Punjab concerned over extensive usage of pesticides

The Punjab government today expressed concern over the extensive usage of pesticides and insecticides by farmers, saying it is giving a "bad name" to the state.
"... Extensive usage of pesticides and insecticides is having an adverse effect not only on quality of vegetables, fruits and other crops but also giving a bad name to the whole state," Punjab Agriculture Minister Tota Singh said here today.
He further said that because of extensive usage of pesticides, the farm products were not as per international standards, adding, "therefore we are not able to sell our vegetables and fruits in international markets."

Singh also expressed concern over rising air pollution level due to burning of straw and agricultural waste during harvesting seasons.
He said the agriculture department has decided to motivate farmers to adopt mechanical mowing machines to mow straw in earth rather than burning it.
"Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal was concerned about rising air pollution level due to burning of straw and approved subsidy on mowing machines to motivate farmers to adopt new eco-friendly technology," he said.
"Such low cost new technique machines are developed in the state so that we need not purchase such machines on high price from other countries," he added.

Singh also said that the state government has decided to provide subsidy on solar pumps of 2-7.5 horse power to fruit and vegetable farmers.