(a) whether the Government has formulated any plan to reduce GST on fertilizers and pesticides and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether the use of chemicals in agriculture is the reason behind indebtedness of farmers and suicides committed by them and if so, the details thereof; and
(c) whether the Government proposes to provide pesticides and fertilizers to small farmers free of cost under any scheme and if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR CHEMICALS & FERILIZERS
(SHRI BHAGWANTH KHUBA)
(a): No such proposals for reduction of GST on fertilizers and pesticides is under consideration of the Government.
(b): No such data is maintained. However, since pesticides are chemicals and inherently toxic in nature and are designed to kill pests, diseases and weeds, these are needed to be used in prescribed dosages and methodology mentioned on label and leaflets. Judicious use of pesticides does not pose any risk or hazard to human beings, animal & matter related therewith.
(c): There is no such scheme to provide fertilizers and pesticides to small farmers free of cost. However, Government provides subsidized fertilizers to farmers across the country.
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