Pests are ubiquitous and pose challenges to human health, agriculture, livestock, and infrastructure. This practical manual is developed with these moral and academic commitments in mind, focusing on building strong analytical and observational skills among learners. From identification-based practicals to simulated field studies, each experiment is judiciously designed to help learners understand the scientific principles behind pest control in a simple, clear, and engaging way.
In alignment with the course objectives, this book emphasises the fundamentals of pest identification and various control measures, including monitoring techniques, IPM principles, and chemical control practices. Learners are introduced to key pests of major field crops, household pests, and non-insect pests, while also gaining knowledge of economic loss levels, threshold concepts, and life cycle studies of selected pests. By learning field-based exercises, learners will be able to connect theoretical knowledge with practical understanding, fulfilling the objectives of identifying, classifying, and managing key agricultural and household pests. Experiments such as population estimation, distribution patterns, pest surveillance, cultural and biological methods, and insecticide calibration, students gradually build an integrated understanding of pest management. This approach ensures that learners not only grasp traditional methods but also gain knowledge about modern, sustainable, and eco-friendly practices. Field visits and exposure to real-world pest problems further strengthen their logical reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, helping them appreciate the practical significance of pest management in agriculture and environmental safety.
By the end of the course, as reflected in the course outcomes, learners will be able to identify major insect and non-insect pests, understand their damage patterns, and real meaning of integrated pest management for effective control measures. With these practical skills, learners’ step into the field not just as students, but as future guardians of healthy crops and sustainable ecosystems.
Contents –
1. Estimation of Insect Population and Damage Caused using Suitable Sample Techniques
[Absolute Estimates (Quadrat Method, Line-transect Method, Capture, Marking, Release and Recapture Technique) and Relative Estimates]
2. Identification of Insect Pests of Field Crops
3. Study of Non-insect Pests of Field Crops
4. Study of Life Cycle of Rice Weevil or Flour Beetle or Suitable Pest
5. Household Pests
6. Study Pest Surveillance Methods
7. Study on the Distribution Patterns of Insects in Crop Ecosystems
8. Study of Physical and Mechanical Methods of Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
9. Study of Cultural and Biological Methods of Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
10. Calibration of Different Insecticides Formulation by Preparation of Spray Fluid and Pearson Method
11. Study the Pesticide Appliances (Types of Sprayers and Types of Dusters) and Their Maintenance
12. Visit a nearby Farm Field/Agriculture Institute/Krishi Seva Kendra for Collection of Information about Crop Insect Pests