A Comprehensive Review of Managing the Major Diseases and Insect Pests of Ginger in India

Author: Bhaskar Pathak and Munindra Kakati

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Abstract

One most significant commercial crop cultivated worldwide and used in a variety of ways is ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe). The rhizome of the tropical perennial plant ginger is regarded as a major spice all across the globe. India is the largest ginger producer in the world, with an annual production of around 385.33 thousand tonnes. This accounts for approximately 54% of the global ginger production The North-East region of India produces 70% of all ginger. Along with other substances including proteins, cellulose, pentosans, starch, gingerol, shogaols, and other chemicals, the rhizome of ginger includes a number of significant volatile and non-volatile oils. Numerous diseases and insect pests target the ginger crop at various phases of growth, resulting in significant output losses. In addition to lowering agricultural output, disease and insect pests have detrimental impacts on crops during the harvesting, postharvest, processing, and marketing phases. These effects reduce the quality and export potential of the commodities, which results in a large loss of economic value. In addition to changing the cropping pattern, diseases and insect pests have an impact on both domestic and international markets. Apart from posing a major risk to the environment and human health, the frequent use of pesticides to eradicate plant diseases and insect pests causes pathogens and insect pests to gradually develop resistance. A certain amount of toxicity in the plant system and consequent health risks can result from the systemic mode of action of the majority of new generation pesticides. Additionally, it disrupts the microbial diversity, a crucial component of the ecosystem. The study of biological control and an integrated strategy for the management of plant diseases and insect pests has taken on new dimensions as a result of all these factors. The current manuscript provides a brief overview of significant diseases and insect pests that impact the ginger crop, along with information on how to manage them

Keywords

Insect pests, plant diseases, ginger crop, north east, rhizome, significant, management

Conclusion

Research on managing insects and diseases in ginger has a bright future and encompasses a number of fascinating fields. To help manage ginger pests without endangering the environment, researchers are looking into natural predators and parasites. For instance, certain bacteria and fungi like Trichoderma harzianum, Pseudomonas spp., Gliocladium, Bacillus subtilis, Streptomyces spp etc can be used to target particular pests. Bio pesticides can be made from natural plant extracts of ginger itself. Compounds found in ginger, such as zingiberene, shogaol, and gingerol, have demonstrated promise in the management of low-toxicity pests. Using genetic modification to create ginger cultivars resistant to pests and diseases more stronger and resilient ginger crops may result from this. Through Integrated Pest Management (IPM) combining different management strategies, such as cultural practices, biological control, and chemical methods, to manage pests and diseases more effectively and sustainably. Studying how changing climate conditions affect ginger pests and diseases, and developing strategies to help ginger plants adapt to these changes. Using modern technology to quickly and accurately diagnose diseases and pest infestations, allowing for timely and effective interventions. These areas of research aim to improve ginger production, reduce losses, and ensure sustainable farming practices.

References

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How to cite this article

Bhaskar Pathak and Munindra Kakati (2024). A Comprehensive Review of Managing the Major Diseases and Insect Pests of Ginger in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(12): 39-55