By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 19: The death of 15-year-old Shailynti Marngar from suspected pesticide poisoning has cast a harsh spotlight on the growing dangers of chemical-intensive farming in the hill state.
The teenager, a resident of Mawriang Tyrnai under Mairang Block, died on July 13 shortly after consuming tomatoes believed to have been heavily treated with toxic pesticides and fungicides.
Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, who also holds the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare portfolio, revealed that initial findings point to an alarming dependency on harmful chemical inputs in tomato cultivation across the region.
Investigators found that the tomatoes consumed by the victim’s family were likely harvested without observing the mandatory safety interval after pesticide application—a lapse that may have led to the tragic incident.
A detailed report from departmental officers is awaited to confirm the specific types of non-organic fertilizers and pesticides involved. The minister acknowledged that the investigation was momentarily delayed due to a holiday but assured that officers are now actively compiling their findings.
Lyngdoh explained that farmers are typically instructed not to consume or sell produce for at least seven to ten days after applying strong chemical agents. In this case, she said, the failure to observe that precautionary period could be directly linked to the poisoning.
Expressing concern over the gradual shift away from organic farming, Lyngdoh warned that the increasing pressure to boost productivity is eroding Meghalaya’s traditional farming practices. She urged farmers to return to safer, sustainable methods that prioritize consumer health.
Shailynti had been at home with her brother when she suddenly fell ill. Despite efforts to rush her to Nongum PHC, she passed away before arrival. Her parents and siblings, who also consumed the tomatoes, suffered symptoms of food poisoning and were treated at nearby community health centres.
The minister assured that once the report is submitted, the government will take strict measures to prevent such incidents in the future. She said the tragedy should serve as a stark warning about the consequences of disregarding basic food safety protocols.