India - International conference on biological control paves way for sustainable pest management

The Second International Conference on Biological Control convened at the Radisson Blu Atria, Bengaluru, from 25th – 27th February 2025 bringing together global experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and young researchers to explore biocontrol strategies in the context of One Health. The event saw participation from Germany, Australia, USA, Taiwan, Kenya, Italy, Indonesia, Japan, and the Netherlands, with India as the host country.

The Chief Guest, Dr Raghu Sathyamurthy, President, IOBC & Research Director (Biosecurity), CSIRO, Australia, highlighted India's opportunity to become a global leader in biological control agents and its compatible technologies.

Guests of Honour, Dr Johannes Jehle (Germany), emphasized the importance of sharing ideas and concepts in BC, highlighting that past reliance on chemical pesticides hindered progress, but the global outlook is shifting towards biological solutions.

Dr P.K. Singh, Agricultural Commissioner, Govt of India, stressed the need for commercial exploitation of BCA to ensure self-sustainability for farmers.

Dr Poonam Jasrotia, Assistant Director General, ICAR, discussed the looming threats of transboundary pests and diseases, advocating for a stronger focus on biological control.

Dr R.G. Agarwal (Dhanuka Agritech Limited) accentuated the critical need for high-quality biostimulants and stricter regulations to curb the sale of chemically adulterated biopesticides.

Dr Sushil, Director, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru, emphasized the need for sustainable, eco-friendly solutions in agriculture and environmental health. He also emphasized minimizing pesticide use and promoting ecological balance.

Dr Shiroma Sathyapala (FAO, Rome) highlighted FAO’s role in promoting One Health and addressing world hunger through biocontrol.

The conference served as a pivotal platform to address critical issues in pest management, biodiversity conservation, climate change, and food security. Discussions highlighted biological control as an alternative to synthetic pesticides, ensuring the protection of human health, biodiversity, and ecosystem balance. The event witnessed groundbreaking discussions on biocontrol applications, microbial biopesticides, insect pheromones, and nanotechnological interventions for pest management.

Delivering the valedictory address, the Chief Guest, Dr Ashok Dalwai, IAS, Chairman, ISEC & KAPC, underscored the role of research-driven innovations in enhancing food security. He introduced the concept of ″Five Elements of One Health″ and discussed the potential of drone bees for sustainable agriculture.

Dr S.N. Puri (Former Vice-Chancellor, Central Agricultural University, India) spoke about integrating biocontrol into academic curricula for crop, animal, and human health.

The Valedictory discussions covered Integration of Biocontrol in Modern Agriculture: Advanced Research and Nanoformulations.

The conference witnessed the release of technical bulletins, mobile applications, and key publications, marking significant progress in biocontrol research.