Why did Madhya Pradesh Govt ban pesticide Paraquat Dichloride?
The Madhya Pradesh Government has imposed a complete ban on the use of the pesticide Paraquat Dichloride, which is highly harmful to humans and animals. The Government of India has already issued a notification in this regard.
The Farmers’ Welfare and Agriculture Development Department has directed the concerning authorities to take immediate action to stop its sale and storage by manufacturing companies.
Manufacturers holding registration certificates for Paraquat Dichloride have been instructed to immediately surrender them to the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee. They have also been directed to recall the remaining stocks of the pesticide and dispose of them in accordance with the prescribed rules and procedures.
The Government of India, under the Insecticides Act, 1968, has cancelled all new registrations and previously issued registration certificates for Paraquat Dichloride, thereby imposing a complete ban on its use. Its use has already been prohibited in around 70 countries worldwide.
How Does It Work?
Paraquat Dichloride rapidly burns and destroys the green parts of plants upon contact. It is also known by trade names such as Gramoxone. The chemical is extremely toxic to humans and animals. Exposure to it can cause severe damage to the lungs and kidneys.
Farmers use Paraquat Dichloride in moong cultivation
There is no specific antidote available for Paraquat Dichloride poisoning. Farmers use Paraquat Dichloride in moong (green gram) cultivation shortly before harvesting to dry the leaves and accelerate the drying of the crop.
Spraying the chemical causes the green plants and leaves of moong to dry completely within 24 to 72 hours. The dried leaves make harvesting and threshing easier, saving both labour costs and time.
Under Government of India regulations, the use of this pesticide on moong crops was not permitted. Despite this, some farmers continued to use it illegally as a shortcut to dry their crops before harvesting.
Health Hazards
Paraquat Dichloride is an extremely toxic chemical. Exposure to it or consumption of moong containing its residues may pose serious health risks, including potentially severe damage to the liver, kidneys and brain.
Concerns have also been raised about its possible association with cancer. If the chemical enters the body or is accidentally ingested, poisoning can be fatal. There is no specific antidote for Paraquat Dichloride poisoning, making exposure particularly dangerous.