Pathogenic fungi intercepted in germplasm introduced during 1995–99

During 1995–99, over 2,67,000 imported germplasm in the form of true seeds and vegetative propagules of various agri-horticultural crops were examined for quarantine clearance. A number of destructive pathogens which are not known to occur in India namely, (Peronospora manshurica and Uromyces betae; having large number/more virulent races (Puccinia carthami, Tilletia foetida, Drechslera maydis, D. oryzae, D. sorokiniana and Ustilago tritict); and those having a wide host rage (Botrytis cinerea, Colletoirichum gloeosporioides, Fusarium solani and Drechslera sorokiniana) were intercepted. The significance of interceptions is discussed from quarantine viewpoint.