Endosulfan tragedy in Kerala

A series of health problems occurred in Kerala, India, following the use of the pesticide endosulfan, which was sprayed aerially in cashew orchards in Kasaragod district of Kerala to control pests such as tea mosquito bugs. It was found that people living in these areas were affected by physical and genetic problems after the application of this pesticide. The health effects of the endosulfan use were evident in the people of 11 panchayats in the district, with the victims suffering from birth defects, physical and intellectual disabilities, and gynecological problems. It also affected biodiversity of the region.

In April 2011, the Persistent Organic Pollutants Review Committee, a subsidiary body to the Stockholm Convention declared endosulfan molecule as a persistent organic pollutant. One reason for this declaration was a campaign launched by various stakeholders in the context of the health problems seen in Kasaragod.

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