Locusts likely to reach western Odisha

Bhubaneswar: In what can be termed as a matter of concern for Odisha amid fight against COVID-19, OUAT Dean Lalit Mohan Garnayak today said locusts are likely to reach western Odisha in June.

“It has been predicted by the Central Government that locusts might reach Odisha in June. A team of entomologists has been formed to tackle the issue. Awareness regarding SOP will be spread among farmers who are likely to be affected. Report of the situation will be collected from district and block levels everyday,” he said.

The state government has already advised farmers to take preventive measures to save crops from the attack of locusts. Farmers residing in bordering areas of the state have been asked to remain alert and take immediate preventive steps.

They have been advised to spray 5 percent Neem Seed Kernel Extract (NSKE) 200 litres per acre of crops and vegetation after sunset as a precautionary measure. Farmers can also spray their crops with 300 ppm neem-based pesticide available in the market by mixing one litre of it in 200 litres per acre.

Farmers are also advised to resort to beating of tin drums, beating with thorny branches and several other methods to drive away locusts.

Notably, the locusts have destroyed crops in several states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh.