Non-chemical Tea Pest Management Practices Adopted by Small Tea Growers of Dibrugarh & Tinsukia District of Assam, India

Abstract

The main objective of the present study was to meticulously document the non-chemical approaches to tea pest management employed by small tea growers in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam. In response to the constraints imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the research team resorted to telephonic interviews, utilizing a well-structured questionnaire to gather information from these tea growers. Through this method, the study successfully captured and documented the specific practices, materials, techniques, and methods utilized by these growers in their ongoing battle against tea pests. The study brought to light a diverse array of non-chemical methods that have been embraced by tea growers in this region. These practices, deeply rooted in traditional knowledge, demonstrated their remarkable effectiveness in pest management. What makes these findings particularly significant is the potential they hold for future scientific investigations. These traditional techniques, when subjected to rigorous validation and refinement, could find broader application in large-scale tea pest management initiatives, offering a more sustainable and eco-friendlier alternative to conventional chemical methods. A noteworthy aspect of these non-chemical practices is the sourcing of ingredients. These materials were found to be locally available and abundant, derived from both plant and animal origins. This accessibility not only ensures the practicality of these methods but also highlights their compatibility with the local ecosystem. Importantly, these traditional practices were identified as crucial tools in combating infestations by various pests, including the red spider mite (Oligonychus coffeae), tea mosquito bug (Helopeltis theivora), and looper caterpillar (Buzura suppresseria). In conclusion, this study focused on the valuable task of gathering insights into the non-chemical pest management methods practiced by small tea growers in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam. Despite the adversities posed by the pandemic, the telephonic interviews proved to be a robust means of collecting invaluable information about these practices. The study not only underscored the efficacy of these traditional methods but also emphasized their potential for further scientific exploration and subsequent integration into broader tea pest management strategies. This presents a promising and environmentally friendly path forward for the tea industry in this region and beyond.