SAARC consultation calls for stronger action to reduce pesticide risks in South Asia

A regional consultation on promoting pesticide risk reduction and safe agricultural practices across SAARC member states began on Monday (17 August 2026) with experts calling for greater awareness, stronger regulation and safer use of agrochemicals to protect human health and the environment.

The three-day virtual consultation, organized by the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC), is being held from August 17 to 19, 2026. Representatives and experts from SAARC member states are taking part in the consultation to discuss challenges and opportunities for reducing pesticide related risks in the region.

In his welcome address, Dr. Md. Harunur Rashid, Director of SAC, emphasized the urgent need for stronger regional cooperation to address the environmental hazards and human health risks associated with the indiscriminate use of pesticides. He noted that excessive and unsafe application of agrochemicals can contaminate soil, water and food systems, while posing serious risks to farmers, consumers and biodiversity. He stressed that promoting responsible pesticide use, safer alternatives and sustainable agricultural practices is essential to safeguarding public health and the environment while ensuring long term agricultural productivity and food security.

Dr. Sikander Khan Tanveer, Senior Program Specialist (Crops) at SAC, highlighted the objectives and provided an overview of the programme. He emphasized the need for knowledge sharing, coordinated action and the exchange of good practices among SAARC member states to strengthen pesticide risk reduction initiatives.

Delivering the keynote presentation on the environmental and human health impacts of agrochemicals in South Asia, Dr Ratna Kumar Jha, Plant Health Consultant at FAO, former Chief of the Agriculture Development Directorate of Madhesh Province, Nepal, and SANDEE Associate, discussed the potential risks associated with inappropriate pesticide use.

He highlighted the importance of integrated approaches, improved awareness and responsible agrochemical management. He further emphasized the need to strengthen farmer capacity, promote integrated pest management and encourage safer alternatives to minimize pesticide exposure and protect human health, biodiversity and the environment.

The consultation will continue with technical discussions aimed at identifying practical strategies for pesticide risk reduction and safer agricultural production across the SAARC member states.

-ABM/HIS