Farmers in the Siddipet district of Telangana are witnessing a significant reduction in pest attacks on tomato and chilli crops following the adoption of biocontrol agents and biofertilisers as part of a sustainable farming initiative.
Agricultural Extension Officer (AEO) T. Nagarjun, from the Yellareddypet cluster, led the drive to promote eco-friendly pest and nutrient management practices. Demonstrations were recently held at Rythu Vedhika and on the farm of Ilapuram Anil Reddy in Pedda Masanpally village, Thoguta Mandal.
According to Nagarjun, overdependence on chemical pesticides has reduced biodiversity and increased pest outbreaks due to monoculture farming. “Pheromone traps, sticky traps, and light traps are simple tools that can help monitor pest levels and prevent crop losses,” he explained.
During the demonstration, biocontrol agents were applied to tomato, chilli, and brinjal crops, while chemical fertilisers were replaced with biofertilisers such as Azotobacter, phosphorus- and potash-solubilising bacteria, and zinc-solubilising bacteria to improve soil health.
Microbial agents like Trichoderma viride, Pseudomonas, and Bacillus subtilis were used to manage plant diseases. For sucking pests like whiteflies and thrips, biopesticides such as Beauveria bassiana, Verticillium lecanii, and Isaria were applied. Caterpillars and borers were treated using Metarhizium and Bacillus thuringiensis.
Other beneficial microbes, including Nomuraea and Bacillus subtilis, were introduced to enhance crop immunity and resilience. Nagarjun noted that these methods not only reduce pollution but also preserve soil biodiversity and promote long-term agricultural sustainability.
Farmer Anil Reddy, who cultivates on half an acre of land, confirmed positive results. “Pest attacks on my tomato and chilli crops are almost zero now. Although a few pests still affect the brinjal, I’ve saved around ₹5,000 on fertilisers and pesticides, thanks to the bio-inputs provided by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Medak,” he said.
Reddy is also employing modern techniques like mulching sheets to control weeds and is optimistic about a good harvest this season.
