Chemical properties and neurotoxic mechanism
Monocrotophos is a systemic organophosphate compound providing both contact and stomach poison action against insect pests.
- Inhibits acetylcholinesterase (AChE), leading to acetylcholine accumulation in insect nerve synapses, paralysis, and death.
- Readily translocated through plant xylem, providing internal protection against chewing and sucking pests.
- Formulated as a soluble liquid (36% SL) that dissolves completely in water for foliar spraying or trunk injection.
- High acute oral and dermal mammalian toxicity, categorized under the red hazard triangle.
Statutory bans and legally permitted crop uses in India
Under official notifications issued under the Insecticides Act, Monocrotophos is subject to stringent crop-use restrictions.
- Strictly prohibited on all vegetable crops, edible fruit crops, and tea plantations due to high residue hazards.
- Permitted on cotton for controlling bollworms, whiteflies, and jassids during vegetative and reproductive stages.
- Permitted on paddy for controlling stem borer and gall midge under specific statutory conditions.
- Permitted on sugarcane (shoot borer) and for stem injection in coconut to control red palm weevil and black-headed caterpillar.
Toxicity hazards, mandatory safety, and safer alternatives
Because of its extreme toxicity to humans, livestock, and beneficial birds, applicators must use complete personal protective gear including chemical-resistant overalls, respirators, rubber boots, and heavy rubber gloves. Farmers are strongly encouraged to adopt modern, selective, lower-toxicity alternatives such as diamides, spinosyns, or neonicotinoids for crop pest management.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
Is Monocrotophos permitted for use on vegetables and fruits in India?
No, Monocrotophos is strictly prohibited by government notification on all vegetable and fruit crops due to high acute toxicity and dietary residue risks.
What is the WHO toxicity classification of Monocrotophos?
Monocrotophos is classified as WHO Class Ib (Highly Hazardous), carrying a red poison warning triangle on the container.
How is Monocrotophos legally applied in coconut plantations?
In coconut palms, it is permitted via root feeding or trunk injection by trained operators to combat coconut black-headed caterpillars and red palm weevil.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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