Training Programme Highlights Importance of Biopesticides in Sustainable Agriculture

Suttur, April 7, 2026: A training programme on the Importance and Use of Biopesticides in Agriculture was organised on April 7, 2026, at ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, in collaboration with Sri Shivaratreeshwara Rural Development Foundation, Mysuru, and the Institute of Agricultural Technologists, Mysuru Chapter.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. N.M. Shivashankarappa, Director of Rural Development, JSS Mahavidyapeetha, Mysuru. In his inaugural address, he created awareness about the adverse effects of excessive use of chemical pesticides in modern agriculture and stressed the need for safer and more sustainable farming practices.
Dr. K.R. Ravindra spoke on the occasion and emphasised the importance of developing a greater inclination towards the use of biopesticides in agriculture. He also explained the various benefits of biological pesticides to the farmers present.

Presiding over the programme, Dr. B.N. Gnanesh, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK, said that farmers should plan their agricultural practices based on the existing condition of their soil. He noted that biopesticides play an important role in improving soil health and supporting sustainable agricultural production.

The resource person for the programme, Dr. Manjunath, Professor, College of Horticulture, Mysuru, delivered a detailed session on the methods of using biopesticides such as Trichoderma, Pseudomonas, Metarhizium, Ampelomyces, Quisqualis, and other beneficial organisms. He also explained the precautions to be followed during their application and their role in seed treatment.
Using practical examples, Dr. Manjunath provided guidance on the management of coconut wilt disease, banana wilt disease, and root-knot nematode infestation in pomegranate through appropriate biological methods.

The programme was attended by the staff of Krishi Vignan Kendra and more than 50 farmers.

A training programme on the importance and use of biopesticides in agriculture, featuring a demonstration on the method of mixing biofertilizers into the soil.