Use of bio-immunization technology to manage Fusarium wilt (Race 1) in banana cv. Sabri growing in Tripura (India)

Abstract: Banana cv. Sabri (AAB), a traditional and highly demanded cultivar in Tripura, has been a profitable crop for farmers. However, in recent years, this well-known variety has been severely affected by Fusarium wilt (Race 1). The outbreak of the disease, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 1 (Foc TR-1), has not only led to a significant decline in yield but has also impacted its commercial cultivation in several hotspot regions of Tripura. The virulent nature of the pathogen limits the field level success of the control initiatives through chemicals, resistance breeding and biological control, providing serious threats for Banana growers. This study assesses the efficacy of the bio-immunized tissue culture-raised Sabri banana plantlets along with the interval spray of ICAR- FUSICONT for the community-based management of banana Fusarium wilt. The effectiveness of this integrated approach was critically assessed by evaluating the disease management aspects and yield restoration at hot spot regions. Banana orchards adopting this combined technology revealed significantly lower disease incidence percentage (3.30 %) compared to non-adopted plantations (24.33 %). Further, these technological interventions increased the yield from 16.00 kg/plant to 21.33 kg/plant. These findings highlighted the potential of these technologies in the management of Fusarium wilt and improving Sabri banana yield in Tripura.