Pesticide Protection: The Hidden Danger Indian Farmers Face Every Day- Part-3

Kisan Kavach- Complete Protection, Reusable, long lasting – 150 washes

At the Institute of Horticulture Technology (IHT), Greater Noida, we are committed to advancing the science of cultivation while ensuring the well-being of those who feed the nation. As we interact with farmers across the region, one issue consistently arises as a major concern: the safety of those applying pesticides.

While pesticides are essential for protecting crops from pests and diseases, ensuring high yields and food security, they are a double-edged sword. The improper handling of these chemicals poses severe risks to human health. Today, we want to emphasize a critical safety protocol that every farmer must adopt: the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

The Invisible Danger: Pesticide Toxicity

Pesticides can enter the human body through multiple pathways. During spraying, and especially when mixing concentrates, exposure risks spike. Pesticides can be absorbed through the skin (dermal toxicity), inhaled through the lungs (inhalation), or ingested orally.

The health implications are severe. According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, between 2015 and 2018, lack of proper safety measures and over-application of pesticides resulted in hundreds of fatalities other than mild poisoning which can cause headaches, nausea, skin irritation, and dizziness. Severe exposure can lead to convulsions, respiratory failure, and long-term systemic issues like nerve damage and reproductive problems.

The Solution: Appropriate PPE

To mitigate these risks, it is imperative that farmers use appropriate PPE. This consists of a full-body cover, gloves, masks, and headshields. Standard clothing is insufficient as it absorbs liquid pesticides and keeps them in contact with the skin. A proper protective shield creates a barrier between the farmer and the chemical, preventing oral or dermal toxicity.

Introducing “Kisan Kavach”: A Research-Backed Shield

While the market offers various safety gear, the Government of India recently unveiled a groundbreaking innovation that we highly recommend to the farming community: Kisan Kavach.

Kisan Kavach is Bharat’s first anti-pesticide bodysuit, designed specifically to protect farmers from pesticide-induced toxicity. It is not just a piece of clothing; it is a product of good, long-term research. Developed by BRIC-inStem in Bangalore in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd., this technology is detailed in the prestigious journal Nature Communications.

Why choose Kisan Kavach?

  1. Advanced Technology: The suit features advanced fabric technology where a nucleophile is covalently attached to cotton fibres. This allows the fabric to deactivate harmful pesticides upon contact via nucleophilic-mediated hydrolysis. It actively neutralizes the threat rather than just blocking it.
  2. Comprehensive Protection: The Kisan Kavach Protective Shield includes a full-body suit, mask, headshield, and gloves, offering complete coverage.
  3. Durability and Reusability: Unlike disposable gear, Kisan Kavach is washable and reusable. It is designed to last up to two years, withstanding up to 150 washes.
  4. Affordability: Priced at just Rs. 4,000, it is a cost-effective investment in your health and safety.

A Promise to Our Farmers

As Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh aptly stated, “Kisan Kavach is not just a product but a promise to our farmers to safeguard their health as they continue to feed the nation.”

At IHT Greater Noida, we urge all farmers associated with the spraying of pesticides to prioritize their health. Do not compromise on safety. Embrace sustainable practices, use biopesticides where possible, and always wear your protective gear.

Protect yourself so you can continue to protect our crops.

For Purchase and Enquiries

To purchase the Kisan Kavach suit or for more information on how it can protect you and your workers, please click the link below or contact us:       Purchase Link

 

Contact Us:
Telephone: +91-11-46604988
Phone: +91-8130997511
Email: enquiry@iht.edu.in

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