Bhubaneswar: In a bid to reduce cancer risks linked to chemical pesticide and fertilizer use, the Odisha government has launched the Odisha Balabhadra Jaivik Chasa Mission to promote organic farming and encourage sustainable agricultural practices.
Citing alarming health concerns, Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan informed the Assembly that the excessive use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers has been a significant contributor to the growing number of cancer cases in Balangir, Sambalpur, and Bargarh districts.
Between 2021 and 2023, an average of 22,000 new cancer patients were diagnosed in western Odisha, with Bargarh alone reporting 6,000 cases, according to government data. Experts have linked this surge to toxic agricultural practices, prompting urgent intervention.
The Balabhadra Organic Mission seeks to promote chemical-free farming by encouraging organic practices, which will not only help reduce health risks but also contribute to environmental conservation and soil health restoration.
The government is expected to roll out incentives and awareness programs to support farmers in transitioning to organic farming methods. However, agricultural experts stress that further research and policy support are necessary to make the initiative viable and attractive for farmers.
With the Balabhadra Jaivik Chasa Mission, Odisha aims to curb the spread of cancer, ensure safer food production, and promote sustainable agriculture, marking a significant shift towards eco-friendly and health-conscious farming in the state.
