Context:
In recent years, the state of Maharashtra, which frequently experiences droughts and crop failures, has seen a significant number of farmers and agricultural workers lose their lives due to pesticide poisoning.
Pesticides:
A substance, whether chemical or biological, that is designed to prevent, eliminate, or manage pest damage, and is applicable in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings.
| Type | Description |
| Insecticides | Chemicals used to protect plants from insects and pests |
| Fungicides | Crop protection chemicals used to control the spread of fungal diseases in plants |
| Herbicides | Chemicals that kill or control the growth of weeds in the cultivation area |
| Bio-Pesticides | Pesticides of biological origin, derived from animals, plants, bacteria, etc. |
| Others | Includes plant growth regulators, nematicides, rodenticides, and fumigants |
Pesticide poisoning:
- Refers to the adverse effects of exposure to pesticides on humans or animals.
- One of the leading causes of death among agricultural workers worldwide (as per WHO)
- 2 types –
- Acute poisoning: when a person ingests, inhales, or comes into contact with a large amount of pesticide in a short period of time.
- Chronic poisoning: when a person is exposed to low doses of pesticide over a long period of time, which can cause damage to various organs and systems in the body.
The government has banned 3 more insecticides in 2023 such as Dicofol, Dinocap, and Methomyl, in addition to monocrotophos.
Pesticides regulation in India:
- Administered by – Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
- Regulated under the Insecticides Act, 1968 and the Insecticides Rules, 1971.
- Insecticides Act of 1968 – covers the registration, manufacture and sale of pesticides in India.
Source: The Hindu
Previous Year Question
In India, the use of carbofuran, methyl parathion, phorate and triazophos is viewed with apprehension. These chemicals are used as
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) pesticides in agriculture
(b) preservatives in processed foods
(c) fruit-ripening agents
(d) moisturizing agents in cosmetics
Answer: (a)
