(a) whether there are reports of imposition of measures through the global conventions for
elimination of production, export and use of generic pesticides widely used and exported by
India;
(b) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto; and
(c) the steps taken by the Union Government to protect the pesticide industries in the country?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS,
FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
(a): Yes, Madam. Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) imposes certain measures
for elimination of production, export and use of certain persistent chemicals, which include certain
generic pesticides. Another convention namely Rotterdam Convention on Prior Informed Consent Procedure
also imposes procedural requirements which impede the exports of pesticides including the generic ones.
(b) & (c): The Government of India assess such cases on regular basis and adopts an approach in the larger
interest of the country. 67 pesticides which are banned or severely restricted for use in other parts of
the world, are used in India as they have been found efficient and economical in suppressing crop pests.