Jajpur: Groundnut farmers of Rudrapur panchayat in Jajpur block are facing a severe agrarian crisis as a massive infestation of black cutworm locally known as Kalimundi poka has devastated standing crops across the region during the ongoing rabi season. More than 500 acres of cultivated land have reportedly been affected, pushing hundreds of small and marginal farmers into deep distress. According to farmers, the pest outbreak has struck several major farming belts of the panchayat, including Benapat, Mahadeb Pat, Tinimundia Pat, Atakul, Balia Pat, Tinimanikul, Jor Kul Pat, Guhali Pat and Bankatal areas. Large tracts of healthy groundnut plants have been destroyed within days, leaving fields barren and farmers staring at total crop failure. This year, favourable weather conditions at the start of the season had raised hopes of a bumper harvest. Encouraged by the prospects of higher returns, many farmers invested heavily in quality seeds, fertilisers and land preparation, often by taking loans from cooperative societies, moneylenders and microfinance institutions. However, their expectations have now been shattered as the pest attack has wiped out much of their crop.
Farmers explained that the black cutworm remains hidden beneath the soil during the daytime and becomes active after dusk. Emerging in the evening hours, the larvae feed on the tender leaves and stems of young groundnut plants, cutting them at the base and leaving the fields full of withered stalks. The prolonged dry spell and lack of rainfall are believed to have worsened the infestation, creating favourable conditions for the pest to multiply rapidly. “We had invested everything we had in this crop, hoping it would help us repay our loans and sustain our families,” said a distressed farmer from Balia Pat. “But now the plants are being destroyed overnight. We are watching our hard work vanish in front of our eyes.” Farmers stated that they had immediately informed the Agriculture Department after noticing the spread of the pest. However, they allege that no timely field-level assistance or effective pesticides have been provided so far, leaving them helpless against the fast-spreading infestation. Responding to the issue, Agriculture Officer Bibhutibhusan Pati said the matter has been reported to the Krushi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and field inspections are currently underway.
“Our teams are assessing the extent of the damage and consulting experts for appropriate pest-control measures. Necessary steps will be taken to protect the remaining crop,” he said. Meanwhile, farmers have demanded urgent intervention from the Agriculture Department, including the immediate supply of suitable pesticides, technical guidance, and compensation for the losses already suffered. They warned that without swift action, the livelihoods of hundreds of farming families in the region would be pushed into severe financial hardship. The crisis has once again highlighted the vulnerability of small farmers to pest attacks and the need for faster, more effective agricultural support systems in rural Odisha.
