ನಕಲಿ ಕೀಟನಾಶಕಗಳನ್ನು ತಯಾರಿಸಿ ಮಾರುತ್ತಿದ್ದ ನಕಲಿ ಬೆಳೆತಜ್ಞನ ಬಂಧನ

According to a report by Vijayavani, authorities in Chikkaballapur, Karnataka, have arrested a 43-year-old man identified as Somasundar for allegedly manufacturing and distributing counterfeit pesticides. The arrest was carried out by the vigilance squad of the Agriculture Department following an investigation into illegal chemical production at a residence located near the local APMC yard.

Officials reported that the suspect had been posing as a 'crop expert' to gain the trust of local farmers, offering them agricultural chemicals at prices significantly lower than market rates. During the raid, authorities seized over 200 liters of various chemical substances, along with packaging materials and counterfeit labels belonging to 11 to 12 reputable agricultural brands.

The discovery highlights ongoing concerns regarding the circulation of spurious agricultural inputs in rural markets, which can cause significant damage to crop yields and soil health. The Agriculture Department has initiated further proceedings against the suspect to determine the extent of the distribution network and to identify any other parties involved in the illicit operation. Local authorities have urged farmers to purchase inputs only from authorized dealers to avoid falling victim to such fraudulent schemes.