KATHMANDU: A rapid pesticide residue analysis laboratory has been inaugurated at the agricultural produce market in Dhalkebar, Dhanusha.
Established by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development through its Central Agricultural Laboratory, the unit aims to ensure pesticide-free vegetables and fruits for local consumers.
The laboratory, operational from Wednesday, will analyze pesticide levels in green produce brought to the Dhalkebar market from across the district.
This initiative seeks to enhance food safety and promote healthier agricultural practices, said Budheshwor Mahato, chairman of the Agricultural Produce Market Management Committee.
Highlighting the importance of proper pesticide usage, Shanta Karki, head of the Central Agricultural Laboratory, explained the guidelines for safe consumption.
“If pesticide levels are below 35 percent, the produce is edible. Levels between 35 percent and 45 percent require a waiting period before consumption, while produce with more than 45 percent pesticide is considered inedible,” Karki said.
Constructed at a cost of Rs 4 million, the laboratory aims to provide critical information to farmers on safe pesticide application, including the appropriate waiting time before harvesting.
The facility was jointly inaugurated by District Coordination Committee Chief Rajnandan Mandal and Central Laboratory Chief Karki.
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