ICAR-IISR Develops Biopesticide Formulation to Combat Cardamom Thrips

27 June 2025, Kozhikode: In a significant advancement toward sustainable spice cultivation, the ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (ICAR-IISR), Kozhikode, has introduced an eco-friendly biopesticide to control cardamom thrips — a destructive pest responsible for major crop losses in India’s cardamom farms.

Cardamom, cultivated across more than 70,000 hectares in India, suffers severe damage due to thrips attacks, which can affect 30% to 90% of the capsules and reduce yields by up to 45–48%. This leads to financial losses ranging between ₹2.0 to ₹4.0 lakhs per acre, significantly impacting farmers’ incomes and compromising the export quality of this premium spice. Traditionally, farmers have relied on chemical insecticides to manage the pest, but repeated usage poses health risks, contributes to pesticide residue, and raises red flags in international markets.

Biopesticide Innovation from Native Fungus

To offer a safer alternative, scientists at ICAR-IISR have developed a biopesticide formulation using Lecanicillium psalliotae, a naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus isolated from cardamom thrips. This fungus effectively infects all life stages of the pest—adults, larvae, and pupae—by releasing spores and mycelia that attack on contact.

Extensive field trials conducted in Kerala’s Idukki and Wayanad districts have demonstrated that this biopesticide is just as effective as chemical options. Notably, in addition to controlling the pest, the fungus also promotes plant growth and enhances soil nutrient availability, making it a dual-benefit solution.

Easy Application and Industry Certification

The biopesticide has been formulated into a user-friendly granular form, designed for easy mixing with farmyard manure and soil application around plant basins. Recommended usage is 3–4 times during the crop cycle. It also fits seamlessly into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs, reducing reliance on synthetic sprays and cutting overall production costs.

Importantly, the product has been tested and certified by a laboratory approved by the Central Insecticide Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC), ensuring regulatory compliance and quality assurance.

A Game Changer for Cardamom Growers

Dr. R. Dinesh, Director of ICAR-IISR, emphasized the broader implications of the innovation:
“The adoption of this biocontrol technology can be a game changer for the cardamom industry, offering a safer and sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides.”

The institute is currently inviting industrial partners to license the technology for commercial production and distribution, signaling a major opportunity for agribusinesses committed to green agriculture.

Research Team Behind the Breakthrough

The biopesticide was developed by a dedicated research team comprising Dr. C. M. Senthil Kumar, Dr. T. K. Jacob, and Dr. S. Devasahayam—experts in plant protection and biological control.

Also Read: Five Indians Recognized in 2025 Top Agri-Food Pioneers List by World Food Prize Foundation

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