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Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister for Science and Technology, launched Kisan Kavach, India’s first indigenous anti-pesticide bodysuit.
Kisan Kavach
An 'anti-pesticide' suit to protect farm labourers from harmful pesticides.
Created by BRIC-inStem, Bangalore, in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd. Supported by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
The suit includes a trouser, pullover, and face-cover made of 'oxime fabric,' which can chemically break down pesticides, preventing them from being absorbed into the skin.
The suit helps protect workers from neurotoxic and health-damaging pesticides commonly used in farming.
Washable and reusable (up to 1 year). Advanced fabric deactivates pesticides on contact.
Priced at ₹4,000, plans for greater affordability with scaled-up production.
Significance : Fills critical safety gap, protects farmers’ health (65% of India’s workforce), promotes sustainable agricultural practices.
Supports Modi government’s BioE3 policies and India’s biotech sector, targeting a $300 billion bioeconomy.
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