The Hindu Business Line : Groundwater pollution

This is with reference to "India's growing water crisis" (Business Line, January 12): The author has rightly highlighted the impending water crisis and its consequences on the economic and social development.

The author observes that the "overuse of pesticides and chemicals in agriculture is the primary cause for ground water pollution in the rural areas." Is this generalisation based on a scientific study or documented proof? India is one of the lowest users of pesticides in the world. Only a fourth of the cropped area receives any form of pesticides treatment at all. Pests, diseases and weeds cause 30-40 per cent crop losses; annual losses in agriculture are estimated at Rs 90,000 crore. This is one of the reasons for very low yields level of major crops. The chances of excess pesticides residues in groundwater would be high in situations where the use of soil applied herbicides and insecticides are far in excess of the recommended dosages.

State governments should come out with clear water use policy.

S. Kumarasamy

Chairman,

Agrochemicals Policy Group,

Mumbai

Letters to the editor and contributions can be sent by e-mail to: bleditor@thehindu.co.in

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