Safeguarding Mustard Crops from Destructive Pests 

The Rajasthan Agriculture Department has released essential guidelines to protect the mustard crop, a key agricultural product in the state, from pest threats posed by the painted bug and saw fly. These pests, particularly active in the early stages of mustard crop growth, can cause significant harm if not controlled. The painted bug, for instance, infests plants during the germination phase, drawing sap from the leaves and hindering growth. Similarly, the saw fly attacks around 25-30 days into the crop cycle, consuming the leaves and leaving only the stalk, thereby disrupting crop development and reducing yields. 

Preventive Practices for Pest Control 

Joint Director of the Agriculture Department, Kailash Chand Meena, has highlighted several preventive measures to minimize pest damage. Field Hygiene is paramount, with farmers advised to clear fields of weeds and crop residue, which can harbor pests and facilitate infestation. Additionally, Proper Seed Treatment before sowing is recommended to shield plants from seed-borne pathogens and pests, thus bolstering early crop resilience. 

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Timing and Inspection for Effective Pest Management 

The guidelines emphasize timely sowing to enhance crop resistance to pest attacks. By sowing at the optimal time, farmers can reduce vulnerability to pests. The department also advises farmers to conduct regular field inspections, particularly in the mornings, to identify signs of pest activity. If saw fly larvae are spotted, they should be manually collected and destroyed to prevent further crop damage. For more severe infestations, targeted insecticide application is advised. The department suggests applying insecticides in the early morning or evening to maximize effectiveness and minimize impact on non-target species. 

Subsidy Support for Pest Control 

As part of its agricultural support efforts, the Rajasthan government is offering subsidies for insecticide purchases to help farmers manage pest threats effectively. To avail of this support, farmers can submit a pest-disease survey report (Form-5) to the Agriculture Department. The subsidy initiative ensures that essential insecticides reach farmers in affected areas promptly, thus enhancing crop protection and potentially reducing yield losses. 

Commitment to Crop Sustainability and Agricultural Resilience 

These guidelines, combined with the subsidy support, reflect the Rajasthan Agriculture Department’s commitment to supporting mustard farmers and securing crop sustainability. By addressing common pest challenges and providing accessible solutions,the department reinforces its focus on food security and agricultural resilience across the state. 

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