Agri ministry launches pesticides manual

The agriculture ministry’s Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board on Wednesday launched a user friendly guide for farmers and persons who utilize pesticides.

The colourful 19-page booklet, done in cartoon format, is titled Farming with Bohdoo and Bains. It provides basic information about the toxins and takes its user through the ‘do’s and don’ts’ when dealing with pests and pesticides. ‘Bohdoo’ and ‘Bains’ are the names of the two characters who personify farmers in the booklet, adding their personal experiences with crops and their dealings with the pesticides. The manual also covers topical issues such as how pests affect plants; ways to control and avoid pest infestation; choosing the correct pesticide and important considerations when using pesticides.

Registrar of the Board Basudeo Dwarka, at a simple ceremony held on the lawns of the ministry, told a small gathering that while the Board was a regulating body, it was also tasked with enforcement and making sure that the population’s health is not affected by the use of pesticides. He said the Board was hopeful that the manual could be added to the school curriculum. Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud also endorsed the publication noting that it was a significant achievement by the Board. He said that the drive to raise awareness of the effects of pesticides on the health of workers and the environment led to its development. Persaud said too that the manual will inform farmers and agriculture extension agents about the simple tools needed to cultivate crops that comply with the requirements of the external market through improved management of pesticides. Persaud also said his ministry is mandated to ensure that information about the technical use of pesticides is available to all farmers in a user friendly format. The manual is the second to be produced by the Board for the year, the first being the Farmers Manual on crops.