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Crop Protection

About

The Crop Protection Division focuses on undertaking research on plant pathogens, insects and plant parasitic nematodes and provides specialized services to the spice growers to protect their plants from pests and diseases.The Division is very strongly focused on developing eco-friendly, integrated management schedules to minimize the use of pesticides and reduce their risk, to obtain safe and clean spices.

Team

At present ten scientists belonging to disciplines like Plant Pathology, Entomology, Nematology and Microbiology are working in this Division.

Name Designation Specialization
Dr. A Ishwara Bhat Principal Scientist & Head Plant Pathology
Dr. C M Senthil Kumar Principal Scientist Entomology
Dr. C N Biju Senior Scientist Plant Pathology
Dr. R Praveena Senior Scientist Plant Pathology
Dr. C Sarathambal Senior Scientist Agri. Microbiology
Dr. C Sellaperumal Senior Scientist Nematology
Dr. M Balaji Rajkumar Scientist Entomology
Dr. Mohammed Faisal Peeran Scientist Plant Pathology
Dr. Manimaran B Scientist Nematology
Technical Staff
Dr. Priya George Technical Officer Plant Pathology
Mr. Satya Priya Singh Technician  

Projects

  1. Development of an integrated deep learning and molecular tool-based automated expert system for early detection and identification of major insect pests and vector-transmitted viruses of spice crops (2024-2027) [Dr. C. M. Senthil Kumar, Dr. A. Ishwara Bhat Dr. M. Balaji Rajkumar; Inter-Institutional Co-PI: Dr. Gopi Krishna Saramekala, NIT-C]

  2. Evaluation of new generation insecticides against major pests of spices for registration and label claim expansion (2025 -2028) [C. M. Senthil Kumar, M. Balaji Rajkumar, S. Mukesh Sankar] [External support: M. A. Ansar Ali, P. Thiyagarajan, Spices Board] 

  3. Characterization and evaluation of Entomopathogenic Fungi for biological control of cardamom root grub, Basilepta fulvicornis (2025-2028) [M Balaji Rajkumar, C M Senthilkumar] 

  4. Multimodal approach to manage nematode pests infesting Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) (2023-2028) [Dr. Manimaran, B., Dr. C. Sellaperumal & Dr. Vinu V] (External support: Dr. D. Prasath, Dr. A. Ishwara Bhat, Dr. C.N. Biju, Dr. R. Praveena & Dr. C. Sarathambal)

  5. Multipronged management approaches for the major nematode problems in black pepper and turmeric cultivation (2024-28) [Dr. C. Sellaperumal, Dr. B Manimaran, Dr. S. Aarthi & Dr. T. P. Muhammed Azharudheen) 

  6. Novel strategies for managing bacterial wilt and soft rot diseases of ginger (2018-2025) [Dr. C. N. Biju, Dr. Mohammed Faizal Peeran & Dr. Divya P.S.] 

  7. Development and formulation of Plant Beneficial Rhizosphere Microorganisms (PBRMs) for disease antagonism, soil nutrient solubilization and plant growth promotion (2020-2025) [Dr. R. Praveena, Dr R Dinesh & Dr. C. Sarathambal] (External support: Dr. V. Srinivasan)

  8. Development of off- and on-site detection techniques for major pathogens of spice crops. (2020-2025) [Dr. A. Ishwara Bhat, Dr. C. N. Biju & Dr. Mohammed Faisal Peeran] 

  9. Diversity analysis, survival studies and management of Pythium spp. infecting ginger (2023-2026) [Dr. R. Praveena, Dr. C.N. Biju & Dr. C. Sarathambal]

  10. Development of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi based bioinoculant formulation for growth promotion and disease tolerance in major spices (2024-28) [Dr.C. Sarathambal, Dr.V Srinivasan, Dr. R. Praveena, Dr.H.J. Akshitha & Dr. B. Manimaran] 

