Shun excessive use of chemicals, fertilisers: Agri Dept to farmers

Officials said the campaign aimed to curb the misuse of chemicals and ensure sustainable farming practices.

They urged the farmers to move away from relying solely on pesticide dealers for advice. Instead, the farmers should consult the department’s officials for correct application of fertilisers and pesticides. This approach would not just help farmers save money and time but would also ensures optimal results in crop production.

Dr Amrik Singh, Chief Agriculture Officer, said, “A key focus of the campaign is to prevent pests from developing resistance to pesticides. Farmers are being educated on the importance of using the right techniques, timing and equipment.”

“The department is conducting workshops, field visits and demonstrations to guide farmers in adopting scientific practices. By promoting informed decision-making, the initiative is expected to enhance agricultural productivity while safeguarding the environment,” said the CAO, adding that officials were visiting fields to tell the farmers to choose the right herbicides for weed control.

The round nozzle or gun nozzle should not be used with knapsack pump, battery-powered spray pump, tractor-driven pump and boom spray pump for spraying herbicides, said Dr Amrik.

Instead, flood jet (tucked) nozzle could be used for spraying herbicides before the weeds emerge, whereas flat fan (cut nozzle) should be preferred for spraying herbicides after the weeds emerge.

He said herbicides should not be mixed and sprayed on cloudy or foggy days as it affects the yield of wheat crop.

He appealed to the farmers not to mix metribuzin with herbicides for controlling grassy and broad leaf weeds.