The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Jahad Ministry of Agriculture and the Iranian Institute of Plant Protection, has launched an built-in administration method to deal with pest and illness threats within the nation’s date palm forests. .
The mission, titled “Technical Assistance to Improve Integrated Pest Management (IPM) of Major Pests and Diseases of Date Palm,” was launched throughout an inauguration workshop on Monday, December 30, 2024.
Date palms play a significant function within the nation’s agricultural economic system and meals safety, particularly in southern provinces corresponding to Sistan, Baluchestan, Hormozgan, Fars and Kerman. With over 93 commercially accessible varieties, Iran (Islamic Republic) is likely one of the world’s prime date producers. However, the sector faces important challenges corresponding to excessive local weather, water shortage, and insufficient crop administration.
In current years, date palm forests have been broken by pests such because the crimson palm weevil and dwarf beetle, in addition to ailments corresponding to date palm bunch wilt.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Liao Chungguang, FAO’s Charge d’Affaires for the Islamic Republic of Iran, emphasised the urgency of tackling these challenges, saying, “The unchecked unfold of invasive pests just like the crimson palm weevil poses severe financial dangers.” and will have ecological penalties.”
“The Integrated Management of Major Pests and Diseases of Date Palm Project was developed to deal with the pressing want for a complete and built-in technique that mobilizes the synergies of a number of businesses and approaches. Through our efforts, we purpose to help nationwide efforts by introducing a spread of sustainable, mixed administration methods and practices to develop wholesome crops and decrease the chance of pest outbreaks. ” defined Liao.
This mission will give attention to strengthening phytosanitary measures to forestall the unfold of invasive pests. Improving early warning methods and environment friendly reporting of inhabitants density for efficient monitoring mechanisms, strengthening built-in administration protocols to enhance and spotlight new methods in combating main pests and ailments, farmers, horticulture Building nationwide capability to make sure safety of properties, crops. Teams can successfully implement these options.
“Disease and pest prevention and management requires built-in methods that mobilize multi-agency synergies,” mentioned GC Yubak Doji, FAO Senior Agriculture Officer.
Technical Cooperation Program (TCP) tasks are owned by and for Iran. This inaugural workshop introduced collectively consultants, coverage makers, and stakeholders to align priorities and techniques to guard the nation’s date palm forests.