After Rainfall, Katara Insect Attacks Crops in Rajasthan: Agriculture Department Issues Advisory

Key Highlights:

• Heavy rain flooded fields in Nagaur district.

• Katara insect attack moong, moth, millet, cotton.

• Insect are active at night, cuts stems, damages crops.

• The Agriculture team advises trenches, light traps, and pesticides.

• Rapid spread warned, urgent farmer action is required.

The farmers of Rajasthan are facing a double challenge this monsoon season. On one side, heavy rainfall has damaged ripened crops, and on the other, the Katara insect has started attacking fields. The insect infestation is spreading quickly, especially in the Nagaur district, putting farmers under serious stress.

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Heavy Rain Creates Ideal Conditions for Katara Insect

According to the Meteorological Department, continuous heavy rain for 3-4 days has flooded fields in Nagaur, with water levels rising up to 3-4 feet in some areas. This flooding has damaged standing crops and created a moist environment, which is perfect for the growth and spread of the Katara insect.

The insect, also known as a cutworm, is mainly active at night and is damaging Kharif crops such as moong, moth, millet, and cotton. It cuts the leaves and stems of crops, reducing the chances of good production this season.

Areas Most Affected by Katara Insect

The villages in Nagaur district where the Katara insect infestation is severe include:

• Khadkali

• Makodi

• Setran

• Untwalia

• Kaldi

• Jakhania

• Jayal

Farmers in these areas are already reporting major crop damage due to this pest.

What Is the Katara Insect and How It Destroys Crops?

The Katara insect is a brown-colored larva that hides during the day and becomes active at night. It cuts the roots and stems from the bottom, causing plants to dry up. After rains, when the soil stays wet for long periods, the number of these insects increases rapidly, causing widespread damage.

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Advisory from the Agriculture Department to Control the Katara Insect

To control the spread of the Katara insect, the Agriculture Department has started a special survey and awareness campaign. Under the supervision of Joint Agriculture Director Harish Mehra, expert teams are visiting affected areas and educating farmers about proper preventive methods.

Assistant Agriculture Officer Shankarlal Siyak has advised farmers to take the following steps:

1. Create Trenches Around Fields: Dig 6–8 inch deep ditches along the field boundaries. These will trap the insects trying to enter from outside, stopping them from reaching the crops.

2. Inspect Fields at Night: Farmers should visit their fields at night with a torchlight to check for signs of damage. If leaves are cut or stems are broken near the ground, it may indicate the presence of the Katara insect.

3. Use Recommended Pesticides: Apply insecticides like Chloropyrifos 20 EC (1.5 liters per hectare) or Quinalphos 25 EC as per expert advice. Spraying in the evening is more effective against this pest.

4. Install Light or Pheromone Traps: Farmers can use light traps or pheromone traps to attract and kill the insects. This method is effective and avoids the use of chemicals.

Important Advice for Farmers

The Agriculture Department has warned that Katara insects spread quickly from one farm to another. If neighboring fields are infected, farmers must act immediately to stop them from reaching their own land. Delaying action can lead to complete crop loss.

Save Your Crops with Timely Action

Farmers must stay alert and take timely action against pests like the Katara insect. Regular inspections, preventive measures, and following expert advice can help protect crops. If you're growing Kharif crops, share this important information with other farmers to help them save their harvest too.

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CMV360 Says

Heavy rain and the Katara insect infestation have created serious problems for farmers in Rajasthan. With quick action, proper field monitoring, and effective pest control, crops can still be saved. The Agriculture Department's advice can help prevent large-scale crop damage and secure the livelihood of farmers.