Evaluation of IPM module for insect pest management in potato (Solanum tuberosum): opportunities and challenges in India Bhatnagar Anuj1,*, Singh B P2 Central Potato Research Institute, Campus Modipuram, Meerut, 250 110, (UP), India 1Principal Scientist, Central Potato Research Institute Campus, Modipuram, 250 110, Meerut, (UP), India 2Director, Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla, 171 001, (Himachal Pradesh), India *E: mail dr.anujbhatnagar_icar@yahoo.co.in
Online published on 21 March, 2016. Abstract An experimental trial was laid out on potato (Solanum tuberosum Linn.) in potato-growing areas prone to attack by insect pests including vectors, since these are one of the important limiting factors in raising its productivity and production in India. Monitoring of insect pest especially of vectors, conservation of indigenous natural enemies, need-based application of chemicals and manipulation of cultural practices are key components of the IPM in potato as an alternate to ecologically disruptive chemical control measures. Adoption of IPM is more relevant in potato because it is often consumed directly as a vegetable. There is still a gap in available technology and the technology being adopted by farmers. This gap can be minimized by convincing the farmers about benefits of IPM. Therefore, information on IPM of important insect pests including vectors of potato and challenges in adoption of IPM schedule are important. The importance of aphids and whitefly is mainly due to their role in the spread of viruses. Insect pests of potato have been classified into four major groups on the basis of their mode of feeding and habitat: soil insects, sap feeders, defoliators and storage pests. Various strategies including eco-friendly management of major insect pests of potato is the need of the day for all potato-growing areas. Top Keywords Insecticide, Insect pest, Integrated pest management, Potato. Top |