01 Oca 2026 Perşembe
Knowledge gaps in integrated pest management: A survey-based asessment of Farmers' practices
Abstract : Effective pest management is crucial for sustainable agricultural production, yet farmers' knowledge and adoption of modern pest control practices vary significantly across regions. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among farmers across villages in Aligarh district, Uttar Pradesh, India, using structured interviews covering demographics, farming practices, pest knowledge, pesticide usage, and biocontrol awareness. The study revealed significant gaps in farmers' knowledge and practices. Only 17.2% of farmers were aware of modern agricultural practices, with just 4.8% having received formal training. Pest identification skills were limited, with only 22% able to identify Spodoptera litura. Pesticide use was prevalent (85.2%), primarily pyrethroids (48.8%) and neonicotinoids (45.2%), but safety practices were extremely poor with 55.2% using no protection, 44.8% using only cloth covers, and 0% using proper protective equipment. Biocontrol awareness was extremely low (13.6%), with minimal adoption. The findings highlight critical knowledge gaps in integrated pest management, unsafe pesticide practices, and minimal adoption of sustainable biocontrol methods, indicating urgent need for targeted extension programs, training initiatives, and policy interventions to improve farmers' pest management capabilities and promote sustainable agricultural practices.