Kalakkad block in Tirunelveli district is known for banana cultivation in Tamil Nadu. Sudden outbreak of leaf spot disease created a major concern for farmers. Hence, ICAR-NRCB initiated a technological backstopping of fungicide application through drone technology in Kalakkad block. On 9th January an awareness meeting was organised for the farmers at Thirukurungudi,Kalakkad block. In the meeting; what are all the measures have to be taken by the farmers to manage the leaf spot disease in banana were discussed. After the meeting, a demonstration has been arranged at the village about fungicide application through drone technology. In the affected area, around 25 acres were covered for fungicide application through drone technology. While discussion during the farmers meeting, Dr. R. Selvarajan, Director ICAR-NRCB underlined that around 2400 ha have been affected in Kalakkad area which may cause economic loss of 5 crores approximately. This loss might have been reduced by following the proper management practices and expenditure of 15 lakhs rupees for undertaking the massive fungicide spray by drone technology
