Field evaluation of rice cultivars against the yellow stem borer Scirpophaga incertulas (wlk.)

Field evaluation of 92 released rice varieties of different states of India for stem borer resistance was conducted at Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack during 2003, 2004 and 2005 wet seasons. The varieties, viz., Tara, Punshi, Triveni, CSR-30, Saktiman, Kshira, Tripti, Seema, Mahalaxmi, Ambika, CSR-10, PR-115,Saket-4, VLD- 221, Indira, Mandira and Mahamaya showed field reaction.(SES Score-1) over the seasons. The varieties viz. Purnendu, Gayatri and Ketekijoha showed high percentage of white ear head (WEH) damage (>30%). The resistance most popular varieties Lalat and Swarna were found to be highly susceptible.