Context: Scientists at Punjab Agricultural University(PAU) have found that the disease that has impacted the paddy crop in Punjab and Haryana was Southern Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf Virus (SRBSDV).

• This is the first time that SRBSDV has been found in Punjab.

What is Southern Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf Virus(SRBSDV)?

• It is a viral disease that has infected the paddy crops in Haryana and Punjab causing “dwarfing” of the plants.

• Named After: It is named after Southern China where it was first reported in 2001.

• Transmitted by: It is transmitted by white-backed plant hopper(WBPH) in a persistent circulative and propagative manner.

• The long-distance transmission of this virus may occur through WBPH migrating with typhoons and strong convection winds.

Treatment: Since there was no corrective measure for this viral disease, farmers have been advised several measures which include:

• Firstly, Farmers should regularly monitor the crop for the presence of WBPH and a few plants should be slightly tilted and tapped 2-3 times at the base at weekly intervals. 

• Secondly, if WBPH nymphs/adults are seen floating on water, then insecticides can be sprayed towards the base of the plants.

• Lastly, farmers are advised to follow the transplanting dates advised by PAU since stunting was observed to be more in the early transplanted crops. It will not only help in managing the viral disease but also save water.