Fazilka, April 4, 2025 : The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Fazilka, has appealed to farmers to destroy weeds growing along the edges of their fields and to remove any leftover cotton stalks from the fields to ensure a better upcoming cotton crop.
Providing this information, Agriculture Officer Dr. Mamta Luna stated that various types of weeds growing around the fields provide a breeding ground for whiteflies, which later attack the cotton crop. If farmers destroy these weeds from around the fields and other vacant areas at this time, the spread of whiteflies can be stopped at this stage itself, significantly reducing the chances of an attack on the upcoming cotton crop.
She further mentioned that the larvae of the pink bollworm remain hidden in the leftover cotton stalks. If any farmer has not yet removed these stalks from their field and destroyed the hidden pupae, they should immediately shake off the stalks, collect them from the field, and either bury the remaining debris deep in the soil or burn it to destroy the pupae.
She emphasized that if these steps are taken promptly, the chances of whitefly or pink bollworm attacks on the upcoming cotton crop can be significantly reduced. She added that for more information, farmers can contact the Block Agriculture Offices or the Circle Agriculture Officers.
Summary: The Agriculture Department appeals to farmers to control weeds and properly manage stubble to promote healthier crops and prevent environmental damage.