Dr NS Butter, Head, Department of Entomology, and the scientists of the Biocontrol unit of the department presented research achievements. PAU has recommended use of an eco-friendly insect bioagent, against the stalk borer of sugarcane, stem borer of maize and leaf folder and stem borer of organic rice in its package of practices.

The members interacted with farmers to see the impact of bio-control of pests. They met progressive farmers’ delegations from Ferozepur, Jalandhar and Nawanshahar districts. These farmers have been practicing biocontrol technology on the recommendation of biocontrol scientists for the last 8-15 years.

The team showed keen interest in the implementation of biocontrol in farmers’ fields. The members also visited the Biocontrol Laboratory established by Doaba Co-operative Sugar Mill, Nawanshahar in collaboration with PAU.

The scientists of the mill, in collaboration with the scientists of PAU, are now producing Trichogramma cards, and are demonstrating the efficacy of bioagents on a large scale in sugarcane. The QRT members lauded the efforts and achievements of PAU in implementing the biocontrol technology in Punjab, and triggering the establishment of mass production of bio-agents in sugar mills.

The team stressed on the recommendation to the council to get this component implemented in other states on the pattern of Punjab. The members also held a meeting with PAU Vice Chancellor Dr Manjit Singh Kang, and appreciated the work of the Entomology Department of PAU.