CTCRI develops bio-pesticide from tapioca

Thiruvannathauram: When the ill effects of dangerous pesticides like Endosulfan have been creating apprehensions in the whole world, a group of scientists at the Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI), Sreekariyam, Thiruvananthapuram have developed an effective bio-pesticide from Tapioca. The team led by Dr V A Jayaprakash, who hails from Malappuram, who is the head of Crop Protection division, developed the bio-pesticide. More than 7 tones of tapioca, which is also known as cassava, can be produced from one hector land. Their leaf contains a toxic substance called cyanogenic glucosides, which can kill a cow if it consumes the leaves directly. The research aimed at converting this toxic substance into bio- pesticide. The team developed the pesticide by grinding the cassava leaves, stems and roosts with water and after filtering it in a special temperature. The technical director in the institute C S Salimon helped in making the machine for the same. ISRO gave technical help. Research students L Ragesh and R S Sreerag assisted the venture. Famous scientist Dr S N Moorthy, Dr CSP Iyer, Dr Nandakumar, former head of Bio Chemistry department, Calicut University, VSSC former deputy director T N Subramanian guided the team. This is effective to curb diseases affecting coconut trees and plantains. The same was examined in coconut farms in Kasargod and plantain plantations in Coimbatore many times. An application is already submitted for getting the patent rights. Eight liters of bio pesticide can be developed from one kg of tapioca and the cost is also too low, only Rs 20 is needed for making one liter pesticide.






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