Suggest the measures to prevent the spread of exotic pests and diseases in the country.

Understanding the Threat: Exotic Pests and Diseases

Exotic pests and diseases are organisms not naturally present in a region. They can be introduced through various pathways, including international trade, travel, and climate change. Their impact can be far more severe than indigenous pests due to the lack of natural predators or resistance in local crops and livestock.

International Collaboration and Border Control

• International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC): India is a signatory to the IPPC, which provides a framework for international plant protection standards. Adherence to IPPC guidelines for phytosanitary measures is paramount.
• Risk Assessments: Conduct thorough risk assessments for imported agricultural products and planting material before allowing entry. The National Plant Protection Service (NPPS) plays a critical role here.
• Harmonization of Standards: Work towards harmonization of phytosanitary standards with major trading partners to facilitate trade while minimizing risks.
• Information Sharing: Active participation in global networks like the International Plant Protection Network (IPPN) facilitates information sharing on pest outbreaks and emerging threats.

National Level Measures: Strengthening Biosecurity

Legislation and Regulatory Framework

• The Plant Quarantine Act, 2003: This Act regulates the import of plants, plant products, and their derivatives. It empowers the Central Government to control and prohibit the import of plant materials that pose a risk.
• The Seed Act, 1966: Ensures the quality of seeds and prevents the introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and pathogens through seed imports.
• Insecticides Act, 1968: Regulates the import, manufacture, sale, and use of insecticides, ensuring responsible pesticide use.

Surveillance and Monitoring Systems

• NPPS Network: Strengthen the existing network of NPPS offices at ports and borders for enhanced surveillance.
• Early Warning Systems: Develop and implement early warning systems based on climate data, pest distribution maps, and farmer reports. Leverage technology like remote sensing and drone surveillance.
• Diagnostic Laboratories: Upgrade and expand diagnostic laboratories for rapid and accurate identification of exotic pests and diseases.
• National Pest Surveillance Programme: A comprehensive program involving regular surveys and monitoring of crops and livestock to detect early signs of infestation or disease.

Quarantine Facilities

• Post-Entry Quarantine (PEQ): Mandatory PEQ for high-risk imported plants and planting material. This involves strict observation and testing under controlled conditions.
• Area Freedom Declarations: Maintain Area Freedom Declarations for specific pests and diseases to facilitate export opportunities.

Local Level Preparedness and Farmer Awareness

• Training and Capacity Building: Provide training to farmers, extension workers, and plant protection officers on pest and disease identification, prevention, and management.
• Farmer Field Schools (FFS): Promote FFS to educate farmers on integrated pest management (IPM) practices and biosecurity measures.
• Awareness Campaigns: Conduct regular awareness campaigns through mass media, demonstrations, and farmer meetings.
• Community Participation: Encourage community participation in surveillance and reporting of pest and disease outbreaks. Establish farmer-led plant clinics.

Specific Examples and Case Studies

Fall Armyworm (FAW) Management:

The FAW outbreak highlighted the need for rapid response and farmer awareness. Measures implemented included: importing and releasing parasitoids, promoting resistant crop varieties, and training farmers on IPM techniques. The success of the response relied heavily on farmer participation and timely reporting.

Fruit Fly Control in Maharashtra:

Maharashtra has faced recurring fruit fly infestations. The state government implemented a combination of quarantine measures, trapping, and sanitation practices, alongside farmer awareness programs. The integrated approach has shown some success in reducing fruit fly populations.

Measure	Description	Importance
Risk Assessment	Evaluating the potential for a pest/disease to establish and cause damage.	Prioritizes resources and informs import restrictions.
Phytosanitary Certificates	Official documents verifying that plants/products are free from pests/diseases.	Provides assurance of compliance with import regulations.
Post-Entry Quarantine	Holding imported material under observation to detect any hidden pests/diseases.	Allows for detection and eradication before release into the environment.