Daily Current Affairs : 20-January-2024

The Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research (IIWBR) has issued a crucial warning for wheat farmers regarding yellow rust, a serious fungal disease that can harm wheat crops. This alert is particularly relevant as yellow rust has been historically found in certain districts of Haryana during this time of year.

Understanding Yellow Rust

Yellow rust is a fungal disease that manifests as yellow stripes on the leaves of wheat plants. This condition is harmful because it:

  • Reduces Photosynthesis: The yellow stripes block sunlight, making it difficult for the plant to produce energy.
  • Decreases Grain Size: Affected crops yield smaller grains, leading to lower production and economic losses.

This disease is most common in cooler weather and tends to thrive in regions like the northern hills and north-western plains. Recently, a combination of rain, rising temperatures, and humidity has created ideal conditions for yellow rust to develop.

Recommended Measures for Farmers

To combat yellow rust, the IIWBR advises farmers to be on high alert. If yellow rust is spotted in the fields, here are some recommended actions:

  • Spray Fungicides: Use fungicides such as:
    • Propiconazole
    • Tebuconazole
    These fungicides help to prevent the disease from spreading further.
  • Change Fungicides: If you used a particular fungicide last year, consider switching to an alternate option this time. This can help enhance effectiveness, especially under dry conditions.

Important Points:

Yellow Rust Overview:

  • A fungal disease causing yellow stripes on wheat leaves.
  • Reduces photosynthesis and grain size.

Conditions Favoring Yellow Rust:

  • Common in cooler weather.
  • Recently favorable conditions due to rain, rising temperatures, and humidity.

Recommended Actions for Farmers:

  • Monitor for Yellow Rust: Stay vigilant in the fields.
  • Spray Fungicides:
    • Use Propiconazole or Tebuconazole.
  • Change Fungicides: Switch to an alternate if the same was used last year, especially in dry conditions.

Importance of Quick Action: Prompt measures can protect crops and improve yields.

Why In News

The Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research (IIWBR) has urged wheat farmers to remain vigilant against yellow rust, a pest that historically appeared in some districts of Haryana during this period, as early detection and intervention are crucial to minimizing its impact on crop yields.

MCQs about Protecting Wheat Crops from Yellow Rust

  1. What is yellow rust primarily affecting in wheat crops?
    A. Root health
    B. Leaf structure
    C. Grain size
    D. Flower production
    Correct Answer: C. Grain size
    Explanation: Yellow rust negatively impacts wheat crops by reducing grain size, along with hindering photosynthesis.
  2. What weather conditions contribute to the development of yellow rust?
    A. Hot and dry
    B. Cool and humid
    C. Warm and windy
    D. Cold and snowy
    Correct Answer: B. Cool and humid
    Explanation: Yellow rust is typically prevalent in cooler weather and thrives in conditions with high humidity, making recent weather favorable for its development.
  3. Which of the following fungicides is recommended by the IIWBR to combat yellow rust?
    A. Chlorothalonil
    B. Propiconazole
    C. Azoxystrobin
    D. Mancozeb
    Correct Answer: B. Propiconazole
    Explanation: The IIWBR specifically recommends using fungicides such as Propiconazole or Tebuconazole to prevent the spread of yellow rust.
  4. Why should farmers consider changing fungicides from the previous year?
    A. To reduce costs
    B. To comply with regulations
    C. To enhance effectiveness
    D. To avoid pest resistance
    Correct Answer: C. To enhance effectiveness
    Explanation: Farmers are advised to switch to an alternate fungicide if the same one was used last year, especially during dry conditions, to improve effectiveness against yellow rust.

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