The Union Cabinet has recently agreed upon the Pesticides Management Bill, 2020. This bill is set to oversee the business of pesticides and provide compensation to farmers who suffer losses due to the effects of agrochemicals. Agrochemicals refer to chemicals used in agriculture such as pesticides and fertilizers. Currently, the Insecticides Act of 1968 regulates pesticide affairs.
Pesticide data in aid of Farmers
One of the main features of the Pesticides Management Bill is its initiative to strengthen farmers by providing detailed information about pesticides. It will offer data on the strengths and weaknesses of various pesticides, including any associated risks and possible alternatives. This information will be openly accessible in digital format and in all languages.
Compensation Provisions
Another unique aspect of the bill is a provision for compensations. Should there be any loss due to the use of low-quality or spurious pesticides, the affected parties will be compensated accordingly. If needed, a central fund is to be established to handle these compensations.
Promotion of Organic Pesticides
The bill also demonstrates a commitment to promoting organic pesticides. Organic pesticides are typically less harmful to the environment compared to synthetic varieties, making them a more sustainable choice for pest control.
Registration of Pesticide Manufacturers
The bill mandates all pesticide manufacturers to register and be governed by the new Act once it is passed. Also, advertisements for pesticides will be strictly regulated to prevent misunderstandings or fraudulent practices by manufacturers.
Pesticide Use in India
India sits among the top pesticide producers in Asia. Within India, states like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana record the highest consumption. But the presence of counterfeit or spurious pesticides poses a significant problem.
Issues with Spurious Pesticides
Spurious pesticides not only cause harm to crops and soil fertility but they also negatively impact the environment. It is not just the farmers who take losses from these counterfeit agrochemicals, but also the manufacturers of genuine products and the government who lose revenue due to the sale of these fakes.
The Insecticides Act, 1968
This Act was enforced from August 1971 to regulate the import, manufacture, sale, transport, distribution, and use of insecticides with the purpose of preventing risks to humans and animals. Under Section 4 of the Act, the Central Insecticides Board was established. The board, which operates under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, provides advice to the central and state governments on technical matters resulting from the act’s administration in addition to other assigned functions.