Large area validation of adaptable integrated pest management technology in okra (Hibiscus esculentus) through farmers' participation

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted on okra (Hibiscus esculentus (L.) Moench) during 2003-05 at Raispur and Harsawan, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh to study the validation and economic viability of adaptable integrated pest management (IPM) technology in a farmers' participatory approach. The IPM technology for okra crop comprising growing of yellow vein mosaic virus (YVMV)-resistant hybrids, namely 'Tulsi', 'Sun 40' and 'Makhmali', 2-3 sprays of neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) @ 5%, five releases of egg parasitoid Trichogramma chilonis based on pheromone monitoring, erection of delta traps @ 5ka and bird perches @ 10/ha, periodical rouging of borer affected shoots and fruits and disease infected plants and 4-5 sprays of chemical pesticides was very effective in reducing the incidence of pests and minimizing the yield losses. The adoption of IPM technology resulted in reducing the number of sprays to 4- 5 from 11-12 in non-IPM fields with higher fruit yields of 10.36, 11.07 and 10.58 tonnes/ha in IPM and 7.24, 7.61 and 7.46 tonnes/ha in non-IPM fields and with higher cost: benefit ratio of 1:1.31, 1: 1.71 and 1: 1.35 in IPM than 1:0.77, 1:0.87 and 1:0.69 in non-IPM. There was a net income increase of Rs 30 119,38 034 and 33 511/ha in IPM over the non-IPM.