Studies on major insect pests of cotton and farmer perceptions in the Ghugus area of District Chandrapur, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

A crucial crop in the world, cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), is frequently harmed by pests and illnesses. Chemical pesticides are frequently effective, but repeated use of these chemicals often results in pests developing greater insecticide resistance, fewer natural enemies, less natural control, and a deteriorated ecosystem. It has been widely used to implement the integrated pest management (IPM) strategy, which heavily emphasizes biological control. The present piece of work was carried out from January 2022 to December 2022 at different sites in the vicinity of the Ghugus area in Chandrapur district.  In all, 10 species of insect pests of cotton from 9 families and 3 orders were recorded. The knowledge, perceptions and practices of farmers growing cotton under different pest management regimes were analyzed. The methods used were open and semistructured interviews using questionnaire with groups and individuals. In general, farmers had a poor understanding of the key concepts underlying alternative pest control systems. Pest damage was considered important and farmers were eager to share their knowledge, perceptions and practices in pest management. This study provides the foundation for the creation of a learning platform for future.