The Malwa division of Punjab, which plays a crucial role in India's food grain production, is facing a major challenge this season due to a severe infestation of the pink stem borer insect.

This pest has primarily affected the wheat crops in several districts, including Patiala, Barnala, Mansa, Bathinda, and Sangrur, forcing farmers to sow wheat again.

The infestation is believed to have spread from fields where stubble remained after paddy harvesting, as the pest typically thrives in such environments.

Farmers are facing significant hardships due to this infestation, particularly because the already low yield of paddy this season had led to financial losses.

Now, the re-sowing of wheat crops comes at an additional cost, including the purchase of new wheat seeds and DAP fertilizer.

Despite following government guidelines for stubble management, such as using the Super Seeder to avoid burning stubble and sowing wheat directly, the pests have still caused damage to the crops. Interestingly, fields where stubble was burned before sowing are not showing similar pest infestations.

Agricultural experts note that the pest's impact is expected to diminish with a drop in temperatures, providing some relief.

However, the current situation has prompted farmers to demand government compensation for their losses, as the infestation continues to threaten their livelihoods.