The intervention comes after farmers raised concerns over severe crop losses during an interaction programme held at the ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture on May 7. Taking immediate cognisance of the issue, the Minister directed agricultural scientists and officials to conduct urgent field assessments and recommend both short-term and long-term solutions.
Following the Minister’s directions, the ICAR-National Research Centre on Litchi constituted a specialised expert panel to scientifically evaluate the spread and impact of the litchi stink bug in affected regions of Bihar.
The task force comprises entomologists, horticulture experts, agricultural scientists and officials from multiple institutions, including representatives from the Bihar government’s horticulture and plant protection departments, Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar Agricultural University, and other ICAR research centres.
The Director of the National Research Centre on Litchi, Muzaffarpur, will chair the panel, while Principal Scientist (Entomology) Dr Vinod Kumar will serve as Member Secretary.
The expert team has been tasked with visiting the worst-affected litchi-growing blocks in Bihar, conducting scientific assessments of crop damage, and submitting a detailed report within one week to the Union Agriculture Minister.
The panel will also recommend farmer advisories, integrated pest management strategies, extension activities and policy interventions required at both the state and central levels to safeguard litchi production.
Officials stated that the initiative aims to protect Bihar’s globally recognised litchi industry, support farmer livelihoods and strengthen scientific responses to emerging horticulture pest challenges.
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