Socio-ecological Implications of Pesticide Use in India

This article is based on a detailed field investigation conducted in four states to determine the effects of the use (or misuse) of pesticides on the farming system, health of farmers and pest resistance. The study finds that farmers rely heavily on pesticides for pest control. However, over-application and indiscriminate use of pesticides has had several adverse consequences and deepened agrarian distress. While accepting the important role of pesticides in India's food security, proper education, adoption of safety norms and integrated pest management practices, and reduction of monocropping should be encouraged to maximise the gains from the use of pesticides.