Farmers Perception and Knowledge for Management Practices of Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda Smith) in Lower Shivalik Foothills of Punjab, India

This study aimed to gather information about farmers perception, knowledge and management practices of the introduced insect pest, the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (FAW) A total of 100 smallholder farmers with experience in maize cultivation were surveyed using questionnaire from village Bhattlan and Bhambowal. Most farmers use hybrid varieties (67%), while others rely on local maize varieties (33%). Very few farmers were unable to morphologically identify fall armyworm (FAW) (22%). Most farmers have experienced FAW damage in their farms (97%). Maize is mostly planted in June (when rain starts) by 94% of farmers and the highest infestation period is believed to be between July to August when crop is young and most preferred by FAW. Among those using chemical insecticides to fight FAW, their primary source of insecticides is dealers’ shops (85.5%). The majority of farmers spray by themselves (81 %). Only 24% farmers reported that they use the recommended dose of insecticides for management of fall armyworm in maize. Although farmers are aware of the presence of FAW in maize fields, the majority of them are unaware about the recommended insecticides and spray technology, which probably affects their ability to control the pest. Awareness campaigns addressing the issues of identification and control of the pest should be implemented targeting smallholder farmers.