Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Biopesticides as Substitutes for Synthetic Pesticides in Nepal

Abstract

Biopesticides are the best alternative of synthetic pesticide considering environmental and health hazards along with costs. However, effectiveness of biopesticides is the major issue to replace synthetic pesticides. Since, various studies have proven similar or superior effectiveness against FAW to synthetic pesticides; it has presented itself as a promising alternative. FAW being a devastative polyphagous and having potential to migrate rapid, concern of food security due to FAW is at heart of discussion. Among 12 registered biopesticides in Nepal, most of them are found effective to control FAW in several parts of the world. Neem-based pesticides and Bt were found most effective among other. However, before recommending plant protection measure, incountry experiment is highly desirable. Therefore, considering these facts, rapid experiments and research trails are deemed necessary to prevent farmers against FAW which could serious threat overall food security of the country and the region. Biocontrol agents have great promise for use as biological control agents against different insects. However, their infectivity is quite different depending on the host, associated environment, production methods and application techniques. Use of biopesticides owes significant important in a country like Nepal where there is likelihood of the mis-use of chemical pesticides and pest flair back in the future. FAW has already been established in Nepal and its impact on food security is alarming. It is high time to search novel means of pest control at a time of Covid-19 pandemic against the possible crisis of food caused by FAW.