Management of potato shoot borer (Leucinodes orbonalis) using newer insecticide molecules

Abstract

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a high-yielding and nutritionally important crop widely grown across India. Among its major pests, the shoot borer (Leucinodes orbonalis) significantly reduces shoot growth and tuber yield. A field study was conducted during Kharif 2024 at AICRP on Potato, MARS, Dharwad, using variety Kufri Jyothi, to evaluate the bioefficacy and economic viability of newer insecticides. Nine treatments, including Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC, Emamectin benzoate 5% SG and Spinosad 45% SC, were applied in two sprays at 20-day intervals. Chlorantraniliprole consistently recorded the lowest shoot damage (9.94% and 8.04%) and the highest tuber yield (13.31 t/ha), followed by Emamectin benzoate and Spinosad. Conventional insecticides were less effective and untreated plots showed the highest damage. Economic analysis revealed Chlorantraniliprole as the most profitable (B:C 2.11; net return Rs. 1,40,086/ha), followed by Emamectin benzoate (B:C 2.02). The results indicate that Chlorantraniliprole and other newer molecules offer effective, sustainable and economically viable management of shoot borer in potato, enhancing crop productivity and profitability.