New Delhi: The Government has issued a draft order proposing a complete ban on the manufacture, import, transport, distribution, sale and use of paraquat dichloride, an insecticide widely used in agriculture, citing serious concerns over its risks to human and animal health.

The Union Agriculture Ministry, which issued the draft order, has invited objections or suggestions from stakeholders within 30 days, after which a final order will be issued.

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The move follows a recommendation by the Registration Committee, constituted under Section 5 of the Insecticides Act, 1968, after due consultation.

“The central government, after duly considering the report of the Registration Committee, is satisfied that the use of Paraquat Dichloride insecticide is likely to involve risk to human beings and animals as to render it expedient or necessary to take immediate action,” the draft order stated.

The Committee noted that paraquat dichloride has already been banned or severely restricted in more than 70 countries.

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It flagged several areas of concern, including documented adverse health effects, a continued history of poisoning incidents with high fatality rates, and the absence of a specific antidote for the chemical.

“The Committee has recommended complete prohibition of Paraquat Dichloride in India, i.e. an immediate ban on the manufacture, import, transport, distribution, sale and use of Paraquat Dichloride under the Insecticides Act, 1968," the draft order said.

Once the final order is notified, no person will be permitted to import, manufacture, sell, transport, distribute or use paraquat dichloride.

The Registration Committee has been directed to recall certificates of registration issued for the insecticide. Certificate holders who fail to return them within three months will face action under the provisions of the Act, the order said.

All certificates of registration granted for paraquat dichloride under Section 9 of the Act will be deemed cancelled from the date the order comes into effect. State governments have been asked to take all necessary steps under the Act and its rules to ensure the order is enforced within their jurisdictions.

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