Agri varsity trains farmers in integrated mite management

The Department of Entomology at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Budh Singh Wala, Moga, organised a training programme on ‘Identification and Management of Mite Pests in Vegetable and Fruit Crops’. Organised at KVK, Budh Singh Wala, the event aimed to raise awareness among farmers about the increasing problem of mite pests in vegetables and fruits and to equip them with integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.

Dr Manmeet Brar Bhullar, Principal Acarologist for the All India Network Project (AINP) on Agricultural Acarology, led the session on key mite pests in protected cultivation systems. She discussed the identification of mites, symptoms of damage and the role of natural enemies. Emphasising eco-friendly management, Dr Bhullar recommended the use of botanicals and safer acaricides, particularly for controlling mites in cucumber and capsicum crops.

Dr Paramjit Kaur, Acarologist at PAU, addressed the issue of mite infestations in vegetables and fruits grown in open fields. She explained how to identify different mite species, recognise their damage patterns and implement integrated control strategies, with a focus on okra and brinjal crops.

The training attracted 25 farmers, who actively participated in an interactive discussion with the scientists. During the session, farmers shared field challenges and received expert advice on effective mite management techniques.

Dr Amandeep Singh Brar, deputy director of KVK, Budh Singh Wala, emphasised the need for biorational pest control methods and urged farmers to follow PAU’s social media platforms for timely updates and advisories. He also thanked the farmers for their presence.

Dr MS Bhullar, director of Extension Education at PAU, praised the programme, noting such farmer-oriented initiatives play a crucial role in enhancing knowledge on crop protection and

promoting sustainable agricultural practices.