What is the primary purpose of using pesticides in agriculture?

The primary purpose of using pesticides in agriculture is to control pests and diseases that threaten crops and livestock. Pests such as insects, weeds, and diseases can significantly damage crops, leading to reduced yields and financial losses for farmers. By effectively managing these threats, pesticides help ensure that agricultural production remains high, which is crucial for food security and economic stability.

Controlling pests and diseases enables farmers to protect their crops from the various organisms that can adversely affect plant health and productivity. This use of pesticides allows for more efficient farming practices, as it minimizes the losses caused by these harmful organisms and helps maintain the overall health of the crop and livestock.

In contrast, while controlling weeds and enhancing soil quality is an important aspect of agricultural management, it does not encapsulate the primary function of pesticides. Similarly, promoting beneficial insects, which can indeed have positive effects on pest control, is not a direct purpose of pesticide use, and reducing farming costs relates to economic factors rather than the core function of pesticide application in pest management.