Farmers field evaluation of IPM module against H. armigera infesting chickpea

Abstract

Helicoverpa armigera, commonly called gram pod borer, is a serious pest of pulses in India and damages chickpea. On average a 30% crop loss is reported. Due to absence of true resistant varieties in both the crops, resorting to chemicals had been the only alternative. But this has resulted in environmental disaster in the form of manifold resistance against insecticide and other social problems. Among the various biocontrol agents, HaNPV is the most practicable solution and has been found efficacious in laboratory as well as research farms. In order to popularize this technique, large-scale farmers' field demonstrations were laid out during 2000 – 1 and 2001 – 2 in villages around IIPR Kanpur, spread over six villages in three districts in chickpea. The result was very promising. In 2000 – 1 the reduction percentage was 77.6. Treated plots gave 36% increase in yield (ranging between 32.0 to 38.6%). Average cost benefit ratio was 1 : 3.3. In 2001 – 2, the avoidable loss due to the treatment of HaNPV was in the range of 2.4 to 14.0% with a mean value of 8.8%. Treated plots gave 44% increase in yield (range 10 to 70%). The average cost – benefit ratio was 1 : 3.4.