Table 3.

Summary findings of the FGDs with Panchayat Samithies

Deliberate self-harm and suicide by pesticide poisoning is quite common in the block and it has become a major health problem in the entire Sundarban region. Although it is seen in both sexes, the frequency of DSH is higher among females, specially among young married females. Torture is an important cause behind many deliberate self-harm attempts in women. Family conflict and economic loss may be important reasons among males. Recently, deliberate self-harm has been observed among schoolgoing boys and girls, mostly related to failure in (love) relationships or examinations. Exposure of youth to sex and violence in movies, in video parlors is highly influential in the development of the habit to consume alcohol, indecent sexual behavior and torture and violence against women. Easy availability of pesticides is a dangerous situation prevailing in this entire region. Farmers' education on safe use and storage of pesticides is an important method of public awareness. Panchayats should have some power to regulate the local pesticide market. There is a definite lack of appropriate caution or knowledge of the safe storage of pesticides by farmers. Opportunities for health care service should be available at the community level. Timely family intervention may save many lives if arranged. Governmental intervention concerning pesticide licensing or legal proceedings in cases of dowry-related deliberate self-harm and suicide should be handled more strictly.