Chickpea Crop Under Threat: Pod Borer Infestation Rises with Flowering, ₹700 Protection Shield

• Chickpea crops face severe threat from pod borers and frost during the January-February flowering stage, leading to significant production loss.
• Agricultural experts highlight the 40-60 day post-sowing period as critical, requiring increased nutrition and protection against pests.
• Amit Singh, a pesticide expert from Jai Shri Krishi Vikas Kendra, Satna, recommends Imamectin Benzoate 5% SG insecticide for effective pod borer control.
• Spraying Imamectin Benzoate along with a tonic containing boron and micronutrients helps prevent flower shedding and boosts plant growth.
• Timely spraying (first at 40-50% flowering, second after 15 days), light irrigation, and weed control are crucial for crop protection, costing around ₹700 per acre.

Why It Matters: Timely intervention with pesticides, nutrition, and irrigation can protect chickpea crops from pod borers for just ₹700 per acre.