RED AND YELLOW CATEGORIES OF PESTICIDES

RED AND YELLOW CATEGORIES OF PESTICIDES

          The Kerala government is considering a ban on Red(extremely toxic) and Yellow(Highly toxic) categories of pesticides in the state, especially in Kasaragod and Idukki districts. Initially,the ban will apply to sensitive and biodiversity rich areas. In Idukki district,ban on use of red and yellow categories of pesticides is likely to come in to effect for food crops such as vegetables ,Babana and paddy at Devikulam, Idukki,Thodupuzha, Elam desom and Adimali.

          The government has already decided to withdraw  licenses to sell red and yellow categories of pesticides in Kasaragod district. The Drugs controller of Idukki recently took action against medical shops for selling steroids and other allopathic medicines for agriculture use. Steroids  and other medicines are used in cardmom plantations to stimulate growth.

          Cancers and several other afflictions, which could be related to use of pesticides had become common in Idukki district.Many people had not realized the gravity of the situation. The Trade unions planned to create awareness among workers. Ulcers,Asthma,Kidney diseases and Gynecological problems were seen to be increasing among workers.

Prof.JohnKurakar