Pune: After creating havoc in Vidharbha and other regions of Maharashtra, the white grub has also affected about 3,000 acres of sugarcane crop in the Pune district.
The pest is popularly known as humeni eat at the roots of sugarcane and decreases the moisture and nutrients of the crop. This leads to the yellowing and wilting of leaves and causes extensive damage to the base of the shoot, leading to the dislodgement of the cane in the field.
According to the news report published in Thehindubusinessline.com, Agriculture Scientist and Technical Director at the Gujarat-based Institute of Soil and Plant Health, Rutuja More said, “Infestation is high especially in Daund, Baramati and Indapur talukas of Pune district. The farmers should speed up the process to control the spread of the pest. Six major sugar mills from these talukas have reported the problems.”
Sugar mills say they are taking steps to control the spread of the disease and reduce damage.
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