Agriculture – Centre Forms Expert Team to Tackle Bihar Litchi Pest Crisis

Agriculture –  Bihar’s litchi growers are facing a fresh challenge this season as a widespread infestation of the lychee stink bug has caused serious damage to orchards across several districts. In response to farmers’ concerns, Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has ordered the formation of a specialised expert task force to study the situation and recommend urgent corrective measures.

Expert Team to Visit Affected Districts

According to an official directive issued on May 7 by the National Research Centre on Litchi in Muzaffarpur, the newly formed panel will conduct field visits in major litchi-growing areas of Bihar where the infestation has been reported. The team has been asked to submit its findings and recommendations within a week.

The panel will carry out a scientific assessment of crop losses linked to the pest attack. Experts will examine the spread of the insect, evaluate the level of damage suffered by farmers, and identify both immediate and long-term solutions aimed at protecting future harvests.

Concern Over Shahi Litchi Production

Bihar’s renowned “Shahi Litchi” from Muzaffarpur, which holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag because of its distinct flavour and quality, has been among the worst affected. Farmers and traders have reported a noticeable decline in fruit availability this year, especially in major markets such as Delhi.

Agriculture experts say the pest has become a growing concern because of its ability to spread rapidly and survive under varying climatic conditions. The infestation has raised fears of reduced production and financial losses for growers dependent on the seasonal fruit trade.

How the Pest Damages Litchi Orchards

The insect, scientifically identified as Tessaratoma papillosa, feeds on plant sap and damages tender shoots and fruit-bearing sections of the tree. Scientists explain that the pest weakens developing fruits, often leading to premature fruit drop and reduced yields.

Another concern linked to the insect is the caustic fluid it releases, which can irritate human skin and produces a strong unpleasant smell. Researchers note that the pest is commonly found in regions of South Asia, East Asia, and parts of Australia.

Scientists Tracking the Spread

Agricultural scientists believe the insect was initially detected in parts of northeastern India before gradually spreading into Jharkhand and later Bihar. Reports indicate that the pest population has increased significantly in Bihar since last year.

The timing of the infestation has made control efforts more difficult. Experts say the bug attacks litchi trees during the flowering stage, a period when pesticide spraying is generally avoided to protect pollination and fruit development. This has complicated pest management for orchard owners.

Multi-Institutional Panel Constituted

The task force includes scientists, entomologists, and agriculture officials from several institutions. The Director of the National Research Centre on Litchi has been appointed chairperson of the panel. Representatives from Bihar’s Agriculture Department, plant protection authorities, and leading agricultural universities are also part of the team.

Among the members are experts from Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar Agricultural University, and the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture. Additional scientists from ICAR institutions in Ranchi, Bengaluru, and Muzaffarpur have also been included to support the study and recommend control strategies.

Report Expected Within a Week

The expert panel has been instructed to inspect the worst-affected blocks in Bihar’s litchi-producing districts at the earliest. Their report will be submitted directly to the Union Agriculture Ministry, enabling authorities to take timely action for farmer support and pest control management.

Officials are also expected to issue advisories for growers and recommend awareness campaigns along with policy-level interventions at both the state and central government levels.