Research
- Development of distribution maps of economically important plant parasitic nematodes along with documentation of crop losses overlaid with molecular diversity analysis (all centres)
- Multi-location on-farm testing of nematode management modules for root-knot, lesion and burrowing nematodes (Tentatively selected centres- Gujarat, Karnataka, W.B., Assam, T.N., Kerala, Maharastra)
- Screening and identification of nematode resistant germplam/genotypes in vegetables (okra, brinjal, cucumber, capsicum, carrot, etc) and rice (Tentatively selected centres- Gujarat, Karnataka, Assam, T.N., Haryana, UP, J & K, Bihar)
- Isolation, identification and development of indigenous strains of fungi and bacteria for nematode biocontrol along with integration of VAM fungi (Tentatively selected centres- Gujarat, Karnataka, Assam, Imphal, T.N., Haryana, J & K, Bihar, Kerala)
- Microbiome profiling of nematode infested rhizosphere of guava and vegetables grown in protected cultivation vs field conditions (TN, PC cell)
Training
- Capacity building of the young faculty through specialized short-term training programmes particularly in the area of molecular diagnostics of plant parasitic nematodes and nematode biocontrol agents isolated by AICRP centres
- Training of state govt. field functionaries, KVKs, for creating awareness about nematode damage symptoms and their management strategies
- Training of nursery growers to raise nematode free plants, particularly fruit trees (Guava, Pomegranate and Banana)
- Training of farmers to multiply the effective native strains of nematode biocontrol agents supplied by the AICRP centres/commercial products for application in polyhouses and nethouses so as to reduce the cost of crop protection inputs
Extension
- Demonstration of nematode management modules in rice, vegetables, fruit crops and crops grown in polyhouses
- Video documentation of nematode damage symptoms, biology and management technology
- Translation of the existing videos into regional languages and distribution to different centres/Govt agencies
- Training the state horticultural and agricultural personnel who can help us to create nematode awareness among farmers
- Promotion of TSP in tribal notified areas of selected states
- Creating awareness about nematode problems through radio talks, interviews in newspapers, bulletins, popular articles (both in regional languages and Hindi) and television programs on DD Kisan channel