Southern Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf Virus (SRBSDV): Role of Planthoppers in Virus Transmission and Management Options: A Comprehensive Review for Punjab, India

Southern Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf Virus (SRBSDV) has emerged as one of the most destructive viral pathogens affecting rice production in Asia, with escalating threats to Northern India including Punjab and Haryana since 2022. This virus, transmitted exclusively by the white-backed planthopper (WBPH, Sogatella furcifera) in a persistent-propagative manner, causes yield losses ranging from 15-22 % in India to 30-50 % during regional epidemics, with complete crop failure possible when plants are infected at the seedling stage. This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on SRBSDV taxonomy, genome organization, epidemiology, vector biology, transmission mechanisms, molecular interactions, and integrated management strategies. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of WBPH as the exclusive vector and the complex interactions between viral virulence proteins and both host plant and vector susceptibility factors. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics, host plant resistance breeding through RNAi and CRISPR/Cas9 technologies and forecasting models are discussed. Current management strategies emphasize cultural practices, chemical vector control, biological control approaches, host plant resistance and emerging biotechnological solutions. The review identifies critical research gaps, including climate change implications for vector migration patterns, mechanisms of vector specificity, alternative host plant reservoirs and policy frameworks for regional cooperation. Sustainable management of SRBSDV requires an integrated pest management approach combining surveillance, resistant varieties, timely vector control and farmer awareness, particularly critical for Punjab’s ricedependent agriculture.