Source: TH
Context:
Global agri-science company Corteva Agriscience has launched two new pesticides in India targeting Downy Mildew in grapes and Late Blight in potatoes, two of the most destructive crop diseases affecting farmers’ productivity and income.
Key Highlights:
- Diseases Targeted:
- Downy Mildew (Grapes) – a fungal disease causing leaf damage, reduced photosynthesis, and crop loss.
- Late Blight (Potatoes) – the same pathogen that caused the Irish famine; still a major global threat.
- Technology Used:
- Based on Corteva’s Zorvec technology, known worldwide for effective control of oomycete plant diseases.
- Product: Zorvec Entecta.
- Features of the New Pesticide:
- Fast action: Protected from wash-off within 20 minutes of spraying.
- Consistent protection: Active ingredients provide strong, long-lasting control.
- Crop benefits: Healthier crops, higher yields, and improved quality of produce.
- Company Claim:
- Expected to transform potato and grape cultivation in India by reducing crop losses and boosting farmer profitability.
Implications for Indian Agriculture
- Farmer Benefits: Reduced dependency on repeated spraying, lower crop losses, improved income stability.
- Market Impact: Grapes (important export crop) and potatoes (staple food crop) will see better disease management.
- Agri-Tech Adoption: Example of how advanced agri-chemicals are complementing India’s efforts in crop protection and food security.
