Telangana Reports Highest Insecticide-Related Suicides in India for 2024
T records highest number of suicides due to insecticide consumption: NCRB
The Times Of IndiaImage: The Times Of India
In 2024, Telangana recorded 4,252 suicides due to insecticide consumption, the highest in India, representing 16% of the national total. The toxic herbicide paraquat is a significant contributor to these deaths, prompting a temporary ban by the state government. Experts call for a permanent national ban to prevent further tragedies.
- 01Telangana accounted for 4,252 insecticide-related suicides, followed by Maharashtra with 3,748 and Tamil Nadu with 3,364.
- 02Paraquat, a highly toxic herbicide, is linked to the majority of poisoning cases in Telangana hospitals.
- 03The mortality rate for paraquat ingestion is between 80% and 100%, with as little as 20ml being fatal.
- 04The Telangana government imposed a 60-day ban on paraquat, but experts urge for a permanent national ban.
- 05Approximately 100 to 150 poisoning cases occur monthly in each of Telangana's districts, with 40 to 50 deaths reported monthly.
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According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Telangana recorded the highest number of suicides due to insecticide consumption in India in 2024, with 4,252 deaths, accounting for 16% of the national total of 26,921 such suicides. The data reveals a stark gender disparity, with 3,341 male and 911 female victims. Paraquat, a highly toxic herbicide, is frequently implicated in these deaths, with medical experts warning that even small amounts can be lethal. The Telangana government responded to the crisis by imposing a 60-day ban on paraquat sales, but public health experts argue that a permanent national ban is necessary to prevent further tragedies. They emphasize that paraquat is widely available in rural markets at prices ranging from ₹250 to ₹300 and has been banned in nearly 70 countries. The situation remains dire, with hospitals in Telangana reporting 100 to 150 poisoning cases monthly, leading to 40 to 50 deaths. Experts stress that without a comprehensive ban at the national level, the risks will persist, as illegal sales can still occur.
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The high rate of suicides due to paraquat in Telangana indicates a severe public health crisis that affects families and communities across the state.
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