Residual deposition of pesticides in agricultural soils: a case study from the adjoining area of Chandigarh, India
Pesticide contamination of agricultural soils has emerged as a global environmental concern due to its potential impact on soil quality, food safety, and ecosystem health. Despite increasing pesticide use worldwide, information on the occurrence and distribution of residual pesticides in agricultural soils remains limited in many regions. This study aimed to determine the occurrence and concentration of selected pesticide residues (aldrin, malathion, chlorpyrifos, phorate, and λ-cyhalothrin) in agricultural soils using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The present study was conducted to identify pesticide residues in nearby agricultural soils of Chandigarh, India. In the present study, environmental monitoring of 105 commonly sprayed pesticides was conducted on soil samples collected from seven villages of Chandigarh, India. A total of 105 samples were analysed for pesticide residues, and the measured concentrations were compared with the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and European regulations. From the total soil samples collected from agricultural fields in different sites, 54 samples were found contaminated with aldrin, chlorpyrifos, λ-cyhalothrin, hexachlorocyclohexane, malathion, and phorate. Of the 54 samples, 34 were found to exceed the MRLs. The findings provide baseline data on pesticide contamination, contribute to regional residue monitoring efforts, and support evidence-based strategies for sustainable pesticide management and environmental protection. Also, the present study can provide policymakers, authorities, farmers, and consumers with valuable insights and awareness.