Vol. 11, Special Issue 7 (2022)

Author(s):
Farahanaz Rasool, Purshottam Singh, Ali Anwar, Najeeb Mughal, Sushil Kumar and Sabiya bashir

Abstract:
Plant diseases are considered an important biotic constraint which leads to significant crop losses worldwide. Over the past few decades application of pesticides was the dominant form of disease control in developed and increasingly in developing countries. However, many problems have been associated with such an approach such as the frequent emergence of fungicide resistance in pathogens and the harmful effects of fungicides to human health and the environment. The concept of Integrated Disease Management (IDM) where diseases are managed by integrating biological, cultural, physical and chemical control strategies in a holistic way rather than using a single component strategy proved to be more effective and sustainable. ‘Integrated Disease Management’ involves the selection and application of a harmonious range of control strategies that minimise losses and maximise returns. IDM calls for minimal use of pesticides. Success requires appropriate policies in place that cover a wide range of themes such as plant protection, private sector investment, trade and export, food safety, land use, education and awareness, and agriculture extension. Wide adoption of IDM practices is a pre-requisite for achieving impact at the country level. Experience over the last few decades clearly showed that adoption and support for using participatory approaches help farmers improve their overall field management, including disease management, reducing costs and improving production efficiency.