ICAR-NIBSM Observes Parthenium Awareness Week with Uprooting Drive and Pledge

RAIPUR, CG (INDIA): As part of the nationwide observance of “Parthenium Awareness Week” (16–22 August), the ICAR–National Institute of Biotic Stress Management (NIBSM), Baronda, Raipur, organized a Parthenium Awareness Programme on  under the guidance of Director Dr. Pramod Kumar Rai. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from the institute’s scientific, technical, administrative, and supporting staff.

The event highlighted the grave threat posed by Parthenium hysterophorus, an invasive alien weed that entered India in the 1950s through imported wheat grain and has since spread across the country. Experts emphasized its harmful effects on human and animal health, agriculture, environment, and biodiversity. The weed is notorious for reducing crop yields, depleting fodder resources, and triggering health hazards such as skin allergies and respiratory disorders.

Marking the 20th year of Parthenium Awareness Week, the institute reaffirmed ICAR’s long-standing commitment to combating this ecological menace. Following the awareness session, a campus-wide cleanliness and uprooting drive was carried out, during which staff members collectively removed Parthenium from identified areas.

The programme concluded with a pledge by all participants to maintain a Parthenium-free campus and to continue spreading awareness about eco-friendly management practices to control this invasive weed.