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Farmers’ Attitudes and Awareness Towards Fertilizer
and Pesticide Use: Health and Environmental Implications
Dipti
Grover, Aman laller
and Shakuntla Duman
Institute
of Environmental Studies, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India -136119
*Email: mdipti@kuk.ac.in
DOI:10.70497/ewijst.2026.0103
Agrochemicals;
Farmer awareness;
Fertilizer; Pesticides;
Occupational health;
Sustainable agriculture
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Abstract
The Green Revolution increased agricultural
productivity in India but also intensified dependence on chemical
fertilizers and pesticides, raising environmental and health concerns. This
study assessed farmers’ knowledge regarding agrochemical use in Kaithal,
Kurukshetra, and Karnal districts of Haryana. A structured questionnaire
survey was conducted among 180 farmers from nine villages, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square
tests. Findings revealed significant gaps in awareness and adoption of
recommended agrochemical dosages. Only 38% of farmers followed recommended
fertilizer application practices, while knowledge of fertilizer types,
application rates, and balanced nutrient management was limited.
Information was mainly obtained from fellow farmers (50%) and mass media
(35%), whereas only 5% consulted government extension services. Pesticide
use was largely based on visible pest infestation (50%) and personal
experience (40%). Inadequate protection, unsafe handling, and health
symptoms indicated occupational risks. Strengthening extension services,
farmer training, and sustainable farming practices is essential.
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