Published Paper Details:

Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) is one of the most economically significant oilseed crops cultivated during the Rabi season in Rajasthan, particularly in the Kota district. The crop plays a crucial role in ensuring income security for farmers and contributes substantially to edible oil production in the region. However, mustard cultivation is frequently constrained by infestation of a wide range of insect pests, which can cause serious quantitative and qualitative yield losses. The mustard agroecosystem supports a diverse assemblage of insects, including herbivorous pests, predators, parasitoids, pollinators, and decomposers, each performing distinct ecological functions. Extensive field observations and regional surveys conducted in Kota district reveal high entomological diversity associated with mustard fields. Despite this richness, pest insects dominate during critical crop growth stages and significantly affect productivity. The present study documents the major, minor, and sporadic insect pests of mustard in Kota district, examines their seasonal incidence and population dynamics, and evaluates their impact on different phenological stages of the crop. Special emphasis is placed on the mustard aphid (Lipaphis erysimi), identified as the most destructive pest due to its rapid reproduction and high infestation potential. Other important pests recorded include the mustard sawfly (Athalia lugens proxima), painted bug (Bagrada hilaris), leaf miner (Phytomyza horticola), flea beetles, and lepidopteran defoliators such as the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella). Understanding pest diversity and seasonal trends is essential for designing effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies that minimize crop losses while conserving beneficial insects. The study highlights the need for sustainable, region-specific pest management practices to ensure stable mustard production in the Kota region.