Industry body warns against pests' attack

Pests may hit kharif crop this year if adequate measures are not taken. The loss could amount to Rs 40,000 crore in the kharif months- -June to September,said S Kumarasamy, chairman, Agrochemical Promotion Group (APG).

APG is an apex industry body which represents over 200 domestic agrochemical manufacturers.

Despite an average annual rise of 3-5 per cent in total acreage only 25 per cent of 180 million hectare gets pesticide protection, said industry sources.

According to Kumarasamy, northern and southern states are doing better in terms of bringing acreage under pesticides use.

Around 30 per cent of the annual production is lost annually because of insects, fungal diseases and weeds. In 2005, the loss due to these factors amounted to Rs 90,000 crore.

Every year around 60 per cent of the total grain production comes from the kharif crops. This kharif season, the country may consume pesticides worth Rs 2,100 crore.

APG is in talks with the states and the central government to ensure use of pesticides.

The states include Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh. "We are introducing new products and technology. At the same time we are taking care that it does not affect the environment. Our objective is to make farmers learn safe and judicious use of pesticides," Kumarasamy said.

The group has also approached the agriculture ministry to ensure announcement of support price for various kharif crops.

Industry sources said that it was essential to target 5 to 6 per cent growth in food grain output each year to ensure food security and avoid imports. In 2005 the food grain output was 210 million tonne.