ICAR-KVK Longleng successfully manages ginger rhizome rot disease using an integrated biological approach.
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DIMAPUR — A Front Line Demonstration (FLD) undertaken by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Longleng, demonstrated an effective and eco-friendly disease management technology to control rhizome rot disease in ginger, a crucial cash crop in the district.
An update mentioned that ginger plays a vital role in improving the livelihoods of farming communities in the Longleng district. However, rhizome rot disease caused by Pythium spp. has remained a major challenge, often resulting in poor plant growth, rhizome decay, and substantial yield losses.
Recognising the severity of the problem, Shubhendu Kumar Behera, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Pathology) at ICAR-KVK, Longleng, conducted the demonstration to showcase the management technology among local farmers. D Lochumlo, a progressive ginger grower from Orangkong village in Longleng, volunteered to adopt the recommended technology on her farm.
The demonstration was conducted using the technology developed by the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, which comprises an integrated biological approach for disease management.
The package included rhizome treatment with Trichoderma harzianum at 50 g per kg of rhizome; soil application of Trichoderma harzianum at 2.5 kg mixed with 50 kg FYM incorporated 10 to 15 days before sowing; and foliar application of Pseudomonas fluorescens at 5 g per litre of water at 15-day intervals.
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In contrast, the prevailing farmer's practice involved only seed treatment with Trichoderma harzianum at 10 g per kg of rhizome, which provided limited protection against soil-borne pathogens.
Throughout the cropping season, regular field visits, technical supervision, and scientific guidance were provided by Shubhendu Kumar Behera, Dr. Kalu Ram, and Dr. Avaneesh Kumar to ensure proper implementation of the recommended practices.
The crop under the improved technology exhibited vigorous growth, better tillering, and healthier foliage with minimal disease symptoms. The integrated application of beneficial microorganisms enhanced soil microbial activity and effectively suppressed the disease-causing pathogens.
As a result, disease incidence was considerably lower in the demonstration plot compared to fields managed under the traditional farmer's practice.
At harvest, the superiority of the ICAR-recommended technology was clearly evident. The demonstration plot recorded healthier and larger rhizomes, reduced rotting, and a significantly higher proportion of marketable produce.
The grower observed that the crop remained greener and healthier throughout the season, leading to improved productivity and profitability. The reduction in disease incidence not only safeguarded the crop but also enhanced the overall economic returns from ginger cultivation.
It was mentioned that encouraged by the positive outcome, Lochumlo has committed to continuing the practice in future seasons and has become an advocate for the technology among fellow farmers.