Across India, diverse rice varieties are cultivated, each with its unique characteristics. However, farmers are currently facing difficulties related to rice crops due to a virus that originated in China. First identified in 2001, this virus causes rice crops to turn black. Named the Southern Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf Virus (SRBSD), it was initially found in southern China. The government and agricultural scientists in Haryana are now on alert. This article examines the virus and its impact on crops.
Haryana is a major rice-growing state, where rice is a key crop. Its basmati rice is globally renowned. This recognition is now threatened. The government itself acknowledges this issue, which was discussed in the Haryana Assembly. Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana reported that approximately 92,000 acres of rice crop out of the 4 million acres planted in the state are affected by the virus.
The government is closely watching the situation and recommends that farmers follow the advice of agricultural scientists and adhere to government guidelines during planting to minimize the impact of such diseases.
What is the SRBSD Virus?
The Southern Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf Virus (SRBSD) was first detected in China. Until 2008, the virus was confined to southern China. It was first found outside of China in Vietnam in 2009, and since then, its effects have been noted in other countries.
How Does the Virus Affect Rice?
The virus spreads through the White-backed Plant Hopper (WBPH), a vector that feeds on the sap of rice plants and transmits the virus from infected to healthy plants. In simple terms, the virus stunts the growth of rice plants. Plants affected by this disease can be up to 40% shorter, leading to a significant reduction in yield.
It is believed the virus causes the most damage soon after planting, potentially leading to crop failure. Severely infected plants wither and die, with the lower parts of the plants turning black. Small, striped white or black waxy galls can be seen on the stems of infected plants.
How Long Does the Virus’s Impact Last?
Studies show that the SRBSD virus has the greatest impact early on, potentially reducing crop production capacity by up to 50%. However, its effect diminishes over time. The virus is most harmful when the crop is sprouting. If the crop survives that phase, there is no need for alarm. This disease was detected in India three years ago.
How to Protect Your Crop from the Virus?
Scientists have issued advisories to combat this virus. Agricultural scientists provide farmers with information about the virus during rice planting. The advisories suggest that if the White-backed Plant Hopper is found, farmers should spray Paxolem 10 SC (Triflumizopyrim) 235 ml per hectare, Oshin Token 20SG (Dinotefuran) 200 grams per hectare, or Chase 50 WG (Pymetrozine) 300 grams per hectare. For optimal protection, spray the medicine at the base of the plant to prevent the virus from spreading.
Which Rice Varieties are Affected?
Several rice varieties are being impacted by this virus. Research by MARU IARI has shown the virus affects Basmati (Pusa-1962, 1718, 1121, 1509, 1847, and CSR-30) and non-Basmati (PR-114, 130, 131, 136, Pioneer Hybrid, and Arai Swift Gold), among others. This has led to decreased production, making it challenging to meet market demands.
