Himalaya NITI Abhiyan has urged the Himachal Pradesh government to take immediate steps to stop the sale and use of highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs), particularly paraquat dichloride, citing concerns over public health, farmer safety and environmental damage. The organisation submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, calling for stronger action against toxic agricultural chemicals and describing the current situation as a critical opportunity to promote safer farming practices.

The appeal follows a draft gazette notification issued by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare on July 10, proposing a complete ban on the import, manufacture, sale, transportation, distribution and use of paraquat dichloride. The ministry’s move comes after concerns over the chemical’s extreme toxicity, frequent poisoning cases and reported high fatality rates associated with exposure.

Himalaya NITI Abhiyan described the proposed national ban as a historic opportunity for Himachal Pradesh to become a leader in sustainable and environmentally responsible agriculture. In its letter to the Chief Minister, the organisation’s coordinator Guman Singh welcomed the Directorate of Horticulture’s clarification that highly toxic chemicals are not recommended under the state’s Apple Spray Schedule. However, the group pointed out that paraquat and other hazardous pesticides continue to be available through pesticide dealers across the state.

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The organisation urged the state government to use provisions under Section 27 of the Insecticides Act, 1968, to immediately suspend the retail sale and distribution of paraquat dichloride in Himachal Pradesh for an initial period of 60 days. It also requested the government to formally support the Centre’s proposed ban and accelerate pending action before the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) to phase out other highly hazardous pesticides, including monocrotophos, chlorpyrifos, glyphosate, zinc phosphide and carbofuran.

The demand comes amid wider national concerns over the impact of dangerous agrochemicals on farmers and communities. Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have already introduced temporary restrictions on paraquat, while medical experts, researchers and public representatives have raised concerns over poisoning cases linked to the chemical. Studies cited in discussions around paraquat have reported very high mortality rates, with the absence of a specific antidote adding to safety concerns.

The Union Agriculture Ministry’s expert committee examining paraquat use found that the chemical has been banned or heavily restricted in more than 70 countries. The committee also highlighted documented health risks, repeated poisoning incidents and environmental concerns. Himalaya NITI Abhiyan said decisive action by the Himachal Pradesh government could help protect farmers, reduce health risks and support a safer agricultural future for the state.

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