BARAMULLA, SEPTEMBER 15: A two-day Human Resource Development (HRD) Programme on Integrated Pest Management was inaugurated Tuesday at Fruit Mandi Meeting Hall, Sopore.
The programme, as per an official statement, was organized by the Central Integrated Pest Management Centre, Srinagar, in collaboration with the State Horticulture Department, Kashmir.
Dr. Barkat Hussain, Chief Scientist, Entomology Division, SKUAST-K, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He addressed the concerns of pests and diseases of Apple, which is growing day by day, and made farmers and pesticide dealers aware about different IPM methods to curb the problem.
Dr. Mithilesh Kumar Arya, Deputy Director (PP), delivered a detailed presentation on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and the Safe and Judicious Use of Pesticides. He elaborated on the principles of IPM, focusing on need-based pesticide application, biological control measures, and resistance management to minimize environmental and health hazards. He also told about Natural enemies of Apple, Yellow Sticky & Pheromone traps as well to reduce level of infestation.
Abir Shankhari, Assistant Plant Protection Officer (WS), also gave a brief demonstration and lecture about National Pest Surveillance System and informed how this application is highly beneficial for farmers nowadays. Kawal Nain Singh, Scientific Assistant, addressed different ill effects of pesticides on human body and mentioned all precautionary measures while spraying pesticides.
The technical session was held by Basharat Hussain Shah, Horticulture Development Officer, Sopore, who provided insights into the scope and importance of IPM techniques and highlighted the need of minimizing pesticide applications.
The programme witnessed active participation from field officials, pesticide dealers and farmers, aiming to strengthen pest surveillance, promote responsible pesticide use, and enhance sustainable horticultural productivity in the region.
