CropLife India released a Myth-versus-Fact explainer on pesticides, aiming to address growing public concerns around food residues, environmental risks, and product safety in India. The industry body noted that while concerns over misuse are valid and require attention, misinformation often distorts the realities faced by farmers in protecting crops from pests and diseases.
Agriculture’s Critical Role in India’s Economy
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of India’s economy, supporting over 93 million households and around 150 million farmers. Moreover, the sector employs nearly 46% of the workforce and contributes approximately 16–18% to the national GDP. However, crop losses remain a major challenge. According to government estimates, pests and diseases destroy 10–35% of crops annually, with even higher losses during severe outbreaks.
Low Pesticide Usage Compared to Global Levels
Despite these challenges, India continues to be among the lowest users of pesticides per hectare globally. Farmers in India typically use 0.3–0.6 kg per hectare, significantly lower than 2–4 kg in many European countries, around 13 kg in China, and over 10 kg in parts of East Asia. Therefore, the organisation emphasized that public discourse must reflect these realities while acknowledging the need for responsible usage and regulatory oversight.
Call for Evidence-Based and Balanced Debate
According to Durgesh Chandra, Secretary General, CropLife India, the objective of the explainer is to encourage a balanced and evidence-based conversation on crop protection. He highlighted that crop protection products play a vital role in safeguarding yields and ensuring food security. At the same time, the industry strongly supports responsible use, farmer awareness, and adherence to India’s regulatory framework.
Addressing Misconceptions Around Pesticides
CropLife India pointed out that common misconceptions—such as pesticides being widely overused or poorly regulated—often overlook India’s relatively low consumption levels and its structured approval system. To address this, the explainer clarifies key issues related to pesticide safety, residue management, environmental impact and regulatory controls. It relies on scientific evidence and official data to present a fact-based perspective.
Focus on Farmer Training and Sustainable Practices
The organisation stressed the importance of farmer training, improved stewardship practices, and continuous regulatory vigilance. These measures are essential to ensure that crop protection remains both safe and effective, while also supporting long-term agricultural sustainability.
Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture
CropLife India reaffirmed its commitment to supporting farmers, promoting best practices, and contributing to sustainable agriculture in India. As per the press release, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between perception and reality, fostering informed decision-making and strengthening trust in crop protection practices.
