Asian pulse crops are attacked by a number of insect pests, of which some are economically important. In recent years there have been several cases of total crop failure caused by insect pests. Most farmers adopt chemical control as the main strategy but some farmers treat pulses as low value crops and do not take up any plant protection measures at all. Continuous dependence on chemicals has led to severe problems in plant protection in general, and pulses in particular. Insecticide application has often been inappropriate, resulting in poor control, insecticidal resistance, secondary pest outbreaks, environmental pollution and operational hazards.
Some alternative options are available for pest management.
In the past, substantial research has looked at individual components, but their integration in the farming system as a whole has rarely been evaluated. This project involves participation of various extension agencies, such as governmental and non-governmental organizations. The project also seeks to develop sustainability in pest management by strengthening communication among farmers. Develop, evaluate, implement, and share IPM technology including host plant resistance, biorational insecticides, cultural practices and enhancement of natural enemies for chickpea and pigeonpea agroecosystems. Highlights The pod borer Helicoverpa armigera attacks a large number of crops, including cotton, chickpea and pigeonpea.