The recent resurgence of black thrips infestation on red chilli crops in the Bellary region of Karnataka is causing significant concern among farmers.

After a gap of one year, this aggressive pest is once again affecting red chilli crops, particularly in Bellary, an important chilli-producing area in Karnataka, and the Royal Border Division in Andhra Pradesh. This pest has also been reported in Haryana, a region typically not prone to such infestations.

Black thrips are a serious threat to red chilli plants as they attack the nascent flowers and buds, weakening them and reducing the overall yield.

Experts have observed that the infestation is particularly severe in Bellary, where it has spread to about 60-70% of the production area. This district is known for its large-scale cultivation of both Guntur and hybrid varieties of red chillies.

The damage in Karnataka mirrors the heavy losses experienced in the 2021-22 season, when the black thrips infestation devastated crops.

The impact is most noticeable in the black soil areas of Bellary. Farmers have started to take precautionary measures, including spraying insecticides, to manage the pest and reduce further damage.

Interestingly, while the infestation is more severe in Bellary, in other red chilli-growing regions like Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, where the crops are still young (around 35-50 days old), the infestation is not as widespread.

There are isolated reports of black thrips in parts of Rayalaseema, Andhra Pradesh, but they are not yet at a critical level.

To combat this pest, local agricultural experts, including the head of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Bellary, are actively raising awareness and advising farmers on the necessary protective measures.