Farmers, Beware! Black Spot Disease is Spreading in Sugarcane – Learn How to Protect Your Crop

Key Highlights:

• Kala Chikta disease is damaging sugarcane crops.

• Leaves turn yellow, develop brown spots, and holes.

• Spread is high during April to June in dry weather.

• Advisory issued by UP Sugarcane Department.

• Chemical and irrigation methods are advised for control.

Sugarcane farmers in many regions, especially in Uttar Pradesh, need to stay alert. A disease known as Kala Chikta (Black Spot Disease) is currently spreading in sugarcane fields and causing serious damage. If not controlled on time, it can destroy the entire crop. Here's everything you need to know about this disease, its symptoms, and how to prevent it.

Also Read: Farmers in Uttar Pradesh to Get Cheaper Loans Under New Scheme

What is Kala Chikta or Black Spot Disease?

Kala Chikta is a pest-related disease caused by a tiny insect also known as the black bug. This pest is a sucking insect that attacks sugarcane crops, especially during the hot and dry months of April to June.

What Happens to the Crop?

• The growth of sugarcane stops when this insect attacks.

• Leaves turn yellow and develop brown patches.

• In severe cases, holes appear in the leaves.

• Both adult bugs and larvae suck juice from the leaves, weakening the plant.

Alert from the Sugarcane and Sugar Department

Seeing the rising infestation, the Sugarcane and Sugar Department of Uttar Pradesh has issued an official advisory. Pramod Kumar Upadhyay, Sugarcane and Sugar Commissioner of the state, confirmed that a team of scientists is surveying affected fields. The black bug, along with pyorrhea disease, has been detected in many areas.

Following the recommendations from the Sugarcane Research Council, the department has shared key instructions with farmers, sugar mills, and officers.

Also Read: Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan to Begin on May 29 in 723 Districts Across India

How to Identify Black Bugs in Sugarcane?

• Mostly found on mature standing sugarcane.

• Bugs are usually hidden between leaf curls and near the pulp.

• Yellowing leaves with brown spots are a sign.

• Larvae and adults are visible, especially during dry and hot weather.

Preventive and Control Measures for Farmers

To protect your sugarcane from black spot disease, follow these recommended practices:

1. After harvesting, destroy old stalks and stumps from affected fields.

2. Irrigate the field – water helps reduce pest effects.

3. If the infestation is severe, use chemical treatment:

• Profenophos 40% + Cypermethrin 4% EC (750 ml/ha)

• Imidacloprid 17.8% SL (200 ml/ha)

• Quinalphos 25% EC (825 ml/ha)

• Chlorpyrifos 20 EC (800 ml/ha)

• Mix in 625 litres of water and spray per hectare.

4. If black bug numbers are low but Pyrilla insects and bio-parasites are present, then chemical sprays are not required.

5. If no parasites are seen and black bugs are in large numbers, chemical control is necessary.

Other Pests That Attack Sugarcane

Farmers should also be aware of other pests that harm sugarcane at different stages:

• Termites

• White grubs

• Root borer

• Seedling borer

• Top shoot borer

• Whip smut (bitter disease

• Stem borer

• Gurdaspur borer

• Internode borer

Always consult the local agriculture department before applying any chemical. Spraying should be done only under expert guidance.

Also Read: Ladli Behna Yojana Maharashtra: 11th Installment Likely in June – Check Full Details

Final Advice to Farmers

This is a critical time for sugarcane growers. Timely action and correct treatment can save your crops from Kala Chikta and other pests. Stay connected with your nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) or agriculture officer for guidance.

Protect your crops now to ensure a better harvest later!