By Khadija Akter and Rukhsana Rumi from Netrakona
In Netrokona Sadar, a village campaign titled “The Danger of Pesticides” was organized in Kailati to raise awareness of the environmental and health hazards of chemical pesticides.
The campaign, supported by BARCIK, involved banners, placards, and slogans such as “Say No to Chemical Agriculture,” “Reduce Pesticide Use,” and “Practice Organic Farming.”
Officials including Abdul Al Matin, Assistant Director of the Department of Environment, and local leaders highlighted that excessive use of pesticides contaminates soil, water, air, and biodiversity, posing serious health risks.
Farmers participated in discussions, burning hazardous pesticides collected from their households as a pledge to reduce chemical use. Masks were distributed, and participants were served traditional Nabanna pitha, with the program facilitated by young farmer Enamul Haque and coordinated by Khadija Akter Lita and Rukhsana Rumi.
The campaign underscores the urgent need for sustainable, chemical-free agricultural practices to protect human health, biodiversity, and cultural heritage.
