Input-based assessment on integrated pest management for transplanted rice (Oryza sativa) in India

Abstract Globally, India ranks second in terms of area planted under rice (Oryza sativa) and its production as well. Potential to yield is dented due to a lack of inbuilt resistance to different biotic stresses as discernible in ~1000 rice cultivars across the country. Farmers usually rely on applying pesticides that result in several environmental adversities apart from rejection of export consignments due to the presence of chemical residue in grains. Yield losses due to pests of rice in tropical Asia range 25–43%. There is a need to explore alternative integrated input-based management options for judicious use of chemicals with optimal combinations of non-chemical interventions to improve productivity and profitability of rice culture. Field trials were conducted in split-split plot design at Chinsurah, West Bengal during three consecutive rainy (kharif) seasons (2013-15) in transplanted rice. The exploratory objectives were to assess different interventions for alleviating crop biotic stresses and obtaining precise estimate of grain yield as well as economic advantages, and to devise a cost-effective recommendation on need-based integrated pest management (IPM) in transplanted rice. Green manuring with 45-day old Sesbania crop showed a significant (P