Sugarcane farming is a significant agricultural activity in many states across the country, and the winter sowing season is currently underway. To achieve better yields and profitability from sugarcane cultivation, it is crucial to protect crops from the deadly Red Rot disease. This disease spreads rapidly, and if not treated in time, it can destroy the entire crop. Therefore, special precautions should be taken during sowing to prevent this disease.
Red Rot is a dangerous disease that can devastate sugarcane crops. It spreads through infected seed and soil, making it essential to test the soil and carefully select seeds before sowing. Agricultural scientists believe that by following specific precautions during sowing, farmers can avoid the onset of this disease and safeguard their crops.
Dr. Sunil Kumar Vishwakarma, a scientist at the Uttar Pradesh Sugarcane Research Institute, has developed a biological product called "Ankush" to control Red Rot in sugarcane. Ankush contains a mixture of Trichoderma fungi, which is effective in preventing soil-borne diseases in sugarcane as well as other crops. This product offers a safe and effective method to control Red Rot and can be applied during the final plowing of the field at a rate of 10 to 20 kg per hectare.
Using Ankush can effectively treat Red Rot and improve the health of the sugarcane crop. The best part is that it can be used in larger quantities without causing harm. Farmers can mix Ankush with decomposed cow dung or soil and distribute it across the field before plowing. This will help keep the sugarcane crop free from disease and ready for sowing.
Pricing and Purchase of Ankush: Ankush is priced at ₹56 per kilogram and can be purchased from the Sugarcane Research Institute on any working day. Additionally, when selecting sugarcane seeds, farmers must ensure that they choose seeds from fields that are not affected by Red Rot. It is also recommended that the upper third of the seed be cut off to create a single bud before planting.
Conclusion: By following the proper precautions during sugarcane sowing, it is possible to prevent Red Rot. The use of biological treatments like Ankush can help keep the crop safe and ensure better yields. Therefore, it is essential for farmers to consider these measures when cultivating sugarcane for successful production.
