Kerala Sanctions ₹14.4 Crore for Endosulfan Victims' Rehabilitation
The Kerala government has granted administrative sanction for ₹14.40 crore to continue the comprehensive rehabilitation and welfare package 'Sneha Sandhwanam' for people affected by the pesticide Endosulfan in Kasaragod district. The allocation has been made through the Social Justice Department and incorporated into the State budget for the financial year 2026–27.
An official statement from the Chief Minister's Office said the United Democratic Front (UDF) government has kept its promise to endosulfan-affected persons. The package, which has been running for several years, aims to provide relief and support to victims of one of India's worst pesticide-related health disasters.
Endosulfan was sprayed aerially on cashew plantations in Kasaragod during the 1980s and 1990s, leading to severe health issues such as neurological disorders, congenital disabilities and cancer among the local population. The use of the pesticide was banned in 2011 by the Supreme Court, but victims have since been demanding adequate compensation and healthcare.
Of the total sanctioned amount, ₹9,84,31,200 has been set aside for monthly relief assistance for 5,208 beneficiaries currently receiving support, covering the period from April 2026 to March 2027. An additional ₹2.64 crore has been earmarked for an expected 1,000 new beneficiaries who are likely to be added to the list.
Under a separate scheme, 'Ashwasakiranam', ₹64,76,400 has been allotted for monthly financial assistance to 771 caregivers who look after endosulfan-affected individuals. For the educational needs of affected families, ₹10,05,000 has been allocated to provide educational benefits for 400 children for the 2026–27 academic year.
The government has also set aside ₹1,16,87,400 to upgrade and improve physical facilities and services at 10 model child rehabilitation centres in the region. These centres provide specialised care and therapy for children with disabilities resulting from the pesticide exposure.
The move comes against a background of criticism over the state's handling of the issue. In 2022, the Supreme Court had reportedly observed that Kerala did virtually nothing for Endosulfan victims for five years. The court was hearing a plea concerning compensation and medical care. The state has maintained that it has implemented various schemes over the years, including the current package.
Activists and victim families have welcomed the sanction but have also urged the government to ensure that all eligible persons receive aid without delay. They point out that several families are still awaiting inclusion in the beneficiary list and that long-term healthcare support is essential.
The package, named 'Sneha Sandhwanam' meaning 'compassion and consolation', is a key part of the state's response to the tragedy. The latest sanction is expected to provide continuity for thousands of families who depend on the assistance for their daily survival.
Endosulfan is a chlorinated pesticide that has been linked to serious health and environmental damage. Although it is banned in more than 80 countries, it was used extensively in India before the ban. The Kerala government has faced numerous court cases and public protests over the years, demanding justice for the victims.
With the fresh allocation, the total government spending on the rehabilitation package continues to grow. Officials said the funds will be disbursed through the Social Justice Department in a transparent manner, and monitoring mechanisms are in place to ensure that the money reaches the intended beneficiaries.
