DDT was synthesized in 1873 and its insecticidal properties discovered in 1939. The phenomenal success of this compound in the initial stages in controlling insect pests resulted in great disincentive to fundamental studies in entomology all over the world. The introduction of DDT revolutionized pest control in India, both in public health and agriculture. Although introduced in India in 1944 its large scale trials for the control of malaria were started in 1947. It is also the first insecticide to highlight the magnitude and importance of development of insecticide resistance in pest species. After 1963 a number of insect species, both of agriculture and public health importance, developed resistance to DDT. Also world wide concern was felt over the degradation of the environment by DDT due to its persistent nature and presence in food commodities. The paper also argues for the discontinuation of DDT use in India.
