Modern farming tools will soon provide chemical-free pest control

Agricultural innovation in India is taking a significant leap forward as the ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (ICAR-NBAIR) officially moves its flagship "Shatpada" series from the laboratory to the commercial market. Based in Bengaluru, the institute has signed a licensing agreement to transfer two groundbreaking, eco-friendly Shatpada pest management technologies to the private sector, ensuring that farmers can soon access these sustainable tools.

The two specific innovations being commercialized are the Shatpada Fruit Fly Trap and the Shatpada White Grub Lure. These tools target some of the most destructive pests that plague horticultural and field crops. While these pests have traditionally caused massive financial losses in states like Rajasthan and Maharashtra, the introduction of these technologies is expected to benefit farmers across India, including those practicing sustainable agriculture in Odisha.

One of the primary goals of this transfer is to offer a "residue-free" alternative to traditional chemical interventions. By utilizing these traps and lures, farmers can significantly reduce their reliance on toxic pesticides. This shift not only lowers the overall cost of cultivation but also eliminates the health risks associated with chemical residues on food.

The licensing agreement was formalized with HSRP Agro Tech Pvt. Ltd. Shashank Ramesh, the director of the firm, noted that modern agricultural advancements must prioritize environmental well-being and human health. This sentiment aligns with the global "One Health, One World" philosophy, which seeks to harmonize the health of people, animals, and the environment.

Under the guidance of Dr. S. N. Sushil and Dr. Deepa Bhagat, the development team ensured these technologies were field-tested and ready for large-scale application. By bridging the gap between scientific research and industrial manufacturing, ICAR is ensuring that high-tech, eco-friendly pest control solutions are no longer confined to research papers but are available in the hands of the farmers who need them most.