Impact of Climate Change on Pests and Diseases of Oilseeds Brassica - the Scenario Unfolding in India

Abstract

Effect of climate change on agriculture or more precisely on insect pests and diseases of agricultural crops is
multidimensional. Magnitude of this impact could vary with the type of species and their growth patterns. The
elevated production could be off-set partly or entirely by the insect pest or pathogens. It is, therefore,
important to consider all the biotic components under the changing pattern of climate. World over research on
effect of climate change on pests and diseases of crops is inadequate. Several diseases and insect-pests have
been noted to be showing higher level of infestation on Oilseeds Brassicas in India, which have been
discussed. The article also looks at different strategies to cope with effects of climate change on insect-pests
and diseases of rapeseed-mustard crops with a proposal for Integrated Decision Support System (IDSS)
for Crop Protection Services that suggests the operational focus, research priorities and aspects of capacity
building.