NITI Aayog-CSIR Report on Lead Poisoning in India
Recently in the year 2022, NITI Aayog and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) conducted a study regarding lead poisoning.
- Based on the findings of this study, experts have expressed concern about lead poisoning in India.
- According to this study, 23 states have an average level of lead metal in the blood above the permissible limit of 5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL).
- Due to lack of research and screening mechanism to collect data, blood lead levels have not been determined in the remaining states and union territories.
- Furthermore, a 2020 report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Pure Earth also mentions that 27.5 million children in India have blood lead levels above the permissible limit of 5 µg/dL.
Lead poisoning
- Lead poisoning occurs when lead accumulates in the body, often over a period of months or years.
- This is due to the absorption of lead in the human system, symptoms include fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, anemia, a deep receding gum line, and muscle weakness or paralysis of a limb.
- Children are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning because their bodies are still in their developing stages.
- Lead is a naturally occurring toxic metal. It is found in the earth’s crust.
Sources of lead poisoning
- Commercial sources: Mining, painting, glass making, pottery, smelting etc.
- Non-occupational sources: traditional medicine, exhaust from vehicles, food items, colored toys, contaminated soil, dust, water etc.
Effects of lead poisoning:
- It damages the brain and nervous system,
- This is the reason for slow growth and development,
- This can lead to learning and hearing/speech problems,
- Leads to less intellectual development, causes less academic achievement etc.
Steps taken to phase out lead-
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations protect workers from toxic metal exposure.
- The Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011 have come into force.
- Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022 have been issued.
Source – Down to Earth