Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda and IPM strategies for Manipur

Fall Armyworm is a highly damaging pest of maize. It has a very rapid spreading capacity. It is becoming a major threat in India as well as in north Eastern states. Proper quarantine measures should be strengthened to control the further entry of pest through different medium. Regular monitoring and scouting for the presence of the pest should be done. The spreading of FAW should be managed at the primary level using the integrated pest management methods like cultural control, biological control and use of chemicals below the economic injury level. However, the use of chemicals during the initial phase of pest spreading is not suggested as it can harm the natural enemies of the pest too