The Union government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, has officially prohibited Paraquat Dichloride, a highly toxic non-selective herbicide. Paraquat is a fast-acting, broad-spectrum contact weedkiller used for weed control and crop desiccation. If swallowed it is extremely poisonous and can cause severe lung and kidney damage, including progressive pulmonary fibrosis. The decision followed an expert review of risks to human health, livestock and the environment. Insecticides in India are regulated under the Insecticides Act, 1968, covering import, manufacture, sale, transport, distribution and use.