AN INVESTIGATION OF IPM PRACTICES FOR PEST CONTROL IN SUGARCANE

Abstract

The current state of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Pakistan sugar industry and emphasizes the need to consider the specific challenges faced by farmers. The study is structured around six key stages to provide a holistic understanding of the subject matter. A thorough compilation of industry pests was conducted, categorizing them into five weed species, 11 arthropods, 11 pathogens and three nematodes. An inventory of current pest control methods was
established. This inventory encompassed 15 agronomic, three biological, and four chemical control methods, along with three regulatory approaches. To assess the practicality of these methods for managing 30 distinct pests, an applicability matrix was created, and a specific focus was placed on the suitability of these methods for adoption by farmers. Agronomic methods emerged as the versatile and widely applicable means of pest control in sugarcane production.
While regulatory and biological control options showed potential for all farmers, certain techniques within the agronomic and chemical control categories were found to be less feasible for emerging farmers, primarily due to cost-related constraints, such as the application of agrochemicals. This study identified research gaps and recognized eight pests as potential bio-security risks that require dedicated research efforts. Nine prospective pest control methods were highlighted, which could augment and refine existing IPM strategies in sugarcane cultivation. The study culminated in the practical demonstration of IPM principles on a whole-farm scale. By addressing the unique challenges faced by emerging farmers and identifying ways to enhance IPM strategies, this research contributes to the sustainability and success of the Pakistan sugar industry.