As Indian agriculture gradually moves towards safer and more sustainable farming practices, the use of pesticides has come under increasing scrutiny. While pesticides play an important role in protecting crops from pests and diseases, indiscriminate or unsafe use poses serious risks to human health, livestock, soil, water, and biodiversity.
To address these concerns, the Government of India has banned or restricted several pesticides, based on scientific evidence and expert recommendations.
Why Are Pesticides Being Banned or Restricted?
Pesticides are chemical or biological substances used to control pests such as insects, weeds, fungi, and rodents. Over the years, studies have linked certain pesticides to:
- Health hazards in humans and animals
- Environmental contamination
- Harm to pollinators like honeybees
- Residue issues affecting exports
In response, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, under the Insecticides Act, 1968, regularly reviews pesticide safety through expert committees and the Registration Committee.
A recent example is glyphosate, a widely used weedicide. While not fully banned, its use has been restricted following concerns raised by state governments and health experts.
Pesticides with Restricted Use in India
The following pesticides are not freely available for general agricultural use and can be applied only under specific conditions or supervision.
1. Aluminium Phosphide
- Use restricted to government bodies and licensed pest control operators
- Tablet packs of 10 g and 20 g are completely prohibited
2. Captafol
- Banned as a foliar spray
- Permitted only as a seed treatment
- Manufacture for domestic use is prohibited (allowed only for export)
3. Cypermethrin (3% Smoke Generator)
- Allowed only through licensed pest control operators
- Not permitted for general public use
4. Dazomet
- Not permitted for use on tea crops
5. Diazinon
- Banned for agricultural use
- Allowed only for household pest control
6. DDT (Dichloro Diphenyl Trichloroethane)
- Completely banned in agriculture
- Restricted use in public health programmes (up to 10,000 MT/year)
- Manufactured only by government-authorised agencies
7. Fenitrothion
- Banned in agriculture
- Permitted only for locust control and public health use
8. Fenthion
- Banned for agricultural purposes
- Allowed for locust control, household, and public health use
9. Methoxy Ethyl Mercuric Chloride (MEMC)
- Completely banned
- Exception: seed treatment for potatoes and sugarcane
10. Methyl Bromide
- Restricted to government and authorised pest control agencies
- Use allowed only under expert supervision
11. Methyl Parathion
- Permitted only on crops approved by the Registration Committee
- Not allowed where honeybees act as pollinators
12. Monocrotophos
- Banned for use on vegetable crops
13. Sodium Cyanide
- Restricted for fumigation of cotton bales only
- Use permitted under expert supervision
Pesticides Completely Banned in India
Several pesticides have been entirely banned due to severe health and environmental risks. These include:
- Aldrin, Endrin, Dieldrin
- Endosulfan
- Aldicarb
- Alachlor
- Benomyl
- Carbaryl
- Chlordane
- Calcium Cyanide
- Dichlorvos
- Benzene Hexachloride (BHC)
(and many others)
Banned Pesticide Formulations
Certain pesticide formulations are banned for import, manufacture, and use, such as:
- Carbofuran 50% SP
- Methomyl 12.5% L
- Methomyl 24%
- Phosphamidon 85% SL
Key Advisory for Farmers
- Always check the label and registration status before using any pesticide
- Follow recommended doses and safety precautions
- Avoid banned or restricted chemicals to prevent legal action and crop rejection
- Explore integrated pest management (IPM) and biological alternatives
Conclusion
The restriction and banning of pesticides in India is aimed at protecting farmers, consumers, and the environment. Staying informed about approved and restricted chemicals is essential for safe farming, better market access, and long-term sustainability.
Responsible pesticide use today ensures healthy soils, safer food, and secure farming tomorrow.
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