Innovative frontline demonstrations in tribal areas to enhance Bt cotton yield and income through integrated pest management

Cotton is a major cash crop being the world's leading natural fibre for the manufacture of textiles and edible oil. Cotton crop suffers from various types of insect pests. Due to lack of awareness amongst tribal farmers, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (YSR Horticultural University), Pandirimamidi, East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh promoted the integrated pest management (IPM) practices in tribal areas for the suppression of sucking pests of cotton. The IPM strategy involving many components was demonstrated through innovative large scale technology demonstration in 50 acres cotton (variety-Tulasi) crop area during 2014–2015 Kharif season in rainfed track of East Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh. The various production and protection parameters indicated that adoption of IPM strategy decreased the cost of production without affecting the yield. In the IPM demonstration quantity reduction of insecticidal sprays in Bt cotton was 40 litres per acre as compared to the local check. Adoption of IPM technology increased the net income over the local check in Bt cotton hybrids by Rs 18500/acre. In spite of increase in yield of cotton, technological gap, extension gap and technology index existed. The improved technology gave higher gross return, net return and higher benefit:cost ratio over farmers’ practices.