Farmers in North Rajasthan and the border areas of Punjab have voiced significant concerns regarding the condition of their cotton crops in the wake of pink bollworm infestations. The previous season saw considerable losses suffered by farmers in these regions due to relentless attacks by the pink bollworm, highlighting the urgency of finding effective solutions to this persistent menace.
The pink bollworm, a notorious cotton pest, poses a formidable challenge to cotton cultivation. Its impact is exacerbated by various factors, including climate conditions,
insufficient crop rotation, and the development of resistance to pesticides and Bt. cotton varieties. This pest not only damages cotton crops but also reduces yields, impacting the livelihoods of farmers in the region.
In response to these challenges, experts and progressive farmers advocate for a strategic and scientific approach to combat pink bollworm infestations. Farmers are advised to adopt a comprehensive approach. This includes implementing protective measures such as crop rotation, where the cultivation of cotton is alternated with other crops to disrupt the pink bollworm’s life cycle and reduce its population density in fields. Furthermore, early planting of cotton is recommended to establish the crop before the peak infestation periods, thus minimising the vulnerability of the plants to pink bollworm attacks.
Additionally, farmers can strategically use trap crops like okra to divert pink bollworm moths away from cotton fields, reducing the risk of infestation. Regular monitoring of the cotton crop is essential to detect signs of infestation, such as damaged bolls and larvae, enabling farmers to intervene promptly and mitigate the spread of the pest. Moreover, the deployment of pheromone traps aids in tracking pink bollworm activityand optimising the timing of pesticide applications, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of pest control measures.
Roop Singh Meena, a scientist at Agriculture Research Station, Sri Ganganagar, stresses the urgency of proactive measures against pink bollworm infestation. “Proactive measures against pink bollworm infestation are crucial. Implementing recommended strategies, such as proper crop residue management before sowing, can mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions and other contingencies throughout the crop cycle. Proactive preparation and strategic management are essential in safeguarding cotton yields from the devastating effects of pink bollworm,” he says.
Furthermore, progressive farmers from North Rajasthan and Punjab emphasise the importance of following expert recommendations for insecticide spraying and crop management practices. Jasveer Singh of Mansa, Punjab, says, “Following expert recommendations for insecticide spraying and crop management practices is essential for protecting our cotton yields.” Gurpreet Singh from North Rajasthan adds, “Collective efforts are crucial in overcoming the challenges posed by pink bollworm infestations and ensuring the health of our cotton crops.”
A survey conducted by the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in 2023 revealed alarming findings, indicating that up to 15 percent of the early-sown cotton crop has succumbed to pink bollworm infestation. This vulnerable stage of the crop underscores the urgent need for effective pest management strategies to mitigate the devastating effects of the pest on cotton yields.
By adopting a holistic approach and leveraging scientific knowledge, farmers in North Rajasthan and Punjab can mitigate the impact of pink bollworm infestations and protect their cotton yields. It is essential to equip farmers with the necessary information and resources to effectively combat this pest and ensure the sustainability of cotton cultivation in the region.
For more information and expert advice, farmers are encouraged to consult local agricultural extension services and stay updated with the latest research and recommendations.