HYDERABAD: Telangana recorded the highest number of suicides due to insecticide consumption in India in 2024, with 4,252 deaths, according to the latest data released by the National Crime Records Bureau ( NCRB).

The figure accounts for nearly 16% of the country's total 26,921 insecticide-related suicide deaths. Of the total deaths reported in Telangana, 3,341 victims were men and 911 were women, reflecting a sharp gender disparity.

Maharashtra followed with 3,748 deaths, while Tamil Nadu recorded 3,364, Andhra Pradesh 2,871, Karnataka 2,613 and Madhya Pradesh 2,569.

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Together, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh accounted for 7,123 pesticide-related suicide deaths in 2024, contributing more than 25% of the national total.

Paraquat emerges as major concern in poisoning deaths

Doctors, public health experts and the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Telangana have linked a significant number of poisoning deaths in Telangana to paraquat dichloride, a highly toxic herbicide commonly sold in rural agricultural markets.

Available at fertiliser shops for ₹250 to ₹300, paraquat is widely used for weed control. Medical experts warned that even small quantities can prove fatal.

With no antidote available, paraquat causes irreversible damage to the kidneys, liver and lungs. Doctors said consuming 20ml to 30ml can result in death, with the mortality rate ranging from 80% to 100%.

Studies conducted at Gandhi Hospital found that most patients admitted after consuming paraquat did not survive.

Experts call for central ban on paraquat sales

Dr Mahesh Reddy, president of DAAP, said Telangana government's restrictions had reduced availability in fertiliser shops and curtailed online sales.

"But unless the central government imposes a nationwide ban, the chemical can still enter states through illegal channels or neighbouring markets. A permanent central ban will be far more effective in preventing deaths across the country," he said.