Question : LATEST INFORMATION TO FARMERS

(a) whether the Government is aware that farmers are in heavy losses due to lack of proper latest information about agriculture and use of proper pesticides;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the public agencies engaged in the work and the funds allocated and spent by the said agencies during the last three years, year-wise, category-wise and State-wise;

(c) the number of farmers associated with Agricultural Sciences Centres during the last three years, State-wise and category-wise;

(d) whether the Government is implementing any scheme for providing information to farmers on providing good harvest and proper use of pesticides; and

(e) the steps taken by the Government to control the dealers who are promoting the use of chemical insecticides/new transgenic seeds for their self interest?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (DR. SANJEEV KUMAR BALYAN)

(a): Proper information among farmers about use of pesticides is necessary for efficacious elimination of pests and diseases. Every manufacturer of pesticides is mandated by law to display labels and leaflets containing all vital and relevant information pertaining to the pesticide on the container for the benefit of farmers. These label and leaflets are also printed in regional languages.

(b) to (d): The Government is implementing “Strengthening and Modernization of Pest Management Approach in India” through 31 Central Integrated Pest Management Centres (CIPMCs) of Directorate of Plant Protection Quarantine and Storage in 28 States and one UT (Andaman & Nicobar).CIPMCs conduct pest surveillance, monitor pest incidence/situation, mass produce biological agents for releasing in the fields, conserve natural bio-control agents, promote bio-pesticides as an alternative to chemical pesticides and advocate judicious and safe use of chemical pesticides as a last resort. These activities are implemented through Farmers Field Schools (FFSs), 2 days training program for farmers, 5 days training and season long training program to State Agriculture Extension officers and NGOs / Private Bodies. Central Government provides funds to the State Govts under various schemes such as Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, National Food Security Mission etc. for plant protection activities . Details of funds allocated/ spent by CIPMCs for FFSs and 2 days training program of farmers during the last three years , state-wise and farmers trained therein are annexed.

(e): A ‘Grow Safe Food’ campaign has been initiated to carry the message of safe and judicious use of pesticides to farmers and other stakeholders. A simple message on the five essential principles of judicious pesticide use - application of pesticides on the right crop, against pests for which the pesticide has been approved, at the right time, in approved doses, and as per approved method of application - is sought to be conveyed through hoardings, banners etc. in regional languages in Gram Panchayats and rural areas.

Advisories have been sent to pesticides dealers to stock and distribute/ sell approved pesticides, and to advise farmers to follow instructions on label and leaflets of pesticides. Private sector companies are also being exhorted to promote safe and effective use of pesticides through a ‘Grow Safe Food’ campaign.