Control pests without polluting environment

Updated on: 14 November,2011 07:02 AM IST |
MiD DAY Correspondent |

ICMR soon to launch biopesticides

ICMR soon to launch biopesticides

If the polluting aspect of pesticides is bugging you, then soon you'll be able to put your mind at ease. Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) is about to introduce an environment- friendly pest control product to replace chemical pesticides.

The 'indigenous product' of ICMR will not only answer the problem faced because of chemical pesticides but will also reduce expenditure incurred in procuring them from outside countries.

Dr VM Katoch, Director-General, ICMR said, "It has already been developed by Vector Control Research Centre, an institution of ICMR in Pondicherry. These will be made from proteins and toxins produced by bacteria and fungi." The most remarkable feature of biopesticides is they are environment-friendly and biodegradable, resulting in lower residues and avoiding pollution problems.

"These can greatly decrease the use of chemicals, with almost the same level of crop yield. The biopesticides are ready and we are trying to soon bring them to public use," added Dr Katoch.

Hundered up
On November 15, the ICMR will complete 100 years of existence. "We spread our wings and now we are in a stage where we are planning to start new centres on transplant immunology, policy research, oral health, bone health, mental health and clinical pharmacology," Dr Katoch said. ICMR is also planning to release commemorative coins of Rs 100 and Rs 5 denomination.