Protecting Potato Crops from Pests & Diseases. CPRI Scientists Highlight Role of New Technologies
CPRI Shimla Highlights Role of AI and Advanced Technologies in Crop Protection
National symposium discusses climate change, crop diseases and emerging technologies; scientists highlight significant crop losses caused by pests, weeds and diseases.
Shimla, October 29, 2026: The ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla, successfully organised a two-day national symposium titled “Next Generation Plant Health Strategies for Climate Resilience, Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture” on October 22–23, 2026.
The symposium brought together scientists and researchers to discuss emerging challenges in crop protection, climate change and sustainable agriculture. More than 150 research papers were presented, highlighting scientific advancements and innovative approaches to improving plant health.
Pests and Diseases Pose Major Threats to Crop Production
Scientists highlighted that weeds, diseases, nematodes and insect pests can cause crop losses exceeding 50% in potatoes and several other crops under severe conditions.
They emphasised the importance of early detection, effective disease management and scientifically informed crop protection practices to minimise agricultural losses.
Climate Change Creating New Challenges for Crop Protection
According to the scientists, changing climatic conditions are affecting not only crop growth and productivity but also the behaviour, activity and spread of pests and disease-causing organisms.
Variations in temperature, rainfall and other weather conditions can influence pest populations and disease patterns, creating additional challenges for farmers.
These developments underline the growing need for climate-resilient crop protection strategies.
AI and Machine Learning Emerging as Important Tools
A major focus of the symposium was the application of advanced digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning and predictive modelling, in plant health management.
Researchers presented studies exploring how these technologies can help monitor pest and disease activity, assess potential risks and support more effective crop protection decisions.
Such innovations could enable farmers to identify emerging threats earlier and adopt timely preventive measures, ultimately reducing crop losses.
Scientists Advise Potato Farmers to Adopt Modern Technologies
Scientists encouraged farmers, particularly potato growers, to stay updated on emerging digital technologies and scientific developments in crop protection.
They also emphasised the importance of maintaining close connections with agricultural research institutions, scientists and other organisations working on potato-related challenges.
By combining scientific recommendations, regular crop monitoring and modern digital tools, farmers can strengthen crop protection practices and minimise losses caused by pests and diseases.
Key Takeaway for Potato Farmers
As climate conditions continue to change, timely identification of pests and diseases, regular crop monitoring and the adoption of modern technologies are becoming increasingly important for protecting potato yields and improving farm productivity.
Farmers are encouraged to remain connected with agricultural research institutions and adopt scientifically recommended crop protection practices to safeguard their crops.
Source: Dr. Anuj Bhatnagar, ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla.