DS Group has launched the ‘Pallu Protection Equipment (PPE)’ Awareness Campaign in Uttar Pradesh to help protect women farmers from the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to agricultural pesticides and chemicals. The initiative combines community awareness, preventive healthcare and a culturally adapted protective solution aimed at improving occupational safety in agriculture.
Currently being implemented across seven villages in Baghpat district—Pali, Katha, Bandpur, Sunehra, Basi, Mavikala and Sankrodh, the campaign seeks to educate women farmers about pesticide-related health hazards while providing them with protective equipment designed specifically for agricultural use.
At the centre of the initiative is the Pallu Protection Equipment (PPE) filter, a washable nano-fibre filter that can be stitched into a saree pallu or dupatta, converting everyday clothing into a protective layer during farm work. According to the company, the filter is designed to offer protection against pesticide particles, dust and harmful pollutants, including PM2.5.
To encourage adoption, the filters will be distributed free of cost through selected tailor shops, pesticide outlets and chemist stores across the seven participating villages. The initiative also includes a version integrated into the traditional gamcha, allowing male farmers to use the protective solution as well.
Beyond product distribution, the campaign features a series of grassroots awareness activities, including mobile awareness vans, puppet shows, nukkad nataks (street plays), free health check-up camps and door-to-door outreach programmes. Conducted in collaboration with local authorities and community groups, these activities aim to increase awareness about the long-term health effects of pesticide exposure and promote safer farming practices.
The health camps offer blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, basic health counselling and the distribution of PPE protective masks. Women participating in the programme are also receiving mirrors and calendars carrying messages that reinforce the importance of workplace safety in agriculture.
The initiative is part of DS Group’s FarmHER programme, which focuses on recognising and supporting the contribution of women farmers across India. Through awareness campaigns, preventive healthcare and practical interventions, the programme aims to bridge the gap between knowledge and action while encouraging safer and more sustainable agricultural practices.
Commenting on the initiative, Rajeev Jain, Senior Vice President, Corporate Marketing, DS Group, said “Women farmers play a vital role in India’s agricultural economy, yet awareness of the occupational health risks they face remains limited. Our field research revealed that the saree pallu and dupatta are often used as informal protective coverings during pesticide-intensive agricultural work, despite offering inadequate protection. This highlights the urgent need for simple, practical and culturally appropriate solutions that women farmers can seamlessly adopt. Through the Pallu Protection Equipment’ Awareness Campaign, DS Group combines awareness with action, providing accessible solutions that can help make agricultural work safer and healthier for women.”
FAQs
- What is the DS Group Pallu Protection Equipment campaign?
The Pallu Protection Equipment (PPE) campaign is a DS Group initiative that aims to protect women farmers from pesticide exposure through awareness programmes and washable nano-fibre protective filters.
- Where is the DS Group campaign being implemented?
The initiative is currently being rolled out across seven villages in Baghpat district, Uttar Pradesh.
- What is the Pallu Protection Equipment filter?
It is a washable nano-fibre filter that can be stitched into a saree pallu or dupatta to help protect farmers from pesticide particles, dust and PM2.5 pollutants.
- What activities are included in the campaign?
The campaign includes health check-up camps, mobile awareness vans, puppet shows, street plays, door-to-door outreach and free distribution of protective filters.
- What is DS Group’s FarmHER programme?
FarmHER is DS Group’s initiative focused on supporting women farmers through awareness, health, safety and community-driven interventions aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
