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The Hindu
29-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Black-headed caterpillar infestation in coconut trees: CM Siddaramaiah seeks expert panel report on control of disease
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has sought report from the Horticulture Department on the reported threat posed by the black-headed caterpillar disease to the coconut plantation across the state and the measures needed to control its spread. Responding to a representation submitted by MLC Dinesh Gooligowda, who expressed concern over a significant increase in the black-headed caterpillar disease in recent years in coconut trees, causing a sharp decline in yield, Mr. Siddaramaiah directed the Director of Horticulture Department to immediately obtain a report from an expert panel and submit an action plan to control the spread of the disease. In his representation, Mr. Gooligowda said spread of black-headed caterpillar (Opisina arenosella) infestation was severely damaging the coconut crops, which is a key commercial crop in districts of Mandya, Tumakuru, Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Kolar, Mysuru, Chamarajanagar and Hassan, leaving the farmers distressed. 'This pest causes serious damage to coconut trees in both coastal and inland regions. The caterpillars reside in silken galleries built on the undersides of leaves and consume the green portions, reducing the plant's photosynthetic ability. When the infestation is severe, the trees appear scorched. If not controlled in time, yield can drop by up to 80%', Mr. Gooligowda pointed out. Presently, the disease is more prevalent in Mandya and nearby districts. 'If a swift and permanent solution is not implemented, the infestation could spread across the state, adversely affecting coconut plantation and cause a major economic blow to the State', the MLC said while seeking the Chief Minister's immediate intervention in the interest of the farmers. As the pest spreads rapid through wind dispersal, the disease can only be effectively managed if collective action is taken simultaneously by all affected farmers in cluster areas, he said calling for urgent measures by the Horticulture Department in co-ordination with the Coconut Development Board. Though the Horticulture Department and the Board were currently implementing control strategies like the use of neem-based pesticides, root nourishment and release of Goniozus parasitoids along with integrated nutrient management, which is commendable, there was a pressing need for broader interventions to prevent the worsening of the problem by taking additional and long-term measures urgently, he said. Mr. Gooligowda suggested that extensive surveys not just in already affected areas, but also in unaffected regions by appointing farmer assistants at gram panchayat levels to accurately assess the extent of infestation. He also sought steps to enable laboratories to produce the Goniozus parasitoids in large scale while constituting rapid response teams through local agricultural science centres, horticultural and agricultural universities Mr. Gooligowda also sought adequate supply of neem-based pesticides, neem cake, Nitrogen Phosphorous and Potassium (NPK) for plant growth, besides bio-fertilizers that boost pest and disease resistance either free of cost or at a subsidized rate to the farmers.
Time of India
15-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Farmers oppose proposed Cauvery Aarti
Mandya: This year, the Cauvery Aarti on Brindavan Gardens premises, KRS dam in Srirangapatna, starting from Oct 2 until the conclusion of illumination in Mysuru city, will be the major attraction of the Dasara festival in Mysuru. According to Srirangapatna MLA AB Ramesha Bandisiddegowda and MLC Dinesh Gooligowda, the first Cauvery Aarti will be held on Oct 2. "After the end of the Dasara illumination, it will be held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays," explained Gooligowda. "The Cauvery Aarti will be held behind the boating yard in the Brindavan Gardens. A seating capacity for about 10,000 people will be made," he said. Ramesha explained that the cultural programmes by local, state, and national level artistes, both before and after the Cauvery Aarti, a laser show, and musical fountains will be the key attractions. "The Cauvery Aarti will be held on all days during Dasara and illumination in the Mysuru city," explained the MLA, who is also the chairman of the CESC Mysuru. According to the authorities, Rs 92 crore will be spent on this new initiative. "Many govt departments will bear the cost. They will also get a share of the revenue. Basically, there will not be any burden on any departments," said Ramesha. "Cauvery Aarti is planned to offer our gratitude to Mother Cauvery, who is the lifeline for crores of people and farmers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cara Membantu Orang Terkasih Menghadapi Limfoma Limfoma Pelajari Undo It will also promote tourism activities in the region along with job creation and support for the local economy," said Gooligowda. Meanwhile, farmers of the district have decided to oppose the proposal and urged Bengalureans, who are the beneficiaries of the KRS dam water, to raise their voice against this water-polluting initiative. "Definitely, we will not allow this to happen," said Sunanda Jayaram, a farmers' leader. "We have already appealed to the CM in this regard. We don't know why this scheme, which will promote superstitious beliefs among the people, is proposed," she said. "The state govt is coming out with a number of projects centering on the KRS dam, which raises suspicion. We fear people with vested interests are trying to encroach on public properties," she said. "KRS dam water is a lifeline for crores of people. Cauvery Aarti and other schemes and projects affect the water quality. The residents of Bengaluru must raise their voice," she said.
