ABSTRACT
The traditional methods of insect control in India depended heavily on chemicals but results were often disappointing because of various factors, including pesticide resistance. Integrated Pest Management strategies have been devised to manage pests efficiently and economically with minimum environmental pollution. The measures include the use of bioagents such as Trichogramms, Chrysopa and nuclear polyhedral virus with chemical controls only when necessary. The Cotton Corporation of India, the Government of India with the help of federal and state agricultural universities has established field demonstrations of IPM in several cotton growing regions. The 1997-98 results were very encouraging with reduced costs and reduced chemical use, leading to increased profits to the farmers. This programme is being extended to other areas to motivate farmers to take up this cost effective, environmentally friendly management of cotton pests. IPM seems to be the most efficient method of sustainable cotton production but the availability of the bioagents in cotton producing areas is a constraint. Field laboratories for their production are being established.

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