Question : USE OF PESTICIDES

(a) whether it is a fact that out of five internationally banned pesticides, four are still commenly used in vegetables, fruits and other agricultural produce;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the details of the crops for which the Government has not prescribed the maximum residue limits;

(d) whether a study has revealed that these pesticides caused many health problems;

(e) if so, whether the Union Government is contemplating to frame agriculture policy on utilisation of pesticides and fertilizers and if so, the details thereof;

(f) whether there is any proposal to invite suggestions from public, experts and State Governments before framing agriculture policy on utilisation of pesticides and fertilisers; and (g) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by the Union Government thereon?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES(SHRI TARIQ ANWAR)

(a) & (b): Some of the pesticides which are banned or restricted for their use in other countries are being allowed to be used with and without restriction in our country only after thorough re-evaluation by eminent scientists.

(c) to (g): So far 241 pesticides have been registered in India of which Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for 10 pesticides are yet to be fixed. Besides there are 48 pesticides with partial fixation of MRLs. There are 44 pesticides which are not used in agriculture for which no MRLs are required to be fixed.

A decision has already been taken in the Registration Committee established under section 5 of the Insecticides Act, 1968 to henceforth register a new pesticide only after the fixation of MRLs. Now, no new pesticide, except those used in seed treatment, household/public health and bio-pesticides meant exclusively for export is being registered under the Insecticides Act, 1968 by the Registration Committee for use in the country without fixation of MRL.

As per provisions of Insecticides Act 1968 and Rules framed there under, manufacturers of pesticides are required to provide a label leaflet with each pack with details on directions for use, dose, dilution, waiting period, safety, etc.

If pesticides are used as per recommendations then no harm is likely to accrue to human beings and animals. Government is also popularizing the concept of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for control of insect pests, diseases, weeds through non-chemical methods like cultural, mechanical, biological etc. Chemical pesticides are recommended for use judiciously and as a measure of last resort on need basis. In addition training programmes are conducted for farmers, pesticide and other stakeholders.

The pesticide Management Bill which is under consideration of the Rajya Sabha has drafted a specific provision which would permit registration of a pesticide only after fixation of MRL.