The weed killer

The story of Paraquat is similar to that of other substances used in agriculture. Suspected of causing some neurological diseases, Paraquat has been banned in countries that produce it but is traded in states where legislation is more permissive. In India then the vicissitudes related to this powerful herbicide have taken a tragic collateral turn as it is used as a means of suicide, particularly by young people, farmers and the less affluent sections of the population.