Q. In India, the use of carbofuran, methyl parathion, phorate and triazophos is viewed with apprehension. These chemicals are used as

• pesticides in agriculture
• preservatives in processed foods
• fruit-ripening agents
• moisturising agents in cosmetics

Answer: (a) pesticides in agriculture

Notes:

• Recently, in May 2019 in order to promote organic farming in the state of Kerala, the state Agriculture Department had ordered a ban on the use of various toxic pesticides used in agriculture. 
• During this period the Kerala Agriculture University was asked to provide alternatives to the banned pesticides, which include carbofuran, phorate, methyl parathion, monocrotophos, methyl demethon, prophenophos and triazophos.
• The Kerala Agriculture University suggested less hazardous pesticides, like acephate, carbaryl, dimethoate and flubendiamide.