Why in News? 

Union Minister of State for Science and Technology (Independent Charge), unveiled Kisan Kavach, India’s first anti-pesticide bodysuit aimed at protecting farmers from harmful pesticide exposure.  

What is Kisan Kavach? 

Kisan Kavach is a bodysuit designed to protect farmers from pesticide-induced toxicity, preventing severe health issues such as breathing disorders, vision loss, and even death. It is a washable, reusable suit that employs advanced fabric technology to deactivate harmful pesticides on contact. 

Components of the Scheme 

• Developed by BRIC-inStem, Bangalore, in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd. 
• The suit is priced at Rs 4,000 and can last for up to a year. 
• It uses nucleophilic-mediated hydrolysis to deactivate pesticides. 
• The fabric technology protects farmers from toxic pesticide exposure. 

Benefits 

• Provides physical protection to farmers, safeguarding their health. 
• Helps in reducing pesticide-induced toxicity, enhancing safety. 
• A step toward making agriculture more sustainable and climate-resilient. 
• Supports India’s bioeconomy and the growth of biotech startups. 

Conclusion 

Kisan Kavach is a transformative technology aimed at protecting India’s agricultural community. It not only addresses a critical health concern but also reflects India’s commitment to using science and technology for societal welfare. The initiative showcases India’s capacity for innovation, with a focus on safeguarding farmers and fostering sustainable agricultural practices.