The Agrochemical Negative Externalities in Pearl Millets (Bajra) and Wheat Production in Sumerpur, Rajasthan

Abstract

This study investigates the environmental and economic implications of pesticide and inorganic fertilizer usage in agriculture, focusing on the case of Pearl millet and Wheat production in Sumerpur, Rajasthan, and their impact on the economy as a negative external cost. Formal studies have highlighted the detrimental effects of agrochemicals, including salinity, loss of biodiversity, pesticide resistance, decline in wild honeybee populations, and health issues among applicators. Millets, touted as super crops for their drought resilience and minimal agrochemical requirements, present an alternative approach to farming with zero agrochemical negative externalities. The procedure of the study is based on a method- ology developed by the Hannover University Pesticides Policy Project that was also em- ployed in a modified form. We gave estimates of production externalities of different crops of the Sumerpur Tehsil with the main emphasis on Pearl millets and Wheat. We also gave crop pattern trends in the area from a socio-economic perspective.