Effect of Pesticides Application on Human Health and Environment: A Case Study of District Sargodha, Punjab (Pakistan)

In Pakistan, agriculture is major contributor in GDP as well as engaging huge segment of population as agro-based labor force. Farming community in developing countries is striving to improve agriculture productivity for food security. To gain higher farm yields, farmers use different fertilizers and pesticides to protect their crops from diseases and insect pest attacks. In this perspective, current study was designed to explore negative consequences of pesticides applications on human health and environment in district Sargodha. A cross sectional survey method using convenient sampling was adopted for this research and data was collected from 300 respondents with the help of structured interview schedule. The results revealed that all the respondents (100%) considered ‘enhance farm production’, ‘control of insect/pest’ and ‘weed eradication’ as major factors for application of pesticides. Moreover, results also indicated that 66% of respondents were applying 2-6 and above times pesticides to their single crop. The knowledge level of the respondents was found to be highest regarding contaminate the soil and disturbs the soil fertility (x=3.7), effects of pesticides on human body (x=3.67), effects of pesticides on overall plant growth (x=3.67) and regular application of pesticides disturbs the pH of soil (x=3.64). Above 68% of respondents consider harmful impacts of pesticides on human health and 86% of respondents experienced ill heath symptoms after pesticide application. The study recommends public and private extension organizations should encourage adoption of biological control measures among farming community and regular training workshops should be organized regarding safe handling and application of pesticides.