Insect pests and their management strategies in Shree Anna (Indian millets): An overview

Abstract

The threat of pests to millet crops is a significant concern in agriculture, with approximately 150 insect pests identified as potential infestations, of which approximately 116 insect species have been reported from Bharat. Reports indicate yield losses ranging from 10% to 20% attributed to insect pests in millets. Millet crops in India are affected by several insect pests, but shoofly, stem borers, and grasshoppers have been reported as serious insect pests in India. Millets are attacked both in field and storage conditions by more than a hundred insect pests, some of which are widespread in millet-growing areas. In the Indian subcontinent, insects belonging to Lepidoptera, Coleopteran, and Diptera are more significantly abundant in millet-growing areas as regular and sporadic pests. Among these, white grubs, stem borers, shoot flies, and some sucking insects are most significant at different growth stages of the crop. Also, many insects, such as armyworms, grasshoppers, bugs, leaf beetles, head caterpillars, and head bugs, are responsible for significant yield losses. During the rainy season, storage bugs are more common. More in-depth research is needed on the incidence and management of major insect pests of millet due to climate change. The management strategies vary depending on the agro-ecosystem and the pest complex. However, cultural practices along with resistant cultivars have proven effective. To minimize the usage of insecticides, which are frequently used in pest-prevalent areas and during outbreaks, an integrated approach to insect-pest management in millets can be provided with a thorough study on insect pests in millets, reviewing all established management measures and strategies, and incorporating the interchange of genetic material and research data. The integrated pest management (IPM) approach serves as a vital measure for sustainable pest control, minimizing the reliance on chemical solutions and fostering resilience in millet crops.