Ss67-05 Initiatives for Sustainable Agriculture and Health of Informal Sector Workers and Rural Populations in India

Introduction Air pollution, climate change, agricultural dust and organic dust produce health issues in agricultural workers, informal sector workers and the general population in rural areas. They are vulnerable to accidents, heat, toxic gases, chemicals in fertilizers and pesticides. Working in confined spaces and green house, exhaust from generators and tractors, and solid fuels smoke affect their health. Stubble burning after harvest leads to environmental air pollution. Materials and Methods Initiatives for safety, health and sustainable agriculture are introduced in India. Biogas units to generate compressed natural gas and biorefinery to produce ethanol by fermenting harvest residue are installed. Crop residue is used for cardboard and particle board cartons. Artificial intelligence (AI)-based precision farming for irrigation, soil and crop health monitoring are taken up. Motorized tree climbers for harvesting and electronic solar pest control traps are introduced. Poly-oxime treated clothing and pesticides spraying drones to prevent pesticide toxicity and UV protective apron for outdoor work are under trial. Results Biogas and biorefinery installation and particle board cartons have reduced stubble burning and air pollution. Farmers use mobile apps for agriculture information. AI-based farming is gaining importance. Pesticide spraying by drones has reduced exposure in pesticide sprayers. Protective clothing for pesticides sprayers and for outdoor workers will improve health and safety. Conclusion Mitigation of occupational and environmental hazards in rural populations is imperative with health and safety awareness programs and participatory action-oriented training. These initiatives and new technological advances will lead to sustainable agriculture in India.