Comparative evaluation of module-based strategies for controlling lepidopterous and dipterous pests in rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation.

BACKGROUND: Rice cultivation in eastern Vidarbha region of Maharashtra is seriously affected by insect pests such as yellow stem borer, gall midge, and leaf folder. Farmers in this region mainly depend on repeated application of single chemical insecticides, which has led to the development of insecticide resistance and associated environmental concerns. To address this problem, a field experiment entitled "Comparative evaluation of module-based strategies for controlling lepidopterous and dipterous pests in rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation" was conducted during kharif 2020 and 2021 at the Agriculture Research Station, Bhandara, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra (India). The study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of different pest management modules in reducing pest incidence and improving the rice grain yield. RESULTS: The results revealed that all the treatment modules significantly reduced the incidence of major rice pests compared to untreated control. Among the tested modules, M4 comprising chlorantraniliprole 0.4% G, cartap hydrochloride 50% SP, and Dinotefuran 20% SG was found to be the most effective in controlling yellow stem borer, gall midge, and leaf folder. Besides the chemical module, module M1 consisting of Neemazal 1% EC applied at 25-30 days after transplanting (DAT), eucalyptus oil at 45-50 DAT, and cartap hydrochloride 50% SP at 60-65 DAT also showed promising performance against the target pests. Rice grain yield was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in both M4 and M1. The study further indicated that botanical-based modules supported comparatively better conservation of natural enemies under field conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Among the evaluated pest management modules, M4 demonstrated the most effective suppression of major rice pests and achieved the highest grain yield. However, M1, integrating botanical formulations such as neem and eucalyptus oil with need-based insecticidal applications, emerged as a safer and more eco-friendly alternative. The study highlights that combining botanicals with selective insecticides can substantially reduce chemical dependence while maintaining effective pest control and crop productivity. These findings provide actionable guidance for farmers and policymakers to promote environmentally responsible pest management practices in rice cultivation systems.