NEWS

• The Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) has successfully developed and patented a biological control agent — Hyblaea puera Nucleopolyhedrosis Virus (HpNPV).
• HpNPV targets the destructive teak defoliator moth larvae (Hyblaea puera), which severely damages teak plantations across India.

HIGHLIGHTS

Virus Action: Natural, Lethal, and Eco-Safe

• The virus multiplies trillions of times inside the pest larva, eventually breaking the body and releasing infectious particles.
• Even sub-lethal infections pass the virus to the next generation, ensuring long-term suppression.
• It is host-specific and poses no threat to other species or the environment.

Massive Economic Loss Addressed

• Teak defoliators cause a loss of 3 cubic metres of timber per hectare per year.
• This results in an estimated ₹562.5 crore loss in Kerala and ₹12,525 crore nationwide.
• Chemical pesticide use previously attempted caused public and environmental concerns.

Successful Trials and Deployment

• Field trials at Nilambur (Malappuram) proved highly effective.
• KFRI has transferred outbreak monitoring and application technology to the Kerala Forest Department, awaiting formal adoption.

Global Export Potential

• With 64 countries cultivating teak and many banning chemical pesticides, HpNPV has immense export potential.
• The solution will be showcased at the KSCSTE R&D Summit 2025 in Thiruvananthapuram as a global forestry innovation.