Jhapa, Oct 29: The ‘Dirty Panicle’ disease affecting rice crops has caused damage to around 200 bighas of rice fields in Jhapa district.
According to Sagar Bist, Chief of the Agricultural Knowledge Center, the disease has impacted rice cultivation in five local levels of Jhapa.
This disease can result in an 80% reduction in yield. “When the panicle emerges, the rice turns black, dries up, and appears dirty,” he explained. “If detected early, there are treatments available.”
The ‘Dirty Panicle’ disease has been observed in several areas of the district, including Bhadrapur, Haldibari, Baradashi, Gauradaha, and Arjundhara. Bist noted that the disease causes incomplete grain formation, leading to reduced yield in the affected rice varieties.
Proper treatment of seeds before planting can help safeguard the crops from this disease. #panicle #disease #rice #nepal
