The introduction of the insecticide, EI Nano, has cast a shadow over Indian agriculture, with concerns being raised over its safety and impact on the environment.
EI Nano, which is produced by a company called Excel Crop Care, was approved for use in India in 2020. However, the chemical has since been banned in several countries, including the European Union, due to concerns over its safety.
Farmers in India have reported that the chemical has had a devastating effect on crops, with some crops being completely destroyed within days of being sprayed with EI Nano.
Environmental groups have also expressed concern over the impact of the chemical on the environment, with some claiming that it could have long-term effects on soil health and biodiversity.
The Indian government has defended its decision to approve the use of EI Nano, stating that the chemical had undergone extensive safety tests before being approved for use.
However, many farmers and activists have criticized the government’s approach, stating that the safety tests were not rigorous enough and that the government was ignoring the concerns of farmers and environmentalists.
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In response to the criticism, the government has set up a committee to review the safety of EI Nano and other pesticides. The committee is expected to submit its report by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, farmers continue to struggle with the impact of EI Nano on their crops. Some have even been forced to abandon farming altogether, due to the loss of crops and the financial burden of using the chemical.
The controversy surrounding EI Nano is just the latest in a series of debates over the use of pesticides and chemicals in Indian agriculture.
Many experts have called for a shift towards more sustainable and organic farming practices, which they argue are better for the environment and for farmers’ livelihoods.
However, others argue that pesticides and chemicals are necessary to protect crops and ensure food security in a country where agriculture is still the backbone of the economy.
The debate over EI Nano and other pesticides is likely to continue for some time, as farmers, activists, and government officials struggle to find a way forward that balances the needs of agriculture with the need to protect the environment and public health.