Pesticide traces found in 58 food samples in Kerala, minister says

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Kerala Agriculture Minister P. Prasad said on Monday that excessive pesticide residues and toxic substances were found in 58 of 1,262 food samples tested at state laboratories in Vellayani and Mannuthy. He called the findings "extremely serious" and announced steps to promote organic vegetable farming through the 'Kathir' project, which will be implemented in 500 schools with ₹10,000 per school for farming activities. The minister also said 2,000 vegetable markets will be opened during Onam under the Vegetable and Fruit Promotion Council Keralam and Horticorp to curb price hikes, with ₹10.5 crore already disbursed.

The government is considering granting weightage marks to students who engage in agricultural activities through Kathir clubs, which will be operational in all schools next year. Prasad warned that officials acting against government policies "will not survive under this government." The initiative includes setting up Kathir markets with supporting facilities and providing student training.