Fall Armyworm attacks maize crop across Telangana

A fresh problem in the form of Fall Armyworm, or Spodoptera frugiperda, threatens farmers across the country this kharif season. Currently infesting the maize crop, agricultural scientists warn that this pest could soon spread and attack other crops, including cotton, sorghum, sugarcane, cabbage and soyabean. This pest, which reportedly entered India from Africa, could result in huge economic losses if not attended to in time. From Karnataka where it was reported first, it spread to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Telangana is among the hardest hit, with the Fall Armyworm extensively affecting the maize crop in 17 out of 30 districts.