Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) is considered one of the most important pests in agriculture globally. As it is a polypahgous pest and infests more than 180 plants, it causes huge economic loss annually. It is a native to India and is widely distributed throughout the country. Agriculturists have taken several measures to control this pest. Earlier methods include the use of chemical pesticides and insecticides. In recent times, more attention is being paid to the biological control methods such as use of natural enemies, pheromones, neuropeptides, development of transgenic crops, RNA interference technology etc. These methods though have faced some challenges in implementation but are safe, sustainable and mostly species specific. Here, we have discussed the chemical and biological methods that have been used in the past or are currently in practice. We have also discussed some of quite recent but promising technologies which in future can be developed as a tool for the control of Helicoverpa armigera.
Helicoverpa armigera, Cotton bollworm, Pest control, old world worm, tomato grub