  11. Developing a weather-based prediction model and exploring new generation anti-oomycete fungicides to manage foot rot of black pepper (2024-28) [Dr.CN Biju, Dr. S. J. Ankegowda, Dr. T. P. Muhammed Azharudheen & Dr.Mohammed Faisal Peeran]

Achievements

Over the last four decades, the Division has established the etiology and epidemiology of major diseases of spices, surveyed the spice growing areas of the country and catalogued the major pests and pathogens and developed integrated pest/disease management measures to manage them. In pursuit of clean spices without any pesticide residues, the Division is actively engaged in developing pest/disease resistant lines and biocontrol agents that suppress the pathogens. Notable among the resistant lines developed are IISR Shakthi (Phytophthora resistant black pepper variety), Pournami (root knot nematode resistant black pepper variety), IISR Vijetha (cardamom mosaic virus resistant vareity), IISR Avinash (rhizome rot resistant cardamom vareity), IISR Mahima (root knot nematode resistant ginger selection) and IISR Pragati (root knot nematode tolerant turmeric vareity). The efficient strains of biocontrol agents developed by the Division like Trichoderma asperellum, Pochonia chlamydosporia, Bacillus licheniformis, Lecanicillium psalliote, Metarhizium pinc etc. are quite popular among the farming community and are successfully commercialized. Highly reliable and sensitive diagnostic tools have been standardized for rapid detection of viruses, bacteria, fungi and nematodes infecting spices.

Technology

Lecanicillin-G- Lecanicillium psallioatae for biological control of cardamom thrips.
Lecanicillin-G- Lecanicillium psallioatae for biological control of cardamom thrips.

Granular formulation containing Lecanicillium psallioatae is effective in controlling cardamom thrips and possess growth promoting traits also. The fungus attacks both juvenile and adults of cardamom thrips. The technology is patent filed (Patent application no. 201741044872 ). Tested and certified by a CIBRC-approved laboratory, the biopesticide has been developed in a user-friendly granular form that can be mixed with farmyard manure and applied directly to the soil.

Metarhizium pingshaense based mycoinsecticide for the biological control of shoot borer
Metarhizium pingshaense based mycoinsecticide for the biological control of shoot borer

An eco-friendly technology for managing Conogethes punctiferalis, a major pest of spice crops such as ginger, turmeric, and cardamom, has been developed using a naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium pingshaense. The technology involves spraying M. pingshaense at a concentration of 1 x 107 conidia/mL, starting from the second fortnight of July (or 45 days after planting) until the first fortnight of November, at 21-day intervals. In addition to its insecticidal action, the fungus promotes plant growth and is an effective solubilizer of zinc. It is also effective against other crambid pests affecting crops such as rice, sorghum, vegetables, and sugarcane. The technology is patent filed (Application no. 202511031583)

Biocapsules :- A novel method of storing and delivering PGPR/microbes
Biocapsules :- A novel method of storing and delivering PGPR/microbes

The technology (Indian Patent No: 361021 dated ;13/08/2013) involves encapsulation of the microorganisms of interest in a 1g gelatin capsule for delivery to agricultural crops. Advantages of the Technology : High microbial population (109 -1012 CFU/g.) Easy handling and storage (18-24 months).Improved shelf life (18-24 months). Low production and transportation cost. Green technology, totally ecofriendly 20-25% reduction in usage of chemical pesticides/fertilizers.

tricholime bactolime trichogypsum bactogypsum
Granular lime based microbial formulations

Granular lime-based microbial formulations mitigates the drawbacks of soil acidity and simultaneously delivers beneficial microbes for effective growth and establishment of crops ensuring optimal plant growth and nutrient uptake. This innovative single product can save labour cost and time involved in applying lime and beneficial organisms individually. This formulation also benefits the crop by improving the physical condition of the soil, enhancing secondary nutrient availability and by boosting soil microbial activity. The technology is patent filed (Application No: 202241010858). Available in four formulations: Tricholime & Bactolime (for acidic soils), Trichogypsum & Bactogypsum (For alkaline soils).

