Large scale field validation of integrated pest management strategies in maize (Zea mays) through farmers’ participatory approach

Le résumé fourni par la source

The present study focused on the synthesis, validation and promotion of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy in maize (Zea mays L.) cultivation through farmer participation in Udaipur, Rajasthan, from 2022–24. The results showed significantly lower mean infestation of fall armyworm [Spodoptera frugiperda (J E Smith)] in IPM (17%) compared to farmer practices (FP) (32.9%). Maydis leaf blight severity was 14.6% in IPM fields and 23.2% in FP, while banded leaf and sheath blight severity was 7.4% in IPM and 11.5% in FP demonstrating the effectiveness of IPM in reducing pest infestation over farmer practices. Natural enemy populations were recorded higher in IPM (7.2/50 plants) compared to FP (3.6/50 plants). The economic analysis demonstrated the superior profitability of the IPM approach, which recorded increase in grain yield (20%) and net return (51.73%) over FP. The benefit-cost ratio in IPM (2.39) further emphasised its profitability compared to FP (1.87). IPM field recorded >83 % reduction in chemical pesticides application over FP which facilitated the conservation of natural enemies resulting in 100% increase in predators population in IPM over FP. The study concludes that participatory IPM implementation in maize reduced pest infestation, enhanced yield and profitability with environmental sustainability.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.