'Spray of natural pesticides in FCI godowns'

The Union government today said it has started using natural pesticides made of neem and thulasi in Food Corporation India godowns nationwide to prevent after effects on grains that happens from use of chemical pesticides.
"Chemical pesticides harm grains like rice and wheat stored in godowns, which in turn causes health hazard to consumers," Tiruchi Siva, chairman, state Consultative Committee on FCI, told reporters here.
He said natural pesticides were used after discussions with organic farmer and expert, Nammalvar of Tamil Nadu, who suggested using spray made of neem and thulasi which protects grains and prevents pest attack.
Siva was here to inspect the FCI godown in North Coimbatore, as part of the nation wide inspection for the last six months.

Asked about the problems being faced by fishermen at the hands of Sri Lankan navy, he said, the Centre has already stated that it has charted out a five-point strategy to tackle the issue.