Awareness of vegetable farmers on safe use of pesticides in Medak district of Telangana

Abstract

A field survey of 100 vegetable growers was conducted in four villages of Mulugu madal of Medak district of Telangana to know the awareness level of the respondents about safe use of pesticides and adoption of the recommended practices in vegetable production. From the study it was observed that, majority of the respondents were marginal land holders and all of them were cultivating vegetables in their farm lands. With respect to safe handling of pesticides, it was reported that, all are purchasing the pesticides from the input dealers, majority following safe measures while spraying of pesticides like use of face mask, gloves, turban and majority disposing the pesticide containers and taking bath after spraying of pesticides. More awareness and educational programmes by the Government departments would help in creating more awareness and greater promotion of safe handling of pesticides.