The Farmers, Crops, and Pesticides: Analysing the Economic, Agronomic, and Occupational Realities of Chemical Dependency in Modern Agriculture

Dr. Jeeva Chacko

Abstract: Modern agriculture is deeply entwined with the use of synthetic pesticides, a paradigm that has undeniably increased global food production but has also created a cycle of chemical dependency. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of this dependency through three distinct lenses: economic, agronomic, and occupational. Utilizing a qualitative synthesis of existing agricultural and public health literature, the study explores how farmers are often trapped on a "pesticide treadmill," facing rising input costs against diminishing yield returns. Agronomically, the pervasive use of these chemicals has led to widespread pest resistance and the degradation of soil microbiomes. Concurrently, the occupational reality for agricultural workers involves chronic exposure to toxic compounds, leading to severe acute and long-term health crises, particularly in developing regions with inadequate protective regulations. Ultimately, this paper argues that transitioning away from chemical dependency requires systemic policy shifts, market incentives, and the widespread adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and agroecological practices.

Keywords: Synthetic pesticides, Integrated pest management, Pest resistance, Soil health, Agricultural worker safety

How to Cite?: Dr. Jeeva Chacko, "The Farmers, Crops, and Pesticides: Analysing the Economic, Agronomic, and Occupational Realities of Chemical Dependency in Modern Agriculture", Volume 15 Issue 6, June 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1547-1550, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26625103435, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26625103435

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