Experts warn that excessive use of pesticides in farming is linked to rising cancer cases, promoting organic rooftop gardening. At a workshop organized by the Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI) on Rooftop Kitchen Gardening, Chandan Mohan Sriram, Chairman of the Agro and Food Processing Committee, highlighted the impact of continuous pesticide and insecticide use. He explained that these chemicals didn’t exist three decades ago before the Green Revolution. However, today, farmers use 50-60 bags of pesticides based on the cultivability of the land. Vegetable crops are exposed to multiple forms of toxic chemicals to increase productivity, improve color, and enhance freshness. Unfortunately, this practice has led to an increase in cancer cases. The workshop aimed to raise awareness about organic farming methods and encourage rooftop kitchen gardening in cities. Countries like Israel and Kenya have successfully embraced horticulture production and export despite limited water and land resources, and other regions can follow suit.

It’s essential to note that while some studies suggest a link between pesticide exposure and cancer, there is no conclusive evidence that residues of pesticides and herbicides at low doses found in foods significantly increase cancer risk. Nonetheless, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption is advisable to reduce exposure to these compounds and minimize health risks from germs. Always consult with experts and follow recommended safety practices when handling pesticides and insecticides in agriculture and gardening.