Advances in rapeseed mustard disease management

Abstract

India is the largest producer of oilseeds in the world and oilseed sector occupies an important position in the agricultural economy of the country. Oilseeds are among the major crops that are grown in the country apart from cereals. Among the nine annual oilseeds cultivated in India, the share of Rapeseed-mustard is about 25% of total area and 27% of total production. With the share of 39% in total vegetable oil production which stands at first position. During last 5 years, compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of Rapeseed-mustard production and productivity at National level increased by 10.42 and 8.46%, respectively. Among different biotic stresses, insectpests, diseases (Sclerotinia stem rot, white rust, downy mildew, Alternaria blight, powdery mildew) and weeds, cause yield loss upto 30-40% in different regions of the country. Plant diseases are considered as risks because they constantly contribute to significant yield, economic, and environment losses worldwide. Therefore, the early and accurate detection, monitoring, and assessment of plant diseases is important and necessary for farmers, managers, and decision makers.