Udupi: Pramod Madhwaraj, Minister for Fisheries, Youth Empowerment and Sports, said on Monday that it was essential for farmers to give importance to their health.

He was speaking after inaugurating a workshop on health and personality development of farmers, organised by the Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka Agriculture Price Commission ,and other organisations.

He said that with the spraying of pesticides and other fertilisers on crops, there was a possibility of chemicals entering farmers’ bodies. This could lead to diseases, including cancer. Hence, regular health check-ups are essential for farmers, he said.

He also urged farmers not to use chemicals during agricultural operations without taking precautions. It would be better if they stop using inorganic fertilisers and pesticides, and instead use organic and natural farming methods, Mr. Madhwaraj said.

The Minister said the present initiative of focussing on the health of farmers was laudable. “Just as food is essential for society, the health of farmers is too,” he said.

T.N. Prakash Kammaradi, chairperson of the State Agriculture Price Commission, H.S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor of MAHE, Poornima Baliga, Pro Vice-Chancellor, were present.