India is among the top four countries that contribute around 70% to the world’s total applied toxicity (TAT) in the form of pesticides directed at agricultural pests. The other three being China, Brazil and USA. Pesticides are used on fruits, vegetables, maize, soybean, rice, and other cereals.
India plays a significant part in the global landscape of pesticide toxicity due to continued use of highly hazardous pesticides that are restricted or phased out in many other countries. Many of the chemicals widely used in India such as monocrotophos, chlorpyrifos (allowed under special exemptions), and certain organophosphates are characterised by international bodies as extremely toxic to humans and ecosystems. The overall pesticide application rate in India is about 0.5 kg per hectare, which is lower than other countries, but the toxicity of the active ingredients matters far more than quantity.
Persistent chemicals harm biodiversity by damaging beneficial organisms such as pollinators and soil microbes, thereby disrupting ecosystem services that are essential for long-term agricultural sustainability. In states like Punjab (chlorpyrifos in water), Kerala (endosulfan in wells), and Maharashtra (DDT), residue levels have exceeded the limits prescribed by WHO and BIS. DDT, and endosulfan bioaccumulate in the food chain, disrupting soil microbes, aquatic life, and soil fertility
Health risks to farmers and agricultural workers range from acute poisoning to long-term chronic illnesses. Due to frequent exposure during mixing, spraying, and handling and often without adequate protective gear, farmers commonly experience symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, respiratory distress, skin irritation, and eye damage. Prolonged exposure to pesticides, particularly organophosphates, can lead to severe neurological crises and endocrine disruption. Studies by ICMR have also highlighted increased risks of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline among individuals regularly exposed to these chemicals. In the long term, pesticide exposure has been associated with serious conditions including cancers (such as leukemia and prostate cancer), Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, reproductive disorders, and weakened immunity. Longterm consumption of pesticide residues has been associated with cancers, endocrine disorders, reproductive harm, and neurological diseases. Children and pregnant women are considered particularly vulnerable due to developmental sensitivity to chemical exposures
The challenge in India is lack of awareness and safety training. Many farmers are not able to read or follow the pesticide use instructions, mostly because labels are in English or complicated to interpret.The storage of pesticides is not done properly. The empty containers are often reused for food and water, without proper handling increasing the risk of accidental poisonings
Small and marginal farmers depend on quick and affordable solutions to prevent crop loss. Highly hazardous pesticides are often cheaper and provide immediate visible results. Though some pesticides are banned, enforcement at the ground level is inconsistent. While safer alternatives exist, their adoption remains slow due to cost concerns, lack of training, and weak enforcement mechanisms.
A transition toward safer alternatives and informed farming practices is not merely an environmental choice, but a necessary investment in India’s future generations.