Farmer’s Attitudes on pesticide-use and pest-management practices: A case study of vegetable-cultivators in the vicinity of Lucknow, India

Abstract

For effective pest management, farmer’s awareness of pesticide toxicity and its safe application is crucial. The use of pesticides in vegetables and fruits is increasing day by day. To assess the awareness of the vegetable and cereal growers in Uttar Pradesh, India on the safety and toxicity management of chemical pesticides, a household survey was carried out using a well-structured questionnaire. According to our survey and observation, more than 99% of farmers preferred chemical pesticides to other alternative approaches for controlling pests. Notably, 80% of farmers were unaware of the harmful consequences that chemical pesticides have on human health and the environment. Nearly 40% of farmers had at least some brief training in integrated pest management (i.e., Communicated through the Kisan Mela and agricultural experts), however, none of them were conscious of the negative effects of pesticide residue or appropriate disposal strategies. For technical information on the selection, handling, and use of pesticides, more than 90% of growers seem to be dependent on local pesticide retailers, radio, and television. The report emphasized the necessity of establishing strict pesticide use rules and awareness campaigns on pesticide selection, its disposal methods, and its toxicity to humans, animals, and overall agrobiodiversity.