Farmers’ Perception of Plant Protection Practices and Management of Insect Pests of Rice in Lahore Division, Pakistan

P akistan's economy is dependent on agriculture because it is an agricultural country with heavy reliance on pesticide to increase productivity of crops and controlling different pests Local Knowledge Systems (LKS) are comprised of indigenous and local groups' information, attitudes, customs, behaviors, organizations, and views of the world, and are thought to constitute an adaptation strategy to the environment in which they exist A few scholars have questioned the value of LKS, claiming that it is limited to local problems The excessive use of pesticides with poor knowledge about pesticide handling, disposal, storage and Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) during operation leads to health problems of human, increase resistance against pests with negative effects on the environment. The purpose of this survey was to check the knowledge about pesticide uses, risks and storage among farmers in Lahore division of Punjab, Pakistan. And, to get knowledge from farmers regarding local knowledge system (LKS) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Most of respondents 97% (out of total 250) were male and 28% were between the ages of 26-45 years. Thirteen percent respondents had acquired education up to secondary level, and 92% respondents got knowledge about pesticide usage from pesticide retailers. Most of the respondents (85%) visited doctor after any exposure and 96% took showering after application. Most of the respondents (96%) did not use any protection during mixing of pesticide solution and 94% respondents did not during applying. Forty-nine percent respondents disposed left over pesticide solution on ground and 67% used for different purposes until finished. This study revealed lack of knowledge about pesticide use, storage, disposal, LKS, IPM and PPE. Farmers training regarding pesticide usage are necessary to ensure safe use of pesticides, and to save the environment.