Survey Conducted by Agricultural Scientists from Delhi to Address the African Snail Infestation
Udaipur - Acting on the recommendation of the Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan, and under the direction of Dr. M.L. Jat, Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, a team of subject matter experts conducted a survey and assessment of the African snail infestation that has affected Bichhiwada village in Phalasia Tehsil, Udaipur district, for the past three years.
The survey team comprised senior ICAR scientists Dr. Shravan Haldhar and Dr. Shashank, Regional Director of Research at MPUAT Dr. Shridhar Lakhawat, Dr. Hemant Swami, Dr. Kuldeep Suthar (Agricultural Research Officer – Entomology, Department of Agriculture, Rajasthan Government), and Agriculture Officer Gaurishankar.
During the survey, local farmers, women, and community representatives gathered to inform the team about the severe problems caused by the African snail infestation over the last three years. The team observed a large number of snails at various locations throughout the village, including rivers, agricultural fields, residential areas, and drainage channels. However, the snails were currently found in a dormant state, as they typically become highly active during the monsoon season.
Based on the survey findings, experts warned that with the arrival of the first monsoon rains, the dormant snails are likely to become active and spread rapidly throughout the village and surrounding farmlands. Farmers reported that during the previous year, the snail population had increased to such an extent that movement on roads became difficult, living conditions in homes were severely affected, and agricultural crops suffered extensive damage.
The survey team noted that unless timely and effective management measures are implemented, the infestation could become even more severe this year than in previous years, potentially causing substantial losses to farmers’ crops.
Following the survey, the team submitted its report to Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT) and ICAR. The seriousness of the situation was also communicated to the Director of Research. Dr. R.L. Soni, Director of Research, stated that the survey report would be forwarded immediately to the State Government and ICAR, New Delhi. He further explained that any financial assistance and control materials received from these agencies would be utilized to eliminate the African snail infestation in the affected region, with the cooperation of the Agriculture Department, Government of Rajasthan, the Central Government, the University, and local residents.
The senior scientists involved in the survey also recommended launching a community-wide mission to control the African snail infestation across all affected farming areas.
Dr. Shravan Haldhar and Dr. Shashank, senior entomologists from Delhi, recommended the following measures for controlling the African snail population:
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Metaldehyde 2.5% at a rate of 5–8 kg per hectare
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Ferric Phosphate 2.94% at a rate of 7 kg per hectare
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Copper Sulphate at a rate of 6–10 kg per hectare
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Calcium Oxide (Quicklime) at a rate of 5 grams per square meter
Dr. Shridhar Lakhawat, Regional Director of Research at MPUAT, urged farmers to undertake large-scale snail control efforts. Dr. Hemant Swami emphasized that controlling the snails before the onset of monsoon rains is essential; otherwise, the problem may intensify and become more difficult to manage in the future. He also highlighted the importance of cleaning moist and damp areas alongside chemical control measures.
Dr. Kuldeep Suthar advised farmers to remove weeds growing along field bunds and drainage channels and to maintain proper sanitation. Such measures can help destroy snails in their dormant stage and improve the effectiveness of control efforts. He also recommended that neighboring areas remain vigilant and monitor the spread of the pest to ensure timely intervention.
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