Utilization of Biopesticides in Integrated Pest Management

Authors

Dr Nanda Ram

Abstract

The increasing ecological and health concerns associated with synthetic chemical pesticides have accelerated the search for sustainable alternatives, among which biopesticides have emerged as a vital component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies in India. This review paper critically examines the utilization of biopesticides in Indian agriculture by analyzing published literature and secondary data. It explores their types, mechanisms of action, adoption trends, efficacy across major crops, economic viability, and regulatory frameworks. Findings reveal that biopesticides such as Trichoderma spp., Bacillus thuringiensis, neem extracts, and Pseudomonas fluorescens have shown effective pest control in crops like cotton, rice, and pulses, contributing to yield improvements and environmental safety. Despite registering over 970 biopesticide formulations by 2014, India’s biopesticide consumption still accounts for less than 3% of the total pesticide usage, mainly due to regulatory bottlenecks, low farmer awareness, and inadequate quality control. Policy initiatives such as the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture and the expansion of biocontrol laboratories have provided supportive momentum, yet adoption remains uneven across regions. The paper highlights the economic and ecological advantages of biopesticides and suggests that strategic regulatory reforms, market incentives, and farmer training programs are essential to mainstream biopesticides in Indian agriculture. Future directions emphasize integrating biopesticides with precision farming technologies and strengthening public-private partnerships to enhance their production, availability, and acceptance at scale.

Keywords

Biopesticides, Integrated Pest Management, Sustainable Agriculture, India, Trichoderma, Neem, Pest Control, Policy Support, Crop Yield, Eco-friendly Practices

Utilization of Biopesticides in Integrated Pest Management. Dr Nanda Ram. 2015. IJIRCT, Volume 1, Issue 1. Pages 1-7. https://www.ijirct.org/viewPaper.php?paperId=2504061