Impact of frontline demonstrations on management of sucking pests in cotton using IPM technology

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Banavasi, Andhra Pradesh conducted frontline demonstrations (FLDs) on management of sucking pests in cotton using IPM technology in 30 farmers’ fields in western part of Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh for three years. The technology included stem application of monocrotophos (1:4) at 30 and 45 days after sowing (DAS) with imidacloprid (1:20) at 60 DAS and erection of sticky traps @ 10/acre. Average yield recorded in demonstration plots was 1,942 kg/ha compared to 1,767 kg/ha in check plots. The increment in yield over check was 9.9 per cent. The cost of cultivation in demonstration plots (Rs 45,950) was reduced by 8.6 per cent compared to Rs 50,250 in check plots. In demonstration plots higher net return of Rs 42,133/ha with B-C ratio of 1.94:1 was observed as against check plots having net return of Rs 30,683/ha with B-C ratio of 1.62:1.