Understanding the Tea Mosquito Bug (TMB)

• The tea mosquito bug (TMB), scientifically known as Helopeltis theivora, is a notorious pest that poses a significant threat to tea (Camellia sinensis L.) cultivation.
• This pest is a common sight in most tea-producing countries across the world.
• The nymphs and adults of TMB feed on the sap from tender leaves, buds and young shoots, leading to substantial crop losses.

An Overview of United Planters Association of Southern India (UPASI)

• UPASI is a leading organization representing planters of tea, coffee, rubber, pepper and cardamom in the Southern States of India.

Recent Developments

• The tea planters are currently facing a dilemma due to the limited availability of effective pesticides to control the TMB.
• The pest infestation is widespread, affecting plantations at both low and high elevations.
• The control measures have been largely ineffective due to the unavailability of potent molecules.
• This predicament could potentially lead to massive production losses.
• The Central Insecticide Board & Registration Committee is responsible for approving the use of pesticides in India.
• The tea planters are left with fewer choices as several pesticides have been removed from the approved list of the Plant Protection Code (PPC) of the Tea Board of India.
• The planters are now seeking government approval for the use of pesticides also approved by the European Union .

Tea Board India: An Insight

• The tea industry is one of the few industries in India that falls under the jurisdiction of the Union Government as per an Act of Parliament.
• The Tea Board was established under Section 4 of the Tea Act 1953 and came into effect on 1st April 1954.
• It operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• The board is responsible for promoting the cultivation, processing, domestic trade and export of tea from India.

To learn more about the Tea Board , refer to the linked article.

The Way Forward: The government must act swiftly to resolve the issues faced by tea-producing organizations. The introduction of new pesticides should be a well-considered move, keeping in mind the potential environmental impact and the risk of pest resistance.