Correct Answer: Sustainable management of pests through a combination of techniques

Solution : The correct answer is (d) Sustainable management of pests through a combination of techniques.

IPM is a holistic and environmentally friendly approach to pest management in agriculture. It focuses on minimizing the use of chemical pesticides while effectively managing pests and maintaining crop health. The key principles of IPM include:

1. Monitoring and identification: Regular monitoring of pest populations and identification of pest species helps in understanding the pest dynamics and making informed management decisions.

2. Prevention and cultural practices: IPM promotes preventive measures such as crop rotation, use of resistant varieties, proper nutrient management, and good agricultural practices to create unfavorable conditions for pests and enhance the health and resilience of crops.

3. Biological control: IPM encourages the use of natural enemies, such as beneficial insects, birds, and microorganisms, to control pest populations. This involves conserving and promoting the presence of these natural enemies and using them as a part of pest management strategies.

4. Mechanical and physical methods: IPM advocates the use of physical barriers, traps, and mechanical techniques like handpicking to physically remove pests from the crop or prevent their entry.

5. Chemical control as a last resort: If pest populations exceed the economic threshold despite the above measures, selective and judicious use of chemical pesticides may be considered as a last resort. However, the choice of pesticides should be based on their effectiveness, target specificity, and minimal impact on non-target organisms and the environment.

IPM aims to achieve a balance between pest management and ecological sustainability by reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and adopting a comprehensive and integrated approach to pest control.