Weather favouring Wheat Crop (Preventing Disease Control Advisory)

The recent cold wave followed by rains is expected to boost the wheat production this rabi season as stated by the Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley (IIWBR), Karnal recently.

Such weather is being opined by experts to prove an increase in wheat production this season. If such conditions prevail for another few days in northern India, a bumper increase in yield can be expected. In a statement the Director (IIWBR) stated that since the wheat crop is in a tillering to jointing stage, such weather conditions will ensure higher yields. 

The target of producing around 107 MT may end up at 112 MT production of wheat this rabi season. Looking into last years’ target that overran a target of 102 MT ending up at 107.6 MT, the same is expected to be achieved this year too. 

The prevailing weather conditions are particularly good for DBW-187, DBW-222, and DBW-303 as they have the quality of profuse tillering. 

Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley (IIWBR) has further issued and advisory towards preventive crop protection measures. Farmers have been advised to spray Lihocin @ 0.2 per cent and tebuconazole @ 0.01 per cent 75-80 days after the date of sowing of the above stated wheat varieties. Further, farmers have been advised to keep a vigil on their fields for checking the onset of yellow rust in the crop. A single Plant Growth Regulator and a Fungicide has been advised by the institute IIWBR, Karnal. 

However, it is also worth mentioning the IIWBR recommending crop protection products as Lihocin, a PGR of BASF by its brand name. It may be noted that promotion of any brand names by Government Institutes or State Agriculture Universities is banned by the Department of Agriculture Cooperation & Farmers Welfare.  

Farmers may seek further information on available crop protection products to control yellow rust in wheat available on the website of the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee website: http://www.ppqs.gov.in/divisions/cib-rc/major-uses-of-pesticides