Sugarcane farmers in Uttar Pradesh are facing fresh concerns after the emergence of Pokka Boing disease in standing crops, raising fears of lower yields and additional losses at a time when growers are already dealing with recurring disease pressure.

Farmers said the disease, which was first identified in the area last year, has begun affecting sugarcane fields and could significantly impact production if timely control measures are not taken.

According to growers, the infection initially causes the upper leaves of the sugarcane plant to turn yellow. As the disease progresses, the leaves dry up and begin to fall, followed by rotting of the stem, which slows plant growth and may eventually lead to complete drying of the crop.

The latest outbreak has added to concerns among farmers who had earlier experienced losses due to red rot disease in sugarcane.

With the risk of further spread, farmers have started seeking guidance from experts in the sugarcane and agriculture departments to protect their crop and limit potential damage.

Farmers said favourable weather conditions for disease development could accelerate the spread of infection and result in substantial economic losses.

Progressive farmers Hompal Singh, Rohit Kumar, Kuldeep Singh, Satendra Singh and Brajpal Saini said sugarcane fields are currently facing threats from multiple diseases.

They explained that in plants affected by Pokka Boing disease, newly emerging leaves become twisted and tangled before gradually rotting and falling. As the condition advances, the upper portion of the plant begins to dry while internal rotting develops in the middle section, reducing crop productivity.

Farmers recalled that red rot had caused major damage to sugarcane production last year and said the emergence of another disease has increased uncertainty over this season’s harvest.

Source - https://www.chinimandi.com