Evaluating the Socio-economic Trade-offs of Pesticide Use in Indian Agriculture: A Case Study of Rohtas District, Bihar

Pesticides have become a crucial part of modern agriculture, mainly because they are seen as essential for protecting crops and boosting productivity. However, there are growing concerns about their effects on human health, farm finances, and the environment. This study examines the social and economic trade-offs of using pesticides in Indian agriculture, focusing on farming families in the Rohtas district of Bihar. Using information from field surveys and other sources, the research analyzes how pesticides are used, their health effects, their economic impact, and farmers’ views on their social and environmental consequences. The results show a strong reliance on chemical pesticides, mainly because farmers want stable crop yields and financial security. Conversely, the application of pesticides is strongly linked to negative health consequences within agricultural communities, a situation exacerbated by improper handling techniques and insufficient implementation of suggested protective protocols. These health impacts subsequently result in indirect economic strains, manifested through increased medical costs and diminished labour productivity. Despite the acknowledged health and environmental hazards, persistent pesticide use is indicative of systemic limitations, insufficient availability of alternative solutions, and escalating pest pressures. The research results expose a core contradiction, wherein productivity improvements are coupled with health, economic, and environmental hazards, thereby highlighting the critical need for safer operational methods, more robust institutional frameworks, and sustainable pest management strategies within agricultural systems.

⓿ Pesticide application demonstrably boosts both agricultural output and farm profitability; however, sustained dependence on these chemicals incurs considerable concealed health expenses and medical costs for farming families over time.

⓿ Despite a high level of farmer awareness regarding the hazards associated with pesticides, inadequate utilization of personal protective equipment and direct exposure during application contribute to a prevalence of health issues.

⓿ Farmers acknowledge the environmental degradation and the development of pest resistance stemming from pesticide use, thereby highlighting the critical necessity for sustainable alternatives, such as integrated pest management strategies and safer application methodologies.