Chemical Pesticides

The consumption of chemical pesticides in the country has increased over the past few years, from 55,540 tonne in 2010-11 to 57,353 tonne in 2014-15. Over this time period, the imports of pesticides also increased from 53,996 tonne to 77,376 tonne. Issues with regard to the use of pesticides include use of low-quality pesticides, and a lack of awareness about pesticide use. The Economic Survey 2015-16 noted that the use of pesticides without proper guidelines has led to an increase in pesticide residue being found in food products in India. While the production of pesticides is monitored by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, their usage is administered by the Ministry of Agriculture.

• Faulty Pattern: while pesticides are overwhelmingly used to control weeds in the developed countries, they are used to control insects that attack grains, fruits and vegetables in India.
• Chemical Pesticides: Chemicals used in India are more dangerous than those used in developed countries. In India, organochloride formulations, which are more dangerous, continue to be used whereas the developed countries have shifted to safer organophosphates and pyrethroids.
• Adverse Impact: After being applied, pesticides remain in soil, water or plant for some time before they break down. Farmers often lack knowledge of waiting period of various pesticides.
• Pesticide Residue: High pesticide residues in Indian food products also result from inadequate access to latest technologies.