Rice Nursery Pest Management: Common Insects That Damage Rice Seedlings and Effective Control Measures Protect Your Rice Nursery from Early-Stage Pest Attacks to Achieve Healthy Seedlings and Higher Yields By Agriculture Research Station, Vizianagaram Rice is one of the most important staple food crops cultivated across India. However, rice seedlings are vulnerable to several insect pests from the nursery stage itself. If these pests are not identified and controlled at the right time, they can significantly reduce plant vigor, affect crop establishment, and ultimately lower grain yields. Agricultural scientists advise farmers to regularly monitor rice nurseries for pest infestation and adopt timely integrated pest management (IPM) practices to ensure healthy seedlings and successful transplantation. Major Pests Affecting Rice Nurseries The most common insect pests that attack rice nurseries include: Stem Borers Rice Hispa Rice Gall Midge Rice Leaf Folder Cutworms Each of these pests causes distinct symptoms and requires specific management practices. 1. Stem Borer Identification Adult stem borer moths are yellowish in color with a characteristic black spot on their forewings. Female moths lay egg masses near the tips of rice leaves and cover them with brown hairs for protection. Damage Symptoms After hatching, larvae bore into the stem and feed internally on plant tissues. Common symptoms include: Drying of the central shoot ("Dead Heart") Yellowing and drying of leaves Weak seedling growth Reduced tillering Poor crop establishment after transplanting If infestation begins in the nursery and is left unmanaged, the pest can spread rapidly to the main field. Management Clip the tips of rice seedlings before transplanting to remove egg masses. Monitor nurseries regularly for egg masses. Recommended insecticide sprays (per litre of water): Acephate – 1.5 g Cartap Hydrochloride – 2 g Chlorantraniliprole – 0.3 ml Alternatively, apply Carbofuran 3G granules @ 160 g per cent of nursery about one week before uprooting seedlings after providing light irrigation. 2. Rice Hispa Identification Rice Hispa adults are shiny black beetles with spiny bodies. Damage Symptoms Both adults and larvae feed on leaf tissues. Adults scrape green tissues between leaf veins. Larvae tunnel inside leaves. White streaks appear on affected leaves. Severe infestation causes drying of leaves, making the nursery appear scorched. The pest also survives on grassy weeds growing along field bunds. Management Remove weeds around field bunds. Maintain clean nursery surroundings. Recommended insecticide sprays (per litre of water): Chlorpyrifos – 2.5 ml Monocrotophos – 1.6 ml Profenofos – 2 ml 3. Rice Gall Midge Identification The adult resembles a tiny reddish mosquito. Damage Symptoms Female insects lay eggs on leaf sheaths. After hatching, larvae feed on the growing point and inject substances that prevent normal leaf development. Affected seedlings produce a hollow tubular structure resembling an onion leaf, commonly called a "Silver Shoot." Management If even one affected tiller is noticed per square metre, immediate control measures should be taken. Apply: Carbofuran 3G granules @ 160 g per cent of nursery. Early detection is critical to prevent heavy crop losses. 4. Rice Leaf Folder Identification Both larvae and adults damage rice leaves by feeding on plant sap and tissues. Damage Symptoms Leaf margins roll inward. Leaves curl and dry. Photosynthesis decreases. Seedling growth is affected. Infestation becomes more severe under drought or moisture-stress conditions. Management Recommended insecticide sprays (per litre of water): Monocrotophos – 1.6 ml Fipronil – 2 ml 5. Cutworms Identification Cutworms remain hidden near the base of seedlings during the day and become active at night. Damage Symptoms They cut young seedlings near the ground level. Affected nurseries appear as though livestock have grazed the crop. Management Flood the nursery with water to force larvae to the surface. Birds naturally feed on exposed larvae and help reduce pest populations. Recommended insecticide sprays (per litre of water): Monocrotophos – 1.6 ml Chlorpyrifos – 2 ml General Pest Management Tips for Rice Nurseries Agricultural experts recommend the following practices: Inspect nurseries regularly for early signs of pest infestation. Remove grassy weeds from field bunds. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer during nursery growth. Maintain proper water management. Use healthy seeds and resistant varieties whenever available. Follow Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices. Apply pesticides only after confirming pest infestation and strictly follow label recommendations. Wear appropriate protective equipment while handling pesticides. Expert Advice Healthy seedlings are the foundation of a successful rice crop. Most nursery pests can be effectively managed through early monitoring, proper field sanitation, timely cultural practices, and need-based plant protection measures. Farmers are encouraged to seek guidance from local agricultural extension officers before applying pesticides and to follow the latest recommendations issued by their respective State Agricultural Universities or Agriculture Departments. Source This technical information has been prepared by scientists from the Agricultural Research Station, Vizianagaram. Contributing Scientists: Dr. M. Swathi – Scientist (Entomology) Dr. T. S. S. K. Patro – Principal Scientist (Plant Pathology) Dr. N. Anuradha – Senior Scientist (Plant Breeding) Dr. U. Triveni – Scientist (Agronomy) Dr. K. Tejeswara Rao – Principal Scientist (Agronomy) Dr. M. Divya – Research Associate (Plant Pathology) M. Triveni – Research Associate (Plant Breeding) Agricultural Research Station, Vizianagaram Contact: +91 94930 84826 Disclaimer This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Farmers should consult their nearest agricultural extension officer or qualified crop protection specialist before using any pesticide. Always follow the manufacturer's label instructions, recommended dosage, safety precautions, and applicable government regulations.
