Training programme on Integrated Pest Management in Rice for SCSP beneficiaries of Cuttack, Khordha and Angul
ICAR-Central Rice Research Institute (ICAR-CRRI), Cuttack, organized a five-day training programme on “Integrated Pest Management in Rice” from 15th to 19th September 2025 for the Scheduled Caste (SC) farmers of Cuttack, Khordha and Angul districts under the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) scheme. The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Sangamitra Samantaray, Director of the Institute on 15.09.2025, who encouraged the farmers to adopt climate-resilient and sustainable pest management practices in rice for higher profitability and to adopt eco-friendly pest control measures and modern technologies like drone-based pesticide application etc. Dr. SD Mohapatra, Head, Crop Protection Division and Course Director, outlined the objectives of the training programme and highlighted the importance of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies in reducing input cost and improving rice productivity. Dr. PC Jena, Nodal Officer, SCSP explained the benefits of the SCSP scheme and motivated farmers to make use of available opportunities for strengthening their livelihood. Course Coordinators, Mr. Annamalai M, Dr. Keerthana U, and Dr. Rajan Kamboj coordinated the five-day training activities, while Co-coordinators, Dr. PC Jena and Dr. DR Sarangi, extended their support for smooth conduct of the programme. A total of 22 farmers (8 female & 14 male) attended the training and participated actively. During the course, scientists from different divisions delivered lectures and conducted hands-on practical sessions. The training covered topics such as insect pest and disease identification and management, eco-friendly pest management, drone-based pesticide application, safe use of pesticides, soil health management, integrated nutrient management, and aquaculture. Special emphasis was given to demonstrate pesticide spraying using drone, eco-friendly pest control products like Tricho cards, Bracon cards, pheromone traps, Trichoderma, solar light traps etc. The farmers were also sensitized to utilize digital advisory services like RiceXpert App. and DAMU project. The participants also visited the institute’s Oryza Museum, Pheromone Production Unit, Biocontrol Unit and Insectarium, which enriched their practical knowledge. During the valedictory programme, Dr. GAK Kumar, Director, ICAR-CRRI, appreciated the farmers for their active participation and urged them to adopt Integrated Pest Management practices for sustainable rice farming. The programme concluded with the distribution of inputs like pheromone traps with lures for rice yellow stem borer, fruit fly and Tricho cards for effective pest management, biofertilizer EndoN for nutrient management and Personal Protective Kits for safety pesticide application.
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