This document discusses cotton cultivation and pest management in Orissa, India. It provides details on:
1) Cotton growing areas in Orissa, varieties grown, total area and productivity which is lower than national and world averages.
2) Cotton is an important crop for India's economy and trade but is highly susceptible to insect pests. Over 100 insect species attack cotton with yield losses up to 60%.
3) Pest management has relied heavily on chemical pesticides but this has led to environmental and health issues as well as pest resistance. Integrated Pest Management using cultural, biological and other methods provides a more sustainable alternative.