Hyderabad: The Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI), Mulugu, Siddipet district, has started the application process for admissions into the B.Sc (Hons) Forestry programme for the 2026–27 academic year. College Dean Praveen announced that applications will be accepted from July 1 to July 25. Students who have qualified in TG EAPCET 2026 and passed Intermediate or its equivalent with BiPC, MBiPC, or MPC streams are eligible to apply for the four-year undergraduate programme. The B.Sc (Hons) Forestry course offers comprehensive academic and practical training in areas such as forest conservation, biodiversity, wildlife management, environmental protection, agroforestry, and natural resource conservation. Students will also receive extensive field training and hands-on practical exposure as part of the curriculum. The Dean stated that graduates of the programme will have promising career opportunities in forest departments, environmental organizations, research institutions, government agencies, and private sector companies. Eligible candidates are advised to submit their applications on or before July 25. For detailed admission guidelines and the application process, students can visit the official FCRI website. They may also contact the institute at 63038 271100, 08454-211939, or 08454-211930 for further information. Also Read: AP EAPCET 2026 Results to Be Released on July 2 Instead of Scheduled Date
Tollywood has received one of its biggest announcements of the year as NTR and acclaimed filmmaker Trivikram Srinivas officially reunite for a grand mythological action epic. The prestigious project will be produced under the Haarika & Hassine Creations banner by S. Radha Krishna (Chinababu) and Suryadevara Naga Vamsi. The makers unveiled the project's official announcement along with a striking concept poster carrying the powerful tagline, "The Son of Shiva. The Pride of Parvathi. The Eternal Commander." The poster has gone viral across social media, fueling speculation about the film's storyline and NTR's character. According to industry reports, NTR is expected to portray a powerful divine warrior inspired by Lord Kumaraswamy (Kartikeya/Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, and the commander of the celestial army. The film is said to blend mythology with high-octane action, rich storytelling, and modern commercial elements, making it one of the most ambitious projects in Trivikram's career. Reports also suggest that the makers are considering the title "God of War" for the film, although an official confirmation is still awaited. At present, NTR is busy shooting for his upcoming film Dragon, directed by Prashanth Neel. Once that project is completed, this mythological spectacle is expected to go on floors. The production house is likely to reveal more details, including the first glimpse, cast, and technical crew, in the coming weeks.
Low Water, High Profits: Top Crops Farmers Can Grow in Water-Scarce Areas Across India Water Shortage No Longer Means Low Income: Experts Recommend Climate-Resilient Crops for Better Returns New Delhi: Water scarcity has emerged as one of the biggest challenges facing Indian agriculture. With irregular monsoons, declining groundwater levels, rising temperatures, and increasing climate variability, farmers across several states are being encouraged to shift from water-intensive crops to drought-tolerant and climate-resilient alternatives. Agricultural experts believe that choosing the right crop based on water availability and soil type can help farmers reduce production costs while maintaining stable yields. Traditionally, crops such as paddy and sugarcane require significant amounts of irrigation. However, in areas where water availability is limited, these crops often become economically risky. Experts recommend adopting crops that require less water, mature quickly, and are capable of withstanding dry weather conditions. Why Water-Efficient Crops Are Becoming Essential Climate experts warn that rainfall patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable. Delayed monsoons and prolonged dry spells have affected sowing in many parts of the country, prompting governments and agricultural departments to encourage farmers to diversify toward water-efficient farming systems. Low-water crops offer several advantages: Lower irrigation costs Reduced dependence on groundwater Better drought tolerance Lower cultivation expenses Stable yields during erratic rainfall Improved soil sustainability Best Crops for Low-Water Farming 1. Millets Millets are among the most drought-resistant crops and are gaining popularity due to increasing consumer demand for healthy foods. Popular varieties include: Pearl Millet (Bajra) Sorghum (Jowar) Finger Millet (Ragi) Foxtail Millet Little Millet Barnyard Millet These crops require substantially less water than rice and perform well under rain-fed conditions. 2. Pulses Pulse crops consume relatively less water while improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Recommended pulses include: Red Gram (Pigeon Pea) Green Gram (Moong) Black Gram (Urad) Chickpea Cowpea Horse Gram Apart from offering good market prices, pulses also enhance soil health for future crops. 3. Oilseed Crops Oilseeds remain a profitable option in dryland farming. Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Sunflower Castor Safflower Many of these crops require moderate irrigation only during critical growth stages. 