Psticide residues found in 58 food samples tested in Kerala, says Minister Siddique

Psticide residues found in 58 food samples tested in Kerala, says Minister SiddiqueSpeaking to reporters, Siddique said the samples were tested at Agriculture Department laboratories. This means when we buy vegetables from a shop, we are essentially buying toxic substances for our family members.

Siddique said steps would be taken to promote organic vegetable farming in view of the findings. There are two aspects to this: one is taking steps to promote organic vegetable farming, and the second is cultivating a culture where every household transitions to farming.

What Happened

That is a serious matter, and the government is moving towards it. According to him, the Kathir project, which promotes farming in educational institutions, will be implemented in 500 schools this year.

• Thiruvananthapuram, Agriculture Minister T Siddique on Monday said excessive pesticide residues and toxic substances were found in 58 of the 1,262 food samples tested at official laboratories in Kerala and steps would be taken.

• When 1,262 food samples were tested in official labs across Kerala including Vellayani and Mannuthy excessive traces of pesticide residues and toxic substances were found in 58 of them.

• On the Onam market, Siddique said a decision had been taken to start 2,000 vegetable markets across Kerala directly under the Agriculture Department during the Onam season.

Key Details

There will be a nodal teacher and a backup committee. Kathir markets equipped with all supporting facilities will be set up.

• This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.

• No official who acts contrary to the policy and vision of the government will survive under this government.

• Asked about a possible lack of coordination between the government and public servants, Siddique said officials would have to follow the government's policies and vision.

Why It Matters

The minister said students would receive training and Kathir clubs would be formed as part of the initiative. We will reconnect the youth through this lost institution.

• The government is moving forward with a strong, serious initiative to curb price hikes.

• He said a special market exclusively for Onam would also be started in Thiruvananthapuram, while markets and other mechanisms under Supplyco and Consumerfed would also be effectively utilised.

What Reports Say

Coverage of the story so far points to:

• Continued reporting by Hindustan Times as more details emerge