Syngenta I-SAFE Project

Synopsis:

The Syngenta I-SAFE (Inculcating Safety Awareness for Farmer Empowerment) initiative was launched to address the growing concern of pesticide poisoning among farmers in Adilabad district, Telangana. Implemented in partnership with TMI Foundation Trust, the project aimed to create awareness on personal hygiene, safety, and responsible agrochemical usage. It directly benefited farmers and spraymen through extensive training sessions, awareness campaigns, and a certification program.

Situation:

Adilabad district, which shares its border with Maharashtra, is a major cotton-growing region where farmers heavily rely on pesticides to protect their crops. However, a significant number of farmers and spraymen used pesticides without proper protective gear or knowledge of safe application techniques. This led to frequent cases of pesticide exposure, health complications, and environmental hazards.

Additionally, the unsafe disposal of pesticide containers and a lack of awareness about first aid in case of poisoning were key concerns. To mitigate these risks, a structured intervention was required to educate farmers, improve safety practices, and institutionalize responsible pesticide use.

Solution:

Syngenta India Pvt Ltd., through its CSR initiative, partnered with TMI Foundation Trust to implement a targeted intervention comprising:

• Training and Awareness Campaigns: Conducted across 157 villages in five mandals of Adilabad district, the program reached over 5,054 farmers. Sessions focused on personal hygiene, correct pesticide application methods, and first aid training for pesticide exposure.
• Spraymen Training and Certification: A total of 605 spraymen and their families were trained in best practices for handling pesticides, ensuring their safety and reducing health risks. Additionally, 308 spraymen were certified through a one-day workshop led by agricultural experts.
• Vehicle Campaigns and Media Outreach: Awareness messages were disseminated through vehicle campaigns in 146 villages. These campaigns, supported by the district administration, educated the broader community on pesticide safety and first aid.
• Distribution of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Farmers and spraymen were provided with PPE kits, including gloves, masks, and protective clothing, to ensure their safety while handling chemicals.
• Collaboration with District Authorities: The initiative was backed by local government bodies, including the District Collector, Chief Executive Officer of Zilla Parishad, District Medical and Health Officer, and District Agriculture Officer. Their support helped in mobilizing farmers and increasing participation.

 Response:

The project successfully transformed pesticide handling practices in Adilabad. Farmers became more aware of the risks associated with improper pesticide use and started adopting safer techniques. Spraymen who received certification gained recognition for their skills, leading to better employment opportunities.

Testimonials from local leaders and farmers underscored the program’s impact, highlighting improvements in safety awareness and health outcomes. The initiative also led to behavioral changes, with farmers implementing best practices such as wearing protective gear, reading pesticide labels carefully, and ensuring proper disposal of containers.

The I-SAFE project not only empowered farmers but also set a benchmark for future agricultural safety initiatives. The extensive outreach and community participation ensured that pesticide safety awareness became an integral part of farming practices in the region.