Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Ramnath Thakur on Friday attributed the increase in cancer cases in Punjab and Haryana to excessive use of chemical fertilisers in agriculture. He mentioned the “cancer train” in Punjab to highlight the adverse effects of excessive and unbalanced chemical inputs in farming on environment, water resources and human health.
Thakur was interacting with mediapersons on the sidelines of the “Khet Bachao Abhiyan", organised under the joint aegis of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) and the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department in Kacchwa village in Karnal. Calling the “cancer train" a wake-up call for the agricultural community, Thakur urged farmers to adopt balanced fertiliser use and natural farming practices. He urged them to prioritise soil health through regular testing and scientific nutrient management.
“There is an unhealthy competition in Punjab and Haryana to use more and more chemical fertilisers. As a result, our soil is becoming poisonous and the health of our people is being adversely affected. Farmers should move towards natural fertilisers, particularly cow dung-based manure, and adopt natural farming practices. I urge farmers, scientists and agriculture officials to work together to reduce the use of chemicals and safeguard the future of our families and the next generations. Just as a mother cares for her child, farmers must protect and preserve soil fertility,” said Thakur.
“Once known for producing wrestlers, Haryana is witnessing a decline in their numbers. One of the factors that needs serious examination is the increasing dependence on chemical fertilisers and chemical-intensive farming practices,” said the minister.
Stressing the importance of soil testing, Thakur said, “Just as periodic health check-ups are necessary for humans, routine soil testing is essential for fields.” He urged farmers to submit soil samples regularly and follow scientific recommendations while applying fertilisers.
During the farmers’ training programme at the gram sachivalaya in Kachhwa village, Thakur interacted with local farmers and agriculture officials and discussed the harmful effects of the excessive use of chemical fertilisers. He also visited stalls set up by progressive farmers and reviewed their products. Thakur said the “Khet Bachao Abhiyan" was being conducted from June 1 to June 30 across 100 districts of the country to encourage farmers to replace chemical-based farming with natural and sustainable practices.
Later, Thakur visited NDRI, where he planted trees to mark World Environment Day and underscore the importance of environmental protection and green development. NDRI Director Dheer Singh briefed the minister on the “Khet Bachao Campaign" and gave him an overview of the balanced fertiliser campaign, scheduled for launch on June 15.
An agricultural exhibition showcased natural farming products of Manglora Dairy FPO and items made by women’s self-help groups under the Livelihood Mission. Turmeric, vegetables, spices and other naturally grown produce were on display at the exhibition. Around 430 farmers, including 152 women, participated in the programme. Value-added dairy products, including pure desi ghee, paneer and lassi, prepared by members of Haryana Atulya Nari Shakti Dairy FPO attracted special attention at the exhibition.
