Paraquat Dichloride Herbicide Banned by Centre
Why in the news
The Centre prohibited Paraquat Dichloride after the weedkiller was linked to thousands of deaths from self-harm, accidental exposure and murder.
Key facts
- Authority: Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
- Substance: Paraquat Dichloride, regarded as one of the most toxic herbicides used in farming.
- Ban rationale: extreme toxicity to people and the absence of any specific antidote.
About Paraquat
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Category | Non-selective contact herbicide |
| How it works | Destroys green plant tissue to clear weeds |
| Typical use | Sprayed after harvest to prepare fields for the next crop |
| Health effects | Multi-organ failure, lung fibrosis, kidney and liver damage, death |
| Misuse cases | Suicide, accidental poisoning, homicide |
Exam angle
- Chemical name: Paraquat Dichloride; type: non-selective contact herbicide.
- Imposed by: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
- Key reason: very high toxicity and no specific antidote.