Bacteria based seed coating technology
Bacteria based seed coating technology

A novel process of coating beneficial microorganisms on seeds (patent no. 350698, Dated: 01.10.2013). Coated seeds exhibited longer shelf life and germination up to one year of storage in seed spices. Can be used for coating all kinds of seeds including seed spices and horticultural crops. The coated seeds can be stored at room temperature. Coated seeds are free from storage pest incidence, improve germination, enhance the yield from 15-30%.

Trichoprime:- Antimicrobial formulation for coating seed rhizomes and tubers
Trichoprime:- Antimicrobial formulation for coating seed rhizomes and tubers

Priming of seeds of rhizomatous and tuberous crops using Trichoderma spp, helps to shorten the germination time of rhizomes, improve the vigour of rhizome buds and also ensures uniform tiller emergence. The process also helps to prevent the growth of dry rot pathogens during storage by preventing infection and entry into the rhizome and protects the emerging crop from plant pathogens. This technology was granted patent (Patent No. 567347).

Trichoderma asperellum (NAIMCC-SF 0049) -Talc formulation
Trichoderma asperellum (NAIMCC-SF 0049) -Talc formulation

The talc formulation based on Trichoderma asperellum can be used successfully to manage soil borne fungal pathogens. It can be used in integrated disease management as well as under organic farming system in crops like black pepper, ginger, cardamom and turmeric.

Bacillich- A bioagent for integrated management of bacterial wilt in ginger
Bacillich- A bioagent for integrated management of bacterial wilt in ginger

Technology based on bacterial strain Bacillus licheniformis for ecofriendly management of bacterial wilt in ginger caused by Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum. The bacteria possess plant growth promoting potential besides disease control. The technology can be adopted in the integrated management of bacterial wilt in ginger. This bioagent can be applied by both seed priming and soil drenching and the strain is now available in the encapsulated form.

Pochonia chlamydosporia (NAIMCC-SF 0048)-for nematode managementPochonia
Pochonia chlamydosporia (NAIMCC-SF 0048)-for nematode management

Plant parasitic nematodes, especially root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) cause significant damage to the plants. Currently they are managed through application of chemical nematicides like phorate and carbofuran. Biological control of root knot nematodes, therefore, is highly relevant in this context. Pochonia chlamydosporia, a known nematode biocontrol agent, is a facultative nematode parasite. It proliferates in the rhizosphere, colonizes the egg masses of root knot nematodes, and parasitizes their eggs and sedentary females.
Pochonin- Liquid formulation of Pochonia chlamydosporia contains chlamydospores which can be drenched to soil to manage nematodes. Liquid formulation has added advantage of increased shelf life too. The technology is patented (Patent No: 567444).

Diagnostics for pathogens infecting spicesDiagnostics for pathogens infecting
Diagnostics for pathogens infecting spices

Sensitive molecular diagnostics based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) and rapid onsite detection based on RPA-lateral flow assay (RPA-LFA) have been developed for viruses (cucumber mosaic virus, black pepper virus F and piper yellow mottle virus infecting black pepper; cardamom mosaic virus and banana bract mosaic virus infecting cardamom; ginger chlorotic fleck-associated virus 1 and 2 infecting ginger), bacteria (Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum casuing bacterial wilt in ginger), nematodes (Pratylenchus spp., Meloidogyne spp., and Radopholus similis) and oomycetes (Pythium spp., and Phytophthora spp. infecting black pepper, cardamom, ginger and turmeric). The technology can be used for the detection and certification of planting materials for freedom from pathogens.

Facilities

Major Facilities

  • The National Repository of Phytophthora
  • Repository of biocontrol agents
  • Accredited virus indexing facility
  • Molecular plant pathology lab
  • Insect biocontrol laboratory
  • Nematology laboratory