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National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS)

Posted 12 Sep 2024

Updated 14 Sep 2024

4 min read

Why in the news? 

Union Ministry of Agriculture has launched AI-based platform, National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) that will help farmers connect with agriculture scientists and experts on controlling pests.

About National Pest Surveillance system (NPSS)

  • Aim: It aims to reduce the dependence of farmers on pesticide retailers and inculcate a scientific approach among them towards pest management. 
  • Agencies involved: NPSS is a collaboration of Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage And ICAR-National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management (ICAR- NCIPM). 
  • Key Features 
    • Utilizes cutting-edge technologies:  Such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to offer timely and precise pest management advisories
    • Mobile app and web portal: Farmers can take photos of the infested crops or the insect and upload on platform.
    • Experts’ Advice: Scientists/experts will provide farmers with accurate advice and also suggest pesticides to control the menace.
  • Technological applications like NPSS can encourage judicious use of pesticides and promote Integrated Pest Management in India. 

About Integrated Pest Management (IPM) 

  • Definition: It is an eco-friendly approach which aims at keeping pest population below those causing economically damage/loss by employing alternate pest control methods and techniques with emphasis on use of bio-pesticides and pesticides of plant-origin
1. An illustration depicting the key components of integrated pest management, including monitoring, prevention, and control strategies.  2. A visual representation of integrated pest management components, highlighting monitoring, prevention, and control methods for pests.  3. Diagram showcasing the essential elements of integrated pest management, featuring monitoring, prevention, and pest control techniques.

Significance of IPM 

  • Prevents crop yield losses: Crop yield losses due to insect pests, diseases, nematodes, weeds and rodents range from 15-25 % in India, amounting to 0.9 to 1.4 lakh crore rupees a year [Council of Energy, Environment & Water (CEEW)].
  • Increases Income Levels: IPM reduces production costs through reduced levels of pesticide use and increased production. Also, higher quality crops (with less residues) can fetch better prices in markets. 
    • E.g., The implementation of IPM has led to increased pulse production of 15-20 %. 
  • Prevents Ill-Effects of Excessive Pesticide Use: Such as human and animal health hazards, development of resistance in the pests to pesticides etc.
  • Environmental benefits: Due to Reduced Pesticide Residues in the environment-
    • Enhances ecosystem services (i.e. pollination, healthy soils, diversity of species).
    • Conserve Energy & reduces emissions as Bio-pesticides are derived from animals, plants (neem, tobacco) microorganisms (bacteria, virus, fungus, nematodes) etc.

Concerns

  • Possibility of Initial Yield Decline: It can discourage farmers from adopting IPM.
  • High Initial Costs: Upfront investment is needed in new equipment, technology, and training.
  • Lack of Awareness and Education: About IPM principles or its potential benefits, leading to resistance to change.
  • Lack of Monitoring and Data: Effective IPM relies on regular monitoring of pest populations and data collection, which can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.
  • Pest Resurgence: In cases where IPM practices are not implemented correctly or if pests develop resistance to biological control agents.
  • Weather and Environmental Factors: It can affect the effectiveness of certain IPM practices

Steps taken for promoting IPM System in India

  • IPM Policy: India has adopted IPM as cardinal principle and main plank of plant protection in the overall Crop Production Programme since 1985. 
  • ICAR-NCIPM: Premier research institute established in 1988 to develop and promote IPM technologies for major crops
  • Scheme “Strengthening & Modernization of Pest Management” :  Promotes IPM approach under this scheme through various Central IPM Centres (CIPMCs) across country.  
    • Their Mandate includes pest/disease monitoring, production and release of bio-control agents/ bio-pesticides, conservation of bio-control agents & Human Resource Development in IPM etc.

Way forward 

  • Concentrated effort from government, Farmer Producer Organizations, and researchers to provide education, training, and support to farmers.
  • Developing innovative IPM strategies tailored to specific regions and crop systems.
  • Invest in developing technological interventions for wider adoption of IPM.
1. Image depicting various technological applications for integrated pest management, showcasing innovative tools and strategies.  2. Visual representation of technological advancements in integrated pest management, highlighting effective pest control solutions.  3. Illustration of diverse technological tools used in integrated pest management, emphasizing modern approaches to pest control.
  • Tags :
  • Integrated Pest Management
  • National Pest Surveillance system
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