Lucknow News: Led by Prof Amritesh C Shumla of botany department of the Lucknow University, a team of total seven research scholars has discovered a new disease in turmeric plant which potentially can cause major threat to its cultivation in India, after conducting study for almost three years.
‘New Disease Reports’, is a one of the renowned international journal where the finding have be published by the British Society for Plant Pathology in association with the Willey.
“Curcumin, a chemical compound found in turmeric, has huge demand globally due to its medicinal properties and usage in dietary supplements, cosmetics, for flavouring of foods, and medicinal uses. A new threat to turmeric, ‘leaf spot’ disease has been discovered by our team,” said Prof Shukla, a visiting faculty at the University of British Columbia, Canada and Mauritius.
First case of leaf spot disease
“We have documented the first case of leaf spot disease caused by a fungal plant pathogen, Colletotrichum siamense, on turmeric in India. Normally, curcumin levels in turmeric are around 4.17% in a healthy plant, but when affected by this disease, the level reduces to almost half, around 2.08%. This disease affects turmeric cultivation and farmers fail to produce the desired quantity despite all hardwork,” he further said.
“India is the largest turmeric producer, consumer and exporter in the world. The findings are important as once we know the disease, only then we can find its cure. These leaf spot disease symptoms appear in the form of small patches on the upper surface of leaves. Gradually, leaves become yellowish with brown irregular patches leading to a significant reduction in plant physiological processes/photosynthesis and overall crop yield,” he added.
Importance of findings for developing and executing strategies to manage disease
Professor Shukla emphasized the importance of the findings for developing and executing strategies to manage the disease, ensuring the ongoing well-being and productivity of this crucial crop.
In the Bhilwara district’s Shreeji Ka Kheda village, which is often referred to as the “village of widows,” residents are grappling with the deadly lung ailment silicosis, stemming from nearby sandstone mining in Bijolia. The community is calling upon election candidates to address the problem and present plans to combat this sickness and the frequent fatalities it causes. The MLA of Mandalgarh also concurs, advocating for safety measures to safeguard mineworkers from silicosis. Among those affected, Santosh Kharod, a widow, received compensation following her husband’s demise from the disease and is now working to support her children.
Cockroaches can transmit harmful diseases
Cockroaches, despite their unassuming appearance, can transmit harmful diseases. They act as carriers for foodborne illnesses, disseminating pathogens through their droppings, saliva, and direct contact. These diseases encompass typhoid fever, acute diarrhea, skin and lung infections, and hepatitis A.
Additionally, common parasites and viruses spread by cockroaches can lead to dysentery, liver abscess, and severe diarrhea, particularly in children. To maintain good health, it’s essential to control cockroach infestations and promptly seek medical attention if symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, high fever, or abdominal pain arise. Taking preventive measures is key to safeguarding one’s well-being.
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