Mustard Pest Alert: Bihar Agriculture Dept Issues 'Lahi' Control Formula

• Mustard crops in Bihar and North India face threats from aphids ('Lahi') and sawflies during flowering and pod-forming stages.
• Aphids suck sap, causing leaves to curl, yellow, and reducing oil content; sawflies damage leaves by making cuts.
• Initial control: Install 10 yellow sticky traps per hectare and spray neem-based insecticide (Azadirachtin 1500 ppm, 5ml/liter).
• For severe infestation, chemical options include Imidacloprid 17.8% SL (1ml/3L water) or Thiamethoxam 25% WG (1g/L water).
• Sawfly specific treatments: Dimethoate 30% EC (1ml/liter) or Quinalphos 25% EC (1.5ml/liter); spray after noon to protect pollinating bees.

Why It Matters: Bihar Agriculture Dept provides crucial advisory for farmers to combat mustard pests like 'Lahi' effectively.