Chilli farmers in Khammam stare at poor harvests as pests infest crop

Chilli farmers in Khammam district are staring at the bleak prospect of poor harvests this year in view of pest attacks.

Chilli crop in a large extent of area in the district has been affected by ‘nalla tamara’ (black thrips). According to horticulture officials and scientists, the pest infestation would result in



loss in yield due to curling of leaves, flowers falling off and malformed/stunted fruits or premature fruit drop. Though the crop is affected by other pests the incidence of black thrips is high.

The farmers who are already affected by fall in prices offered to the produce have been worrying over the loss in yield.