Project Abstract

This project aims to develop and implement an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy for sustainable crop production, addressing the pressing challenge of balancing agricultural productivity with environmental conservation. The project recognizes the need for a holistic approach that integrates various control methods to manage pests and diseases effectively, while minimizing the reliance on synthetic pesticides and promoting the long-term resilience of agricultural ecosystems. The project's significance stems from the growing concerns about the adverse impacts of conventional pest control practices on human health, soil fertility, and biodiversity. Indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides has led to the development of pesticide resistance in pests, contamination of soil and water resources, and the disruption of natural ecosystem balance. This project seeks to address these pressing issues by developing and implementing a comprehensive IPM strategy that integrates preventive, cultural, biological, and selective chemical control methods. The primary objectives of this project are to 1. Conduct comprehensive pest and disease surveys to identify the key pests and pathogens affecting the target crops. 2. Develop and evaluate a range of IPM tactics, including the use of resistant crop varieties, crop rotation, habitat management, biological control agents, and the strategic application of eco-friendly biopesticides. 3. Assess the efficacy and economic viability of the proposed IPM approach through on-field trials and demonstrations. 4. Engage with local farmers, extension agencies, and policymakers to promote the adoption of the IPM approach and build capacity for sustainable crop production. 5. Monitor the long-term impacts of the IPM strategy on crop yields, pest and disease incidence, soil health, and overall ecosystem resilience. The project will adopt a multi-disciplinary approach, involving experts from the fields of agronomy, entomology, plant pathology, soil science, and environmental science. The research will be conducted in collaboration with local farming communities, ensuring that the developed IPM strategies are tailored to the specific needs and constraints of the target region. The project's methodology will include the following key components 1. Baseline surveys and data collection Comprehensive surveys will be conducted to identify the prevalent pests and diseases, their life cycles, and the current pest management practices adopted by farmers. 2. IPM strategy development Based on the baseline data, a context-specific IPM strategy will be designed, incorporating a combination of preventive, cultural, biological, and selective chemical control measures. 3. On-field trials and demonstrations The proposed IPM approach will be tested and refined through on-field trials and demonstrations, in collaboration with local farmers. 4. Capacity building and extension Workshops, training programs, and field days will be organized to educate farmers and extension agents on the principles and practical implementation of the IPM approach. 5. Monitoring and evaluation The long-term impacts of the IPM strategy on crop yields, pest and disease incidence, soil health, and ecosystem services will be monitored and evaluated to assess the sustainability and scalability of the approach. The successful implementation of this project is expected to result in increased agricultural productivity, reduced reliance on synthetic pesticides, improved soil health, and enhanced ecosystem resilience. By empowering farmers to adopt sustainable pest management practices, this project aims to contribute to the broader goal of ensuring food security and environmental sustainability.

Project Overview