Discussion on alternatives of Endosulfan on: ICAR

SHILLONG: Indian Council of Agricultural Research director general S Ayyappan today said the controversial Endosulfan pesticide had no "residual affects".

"From our side it is clear. It is an ideal pesticide. There is no residual affect," Ayyappan said here.

"But there could be different situations in which it is being used or different crops on which it can be used without proper guidance or advisory," he said, adding, 'concerns could be raised then'.

When pointed to the concerns in Kerala, ICAR DG said, "We are discussing and providing technical back-up."

He said everyday new molecules were being developed and old ones phased out.

"People are bringing alternatives everyday. DDT was there yesterday, today it is not. If we get a new alternative, nobody is dogmatic that we want to hold on to the same thing. We are in discussion. New formulations are coming in," he said when asked about the demands to ban the pesticide.

Kerala has been pressing for a nationwide ban on Endosulfan as studies by experts had shown that its use in northern Kasaragod district had caused nearly 500 deaths and chronic health problems to hundreds.

The Supreme Court on May 2 had sought response from the Centre on a petition seeking ban on Endosulfan across the country.

Rejecting suggestions that Government was against a ban on Endosulfan, Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh had said recently that the country could phase out the pesticide before the 11-year time-frame agreed at Stockholm Convention if a cost-effective alternative is found.