Welfare package for Endosulfan-affected

The Kerala government today announced a welfare package to persons suffering from Endosulfan-related health hazards.

Breifing the media on the decisions of a high-level meeting in Thiruvnanthapuram, chief minister VS Achuthanandan said that the government would demand a nationwide ban on the pesticide as it was found to be dangeorus to living creatures. An all-party delegation from the state would soon meet the prime minister in this regard. 

The government would also distribute rice to the victims at a rate of Rs 2 a kg and will declare a moratorium on the loans taken by the affected families. The government’s decision is expected to benefit 480 families mainly in Kasargod, Idukki and Palakkad districts.

The high-level meeting also decided to provide pension to those who are not able to work and also plans to construct houses for the affected families. In addition, the government aid for treatment would be enhanced and a fresh announcement would be made after the next cabinet meeting, he said.

An Endosulfan monitoring cell will be opened in the state's secretariat in order to monitor the health hazards and other related issues. The government will also strictly prohibit the entry of Endosulfan from the neighboring states through the borders. Kerala had already banned the distribution, sale and use of the pesticide in the state. The killer pesticide has claimed two more lives in Kasargod recently.