This study, carried out in 2017–18, collected data extensively from apple-growing farmers in six blocks of the Kashmir valley. Almost all of them (95%) held that diseases were heavy and widespread and used high-and moderate-risk chemical pesticides indiscriminately and in violation of scientific recommendations. Their knowledge of pest management and the consequences of pesticide use is limited, and the study points out the need for a detailed look into the pesticide use pattern, distribution systems, regulatory mechanism and farmers’ perception of pesticide use at the micro level. The expenditure on fertilizers and manures, average price of pesticide and pest intensity has significantly influenced the use of pesticides on apples. To reduce the adverse economic and environmental implications, it is essential to increase farmers’ awareness of pesticide hazards, properly regulate pesticides and help farmers adopt a spray schedule. The study puts forth a few policy suggestions for encouraging the scientific application of pesticides and reducing the negative externalities arising from pesticide use.
