Bhubaneswar: In response to growing concerns over the adverse effects of Paraquat herbicide on human and animal health and in compliance with the instructions of Hon’ble Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik emphasizing the need for safe pesticide use, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, the Principal Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment in Odisha, has urged the Central Government urging an immediate ban on the sale, distribution, production, and use of Paraquat in the state.
Dr. Padhee in a letter to the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, stated that Paraquat, a widely used herbicide, has been a subject of public concern in the state due to its toxic nature. He highlighted in his letter that the state government, based on reports from the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, has found Paraquat and its derivatives to be extremely harmful, with detrimental effects on human health. Notably, there has been a lack of scientific research on the impact of Paraquat on soil health, human health, and the environment.
According to a report from Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, Paraquat has led to high mortality rates among individuals facing respiratory, kidney, and liver problems. The report disclosed that out of 149 patients admitted between September 2017 and August 2019, a total of 140 succumbed to the herbicide’s toxic effects. VIMSAR authorities have strongly recommended a permanent ban on Paraquat.
The gravity of the situation is further underscored by reports from District Collectors and Chief District Agriculture Officers from over 15 districts in the state, revealing premature deaths attributed to the consumption of the toxic herbicide. Nayagarh district alone witnessed a surge in farmer deaths due to Paraquat poisoning between January 2023 and December 2023.
Numerous complaints and proposals have flooded the Agriculture and Farmers Empowerment Department of the state, advocating for a comprehensive ban on Paraquat. The prolonged use of Paraquat, spanning over five years, has raised alarms about its detrimental effects on human, animal, and crop production and productivity.
In light of these alarming findings, Dr. Padhee has formally requested the Government of India to enforce an immediate ban on the sale, distribution, production, and use of Paraquat in Odisha. The request is made in accordance with Section 27(2) of The Insecticides Act, 1968. The state government’s decisive action is aimed at safeguarding the well-being of its citizens and preventing further environmental degradation caused by the toxic herbicide.
