The Directorate of Agriculture recently reported an armyworm attack on crops in the Dhemaji district in northeastern Assam. This news has added to the woes of farmers who were already grappling with the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Armyworm Caterpillar: A Prolific Pest
The term ‘armyworm’ refers to the caterpillar stage of various moth species. These caterpillars have voracious appetites and can feed on more than 80 species of plants, according to entomologists, i.e., scientists who study insects.
Weather and Communication Challenges
There are several factors complicating efforts to control the armyworm infestation. The weather is a significant concern. In Assam, there have been no pre-monsoon rains, and the temperature is high. These conditions can exacerbate the damage caused by the armyworm.
In addition to the weather, communication issues pose a considerable challenge. Measures taken to combat the spread of coronavirus, including roadblocks and travel restrictions, have hampered attempts to reach out to farmers.
Fears for the Winter Crop Cycle
Officials have voiced concerns about the potential impact of the lockdown on the winter crop cycle. April and May are crucial months for paddy farmers in Assam, as this is when they clear weeds and fertilize their fields in preparation for transplanting winter crop seedlings. This process typically takes between 35 and 40 days.
Farm experts warn that any delay of more than a month could affect crop yields. The reason for this is that pushing back the sowing and maintenance phase brings it dangerously close to Assam’s flood season.
Armyworm: A Global Threat
The armyworm, scientifically known as Spodoptera frugiperda and also commonly referred to as the fall armyworm (FAW), is a dangerous and highly mobile pest. It poses a significant threat to food security and the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers. The armyworm has spread across sub-Saharan Africa, the Near East, and Asia, taking advantage of natural distribution channels and international trade opportunities.
Control and Elimination Efforts
Due to the scale of the problem, farmers need considerable support to manage FAW sustainably through integrated pest management (IPM) activities. Unfortunately, completely eliminating FAW is not possible.
Acknowledging the international threat posed by the armyworm, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has launched a Global Action for FAW Control initiative. This program aims to help farmers mitigate the damage caused by this persistent and destructive pest.