4. Horticulture Crops With drip irrigation, several fruit crops can provide long-term income. Popular choices include: Pomegranate Guava Custard Apple Indian Gooseberry (Amla) Drumstick (Moringa) Several state governments have also promoted drumstick cultivation in drought-prone regions because of its low water requirement and export potential. 5. Medicinal and Aromatic Crops Farmers seeking diversification may consider: Aloe Vera Ashwagandha Lemongrass Vetiver Senna These crops generally require less irrigation and have growing demand from pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Crop Selection Based on Soil Type Sandy Soil Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Watermelon Muskmelon Guava Cashew Black Cotton Soil Recommended crops: Cotton Pigeon Pea Sorghum Chickpea Sunflower Red Soil Suitable options include: Groundnut Millets Pulses Mango Guava Drumstick Choosing crops according to soil characteristics significantly improves productivity and reduces cultivation risks. Modern Water-Saving Techniques Agricultural scientists recommend integrating crop selection with efficient water management. Key practices include: Drip irrigation Mulching Rainwater harvesting Soil moisture conservation Organic matter incorporation Micro-irrigation systems Scientific nutrient management These techniques can substantially reduce water consumption while maintaining crop productivity. Climate Change Driving New Farming Practices Experts note that climate change is making traditional farming methods increasingly difficult. Several states have already started promoting drought-resistant crops, natural farming, and water-efficient cultivation practices to improve farmers' resilience against uncertain rainfall. Experts' Advice Agricultural experts recommend that farmers should not choose crops solely based on market prices. Instead, they should consider: Annual rainfall Groundwater availability Soil type Local climate Market demand Production cost Water availability throughout the season A scientific crop selection strategy can significantly improve profitability while reducing cultivation risks. Conclusion Water scarcity is expected to remain one of the biggest agricultural challenges in the coming years. However, adopting climate-resilient crops, efficient irrigation methods, and scientific farming practices can help farmers sustain productivity and increase profitability. As climate conditions continue to evolve, experts believe that water-efficient agriculture will play a crucial role in ensuring food security and long-term farm sustainability across India. Disclaimer This article is intended for informational purposes only. Crop suitability may vary depending on local climate, soil characteristics, water availability, and market conditions. Farmers are advised to consult their nearest agricultural extension office or qualified agriculture experts before making cultivation decisions.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said “the face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemy’s point of view.” WASHINGTON : The US on Thursday (Jun 18) lifted its blockade of Iran, and oil tankers began freely moving through the Strait of Hormuz after months of being unable to use the critical channel, as the tentative agreement to end the war took effect. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance announced that he may postpone a trip to Switzerland that had been planned for Friday and included a ceremonial signing of the deal. The visit might have helped start talks on the next, potentially even more critical, round of negotiations between the two sides.
Hyderabad: With the aim of strengthening its presence in Telangana, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has intensified its organizational efforts under the guidance of the central leadership. The party is treating the upcoming Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) elections as a crucial political battle, believing that establishing a strong base in Hyderabad will pave the way for success in the next Telangana Assembly elections. As part of this strategy, BJP National President Nitin Nabin is scheduled to visit Telangana for a three-day tour. During his visit, Nitin Nabin will hold a special meeting with GHMC booth-level committee leaders this evening. He is expected to provide guidance on key aspects of election management, booth-level organization, campaign strategy, and candidate selection. Party leaders will also review the shortcomings observed in recent local elections and discuss measures to strengthen the BJP's grassroots network ahead of the upcoming polls. The BJP's immediate objective is to secure victories in the three municipal corporations. The party has already decided to contest the elections independently, without entering into any alliance. Nitin Nabin is expected to advise state leaders to establish a dedicated selection committee to identify strong candidates and ensure that the party fields capable contenders in every division. In addition, the BJP leadership is likely to emphasize the importance of voter list verification, new voter enrollment, booth-level management, and continuous engagement with voters. The party believes that a strong performance in the GHMC elections will significantly enhance its political influence in Telangana and strengthen its prospects of achieving success in the forthcoming Assembly elections.
