Cotton Crop Under Siege: Jassid Attack Threatens Punjab’s Harvest
A severe jassid (leafhopper) infestation is wreaking havoc on Punjab’s cotton crop, raising serious concerns about the upcoming harvest. The South Asia Biotechnology Centre has issued a stark warning, reporting infestation levels far exceeding economically viable thresholds.
The worst affected districts are Moga, Bathinda, Mansa, Abohar, and Fazilka. Farmers in these regions are battling the pest with heavy insecticide sprays, significantly increasing cultivation costs.
Despite the pest pressure, the projected cotton yield stands at 650 kg per hectare, a considerable improvement from last year’s 440 kg per hectare. However, this increase is fragile and heavily dependent on the successful management of the ongoing jassid attack.
This alarming situation underscores the urgent need for robust pest management strategies and government support for Punjab’s cotton farmers. The impact on the state’s economy and the livelihoods of thousands of farming families cannot be overstated, demanding immediate attention and effective solutions.
