Transformation Of Herbicidal Technology: Chemical Based To Ecological Concern

Weeds are the most severe and widespread biological constraint to crop production and yield reductions varies from 40-95 per cent, depending upon cultural system and ecological conditions. Traditionally, weeding of crops in Asia has been done by hands and sickles. The availability of inexpensive, unskilled labour in rural areas made labour-intensive crop production practices cost effective for farmers and a source of income for crores of labourers. Rapid industrialization increased the lucrative and full-time job opportunities in non agricultural sector. The diminishing role of agriculture in national income and aggregate employment made the migration of youth from rural to urban areas. Herbicides offer one of the most effective means by which farmers can reduce labour costs because of less labour input. Herbicides are now used extensively in Asian and African crop production systems primarily because they are profitable to farmers. Literally hundreds of herbicide products are emerging in the world market and becoming accessible to farmers in even in poorest regions. In addition to potential displacement of unskilled workers, the cost of herbicide use include potential ecological and health damage that is not herbicides may damage the crop productivity of other entreprise such as live stock, aquaculture and health fo residents of both on and off the farm. They pose potential external damage to surrounding ecosystems. Continuous use of herbicides may cause attractions in the microbial populations in soil that help sustain soil fertility. Dr. Raju presents concise yet comprehensive information recently produced in the research centres of weed science. It is written for broad readers and should be of interest of agricultural scientists, planners, college students, teachers and training organisers. In a nut-shall, it is valuable textbook cum- reference manual for all students of cultivation sciences, academicians and extension personnel.