droplet retention (rainfastness).
[00117] Table 8 shows the rainfastness results for WP formulation
Table 8 - Number of Droplets retention
On Parafilm “M” ® sheet On Banana leaf
R1 R2 R3 Avg % retention R1 R2 R3 Avg % retention
Metalaxyl-M;
Propineb; siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend 8 9 8 8.33 83.3 8 8 7 7.66 76.6
Metalaxyl-M;
Propineb 6 7 5 6 60 5 4 4 4.33 43.3

[00118] Table 9 shows rainfastness results for WDG formulation
Table 9- Number of Droplets retention
On Parafilm “M” ® sheet On Banana leaf
R1 R2 R3 Avg % retention R1 R2 R3 Avg % retention
Metalaxyl-M;
Propineb; siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend 9 9 8 8.66 86.6 9 8 8 8.33 83.3
Metalaxyl-M;
Propineb 6 6 5 5.66 56.6 4 4 5 4.33 43.3

[00119] 9 droplets on paraffin sheet and banana leaf were plotted separately, and washed by mimic rain and the observation was noted. With the present invention more retention of droplets was observed on paraffin and on the banana leaf as compared to the commercially available composition with respect to both WP and WDG formulation.
[00120] The foregoing examples are merely illustrative and are not to be taken as limitations upon the scope of the invention. Various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.
,CLAIMS:

1. An agrochemical composition comprising metalaxyl-m; propineb; and a film forming agent.

2. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition comprises 0.1% to 15.0% by weight of metalaxyl-m; 1.0% to 70.0% by weight of propineb; and 0.1% to 10% by weight of a film forming agent.

3. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the film forming agent is siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend.

4. The composition as claimed in claim 1, comprising one or more excipients.

5. The composition as claimed in claim 4, wherein the one or more excipients are selected from a wetting agent, a dispersing agent, an antifoaming agent, inert carriers, pH modifiers or combinations thereof.

6. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition is a wettable powder (WP) formulation or a water dispersible granule (WG) formulation.

7. The composition as claimed in claim 6, wherein the wettable powder (WP) formulation comprises 2.5% to 7.5% by weight of metalaxyl-m; 42% to 60.0% by weight of propineb; and 3.5% to 7.2% by weight of film forming agent.

8. The composition as claimed in claim 6, wherein the water dispersible granule (WDG) formulation comprises 2.5% to 5.0 % by weight of metalaxyl-m; 40% to 52.5% by weight of propineb; and 4.0% to 5.0% by weight of film forming agent.

9. A process for preparing an agrochemical composition, wherein the composition is a wettable powder formulation as claimed in claim 7, said process comprising:
i. mixing metalaxyl-m and along with one or more excipients, followed by adding propineb and film forming agent to prepare premix;
ii. passing the premix through an airjet mill to obtain a milled material; and
iii. transferring the milled material to a post-mixing vessel and mixing to obtain homogenous wettable powder.

10. A process for preparing an agrochemical composition, wherein the composition is a water dispersible granule formulation as claimed in claim 8, said process comprising:
i. mixing metalaxyl-m and along with one or more excipients, followed by adding propineb and film forming agent and continuing to mix to prepare premix;
ii. passing the above premix through an airjet mill to obtain a milled material;
iii. transferring the milled material to a post-mixing vessel and mixing to obtain homogenous powder;
iv. adding the homogeneous powder to demineralised water and granulating to prepare a uniform dough; and
v. extruding the uniform dough through an extruder to obtain extruded granules and drying the extruded granules in a dryer to obtain the water dispersible granule.

11. The process as claimed in claims 9 and 10, wherein the film forming agent is siloxane polyalkyleneoxide copolymer blend.

12. The process as claimed in claims 9 and 10, wherein one or more excipients are selected from a wetting agent, a dispersing agent, an antifoaming agent, inert carriers, pH modifiers or combinations thereof.