Introduction
Paraquat is a highly toxic herbicide used for weed control in agriculture. It is banned in several countries due to its severe toxicity but is still used in some developing nations, including India, under strict regulations.
For UPSC aspirants, understanding Paraquat is essential, as it falls under agriculture, environment, public health, and toxicology, which are key topics in Prelims and Mains (GS Papers 2 & 3). This eBook provides an in-depth analysis of Paraquat, covering its uses, impact, regulations, and relevance in the Indian context.
What is Paraquat?
Definition and Chemical Properties
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Chemical Name: 1,1′-Dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium dichloride
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Formula: C₁₂H₁₄Cl₂N₂
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Appearance: Blue-green liquid or solid
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Mode of Action: Destroys plant cells by inhibiting photosynthesis and causing oxidative stress.
Uses of Paraquat
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Weed Control: Used in crops like cotton, tea, maize, and sugarcane.
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Defoliant: Helps remove leaves from plants before harvesting.
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Non-Selective Herbicide: Kills all types of vegetation.
Toxicity and Health Effects of Paraquat
Why is Paraquat Dangerous?
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Paraquat is highly toxic to humans and animals.
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A few milliliters can be fatal if ingested.
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No known antidote exists, making poisoning difficult to treat.
Health Effects of Paraquat Poisoning
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Acute Poisoning:
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Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain.
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Lung damage (fibrosis), leading to respiratory failure.
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Multi-organ failure (kidneys, liver, heart).
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Chronic Exposure:
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Parkinson’s disease risk.
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Pulmonary fibrosis (permanent lung scarring).
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Neurological and reproductive disorders.
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Case Studies
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India: Several suicides and accidental poisoning cases reported.
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China & USA: Linked to Parkinson’s disease in agricultural workers.a
Paraquat Regulation and Bans
Global Status of Paraquat
|
Country/Region |
Status |
|---|---|
|
European Union |
Banned since 2007 |
|
United States |
Restricted use, licensed users only |
|
China |
Gradual phase-out, banned in 2016 for non-commercial use |
|
Brazil |
Banned in 2020 |
|
India |
Still in use under regulations |
Why is Paraquat Still Used in India?
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Cheaper than alternatives.
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Effective against resistant weeds.
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Limited awareness about health risks.
Indian Government’s Regulations
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Paraquat is not banned, but its sale is restricted.
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Only licensed dealers can sell it.
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Awareness programs for farmers are recommended.
Environmental Impact of Paraquat
Soil and Water Contamination
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Non-biodegradable – Remains in the soil for long periods.
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Leaching into groundwater – Pollutes drinking water sources.
2. Effects on Biodiversity
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Harms soil microbes – Reduces soil fertility.
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Toxic to aquatic life – Enters rivers and lakes through runoff.
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Kills beneficial insects and pollinators.
3. Air Pollution
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Paraquat drift (airborne particles) can harm nearby crops and people.
Safer Alternatives to Paraquat
Biological Weed Control
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Using cover crops (e.g., clover, mustard) to suppress weeds.
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Natural herbicides (e.g., vinegar-based sprays).
2. Mechanical Methods
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Crop rotation and mulching reduce weed growth.
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Hand weeding and precision agriculture can minimize herbicide use.
3. Chemical Alternatives
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Glyphosate (controversial due to cancer concerns).
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Glufosinate (safer but expensive).
Relevance of Paraquat for UPSC Aspirants
UPSC Prelims (GS Paper 1 & 3)
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Environmental Pollution: Soil, water, and air contamination.
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Agricultural Practices: Use of herbicides and alternatives.
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Health Hazards: Public health impact of pesticides.
2. UPSC Mains (GS Paper 2 & 3)
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GS-2: Government policies on pesticide regulation.
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GS-3: Sustainable agriculture, environmental impact, and biodiversity.
3. UPSC Essay Topics
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“The Impact of Chemical Pesticides on Human Health and Environment.”
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“Sustainable Agriculture: Challenges and Solutions.”
4. Sample UPSC Questions
Prelims Question:
Q. Paraquat, recently seen in the news, is:
A) A type of genetically modified crop
B) A highly toxic herbicide
C) A newly discovered plant species
D) A biological fertilizer
(Answer: B)
Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the environmental and health impacts of Paraquat. What policy measures should be taken to regulate its use in India?
Conclusion
Paraquat is a double-edged sword – while it is an effective herbicide, its toxicity poses serious risks to humans, animals, and the environment. Many countries have banned or restricted its use, but India continues to allow regulated sales.
For UPSC aspirants, Paraquat is a highly relevant topic covering aspects of environment, agriculture, health, and governance. A well-rounded understanding of this issue will help candidates tackle related questions in Prelims, Mains, and Essay papers.
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