BEIJING, April 2 (Xinhua) -- China's State Council has released a regulation on the prevention and control of diseases and pests affecting crops, according to a decree signed by Premier Li Keqiang.

The regulation will go into effect on May 1.

To prevent and control diseases and pests in crops is related to the safety of agricultural production, the quality of agricultural products and the environment, according to the decree.

In order to ensure food security and agricultural product quality, and protect the environment, the regulation provides detailed rules on the prevention and control measures from four aspects.

The regulation defines responsibilities, improves the prevention and control system, standardizes specialized prevention and control services and encourages green measures.

It also sets strict legal liability for violations and strengthens accountability.