FSSAI proposes Inter-Ministerial committee to reduce pesticide usage

New Delhi: To address the concerns over the usage of pesticides, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed the formation of an inter-ministerial committee. This committee will be responsible for developing strategies to reduce pesticide usage, implement control measures, and monitor and regulate pesticide application at the farmer level, a PIB press release said.

The proposal was discussed by the FSSAI’s 44th meeting of the Central Advisory Committee (CAC) between 22 and 23 August. Other issues discussed at the meeting included the filling of vacant posts of Food Safety Officers (FSOs) and Designated Officers (DOs), and the urgent need to upgrade food testing laboratories.

“The initiative is aimed at ensuring that agricultural practices remain safe and sustainable, thereby protecting consumers from potential health risks associated with pesticide residues in food. The committee will consist of representatives from states, unions, and the food industry, including senior officials from FSSAI,” the release added.

Under this initiative, the states will have the responsibility of developing strategies for reducing pesticide usage, implementing control measures, and developing strategies to monitor and regulate pesticide application at the farmer level. The aim is to ensure safe and sustainable agriculture practices, thereby protecting the health of consumers. The committee will work together with all stakeholders including state governments, union territories, food safety officers, and representatives from the food industry and agriculture sector.

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