India

Madhya Pradesh Enforces Central Ban on Paraquat Dichloride Herbicide

By Shruti Tomar

The Madhya Pradesh government has issued an order to enforce the central government’s ban on paraquat dichloride, a herbicide used to accelerate the ripening of summer green gram (moong dal). Agriculture department director Umashankar Bhargava said that companies and dealers found to have stock or to be selling the herbicide will face action. He added that instructions have been given to destroy all existing stock scientifically and that farmers will be informed that the chemical can no longer be used.

Paraquat dichloride had been used in over 12 districts of Madhya Pradesh to speed the harvest of moong, allowing ripening in 72 to 90 hours. The chemical is banned in more than 70 countries due to health hazards, including liver and kidney damage.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra senior scientist GS Chundawat praised the decision, noting that while the herbicide is intended for non‑agricultural land, some farmers use it to boost moong production. He urged the government to also monitor insecticide use on vegetables and fruits.

In July 2025, the state had decided to stop procuring summer moong at the Minimum Support Price because of concerns over weedicides and herbicides. The then additional chief secretary of agriculture, Ashok Varnwal, who is now chief secretary, explained that the government could not promote crops grown with chemicals by procuring them at MSP. After farmer protests, the government reversed its stance and resumed procurement.

The ban follows the central government’s directive and reflects growing scrutiny of chemical use in agriculture.