Root Rot Disease Spreading in Sugarcane: Farmers Must Act Immediately

Key Highlights:

• Heavy rains cause root rot in sugarcane fields.

• 24,218 hectares sprayed with drones across UP.

• Fungicides and NPK sprays are suggested for farmers.

• Light trap machines provided by sugar mills.

• Helpline 18001213203 launched for farmer support.

The reactivated monsoon has brought heavy rains across many states, especially in Uttar Pradesh, where sugarcane crops are being badly affected. Continuous rainfall has caused waterlogging in fields, which is now leading to root rot disease and pest attacks in sugarcane crops. This has become a major concern for sugarcane farmers.

To provide relief, the Sugarcane Development Department has deployed field workers and started drone-based spraying of pesticides to save crops from large-scale damage.

What is Root Rot Disease and How Does It Harm Sugarcane?

Root rot disease occurs mainly due to excessive water and poor drainage in fields. When sugarcane fields remain waterlogged for long periods, the roots begin to rot, which reduces the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients.

This leads to:

• Yellowing of leaves

• Stunted growth

• Gradual drying of plants

According to Dr. Jitendra Kumar Tomar, former Agriculture Director, the months of July, August, and September are crucial for sugarcane growth. But this year, due to heavy monsoon rains, the risk of pests and root diseases has increased significantly.

Sugarcane Department’s Action: Drone Spraying in 24,218 Hectares

The Uttar Pradesh Sugarcane Development Department has intensified monitoring to control the spread of diseases. Instructions have been given to all Deputy Sugarcane Commissioners, District Sugarcane Officers, and Sugar Mill Managers to visit affected areas daily and guide farmers.

So far:

• 329 drones have been deployed

• 24,218 hectares of sugarcane fields have been sprayed with essential pesticides

This step is helping in controlling dangerous pests like white fly, pokka boing, root borer, top borer, and red rot.

Measures Farmers Should Take to Control Root Rot

The department has suggested farmers adopt the following practices:

• Drainage Management: Remove waterlogging quickly by ensuring proper field drainage.

• Timely Spraying: Use only scientifically approved pesticides and medicines at the right time.

• Fungicide Treatment: Mix 2 gm of Thiophanate Methyl 70 WP or Carbendazim 50 WP per liter of water and apply through trenching near sugarcane roots.

• Nutrient Spray: Prepare a foliar spray of NPK 19:19:19 fertilizer (5 kg per hectare in 1000 liters of water) to strengthen crop health.

• Light Trap Machines: Use machines provided by sugar mills to monitor and control harmful insects effectively.

Helpline Number for Farmers

The Sugarcane Development Department has also issued a toll-free helpline number 18001213203. Farmers can use this number for:

• Guidance on pest control

• Disease identification

• Crop protection advice

• Information on wild animal damage prevention

Also Read: Free Toria Seed Scheme 2025: Farmers Get Chance to Apply for Free Rapeseed

CMV360 Says

Root rot disease has become a serious threat to sugarcane farmers this monsoon season. However, with timely drainage, proper spraying of fungicides, and support from the Sugarcane Development Department, the damage can be controlled.

The Uttar Pradesh government and sugarcane authorities are working with farmers to protect the crop using modern technologies like drone spraying and light traps. Farmers are advised to immediately inspect their fields and take preventive measures to save their sugarcane crop from further loss.