Glue Board Manufacturers unite to form Glue Boards Manufacturers Association(GBMA) dedicated to advancing the pest control management industry
Pune…Leading glue board manufacturers have come together to form the
Glue Boards Manufacturers Association (GBMA), an apex body dedicated towards the betterment
of the industry. It’s a new coalition committed to enhancing pest control management,
particularly in relation to rodent control. The GBMA brings together leading glue board
manufacturers with a shared vision of improving industry standards, safeguarding public health,
and protecting vital industries from the adverse effects of rodent infestations. GBMA is
advocating for the continued use and manufacturing of glue traps as an essential tool in pest
control, especially rodent management. GBMA aims to address the recent regulatory challenges
that will impact the availability and effectiveness of glue boards. Combating the rodent crisis is
essential and glue boards are protecting industries and agriculture from significant losses as well
as reducing the spread of diseases.
According to the Indian Grain Storage Management & Research Institute, IGMRI, rodents,
commonly known as rats, have been identified as a “National Pest” since 1975, making them a
significant threat to humanity. Rodents not only eat grains but also contaminate 20 times more
with their waste, hair, and sometimes their bodies. The estimated annual food grain losses due
to rodents range from 2.4 to 26 million tons, enough to feed 235 million people. What does this
figure say? Around 23 crore people in the country face hunger because of rodent infestation
alone!! If we consider other factors, this number could rise further.
The GBMA is actively seeking to overturn the 2011 and 2020 circulars that recommend
restrictions on the manufacturing and use of glue traps. These circulars have introduced
significant obstacles to the pest control industry, hindering efforts to manage rodent populations
effectively. In addition to challenging these regulations, the GBMA is calling for an immediate
stay on any actions related to the ban on manufacturing, use, and importation of glue traps.
Mukesh Patel, Secretary, Glue Boards Manufacturers Association (GBMA) and Managing
Director, Arbuda Agrochemicals said, “The formation of the Glue Boards Manufacturers
Association marks a significant milestone for the pest control industry and a positive step in our
efforts to protect public health and safety. Glue boards are a vital component of integrated pest
management strategies, providing an effective, non-toxic solution to control rodent populations.
Our aim is to ensure that glue boards remain an essential tool in managing rodent populations,
thereby protecting public health, supporting industry and agriculture, and maintaining hygiene
standards.
The 2011 and 2020 circulars pose a serious threat to our industry’s ability to deliver these
impactful solutions to curb losses to industry, agriculture and human lives. We urge regulatory
bodies to reconsider these restrictions and work with us to develop balanced regulations that
safeguard both human and animal interests.”
Mukesh Patel further added that, “We are committed to working with regulatory bodies,
industry, and the public to promote the safe and effective use of glue boards. GBMA is calling on
all stakeholders, including pest control professionals, public health officials, and concerned
citizens, to support our efforts in ensuring the continued availability of glue boards. Together,
we can protect our communities from the significant risks posed by rodent infestations.”
GBMA’s Mission and Objectives
- Advocacy and Regulations: Advocate for exemptions from restrictive regulations. The GBMA
is committed to demonstrating the critical role that glue boards play in effective pest
management. The association will work tirelessly to highlight the importance of these tools in
protecting public health and safety. The GBMA will actively engage with regulatory bodies to
advocate for balanced regulations that recognize the critical role of glue boards in pest
management. This includes challenging restrictive circulars and promoting policies that support
the use of glue boards in a safe and humane manner. - Promote Safe and Ethical Use: While advocating for the use of glue boards, the GBMA will
also emphasise best practices and ethical considerations in their deployment. This includes
ensuring humane handling and disposal of captured rodents. - Innovation and Best Practices: The association is committed to fostering innovation in glue
board design and use. By promoting best practices and ethical standards, the GBMA aims to
enhance the effectiveness and humane aspects of glue board usage. - Engage with Regulatory Bodies: The GBMA will actively engage with government agencies
and policymakers to present evidence-based discussion points for the necessity of glue boards in
pest control. By fostering open dialogue, the association aims to achieve a balanced approach
that addresses both pest control needs and animal welfare concerns. - Raise Public Awareness: Through educational campaigns, the GBMA will inform the public
about the benefits of glue boards, dispelling common myths and misconceptions. The association
will also highlight the potential consequences of banning these essential tools. - Collaboration and Research: The GBMA will collaborate with pest control professionals,
researchers, and industry stakeholders to identify and implement innovative solutions for pest
control management. This includes supporting research initiatives aimed at improving glue board
technology and pest control strategies. - Industry Support: The GBMA will work to protect industries and agriculture from the
economic impact of rodent infestations. By advocating for the use of glue boards, the
association aims to help businesses reduce losses and maintain high hygiene standards.
