One pesticide widely used in cotton cultivation is called an organophosphorous. The amount sprayed to control "pests" that have acquired resistance is increasing, as is the use of herbicides.

Organophosphorus insecticides are considered highly potent. On the other hand, they are known to cause a number of psychiatric symptoms, including depression and impulsive behavior.

When taken into the insect's body, it interferes with normal nerve function. This prevents the normal neurotransmission of the insects, causing them to suffer intoxication and death.

The use of monocrotophos, an organophosphorous insecticide, was banned in the United States in 1989 due to its hazardous effects on human health. However, it is allowed to be manufactured domestically and exported to other countries, and is also used in India.

In India, spraying insecticides and herbicides is often unprotected. Cotton crop farmers cannot afford goggles, masks, or protective clothing.

Some researchers suggest that the high number of suicides among Indian farmers is not only due to the debt associated with the purchase of genetically modified seeds and other products, but also because the continued use of organophosphorus insecticides is poisoning farmers and damaging their brains and central nervous system.

With the introduction of genetically modified seeds, India began to use large amounts of insecticides and herbicides. The need for more water has led to the digging of irrigation wells and the shortage of water for domestic use. What little water they had was contaminated with dangerous chemicals. Farmland is being sold to pay off debts, and many suicides are still occurring.

Two states have so far banned the sale of genetically modified seeds.In the 12 years since they were marketed as "dream seeds," up to 95% of India's cotton is grown on genetically modified seeds from a single company. In two states, the big question is how to procure seed for next season's cotton crop.

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