The document summarizes ergot of bajra, a disease caused by the fungus Claviceps fusiformis. The disease is characterized by the exudation of pinkish or brown sticky fluid from infected plants that attracts insects. The fungus survives as sclerotia in the soil for 6-8 months and infects plants primarily through germinating sclerotia, with secondary spread via insects or airborne. Management strategies include adjusting sowing dates, seed treatment, growing resistant varieties, and fungicide application.