Zaid Crop Pest Alert: Important Advisory for Maize, Sugarcane and Mango Farmers
Fluctuating temperatures and changing weather conditions have increased the risk of seasonal pests and diseases in Zaid crops across the region. Keeping the situation in view, Department of Agriculture has issued a detailed advisory for farmers in Gautam Buddh Nagar district. The advisory focuses on preventive measures and scientific management practices for maize, pigeon pea, urad, moong, sugarcane and mango crops to minimize crop losses during the season.
Maize Crops Face Rising Threat of Stem Borer and Fall Armyworm
Agriculture experts have warned farmers about a possible rise in stem borer and Fall Armyworm infestation in maize fields. Farmers have been advised to regularly inspect crops for symptoms such as dead hearts and damaged leaves. The department recommended installing bird perches, pheromone traps and light traps to reduce pest populations naturally.
Biological pest control methods, including the use of parasitic eggs such as Trichogramma species, have also been suggested to manage infestations effectively. Officials stressed that pesticides should only be used in recommended doses to avoid crop damage and environmental risks.
Alert Issued for Pigeon Pea, Urad and Moong Diseases
The advisory highlights the growing risk of pod fly infestation, sterility mosaic disease and pod borer attacks in pigeon pea crops. Farmers have been advised to uproot infected plants immediately to prevent further spread of disease. Marigold plants have also been recommended as trap crops around fields for better pest management.
In urad and moong crops, Cercospora leaf spot disease and yellow mosaic disease are becoming major concerns. Experts identified whiteflies as the primary carriers of these viral infections. Sticky traps and timely spraying have been advised to reduce the spread and protect crop productivity.
Sugarcane Farmers Warned Against Red Rot and Top Borer
Sugarcane growers have been urged to stay alert against red rot disease, pyrilla pest and top borer attacks. According to the advisory, using healthy planting material, resistant varieties and proper crop rotation can significantly reduce infection risks.
Biological management practices, including Trichogramma egg release and yellow sticky traps, were recommended as eco-friendly alternatives. Experts also suggested the use of solar light traps to control harmful Lepidoptera insects that damage sugarcane crops during the season.
Special Measures Suggested for Mango Orchards
Mango farmers have also been advised to take preventive steps against premature fruit drop. The department recommended spraying Alpha Naphthalene Acetic Acid solution at regular intervals to reduce fruit loss and improve retention during the harvesting stage.
New Digital Pest Monitoring System Introduced for Farmers
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has introduced a technology-based National Pest Surveillance System to help farmers monitor crop diseases and pest outbreaks more efficiently. Through the mobile application, farmers can upload photographs of affected crops and receive expert recommendations instantly.
Officials said the platform would strengthen early detection, pest forecasting and scientific crop management across farming regions. Farmers have been encouraged to download the NPSS application and actively use the digital system for better crop protection and improved agricultural productivity.
