Introduction

Bengal gram, commonly known as chickpea (Cicer arietinum), is a crucial legume crop cultivated extensively for its high protein content and soil-enriching properties. However, like any other crop, Bengal gram is vulnerable to various diseases that can significantly impact its yield and quality. These diseases, caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes, pose a major challenge for farmers aiming to achieve sustainable and profitable cultivation. Understanding the common diseases affecting Bengal gram and implementing effective management strategies is essential for ensuring healthy crops and optimal production. In this blog, we will explore the most prevalent diseases of Bengal gram, their symptoms, and practical tips for prevention and control.

Ascochyta blight :

Causal organism: Ascochyta rabiei

Symptoms: 

On leaf ,the lesions are round or elongated, irregular depressed brown spot and surrounded by brownish red margin. 

Spots appears on stem and pods. 

Spots on stem and pods have minute black dots. 

If the main stem is girdles at collar region ,the whole plant dies.

Management: 

Remove and destroy infected plant parts. 

Treat the seeds with Thiram 2g or Carbendazim 2g or Thiram + Carbendazim at 2g/kg. 

Follow crop rotation.

Spray with Carbendazim at 500g/ha or Chlorothalonil 1kg/ha.

Rust :

Causal organism: Uromyces ciceris – arietini

Symptoms: 

Small ,oval brown powdery lesions on both surface of leaves.

The rust pustules may appear on petioles,stems and pods. 

The pycnial and aecial stages are unknown .

Management: 

Remove infected plant parts. 

Destroy weed host.

Spray Carbendazim 500g/ha or Propiconazole 1l/ha.

Wilt :

Causal organism: Fusarium oxysporum f.sp.ciceris

Symptoms: 

Yellowing and drying of leaves. 

Drooping of petioles. 

Stunted growth of plants.

Brown Vascular discolouration on stem portion.

Management:

Treat the seeds with Carbendazim or Thiram at 2g/kg. 

Treat the seeds with Trichoderma viridae at 4g/kg or Pseudomonas fluorescens @10g/kg of seed. 

Apply green manure.

Grow resistant varieties like Alok Samrat, Pusa -212, JG – 322, Pusa2024 .

Stunt disease:

It is a virus.

Vector – Aphis craccivora

Symptoms : 

Affected plants are stunted and bushy with short internodes. 

Yellowing of leaves. 

Stem shows brown discolouration. 

Drying of plants. 

Characteristic symptom – Phloem browning in the collar region.

Management:

Rogue out of infected plants. 

Spray Monocrotophos at 500ml/ha. 

Grow resistant varieties.

Collar rot :

Causal organism: Sclerotium rolfsii

Symptoms:

Yellowing of leaves and drying of plants. 

Seedlings become chlorotic.

The joint of stem and root turns soft slightly contracts and begins to decay. 

Infected parts turn brown white. 

Mustard like sclerotia seen on white infected plant parts.

Management: 

Deep ploughing in summer.

Seedlings should be protected from excessive moisture.

Destroy the infected plant parts. 

All undecomposed matter should be removed .

Treat the seeds with mixture of Carbendazim+Thiram @2g per kg of seed.

Conclusion

Managing diseases in Bengal gram is crucial for ensuring healthy yields and sustainable farming practices. By understanding the common diseases like wilt, blight, and rust, farmers can implement timely preventive measures such as crop rotation, using resistant varieties, and practicing good agricultural practices. Integrated pest management techniques and regular monitoring also play a vital role in mitigating disease risks. With these strategies in place, farmers can safeguard their Bengal gram crops, optimize productivity, and contribute to food security in their communities."