Bihar News : The Agriculture Department has alerted farmers about the possible outbreak of the destructive Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in maize crops as the distribution and sowing of improved hybrid maize seeds are progressing rapidly across Katihar district.
The district has set a target of cultivating maize over 2,968.65 hectares this season. So far, sowing has been completed on 638.72 hectares, or 21.5 per cent of the targeted area.
District Agriculture Officer-cum-Project Director (ATMA) Rajiv Kumar urged farmers to regularly monitor their fields and remain vigilant against the pest. He said Fall Armyworm is one of the most destructive pests affecting maize and can damage the crop from the seedling stage to cob formation. A severe infestation can reduce yields by 30 to 70 per cent.
Farmers Advised to Inspect Fields Twice a Week
The Agriculture Department has advised farmers to inspect their maize fields at least twice a week, particularly when the crop is between 15 and 45 days old. The pest can be identified by an inverted Y-shaped marking on the larva’s head and black faecal deposits inside the central whorl of the plant.
Farmers have been advised to use pheromone traps, mechanical methods and biological control measures if infestation is detected in more than 5 per cent of plants. A mixture of sand and ash placed in the central whorl has also been recommended as a mechanical control measure.
Farmers Advised to Seek Expert Guidance
For infestation levels of 5 to 10 per cent, the department has recommended the use of approved insecticides such as Emamectin Benzoate, Chlorantraniliprole or Spinetoram, with spraying directed into the central whorl of the plant.
Rajiv Kumar said the department is working to increase maize productivity and production, promote scientific farming practices and ensure sustained growth in farmers’ incomes. Improved seeds, technical guidance and regular training are being provided to farmers.
Given Katihar’s significant potential for maize production, the department is also focusing on improving the district’s export potential through quality maize production.
Farmers have been advised to immediately contact their Block Agriculture Officer, Agriculture Coordinator or Kisan Salahkar for scientific guidance if they notice early symptoms of Fall Armyworm infestation.
