Context:
The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has notified a nationwide ban on paraquat dichloride due to its severe toxicity, repeated poisoning deaths and absence of a specific antidote. India joins more than 70 countries that have banned or severely restricted the herbicide.
Explanation:
- Paraquat dichloride is a non-selective herbicide used to destroy weeds and clear fields after harvesting.
- Exposure through ingestion, inhalation or skin contact can cause serious organ damage and death.
- It has no specific antidote, making accidental and intentional poisoning particularly fatal.
- Pesticides are regulated under the Insecticides Act, 1968 and the Insecticides Rules, 1971.
- Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha and Kerala had previously imposed bans or restrictions on it.
- The Registration Committee regulates their registration, manufacture, import, distribution and use.
- The ban prohibits its manufacture, import, transport, storage, distribution, sale and use.
- The draft notification allows 30 days for objections and suggestions, following which the final prohibition may be enforced by States.
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Paraquat Dichloride Ban: Public Health and Pesticide Regulation