MAJOR PEST OF MANGO AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICE AT FARMER LEVEL IN SAPTARI, NEPAL

Abstract

Traditionally used methods to control insect pests are locally accepted, cost-effective, and sustainable to reduce resistance and foster long-term benefits. A household study was carried out in Surunga municipality in three wards of Saptari, Nepal namely Madhupatti, Sripur, and Haripur, Saptari to analyze the principal mango pest and farmer management practices. The moderate climate and edaphic characteristics of the Terai region are favorable for mango production in the district. Grafting was utilized to raise 93.3% of the total plant population in the respondent’s orchards, according to the data. The number of female family members involved in mango cultivation (88) was higher than the number of male family members (81). Gummosis, followed by Sooty Mould and Anthracnose, was the most common and devastating disease in the study area. Mango Hopper was determined to be the most common and harmful insect, followed by Fruit fly and Leaf Webber. With a mean of 15.6533% of the total predicted yield loss. In the study area, local management measures against diseases and pests were used less frequently. Also, 72% of the respondents didn’t use chemical insecticides/fungicides for the control of diseases and pests, and relevant organizations working in the area have failed to reach the majority of farmers in the research area.