KVK, Palem conducted On Farm Trial (OFT) on “Assessment on Integrated Disease Management in Maize” at Palem, Khanapur, Vasanthapur villages on 06.08.2025.

KVK, Palem conducted On Farm Trial (OFT) on “Assessment on Integrated Disease Management in Maize” at Palem, Khanapur, Vasanthapur (V), Bijinepally (M), Nagrakurnool (D) on 06.08.2025. In Nagarkurnool district, maize is cultivated in approximately 39,450 acres. Over the past 3–4 years, the major diseases affecting maize crops have been Erwinia stalk rot and post-flowering stalk rot, primarily due to excess rainfall and over-irrigation. To address this issue, KVK, Palem initiated an On-Farm Trial (OFT) titled “Assessment on Integrated Disease Management in Maize”, conducted across farmers' fields in the villages of Palem, Khanapur, and Vasanthapur. As part of the technical programme, farmers were oriented on the disease management practices, and critical inputs such as Trichoderma viride and Copper Oxychloride were distributed. Farmers were also advised to Avoid excess irrigation, Prevent water stagnation in maize fields. During field visits, Fall Armyworm (FAW) incidence was observed at a 4–5 leaf damage score. However, based on field observations and feedback from farmers across different locations, the FAW incidence this year is significantly lower compared to previous years, and farmers have been more successful in managing the pest effectively. In this programme Dr. O. Shaila, SMS (Plant Protection), Y. Sultan, YP I and 7 RAWEP students, a Total of 18 members were participated.