A brief overview of nutri-millet’s insect pests and their management

Abstract

Millets are nutritionally important crops traditionally grown in tropical and semi-arid regions of Asia and Africa. They are rich in several nutrients and minerals, and are very helpful in tackling health issues like hyperglycemia and anemia, which are becoming a regular companion of most of the people of this era. Still, they are yet to be adopted as daily members of our supper. In spite of being one of the hardiest crops, these are not devoid of the attack of insect pests. There are several insects like stem borers, shoot flies, caterpillars, cutworms, armyworms, grasshoppers, bugs, aphids, midges, white grub, termites, etc which attack millets and cause huge yield loss. It is
important to know these enemies and their management in order to protect nutri-millets from loss of production. This article aims to discuss the immediate need of shifting our focus to these crops and the identification and management strategies for the insect pests attacking them.