Awareness levels of rice growers about the harmful effects of agrochemicals on health and environment
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This study assessed the awareness levels of rice farmers regarding the harmful effects of agrochemicals on health and the environment in the Chhattisgarh plains. A sample of 320 respondents from 8 blocks was surveyed in 2023-24. The findings showed that 45.00 per cent of respondents recognized agrochemical-induced allergies in humans, and 51.56 per cent identified behavioural changes in animals as a risk. The majority was aware of water contamination (75.00%) and soil contamination (80.94%) due to agrochemicals. In terms of pest management, 90.94 per cent recognized stem borer, 97.81per cent knew about rice blast disease, and 97.81 per cent identified nut grass as a weed. Among IPM practices, the highest awareness was for deep summer ploughing (82.19%) and the removal of pest-infested plant parts (99.06%). For insecticides, 76.88 per cent were aware of Acephate 75% SP, and for herbicides, 90.31 per cent knew of Pendimethalin 30% EC. Carbendazim 50% WP was the most recognized fungicide (58.13%). The study also found 34.69 per cent awareness of cancer risks from pesticide misuse. Overall, 67.50 per cent of respondents had medium awareness of IPM practices.
Authors: Mahesh Kumar, Dr. PK Sangode
Institution: Indira Gandhi Agricultural University
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4405289467