Caterpillar Infestation Devastates Black Gram Crops in Kendrapada Post-Cyclone | Bhubaneswar News
Kendrapada: Following Cyclone Dana, black caterpillars have severely damaged black gram (biri) crops across riverside villages in Pattamundai block, devastating the local farming economy.
The affected areas include Alapua, Taradipal, Penthapal, Singhgaon, Andara, Amrutmonohi, and Baluria.
Farmers report that the first swarm of insects arrived shortly after the cyclone, causing widespread destruction to their Rabi crops. “I cultivated black gram on two acres of land and planned to harvest in Dec. The pests have consumed most of the saplings despite my efforts to control them,” said Amar Jena, a farmer from Alapua.
Chief district agriculture officer Kalyan Ray said while the pest situation hasn’t reached alarming levels, preventive measures are being implemented. “We’ve directed block-level agricultural officers to assess the affected fields. We’re organizing awareness camps and providing 50% subsidized pesticides to farmers,” Ray explained. He recommended use of prescribed pesticides during evening hours to contain the pest.
However, affected farmers expressed frustration over the delayed administrative response. “No official has visited despite several pleas,” said Nakul Jena from Penthapala. Those who could afford pest control measures now expect to harvest less than one-eighth of their usual yield.
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