Endosulfan affects Kerala families, ban demanded

While the agitation for ban on endosulfan has gained momentum, locals in the Malbar region of Kerala have been forced to endure its harmful affects. The use of endosulfan pesticide has caused birth defects, mental retardation and cancer among numerous families of Muthalamada in Kasargod district where the farmers had relied on it for cashew, mango and other cultivation. Another odd reaction caused by endosulfan has been patchy skin.