Green leathoppers’ infestation threatens cotton crops across key regions

An outbreak of green leafhoppers, or ‘jassids,’ is threatening cotton crops across major growing regions of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Identified by the South Asia Biotechnology Centre (SABC), the infestation is especially severe in Mansa and Bathinda districts of Punjab, Hisar and Sirsa in Haryana, and Hanumangarh and Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan.

According to a field survey by SABC, infestation levels have reached 12-15 leafhoppers per leaf, far exceeding the Economic Threshold Level (ETL). This high pest density is causing significant damage, with classic symptoms like yellowing, downward curling, and crinkling of leaves—a condition known as ‘hopper burn.’

The SABC team attributes the outbreak to recent weather patterns, including above-average rainfall, high humidity, and cloud cover, which created ideal conditions for the pests to multiply. If left unchecked, the tiny pests, which suck cell sap and inject toxins into the plants, could lead to yield losses of up to 30 per cent.

While a Punjab Agricultural University scientist has downplayed the severity, the SABC has issued a strong warning, urging farmers to take immediate action. To manage the infestation, SABC recommends regular field monitoring, using neem-based bio-insecticides, and eliminating weeds. Farmers must ensure thorough application, especially on the underside of leaves, to effectively protect their crops from this growing threat.