Defense News ,Afganistan :- The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Afghanistan expresses gratitude to India for delivering 40,000 liters of Malathion, a vital pesticide utilized in combating the locust menace.
In the ongoing fight against #locusts in Afghanistan, the FAO acknowledged the support from @IndianEmbKabul, stating, "Good to see we have allies in the struggle against #locusts in Afghanistan; thanks to the support of @IndianEmbKabul."
The 40,000 liters of Malathion pesticide were transported in two trucks and formally handed over to the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock of the government under Taliban control in Afghanistan.
Recognized for its effectiveness in arid regions and minimal water usage, Malathion plays a crucial role in locust control. This aid not only addresses the immediate threat within Afghanistan but also aims to prevent the spread of locusts to neighboring Central Asian countries.
The Ministry of Agriculture under the Taliban government expressed gratitude for the assistance, which was facilitated through the Chabahar port.
This support is not only instrumental in preventing locust outbreaks in Afghanistan but also serves to shield Central Asian countries, particularly Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, from the devastating impact of locusts on regional crops.
Known for their voracious appetite and destructive impact on vegetation, locusts pose a significant threat to food security. The worst locust outbreak in recent times occurred in neighboring Pakistan in early 2020, prompting the country to declare a national emergency.
Simultaneously, India faced a widespread locust incursion in several states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, parts of Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The collaborative efforts between India and Afghanistan underscore the importance of international cooperation in mitigating the impact of locusts on agricultural landscapes.
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