KVK Solan in collaboration with HIL (India) promotes safe and judicial use of pesticides

The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Solan of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni in collaboration with the Hindustan Insecticides Limited (HIL India) today organized an awareness cum training programme on the Safe and Judicious use of pesticides and promotion of Integrated Pest Management practices at Kandaghat. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers and agricultural stakeholders from Solan district of Himachal Pradesh.

Dr. Rajendra Thapar, Additional General Manager, HIL, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, GoI, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The programme aimed to sensitize farmers about the judicious, safe and responsible use of pesticides, with a focus on promoting sustainable, environmentally sound and economically viable agricultural practices.

During the programme, it was also stressed to use agrochemicals judicially and responsibly besides advocating Integrated Nutrient and Pest Management to protect soil health, environment and human health.

Dr. Thapar highlighted the activities taken up by their company for the improvement of the farming community across India. He apprised farmers that HIL is involved in the production of seeds, agrochemicals and fertilizers and urged farmers to check the label claims before the purchase of pesticides. Method demonstration was also done on the use of the safety kits that was provided during the training. A video presentation on pesticide safety precautions and a safety kit demonstration by Dr. Thapar and Ashok Kumar Jarwal (KEC Agritech Pvt. Ltd., Delhi) added practical insights to the sessions.   

Earlier, Pooja Thakur, Technical Assistant welcomed the chief guest along with faculty members and farmers from all blocks of Solan district. Technical sessions were conducted by scientists on important themes including safe and judicious use of pesticides, soil health and its significance, IPM practices for vegetable crops, scientific management of livestock and Government financial schemes supporting farmers.

Entomologists Dr. Anurag Sharma and Dr. Ajay Sharma emphasized the need for crop-specific, judicious pesticide use and encouraged farmers to follow scientific advisories, adopt IPM practices and utilize government schemes for improved farm productivity and environmental safety. Farmers were advised to adopt non chemical methods of insect pest management, label interpretation, correct dosage, health hazards, first aid, use of protective equipment, safe storage and environmental impacts. Dr. Meera Devi (Soil scientist) informed the farmers about the harmful effect of chemical fertilizers on soil health which is adversely affecting soil physical, chemical and biological properties. She also explained to the participants about the role of integrated nutrient management for improving organic carbon, soil porosity and water holding capacity. Dr. Mansi Sharma (SVO, Kandaghat) emphasised on scientific management of livestock. She also apprised them about the departmental schemes.