Importance of Biocontrol in the Economics and Agricultural Trade of India

Abstract

India produces 195 million tonnes of food grains every year. In 1990-91, the export of food grain was of the order of Rs 4,700 crores which has grown to Rs 15,660 crores in 1995-96, indicating a quantum jump of 4-times. However, with the increasing population this needs to be further enhanced. Diseases alone cause a loss of more than 25% of the total yield. Therefore, if the same can be managed properly in a eco-friendly manner by the use of biological control agents, it will help an additional production of 35-50 million tonnes. Chemical control is too costly and also causes environmental pollution. Therefore, an attempt has been made to elucidate the importance of biological control agents alongwith the list of commercially available bio-pesticides in the market. Significance and future strategies have been revealed.